Summer holidays to Canary Islands

Each island has its own appeal, so which one will it be? Here are the summer highlights.

Lanzarote: Known for its blank-sand beaches and volcanic landscapes, Lanzarote feels less tourist-heavy than neighbours. This is the island for design lovers and nature enthusiasts. From Papagayo’s turquoise waters (busy, but worth it) to Timanfaya’s otherworldly scenery and César Manrique’s Instagram-worthy bus stops.

Insider tip: Late summer also brings the wine harvest - tour La Geria’s volcanic vineyards and savour wines found nowhere else.

Tenerife: The busiest of the bunch, Tenerife is great if you thrive on energy and variety. Costa Adeje and Playa de las Américas can get packed, but head north to Playa de Benijo for something quieter. The crystal-clear waters in summer are also ideal for whale-watching trips. 

Insider tip: Visit Garachico, a coastal town with natural volcanic rock pools. The pools are perfect for a refreshing dip, and the area is far less crowded than the island's main beaches. 

Fuerteventura: Summer’s trade winds make it Europe’s windsurfing and kitesurfing capital. Even if you’re not into watersports, watching the pros at Sotavento Beach is an experience in itself. For something not well-known, visit the “Popcorn Beach,” where the pebbles look like popcorn kernels - thought to come from the remains of sea creatures like shells and coral.

Insider tip: Skip the popular beaches and head to the remote Cofete Beach on the island’s wild west coast. It’s free to visit and open 24/7. The currents are a little strong for swimming, but the landscape is out of this world. 

Gran Canaria: Perfect for those who want variety. Desert-like dunes at Maspalomas, lush green forests in the north, and buzzing city life in Las Palmas. Little-known fact: The Agaete Valley is one of Europe’s only places where coffee is grown - the volcanic ash and soil produces a distinct, flavourful coffee.

Insider tips: The Agaete Jazz Festival in July is also a must for music lovers. And If you want to dodge the crowds, check out Güigüí Beach, a remote spot only reachable by boat. 

June: With temperatures around 28°C, June is quieter than peak summer months, offering plenty of fiestas and a relaxed vibe. 

Pro: It’s a perfect time for hiking or enjoying water sports before the peak tourist season.

Con: The beginning of the month can bring calima, a phenomenon involving hot winds from the Sahara, which can lead to dust storms and higher temperatures, particularly in southern areas like Gran Canaria and Tenerife​. 

If you're heading to southern Tenerife or Gran Canaria, avoid peak afternoon hours (12pm-4pm).

Insider Tip: If you’re keen on nature, visit Garajonay National Park on La Gomera - its dense forests are perfect for hiking in the cooler mornings of June, offering an off-the-beaten-path experience.

July: Temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C, making it perfect for windsurfing and kitesurfing—one of Europe’s top spots. 

Pro: It’s a great time to enjoy outdoor festivals, especially in Tenerife.

Con: It’s one of the hottest months, with temperatures occasionally surpassing 30°C. This heat can be intense, especially in the southern parts like Gran Canaria​.

Insider Tip: La Palma also offers stellar stargazing at Roque de los Muchachos Observatory, with clear skies and minimal light pollution.

August: The hottest month, with temperatures hitting 32°C. Ideal for those who love high temperatures, August sees daily highs around 30°C (86°F) with little rainfall. 

Pro: The dry conditions make it perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The beaches are lively, and the islands are alive with vibrant celebrations, including the Fiesta de la Virgen de Candelaria in Tenerife.

Con: The intense heat can sometimes feel oppressive, particularly in the southern islands, which can make outdoor exploration a challenge. Additionally, August is peak tourist season, so crowds are at their highest​.

Insider Tip: Escape the crowds by visiting lesser-known beaches or exploring the cooler, lush northern regions of Tenerife, where you’ll find more authentic local experiences without the throngs of tourists​.

While the beaches will draw the crowds, there is plenty to see inland. Explore the La Geria wine region in Lanzarote or hike the pine forests of Gran Canaria. If you’re in Tenerife, the Anaga Rural Park feels like stepping into another world.

While some beaches can be crowded, especially in peak summer, there are plenty of secluded spots if you know where to look:

- El Cotillo, Fuerteventura
- Playa de Las Teresitas, Tenerife
- Las Conchas, La Graciosa
- Playa Benijo, Tenerife
- Sotavento, Fuerteventura
- Playa de la Cueva, Lanzarote