Besides wondering when the best time to travel to Gran Canaria might be, you may also be interested in knowing how warm the water in the Canary Islands gets during the summer. Logically, people tend to think that the sea is warmer at that time of year, but is this really the case?
In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about the water temperature in the Canary Islands during summer and which environmental or human factors may influence it.
What Is the Geographical Location of the Canary Islands?
Before focusing on the water temperature during summer in the Canary Islands, it is important to bear in mind that the archipelago is located close to the coast of Africa. This means that it is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and is considered one of the outermost regions of the European Union.
As for the ocean currents that reach the shores of each island, it is necessary to distinguish between two phenomena: the Canary Islands Coastal Current from the northeast, which comes from the cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean, and the warmer currents arriving from the Gulf of Mexico in the south. The combination of both cold and warm currents creates pleasant temperatures throughout the year. However, it is during summer that, due to the Earth’s rotation, the sea temperature in the Canary Islands reaches an average of 22°C.
Nevertheless, it has been observed that temperatures in the southeastern areas of the islands can reach up to 26°C, as there is less exchange with the deep and colder waters of the Atlantic. In fact, decades ago, the water temperature was slightly lower than it is today.
What Is the Weather Like in the Canary Islands During Summer?
Taking into account the geographical location and the influence of the ocean currents, it can be said that the climate in the Canary Islands archipelago is mild all year round. Even so, if you are planning a beach holiday, we will explain which are the best months to pack your bags and make your bookings.
May
At the end of spring, you will enjoy warm temperatures of around 24°C, meaning you can swim at the beach and enjoy the sunshine at any time of day. In addition, this is a period when there is hardly any rain, which is why we recommend visiting the Canary Islands at this time of year.
June
The water temperature in the Canary Islands reaches around 20°C during the day, while temperatures on the beach can rise to 26°C. Many tourists consider June to be the best time to travel in summer, as it is not yet excessively hot and you can still enjoy many other activities around the archipelago, such as hiking.
July
If you plan to travel in July, in addition to warmer temperatures, you will also encounter a greater number of visitors. During this month, the archipelago experiences temperatures between 25°C and 30°C, ideal for spending a day at the beach.
Throughout this month, there can be up to 10 hours of sunshine per day, and the chance of rainfall is very low. The island of Fuerteventura is highly recommended for enjoying a July holiday, as it offers a warm climate and an ideal water temperature for practising water sports with the whole family.
August
In August, the water temperature in the Canary Islands can reach 24°C, the highest of the entire year. Air temperatures can also rise to 30°C.
August is one of the favourite months for many visitors to enjoy the sea in Gran Canaria and sunbathe on its beaches.
September
September is the last month to enjoy the warm sea temperatures in the Canary Islands during summer. However, many tourists still continue to visit the beaches in October, and even throughout the rest of the year.
Unlike the previous months, September sees fewer tourists, as most European countries begin their working and school routines again. Nevertheless, if you still have some free time or are planning a weekend getaway, take advantage of the islands’ average temperature of 25°C.
What Is the Average Water Temperature in Summer?
After analysing the maritime influences coming from other coasts, as well as the climate during different months of the year and other factors, it can be stated that the average water temperature in summer generally ranges between 18°C and 24°C.
Depending on the island, these figures may vary slightly. For example, in Fuerteventura, the average annual water temperature is 18°C, while in Gran Canaria it reaches 20°C.
This means that the sea breeze always remains fresh and helps to soften the high temperatures experienced in midsummer, especially in July and August. Furthermore, the geographical location allows you to spend your holidays on the islands at any time of year thanks to the mild climate and the wide variety of activities designed for all types of visitors.
Now that you know what the water temperature is like in the Canary Islands during summer, we invite you to book your stay at one of the accommodations of the Lopesan Group and enjoy an unforgettable holiday.
