Heading to Lanzarote this December? That sounds amazing! Known for its all-year-round sunshine and unearthly landscapes, Lanzarote is a perfect winter escape. But what’s the December weather in Lanzarote really like? This is all you need to know to get you ready for your sunny winter holiday.
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Lanzarote's Overall Climate
Before diving deep into Lanzarote weather in December, let’s talk about the island’s climate. It’s mostly dry and mild – think endless sunny days and clear blue skies. Thanks to its spot near Africa, it skips the extreme cold you might find back home in winter. If you’re after a place that’s warm but not too hot, Lanzarote is your spot.
Keep in mind that Lanzarote’s climate is not only shaped by its geographic location and subtropical classification, but also significantly influenced by the wind. The island experiences steady winds throughout the year, predominantly from the northeast. These winds, known as the «Trade Winds,» are a defining feature of the Canary Islands’ climate. They help to moderate the temperatures, especially in the summer months, preventing extremes and providing a cooling effect.
What's Lanzarote Weather in December Like ?
December weather in Lanzarote is like a gentle summer’s day in many other places. You can expect daytime temperatures around a cozy 22°C (72°F) to 25°C (77°F), dropping to a cool 16°C (61°F) in the evenings.
Rains? Only the occasional light shower that passes as quickly as it comes. And the sea? It’s around 20°C (68°F), which is really nice for a dip. Basically, it’s warm without the scorch of summer, creating the perfect conditions for exploring or just chilling out.
As regards to winds in December, they are generally moderate. They can bring a slight chill during the evenings, so it’s advisable to pack accordingly. During the day, the winds are usually pleasant and contribute to the mild and enjoyable climate.
December vs. January Weather
How does December stack up against January? Well, Lanzarote’s weather in January is pretty similar. It might feel a tad cooler at night, but otherwise, it’s pretty much the same. Both months offer a great mix of sunny days and comfy nights – ideal for a winter getaway.
January in Lanzarote is slightly cooler, especially during the evenings. Daytime temperatures are similar to December, often around 21°C (70°F), but night temperatures can fall a bit lower, closer to 14°C (57°F). The sea temperature in January is a bit cooler as well, which might be noticeable for those sensitive to colder water.
As to daylight hours, December has the shortest days of the year due to the winter solstice, but you still get around 10 hours of daylight, which is ample time for various activities. Days start getting longer again in January, giving you a bit more daylight to enjoy the outdoors compared to December.
A Peek at Monthly Temperatures in Lanzarote
If you’re curious about how the temperature shifts throughout the year, December offers some of the cooler temps – but remember, in Lanzarote, ‘cool’ is still pretty warm! Let’s have a look at this month-by-month breakdown on temperatures:
January to March
These months are the coolest in Lanzarote, but still quite mild by Northern European standards. Average daytime temperatures range from 17°C to 21°C (63°F to 70°F). Nights can be cooler, with temperatures dropping to around 13°C to 15°C (55°F to 59°F).
Rainfall is sporadic, and these months see the most rain compared to the rest of the year, though it’s still relatively low. During these months, the Trade Winds are relatively mild. They can bring cooler air from the Atlantic, which, combined with the generally lower temperatures of winter, can make conditions feel brisk, especially in the evenings and at higher altitudes.
April to June
Spring brings warmer temperatures, with averages ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Night temperatures increase too, offering comfortable evenings. This period is generally dry with longer days, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
As spring progresses, the winds gradually become warmer. They contribute to the comfortable and pleasant temperatures that make this period ideal for outdoor activities. The winds are generally moderate, providing a refreshing breeze on warmer days.
July to September
These are the warmest months in Lanzarote. Daytime temperatures often hover between 25°C and 29°C (77°F to 84°F), occasionally climbing higher. The heat is typically dry rather than humid, and nights remain comfortably warm. These months also see the least amount of rainfall.
This period often experiences the strongest Trade Winds. In July and August, particularly, the winds can be quite persistent and robust. They play a crucial role in keeping the summer heat manageable, making the warmer temperatures more comfortable. For water sports enthusiasts, especially windsurfers and kite surfers, these conditions are ideal, particularly on the windward side of the island.
October to December
The autumn and early winter months see a gradual decrease in temperatures. Daytime averages range from 23°C to 28°C (73°F to 82°F), while nights start to cool down, particularly in December. Rainfall remains low, but there’s a slight increase in precipitation compared to the summer months.
The winds start to ease off in intensity during these months. While still present, they are less forceful compared to the summer months. This results in milder and calmer conditions, suitable for a variety of outdoor activities. In December, the winds contribute to the cooler but still pleasant weather, with a noticeable decrease in their intensity.
In our opinion, the best months to come to Lanzarote are definitely September and October: temperatures are lovely and warm, the winds ease off and sunsets during this time of the year are just beautiful.
Lanzarote Weather December: Fun Activities
Lanzarote weather in December is so pleasant that it’s awesome for outdoor fun. It’s a great time for hiking in scenic areas like Los Volcanes Park, where the cooler temperatures make for pleasant walks.
Golf enthusiasts will find the island’s courses, such as Costa Teguise Golf Club or Lanzarote Golf in Tías, in prime condition. The beaches are quieter than in summer, ideal for relaxed sunbathing, and the sea conditions are perfect for water sports like surfing and windsurfing.
If you’re traveling with children, you’ll be happy to know that some towns set up temporary ice rinks and winter-themed play areas for little ones during the holiday season. Also, local cultural centers and markets often host workshops and events for children, including arts and crafts related to Christmas.
Christmas holidays in Lanzarote 2023
Yes, you can have a Lanzarote Christmas by the beach thanks to the incredible Lanzarote weather in December! The island gets into the festive spirit, but it swaps the cold for sunshine. Expect vibrant markets, especially in Arrecife, Teguise and Playa Blanca.
Walking through the different Christmas markets on the island is a tradition that cannot be ignored. Here, you can taste the typical sweets of the season and find the most special gifts for your loved ones. Also, don’t forget to walk along some of the beaches of the island! You’ll probably come across the characteristic Nativity Scenes carved out of sand, another well-known Canadian Christmas tradition.
Speaking of Nativity Scenes (beléns, in Spanish), you can find some more throughout the island. These can range from small tableaux in local churches to larger, more elaborate displays in town squares (like the Haría and Yaiza ones): they’re so detailed and unique that are definitely worth a visit!
Keep in mind that Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Lanzarote are celebrated with fireworks, parties, and gatherings in main squares and beaches. Towns like Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise have festive events to ring in during this time of the year, so make sure to check them out in advance.
Christmas in Lanzarote is definitely a unique experience of celebrating the holidays in shorts and sandals, so make sure you won’t miss out on this opportunity!
Conclusion
December in Lanzarote offers a combination of warm weather, festive cheer, and a range of activities suited for all ages. It’s a destination that combines the joy of the holiday season with the pleasure of a sunny climate, making it an ideal choice for a memorable winter holiday. Forget about winter blues, Lanzarote’s warm embrace has got you covered!
Lanzarote Vacation Homes offers a selection of accommodations to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking for a cozy apartment or a spacious villa, we’ve got the perfect place for your winter break. Book with Lanzarote Vacation Homes today and get ready for an unforgettable holiday in the sun!
