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Hottest Canary Island in November Guide to Winter Sun and Sandy Beaches
Hottest Canary Island in November : November brings shorter days and cooler air across much of Europe, but the Canary Islands continue to bask in winter sun and boast average daytime highs well above 20 °C. Whether you’re craving sandy beaches, invigorating hikes, or simply a dose of warmth, knowing which island is the hottest in November can help you plan the perfect escape. We’ve analyzed weather data, “time to visit” insights, and proximity to the Sahara Desert from top Google rivals to pinpoint your November winner.
Why November Is the Perfect Time to Visit
November is a transition month when autumn fades into winter. Yet in the Canaries, you’ll still find:
- Consistently warm air temperatures, ideal for T-shirt weather by day.
- Sea temperatures above 21 °C, perfect for swimming or water sports.
- Fewer crowds than peak summer, giving you spacious sandy beaches and serene coastal trails.
This blend of winter sun and tranquility makes late autumn arguably the best time to visit the archipelago.
Comparing Air and Sea Temperatures
Below is a snapshot of average November conditions across the main islands, showing why one stands out as the hottest:
| Island | Avg High (°C) | Avg Low (°C) | Avg Sea (°C) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tenerife (South) | 24.8 | 18.2 | 22.3 | Most reliable sunshine; resorts clustered on the southern coast. |
| Gran Canaria | 24.2 | 18.1 | 22.1 | “Miniature Continent” with varied microclimates. |
| Lanzarote | 24.2 | 17.2 | 21.2 | Dry, arid landscapes closest to the Sahara Desert. |
| Fuerteventura | 24.0 | 17.7 | 21.2 | Consistently windy; top windsurfing and kitesurfing spot. |
| La Palma | ~24.0 | – | – | Lush, green; great for hiking and stargazing. |
| El Hierro | 21.0 | – | – | UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, very off-the-beaten-track. |
| La Graciosa | 23.0 | – | – | Tiny, car-free; ideal for cycling and solitude. |
Sources: Guide to Canary Islands, Luxtripper, Sovereign
Which Hottest Canary Island in November ?
Tenerife’s southern coast takes the crown with an average high of 24.8 °C in November, edging out Gran Canaria and Lanzarote by roughly 0.6 °C. This consistently warmer air temperature is thanks to its shelter from northerly swells and its position relative to prevailing trade winds.
Despite its reputation as the hottest island due to proximity to the Sahara Desert, Lanzarote’s November average high of 24.2 °C places it just behind Tenerife and on par with Gran Canaria. Fuerteventura, another desert-influenced isle, averages 24.0 °C, making all four major islands remarkably similar—and all great bets for winter sun.
Why Tenerife Shines for Winter Sun
- South Coast Resorts: Playa de las Américas and Costa Adeje offer years-round sunshine and easy beach access.
- Air Temperature: Daytime highs approach mid-20s °C, while evenings remain comfortably mild above 18 °C.
- Sea Temperature: At 22.3 °C, the water stays warm enough for swimming, snorkeling, and beginner surf lessons.
- Activities: From Mount Teide hikes to whale-watching boat trips, you’ll find varied experiences without summer crowds.
Tenerife’s southern microclimate ensures that November feels more like late spring than late autumn, making it the island to pick if “hottest Canary island” is your priority.
The Role of Sahara Desert Proximity
Lanzarote and Fuerteventura owe part of their dryness and warmth to the nearby Sahara Desert. Lanzarote is often cited as the hottest Canary Island overall because desert-heated winds limit precipitation and cloud cover throughout the year. In November:
- Lanzarote Highs reach 24.2 °C, with low rainfall (around 15 mm) mostly in the north.
- Fuerteventura Highs average 24.0 °C and see roughly 12 mm of rain, mainly outside tourist hubs.
If your ideal getaway is golden dunes, dramatic volcanic craters, and near-guaranteed sun, these two are compelling options.
Gran Canaria’s Microclimates: A Contender for All Tastes
Gran Canaria’s nickname, the “Miniature Continent,” stems from its sharply varying terrains and climates within short distances. In November:
- South Coast: Hot and dry, similar to Tenerife, with highs of 24.2 °C.
- North Coast and Mountain Regions: Cooler, greener, and prone to more rain—ideal for inland hikes.
The island’s versatility makes it a strong runner-up. You can sunbathe on sandy beaches in the morning and explore cloud-forested ravines by afternoon, all on the same day for Hottest Canary Island in November .
