Want to go to Tenerife in December?
Find out if the region is right for you at this time of year, with our comprehensive guide to climate, travel conditions, crowds, prices, attractions and events.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Content
Moving to Tenerife in December: quick answers
Is the weather good in Tenerife in December? Is this a good time to visit?
We consider December an excellent time to visit Tenerife, offering a real island of mildness in the middle of the European winter. With average temperatures between 18°C and 22°C and around 6 hours of sunshine a day, the climate remains pleasant. Although a few showers may occur, particularly in the north, they are generally brief. This period contrasts magnificently with the continental cold and attracts many visitors in search of winter warmth, especially during the festive season.
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Travelling to Tenerife in December: summary of conditions
Temperatures
Temperatures remain mild and pleasant in December. The thermometer averages 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F) during the day. Evenings are cooler, with temperatures between 15°C and 17°C (59°F-63°F). We’re finding that these mild winter conditions offer a welcome respite from the cold elsewhere in Europe.
Water temperatures
Ocean temperatures range from 19°C to 21°C (66°F to 70°F) in December. We find these conditions still acceptable for swimming, particularly in sheltered coves and natural pools. Frigid guests may prefer heated hotel pools, but water sports enthusiasts can still enjoy the sea in a light wetsuit.
Crowds and prizes
December has two distinct faces in Tenerife. The first fortnight remained relatively quiet, with moderate attendance. We like this period for its relaxed atmosphere and low prices. By contrast, the second half of the year, particularly between Christmas and New Year, sees a significant influx of visitors. Prices are rising sharply, and early booking is becoming essential for this popular festive period.
Opening conditions
Everything’s open in Tenerife in December, with even extended opening hours over the festive period. We find that tourist attractions, restaurants and shops are operating at full capacity, particularly in the second half of the month. Festive decorations and illuminations adorn the towns and villages, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere that combines the spirit of Christmas with a Mediterranean ambience.
Length of day
Daylight hours average 10.5 hours between sunrise and sunset. The sun rises around 7.30am and sets around 6pm. Although shorter than in summer, this is still plenty of time to organize excursions and enjoy outdoor activities.
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Best attractions in Tenerife in December
In December, we recommend you discover:
- Teide National Park, sometimes covered in a blanket of snow contrasting with the mild coastal climate
- Christmas lights and decorations in urban centers such as Santa Cruz and Puerto de la Cruz
- Beaches in the south still enjoy a favorable climate – see our favorite beaches
- Traditional towns and villages such as La Orotava and Garachico decorated for the festive season
- Christmas markets, especially La Laguna, with its blend of European and Canarian traditions
- Handcrafted nativity scenes (belenes) on display in various localities
- Amusement and water parks offering special holiday entertainment – see the list
See our list of Tenerife’s top attractions.
And lots of activities like these:
HAVE FUN IN TENERIFE: activities
Climate in Tenerife in December – weather forecast
In December, Tenerife’s climate is in stark contrast to the European winter. We appreciate the mild winter weather, which makes the island an ideal destination for escaping the continental cold. Conditions vary considerably from region to region, offering a diversity of climatic environments.
On the coast
Along the coast, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, especially on the south coast. Sunny days alternate with a few cloudy or rainy spells, more frequent in the north of the island. The weather remains comfortable for coastal walks and even for enjoying the beaches on milder days. We particularly appreciate these conditions, which allow us to have lunch on the terrace and walk around lightly clothed – a luxury compared to the rest of Europe at this time of year.
In the heights
At higher altitudes, particularly in the Teide region, we are seeing much more wintry conditions. Temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night, with minimums sometimes close to 0°C at the summit. It’s not uncommon to see the Teide peak covered in snow, offering a breathtaking spectacle. We recommend that visitors bring warm clothing to explore these areas, where temperature differences between day and night can be significant. However, sunny days offer exceptional brightness and breathtaking panoramas of the island and ocean.
December temperatures in Tenerife
Temperature in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Average daytime temperatures: 22°C (72°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 17°C (63°F)
Temperature in Puerto de la Cruz
- Average daytime temperatures: 20°C (68°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 15°C (59°F)
Temperature in Los Gigantes
- Average daytime temperatures: 22°C (72°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 16°C (61°F)
Temperature in Costa Adeje
- Average daytime temperatures: 22°C (72°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 16°C (61°F)
OUR TIPS TO RENT A CAR IN Tenerife
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- If you’re planning to explore the mountains, don ‘t take the smallest cars. A more powerful engine will be more comfortable.
- But don’t take too big a car either, as some roads are narrow.
- There’s a lot of demand and it’s an island, so book early.
Rain and Wind
In December, rainfall increases on Tenerife, marking one of the wettest months of the year, although this remains relative. There’s a clear difference between the north and south of the island. The north receives more rain, often in the form of passing showers alternating with clear spells. The south remains relatively unscathed, with a drier, sunnier climate.
- Rainfall in Santa Cruz de Tenerife: 45mm
(over 6-7 days on average) - Rainfall in Puerto de la Cruz: 70mm
(over 7-8 days on average) - Rainfall in Los Gigantes: 30mm
(over 4-5 days on average) - Amount of rain in Costa Adeje: 25mm
(over 3-4 days on average)
Wind conditions in December can be variable. The trade winds are less constant than in summer. Some periods can be perfectly calm, while others experience the windier episodes associated with Atlantic lows. These variations contribute to the diversity of the island’s climatic ambiences and can influence the choice of activities and areas to visit on different days.
Sunshine
In December, daylight hours are at their annual minimum, with around 10.5 hours between sunrise and sunset. The sun rises around 7.30am and sets around 6pm.
