Want to go to Tenerife in January?
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.
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Moving to Tenerife in January: quick answers
Is the weather good in Tenerife in January? Is this a good time to visit?
We like Tenerife in January for its mild, pleasant climate, and it’s less crowded from the 10th. Daytime temperatures average between 20°C and 22°C, providing ideal conditions for exploring the island. The sun shines generously, with around 6 to 7 hours of sunshine a day. In our opinion, this is an excellent time to discover Tenerife, away from the summer heat.
WHERE TO STAY IN Tenerife
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
- Where to stay in Tenerife
- Our favorite: Hotel Corales Beach
Select by hotel type:
- 5-star hotels
- Best boutique-hotels
- Best adults-only hotels (coming soon)
- Best all-inclusive hotels (coming soon)
- Best hotels for families (coming soon)
Select by city:
- Best hotels in Costa Adeje
- Best hotels in Puerto de La Cruz
- Best hotels in Los Gigantes
- Best hotels in Santa Cruz
- Best hotels in Laguna
- Best hotels in Playa de las Americas
- 5-star hotel in Los Cristianos (coming soon)
Travelling to Tenerife in January: summary of conditions
Temperatures
Temperatures are mild and pleasant in January. The thermometer reads an average of 20°C to 22°C (68°F to 72°F) during the day. Nights are a little cooler, with temperatures dropping to 15°C-17°C (59°F-63°F). But nothing difficult! You should particularly appreciate this temperate climate, which allows you to enjoy outdoor activities in comfort.
Water temperatures
The temperature of the Atlantic Ocean fluctuates around 19°C to 20°C (66°F to 68°F). We find these conditions ideal for swimming, especially in natural pools and on beaches sheltered from the wind. The sea remains pleasant thanks to the Canary Current, which maintains mild temperatures all year round.
Crowds and prizes
January is much quieter than December, once the vacation season is over. Although many European visitors come to enjoy the island’s mild climate and escape the continental winter, the numbers are reasonable and prices affordable.
Opening conditions
Almost everything is open in Tenerife in January: attractions, hotels, restaurants and shops all operate as normal. We particularly appreciate this time of year when tourist services are up and running. Nature parks and excursion sites are also accessible, although some activities may be limited in the event of bad weather. But it’s occasional…
Length of day
Daylight hours average 10h20 between sunrise and sunset. The sun rises around 8am and sets at around 6.20pm. This gives you plenty of time to explore the island and enjoy outdoor activities.
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Best attractions in Tenerife in January
In January, we recommend you discover:
- The majestic Teide National Park and its volcano, particularly pleasant to explore with the mild January temperatures.
- Natural pools such as those in Garachico
- The spectacular cliffs of Los Gigantes
- Historic towns like La Laguna and picturesque villages like Masca – see our list
- Anaga rural park and its laurel forests
- Black sand beaches like Puerto de la Cruz and golden beaches like Costa Adeje
- The gardens
- The many theme parks
- …
See our list of Tenerife’s top attractions.
And lots of activities like these:
HAVE FUN IN TENERIFE: activities
Climate in Tenerife in January – weather forecast
In January, Tenerife’s climate varies from region to region. We particularly appreciate this diversity, which offers different experiences in different areas. The island’s microclimate, created by Mount Teide, has a significant influence on the local weather.
On the coast
Along the coast, you’ll enjoy a mild, sunny climate. The southern coastal areas, especially Costa Adeje, enjoy the mildest temperatures and maximum sunshine. Precipitation is rare, although a few passing showers may occur. The sea breeze pleasantly refreshes the atmosphere, making outdoor activities particularly enjoyable.
In the heights
At higher altitudes, especially around Teide, conditions are cooler and more variable. Watch out, it’s going up! There are significant temperature differences between day and night. The peaks can even be snow-capped, creating a striking contrast with the coastal climate. Warm clothing is essential for mountain excursions, where temperatures can drop below 5°C.
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.
January temperatures in Tenerife
Temperature in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Average daytime temperatures: 21°C (70°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 16°C (61°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: 17°C (63°F)
Temperature in Costa Adeje
- Average daytime temperatures: 22°C (72°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 17°C (63°F)
Rain and Wind
In January, the amount of rain varies from one region of Tenerife to another. Precipitation is generally moderate and short-lived. We note that the north coast receives more rain than the south of the island. North-east-facing slopes may experience a few passing showers.
- Rainfall in Santa Cruz de Tenerife: 30mm
(over 3 days on average) - Rainfall in Puerto de la Cruz: 45mm
(over 4 days on average) - Rainfall in Los Gigantes: 25mm
(on average 2 days) - Amount of rain in Costa Adeje: 20mm
(on average 2 days)
Snow is rare on Tenerife and only occurs on the summit of Mount Teide, generally above 2000m. We find it particularly striking to see snow on the volcano, while the beaches below are bathed in softness.
The trade winds are present in January, blowing mainly from the northeast. These constant winds help maintain a pleasant climate. On the south coast, especially at Costa Adeje and Los Gigantes, we particularly appreciate the protective effect of Teide, which attenuates the force of the winds.
Sunshine
In January, daylight hours vary around 10:20 am. The sun rises around 8am and sets at around 6:20pm.
Tenerife enjoys excellent sunshine even in January, with an average of 7 hours of sunshine a day. We particularly enjoy this brightness, which makes for pleasant days. The south of the island, notably Costa Adeje and Los Gigantes, gets more sun than the north. The Teide region also stands out for its exceptional sunshine, often above the cloud cover that can form on the coast.
Water temperature – swimming in Tenerife in January
Ocean temperatures in January remain pleasant for swimming. The Canary Current maintains relatively warm waters throughout the year. We particularly like the southern beaches, where the water is slightly warmer than on the north coast. See our list of the most beautiful beaches.
- Water temperature in Santa Cruz de Tenerife: 19°C (66°F)
- Water temperature in Puerto de la Cruz: 19°C (66°F)
- Water temperature at Los Gigantes: 20°C (68°F)
- Water temperature at Costa Adeje: 20°C (68°F)
Whale and dolphin watching
Don’t miss the dolphins and whales! January is an excellent time for cetacean watching. We particularly enjoy sea excursions from Los Gigantes or Costa Adeje, where the calm waters make it easy to find your bearings. Pilot whales and dolphins are present all year round. Pilot whales are also frequently seen in the channel between Tenerife and La Gomera.
January events in Tenerife
January in Tenerife is rich in traditional festivities and celebrations:
- Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos (January 5)
We particularly enjoy this magical parade of the Three Wise Men through the island’s main towns. In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the parade is particularly spectacular with its decorated floats and musical entertainment. - San Antonio Abad Festival (January 17 to 19)
This traditional celebration honors the patron saint of animals. Festivities include the blessing of animals and colorful parades, notably at La Matanza de Acentejo. - Canary Islands Music Festival (several weeks)
This prestigious festival takes place between January and February. Here we discover top-quality classical music concerts in iconic venues such as the Tenerife Auditorium.
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January 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, January is a busy month for tourists, especially at the start of the month with the festive season. Prices are therefore high, particularly in tourist areas such as Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos. But later in the month, prices are lower.
Other months
When to go to Tenerife, other months…
- 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
- Tenerife in December
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
