Want to go to Gran Canaria 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.
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Going to Gran Canaria in December: quick answers
Is the weather good in Gran Canaria in December? Is this a good time to visit?
Yes, the weather’s fine. Gran Canaria in December is an excellent time to visit for the winter sun. The weather is generally warm and pleasant, with plenty of sunshine and little precipitation. It’s ideal for those seeking a mild climate and beach-friendly conditions during the winter months.
WHERE TO STAY IN Gran Canaria
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
- Where to stay in Gran Canaria
- Our favorite: Marina Suites Hotel
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
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Travelling to Gran Canaria in December: summary of conditions
Temperatures
In December, Gran Canaria experiences average temperatures of 19°C (66.2°F), varying mainly between 22°C (71.6°F) and 16°C (60.8°F). These mild temperatures are ideal for outdoor activities and tourism.
Water temperatures
The average sea temperature in Gran Canaria in December is around 20.8°C (69.4°F). We hope that you, like many of our visitors, will consider this temperature sufficient for swimming, even if some find it a little chilly. Water temperature remains relatively constant throughout the island.
Crowds and prizes
December is considered high season in Gran Canaria, especially during the festive season. Many people choose to spend their winter vacations here, so crowds increase and prices tend to be higher. We advise you to book your accommodation well in advance.
Opening conditions
Places to visit, restaurants and hotels in Gran Canaria remain open in December. However, opening times may vary, so it’s advisable to check in advance.
Length of day
Daylight hours average 10h25. Plenty of time to explore all the island’s most beautiful landscapes.
A LITTLE MORE patience
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Best attractions in Gran Canaria in December
Gran Canaria’s must-see attractions include..:
- Beautiful sandy beaches
- The old town of Las Palmas
- Boat trips to observe whales and dolphins
- The mountains with Pico de la Neives at the summit the Roque Nublo hike
- The famous Maspalomas dunes
- The western cliffs, south of Agaete
- The Little Venice district of Puerto de Mogan
- Archaeological sites of the Guanche civilization
- Agüimes, the village of colorful streets and sculptures
- Amusement parks
- …
See the best attractions in Gran Canaria.
And lots of activities like these:
FUN in Gran Canaria:activities
Dolphin watching
Buggy / Quad
Snorkeling
Kayaking in the Mogan caves
But also: Canyoning, Horse riding, Via Ferrata, Coasteering… See all options
Climate in Gran Canaria in December – weather forecast
Although December is one of the coolest months on Gran Canaria, it is still considerably warmer than most European countries at this time of year. The weather is generally stable, with a few windy days. Sunny spells are frequent, although there are occasional cloudy periods.
The island’s unique topography creates microclimates, with southern resorts such as Maspalomas and Puerto Rico generally enjoying the most favorable conditions.
Seaside weather
Near the sea, especially in the south, the weather is generally warm, sunny and stable. You can expect pleasant temperatures and clear skies most of the time. Coastal areas benefit from the moderating influence of the ocean, which keeps temperatures mild and comfortable.
Weather in the mountains
The mountainous interior, on the other hand, experiences more variable weather conditions. It tends to be cooler and can be more prone to cloud cover and occasional rain. On higher ground, there may be mist or light drizzle, especially in the morning. But that means, if you go up early, you can also see seas of clouds.
December temperatures in Gran Canaria
Temperature in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (north)
- The average daytime temperature is around 22°C (71.6°F).
- At night, it cools to an average of 17.9°C (64.2°F).
Temperature at Maspalomas (south)
- Average daytime temperature is around 22.3°C (72.1°F)
- At night, it cools to an average of 16.6°C (61.9°F).
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Gran Canaria
- 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 Gran Canaria in December, rainfall is generally light and short-lived when it occurs. Although this is the wettest month on record, rainfall remains relatively low compared to many other European destinations. Showers are generally brief and followed by clear skies.
- Rainfall in Las Palmas: 15-30 mm
(3 to 7 days on average) - Rainfall in Maspalomas: 15-30 mm
(over an average of less than 5 days)
Wind conditions in Gran Canaria in December are generally mild to moderate. The island is swept by trade winds, which have a refreshing effect. Wind speed generally varies from a light breeze to a fresh breeze, which rarely becomes strong. The southern part of the island is sheltered from the winds by its mountainous terrain.
Sunshine
In December, daylight hours vary from 10:20 to 10:30.
Sunrise is around 7.40am and sunset around 6.10pm.
This gives you plenty of time to explore, and you can watch the sunset before dinner!
Gran Canaria enjoys good sunshine in December, with an average of 6 hours of sunshine a day. This is considerable for a winter month, making it an attractive destination for those seeking winter sunshine.
Water temperature – swimming in Gran Canaria in December
The average sea temperature in Gran Canaria in December is around 20.8°C (69.4°F). This temperature is relatively constant across the island, with slight variations possible between bays.
We find it very pleasant to swim in the sea, but some may find it a little chilly.
- Average water temperature in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: 20.8°C (69.4°F)
- Water temperature in Maspalomas: 20.8°C (69.4°F) on average
Crowds and other conditions
December is considered high season in Gran Canaria, especially during the Christmas and New Year period. Visitors flock to the island in search of winter sunshine, resulting in larger crowds and higher prices. Popular tourist areas, beaches and attractions may be busier than usual.
Despite the crowds, the island is not unpleasant, as there is plenty to do all over the island. And Gran Canaria offers a lively atmosphere thanks to the various events and activities organized during the vacations.
Dolphins and whales in December
Dolphins and whales can be seen around Gran Canaria in December, as the region is home to a wide variety of cetaceans all year round. We highly recommend it.
The most commonly observed dolphins are bottlenose dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins and common dolphins. They can be seen all year round.
Conditions are often just right for a boat trip.
There are tours in catamarans, speedboats and more traditional boats. Departures are mainly from the port of Puerto Rico in the south of the island.
See boat tour options.
December events in Gran Canaria
In December, Gran Canaria hosts several noteworthy events:
- Christmas markets and festive decorations appear throughout the month, especially in big cities and tourist areas.
- Día de Santa Lucía: December 13 in Santa Lucía de Tirajana, a combination of Swedish and Canarian traditions
- Christmas Eve (December 24) and Christmas Day (December 25): meals and special events.
- New Year’s Eve (December 31): parties, fireworks and celebrations all over the island
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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. It is therefore difficult to give you a budget. However, in December, tourists are moderately numerous, especially at the end of the month, so prices can be attractive.
Other months
- Gran Canaria in January
- Gran Canaria in February
- Gran Canaria in March
- Gran Canaria in April
- Gran Canaria in May
- Gran Canaria in June
- Gran Canaria in July
- Gran Canaria in August
- Gran Canaria in September
- Gran Canaria in October
- Gran Canaria in November
Or read our article: When to go to Gran Canaria.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Gran Canaria
- Best of
Best things to do in Gran Canaria
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful towns and villages
Most beautiful beaches
Best natural pools
Archaeological sites
Best museums
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Secret places, off the beaten track
- Practical advice
25 tips for a successful trip to Gran Canaria
When to go?
How to get around
How to rent a car in Gran Canaria
Driving tips
Best excursions (coming soon)
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 7 days – 10 days
- The must-dos
Las Palmas and its historic center
Dolphin watching in Gran Canaria (coming soon)
Maspalomas dunes
Puerto de Mogan (Little Venice)
Agaete and its natural pools
The magnificent town of Agüimes