Tenerife still enjoys plenty of sunshine in December, with an average of 6 hours of sunshine a day. There’s a marked difference between the north and south of the island. The south continues to enjoy plenty of sunshine, while the north may experience more cloudy spells. The quality of light is particularly special at this time of year, with soft luminosity and striking contrasts, especially during sunsets, which can be spectacular. This luminosity, combined with mild temperatures, is one of the island’s main attractions in winter.
Water temperature – swimming in Tenerife in December
In December, sea temperatures gradually drop, but remain relatively mild by European standards. We find that bathing is still possible for the less chilly, particularly in sheltered coves and natural pools where the water can be slightly warmer. The south and west of the island generally offer the most favorable conditions.
- Water temperature in Santa Cruz de Tenerife: 20°C (68°F)
- Water temperature in Puerto de la Cruz: 19°C (66°F)
- Water temperature at Los Gigantes: 21°C (70°F)
- Water temperature at Costa Adeje: 21°C (70°F)
Whale and dolphin watching
December remains a good time for cetacean watching on Tenerife, although sea conditions can be more variable. We recommend early mornings for sea outings, when the waters are generally calmer. Common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales are present all year round in the canal between Tenerife and La Gomera. Excursions during the festive season can be very popular, and require prior booking. This activity offers a unique perspective on local marine wildlife and is often a highlight of the trip. See excursion options.
Christmas and New Year festivities
December transforms Tenerife into a showcase of festivities, where Spanish traditions and international influences blend harmoniously. We appreciate the warm atmosphere that prevails on the island during this period. Urban centers like Santa Cruz, Puerto de la Cruz and Los Cristianos are decked out in festive lights and decorations. The main squares are home to impressive artistic cribs (belenes) that bear witness to local craftsmanship. Christmas markets, such as the one in La Laguna, offer handicrafts, regional products and seasonal culinary specialities.
New Year’s Eve celebrations are particularly lively on Tenerife, with public parties in the main tourist resorts. You can take part in traditional Spanish festivities such as eating 12 grapes to the rhythm of the 12 strokes of midnight, supposed to bring good luck for each month of the coming year. Fireworks displays, particularly in Puerto de la Cruz and Los Cristianos, light up the night sky and mark the arrival of the New Year in a unique festive atmosphere, where the mild climate allows outdoor celebrations.
Crowds and other conditions
December presents Tenerife with two distinct faces in terms of tourist numbers. We observe that the first half of the month remains relatively quiet, offering a more authentic and relaxed experience. Attractions, beaches and restaurants are less crowded, so you can enjoy the sites to the full without queuing.
By contrast, the second half of the year, particularly between Christmas and New Year, sees a huge influx of visitors in search of winter sunshine and a festive atmosphere. We note that this high-season period sees the main tourist areas come alive considerably. Advance reservations are becoming essential for accommodation, popular restaurants and certain activities. This duality gives you the opportunity to choose your preferred atmosphere – more tranquil or more festive – depending on the dates of your stay.
December events in Tenerife
- December 6 – Constitution Day(Día de la Constitución): national holiday in Spain.
- December 8 – Feast of the Immaculate Conception(Inmaculada Concepción): national holiday. This important religious celebration gives rise to processions and cultural events in many parts of the island. We witness centuries-old traditions that bear witness to Tenerife’s cultural and religious heritage.
- Festival of Nativity scenes and Christmas markets
Throughout the island, and particularly in La Laguna and La Orotava, exhibitions of handcrafted nativity scenes (belenes) are set up from early December. We discover these meticulous creations, which combine religious traditions with representations of everyday Canarian life, often accompanied by craft markets. - Christmas Eve (December 24) and Christmas Day (December 25)
Christmas celebrations in Tenerife combine Spanish traditions with international influences. We take part in the Nochebuena (New Year’s Eve) which traditionally brings families together for a festive meal before midnight mass. Christmas Day is often marked by family gatherings and, for tourists, the unique opportunity to enjoy the beaches under the winter sun. - New Year’s Eve (December 31)
Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve) is enthusiastically celebrated on Tenerife. We join in the festivities in the main tourist areas, where open-air parties, concerts and fireworks mark the arrival of the new year. The tradition of 12 grapes eaten at the stroke of midnight is particularly popular.
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December prices
As everywhere, prices vary depending on what you are looking for. Accommodation ranges from youth hostels to 5-star hotels. This makes it difficult to give a precise budget. However, December presents a mixed picture in Tenerife in terms of rates. We note that the first half of the month offers attractive prices for accommodation and tourist services, comparable to the November low seasons.
On the other hand, during the festive season, particularly between Christmas and New Year’s, prices rise considerably. This peak winter season is very popular with sun-seeking European visitors. Prices for hotels, vacation rentals and flights are comparable to those of the peak summer season, and even higher for New Year’s Eve. We strongly recommend booking several months in advance for this popular festive period, to benefit from the best options and rates.
Other months
When to go to Tenerife, other months…
- Tenerife in January
- Tenerife in February
- Tenerife in March
- Tenerife in April
- Tenerife in May
- Tenerife in June
- Tenerife in July
- Tenerife in August
- Tenerife in September
- Tenerife in October
- Tenerife in November
Or read our article on when to go to Tenerife.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO tenerife
- Best of
What to do in Tenerife
Most beautiful towns and villages
Most beautiful beaches
Best natural pools
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful roads
Amusement parks
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Secret places, off the beaten track (coming soon)
- Practical advice
25 tips for a successful trip to Tenerife
How to get around
How to rent a car in Tenerife
Driving tips
Best excursions (coming soon)
Where to stay in Tenerife
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 1 week – 10 days
- The must-dos
Dolphin watching in Tenerife (coming soon)
Teide National Park
Anaga Rural Park (coming soon)
La Orotava (coming soon)
Garachico
Village of Masca
Pyramids of Güimar
