December is a high-demand month on the island for a simple reason: while the rest of Europe experiences winter temperatures, the Canary Islands maintain a thermal balance of around 20-22 degrees. This mild climate allows you to plan a versatile itinerary, combining sunny days on the southern coast with mountain walks through northern forests, without missing out on the local festive atmosphere.
What is the weather like in Tenerife in December?
The climate of Tenerife in December is shaped by distinct microclimates. The southern side usually offers mostly clear skies and ideal temperatures for swimming, reaching close to 23°C. In the northern area, which includes municipalities such as La Matanza, El Sauzal, or La Orotava, daytime thermometers mark around 18-20°C, dropping to 14°C as evening falls.
If you wonder what clothes to bring to Tenerife in December, the basic rule is dressing in layers. Pack swimwear and short sleeves for the midday hours, along with long trousers, closed walking shoes, and a light jacket or windbreaker.
If you plan to head up to Teide National Park (over 2,000 metres above sea level), you will need warm winter clothing, as temperatures can drop close to freezing.
Year-End Festivities and Traditions in Tenerife
Spending Christmas in Tenerife or celebrating New Year’s Eve on the island means swapping snow for open-air gatherings. During this month, the metropolitan area and the north take centre stage. Historic towns like San Cristóbal de La Laguna or Santa Cruz de Tenerife host bustling Christmas markets and light displays that draw residents from across the island.
New Year’s Eve in Tenerife follows a familiar rhythm: locals typically dine with family or in traditional restaurants before heading out shortly before midnight to eat the lucky grapes during free open-air concerts held in town squares or seafront avenues. The festive calendar draws to a close on the evening of January 5th with the traditional Three Kings parades.
Nature and Hiking Trails in Tenerife Without the Summer Heat
- Clear trails: Cool temperatures for walking through Anaga and Teide.
- Living tradition: Guachinches open serving the newly harvested wine.
- Mild climate: Gentle afternoons by the sea with crisp sunsets.
Winter is the ideal season for active travel across the island. The absence of high temperatures and heat alerts makes outdoor physical activity far more pleasant. December offers optimal conditions for hiking through the humid laurel forests of Anaga Rural Park or tackling the demanding elevation gains of Teno Rural Park.
Winter skies also tend to stay free of haze, offering the clearest visibility of the year for exploring Teide National Park, watching the sea of clouds from northern viewpoints, and stargazing at night.
Winter Gastronomy in Tenerife: The Season of Guachinches and New Wine
The final weeks of the year define the culinary calendar of the northern part of the island. In late November, local wine cellars open to pour the “new wine”, kicking off the main season for guachinches. December is an ideal time to visit these traditional home-style eateries, largely concentrated across the Tacoronte-Acentejo wine region and the La Orotava Valley.
During this period, menus give way to hearty spoon dishes, perfect for warming up on cooler northern afternoons. It is the time to order puchero canario, escaldón de gofio prepared with rich meat broth, ropa vieja, or pork ribs with potatoes and sweetcorn.
What to See in Tenerife in December
Planning a road trip around the island during December requires keeping daylight hours in mind, as the sun typically sets between 18:00 and 18:15. The most practical approach is getting an early start to visit major natural sights and complete hiking routes in the morning, leaving strolls through historic northern town centres for dusk, just as the Christmas lights turn on.
Where to Stay in Tenerife in December
Choosing the right base in Tenerife in December shapes much of your travel experience. Staying on the northern coast (such as the Acentejo coastline) lets you escape the crowded southern resorts, connecting directly with rural settings, local wineries, and key hiking trails.
When planning your winter holiday, it makes all the difference to book holiday accommodation in Tenerife with a heated pool so you can swim comfortably regardless of the evening cool, alongside holiday apartments with sea views in Tenerife and clear Teide vistas that make the most of every hour of daylight.
SEA VIEW, HEATED POOL, Heating, PRIVATE GARDEN AND TERRACE, Free Wifi (10)
From 95.00€ per night
House, SEA VIEW, HEATED POOL, Heating, Sun set and rise terrace, Free wi fi(9)
From 95.00€ per night
1 Bedroom , SEA VIEW, HEATED POOL, Heating, free Wifi, big terrace (1)
From 85.00€ per night
One bedroom, SEA VIEW, HEATED POOL, Heating, Free wif, Big terrace, (2)
From 85.00€ per night
1 Bedroom, OCEAN AND TEIDE VIEW, HEATED POOL, Heating, balcony, free Wifi (3)
From 85.00€ per night
1 Bedroom, OCEAN VIEW, HEATED POOL, Heating, Terrace and Balcony (8)
From 85.00€ per night
2 Bedrooms, SEA VIEW, HEATED POOL 27ºC, HEATING, Free Wifi, private garden and barbecue (4)
From 95.00€ per night
2 Bedrooms, Mountain View, HEATED POOL, Heating, Terrace, Free Wifi (5)
From 95.00€ per night
Frequently Asked Questions About Tenerife in December
Can you swim in the sea in Tenerife in December?
Yes. The Atlantic Ocean retains autumn warmth, with water temperatures typically around 20-21°C. Swimming is common on southern beaches, whereas northern natural pools require caution due to winter swell. If staying in the north, choosing a holiday home with a heated pool remains the most convenient way to enjoy a daily swim in comfort.
What is the temperature like in Teide National Park in winter?
Above 2,000 metres in altitude, the weather shifts dramatically. Morning temperatures can hover near freezing, occasionally bringing frost or snow. It is essential to bring warm winter layers, a windbreaker, and sturdy closed shoes. Checking the cable car status before setting out is also advisable, as high winds may lead to closures.
Are guachinches open during Christmas?
Yes, the peak season for guachinches kicks off in late November with the uncorking of the “new wine” and runs at full throttle throughout December. Because these are traditional family-run spots, bear in mind that most close during the main public holidays (December 24th, 25th, 31st, and January 1st).
Does it rain a lot in Tenerife in December?
December marks the transition into winter, bringing a slightly higher chance of rain, particularly along northern slopes. These showers are usually brief, clearing the air, dusting Mount Teide with snow, and bringing out the lush green of northern laurel forests. The south remains largely dry.