Tenerife Weather in December: The Whole Truth
If the December weather in Europe or the UK is making you feel depressed, a trip to Tenerife in December might be the solution and the perfect cure for your moping – with no unpleasant after-effects. What’s better than an unlimited supply of natural vitamin D for your immune system? Only the ocean! And Tenerife has it all in December. Climatic tourism in Tenerife is just what your body and soul need. After all, here you can enjoy not only the sun and the ocean, but also the local flavorful food, which is finger-licking, and the local festivals, where everyone from 1 year old to a hundred years old dances.
So, you probably want to know more about what to expect from the weather in Tenerife in December?
You’re in the right place, I’m going to tell you the whole truth.
Temperature in Tenerife in December
What’s the weather like in Tenerife during December?
Daytime temperatures range from +21 degrees Celsius to +24 degrees Celsius. On some days, the temperature can reach +27 +28 degrees Celsius, especially if a Calima comes to the island from the Sahara. Usually on these days, the temperature rises sharply by a few degrees, and it gets stuffy and a little difficult to breathe. You can read more about Calima in this article.
Just after sunset, it gets cooler in Tenerife. Temperatures drop to between +16 and +17 degrees Celsius.
The southern part of the island has a unique microclimate, and nature is much like a desert, with very little natural vegetation. All palms and trees are watered by tubes stretched along the ground. Temperatures can be several degrees higher in the south than in the north.
Because Tenerife is in the middle of the ocean, winds often blow here. Wind speeds in December vary from 10 to 35 km/hour.
In December in Tenerife, you can enjoy 9 hours of sunshine a day!!! It’s just wow!!!!
Overall, the weather in Tenerife in December is great for beach holidays, excursions to towns, authentic villages, and hiking.
Hotel occupancy in December is 100%, so you should book your accommodation for December very much in advance.
If you look for accommodation at the last minute, you will find that all but the most luxurious options will already be rented and booked.
The cost of hotels for Christmas and New Year is comparable to August. August and December are the most expensive months of the year in Tenerife.
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Best Place to Stay in Tenerife in December
I know most travel websites recommend staying in the south of Tenerife in December. But in my experience, the north of Tenerife, namely Santa Cruz, Puerto de la Cruz, Candelaria, and other towns between Los Cristianos and Santa Cruz, like El Medano, are also great for Tenerife holidays in December.
Yes, it can be a few degrees warmer in the south of Tenerife and it almost never rains there.
But it’s also warm in the north of Tenerife. You’ll also be able to go to the beach, sunbathe and swim. Plus, you get to immerse yourself in the local culture, see how the locals live, and taste authentic local food rather than just eating tourist food in southern resorts like Las Americas.
In this photo, I’m at Las Teresitas beach near the capital Santa Cruz, in the north of the island, at the end of December. And as you can see, the beach is filled with sunbathers and everyone, adults and children alike, are swimming in the ocean.
If someone tells you that it is cold on the beaches in the north and that the water in the ocean is cold, don’t believe them, these are just rumours that don’t correspond to reality. I’ve been to other beaches in the north of Tenerife in December, such as Bajamar, Puerto de la Cruz, and there the beaches are just as packed with holidaymakers, and the ocean water temperature is suitable for swimming.
So, my opinion about the best place to stay in Tenerife in December is this:
In December, especially in the first half of December, the weather in Tenerife is quite stable, warm and sunny all over the island. And you’ll be able to swim in both the south and the north. The whole of Tenerife is the best place to stay in December, in spite of the fact that it can rain or storm in the north for 1 day -:)
If you want a guaranteed nice, sunny, clear weather in December, the best places to stay are Costa Adeje, Los Gigantes, Playa Las Vistas, Los Cristianos, Playa de la Arena, Alcala, Playa del Duque.
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Can You Swim in Tenerife in December?
Yes, it’s absolutely possible to swim in Tenerife in December and thousands of people do so with pleasure. But if you’re dreaming of a warm sea like in Thailand or the Philippines, you’ll be disappointed.
The water temperature usually ranges from 19°C to 21°C (sometimes it can reach 22°C), which may feel a bit cool for some, but it’s still comfortable enough for a quick plunge. Personally, this ocean temperature is quite comfortable for me.
If you find the water in the ocean a bit too chilly for your liking, I would recommend staying in a hotel that offers a heated pool. This way, you can still enjoy swimming and relaxing in the water without feeling uncomfortable. Plus, it’s always nice to have a warm and cozy option to retreat to after a day spent exploring the island.
I’ve compiled a list of hotels that offer heated pools for your consideration. Each of these hotels has excellent amenities and high ratings from past guests, making them a safe and comfortable choice for your stay. If you want to relax and make the most of your holiday, a heated pool is a great option. I hope this list helps you find the perfect hotel for your needs.
Things to Do in Tenerife in December
Tenerife is the place to be in December! The weather in December is ideal for island tours and long walks.
Tenerife is full of incredible experiences waiting for you to discover.
For those who appreciate nature, a visit to Teide National Park is a must, where you can witness the breathtaking Mount Teide volcano up close. For some fun in the sun, head to one of the island’s beautiful beaches like Playa del Duque or Playa de las Vistas.
If you like water fun, make sure you go to the best water park in Europe, Siam Park.
History and culture enthusiasts will be charmed by the UNESCO World Heritage Site of La Laguna.
And don’t forget to indulge in the delightful local cuisine, especially the papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) and fresh seafood. Check out the Christmas Market in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, which usually runs throughout the month of December and features lots of festive food, drink, and entertainment.
What to Wear in Tenerife in December
If you’re heading to Tenerife in December, the first thing you’ll want to do is put swimwear in your suitcase. You will definitely need them.
It’s essential to pack a mix of short and long-sleeve shirts, light layers, along with a light jacket or warm sweater for cooler evenings. You’ll also need warm clothes if you’re going to visit Volcano Teide.
As for shoes, comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are a must for exploring the island’s natural beauty. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
Finally, pack a small backpack or tote bag for carrying essentials like water bottles, snacks, and a camera while exploring.
Tenerife in winter is an absolute paradise. The warm sun, beautiful beaches, and stunning landscapes will take your breath away.
You will be amazed by the beauty of Tenerife and the friendly locals who will make you feel right at home. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable winter getaway in Tenerife!
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