If you’re planning a short holiday on Lanzarote to enjoy the fabulous beaches, but weather is worrying you, here’s everything you need to know.
Lanzarote is a windy island, especially during the summer months, but don’t let that slow down your plans. Pack your bag and start your trip. The south of the island is waiting for you with warm weather, calmer winds, beaches with blue water and golden sand.
What’s the weather like on Lanzarote?
Your travel destination’s climate will affect your holiday. With Lanzarote, this effect will be positive, thanks to its arid subtropical climate. For this reason, you can visit the island any time of year, especially if you want to escape the cold.
Winter temperatures on Lanzarote range between 15 °C and 22 °C. Summers are warmer, and the thermometer can reach between 25–28 °C.
Rainfall is rare on Lanzarote, which means you’ll enjoy more than 300 days of sunshine per year.
What makes Lanzarote’s climate unique within the Canary Islands?
Compared to the other Canary Islands, Lanzarote is the driest. This is due to its proximity to the African continent, which exposes it directly to northeast winds.
Lanzarote has a desert-like and windy landscape, while other islands have lusher vegetation and higher humidity. This dryness, combined with the winds, is what has shaped the island’s incomparable geological formations.
Is Lanzarote windy?
Yes, Lanzarote is a windy island, and it’s important to understand how this will affect your visit.
Understanding the trade winds (Alisios)
The trade winds are the most common on Lanzarote and blow from the northeast for almost the entire year, bringing dry and cool air. The presence of these winds has transformed the island into an extraordinary destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts, attracting athletes from all over the world.
But the island is also affected by “Calimas”, which are winds from the Sahara Desert. They are dry and hot and can be annoying because they carry sand; however, this won’t prevent you from enjoying your holiday.
When is Lanzarote the windiest?
Lanzarote’s winds have helped shape the lives of islanders. For this reason, it’s important to understand seasonal trends to plan your holiday.
The windiest months of the year
From May to September are the windiest months on Lanzarote, with July having the strongest gusts.
Wind strength in June and July makes these months ideal times for water sports.
Calmer seasons – ideal for sun seekers
If you want to visit the island under calmer conditions, plan your trip between October and March. The period from December to January offers moderate winds and ideal temperatures for beach activities without the intensity of the summer months.
Monthly average wind speed chart
As we’ve said, the climate in June and July include the strongest winds. In these months, wind speeds on Lanzarote are around 24–25 km/h.
From October to March, wind speeds are moderate, averaging 18 km/h.
Here you’ll find information about winds on Lanzarote month by month. This information will help you plan your next holiday, whether you’re looking for windy conditions for water sports or calmer days to spend with your family on the beach.
| Month | Wind Speed | Wind Direction | Wind Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | About 18 km/h | North / Northwest | Moderate wind |
| February | About 18 km/h | North / Northwest | Moderate wind |
| March | About 18 km/h | North / Northwest | Moderate wind |
| April | About 20 km/h | North / Northwest | Moderate wind |
| May | About 23 km/h | North / Northwest | Strong wind |
| June | About 25 km/h | North / Northwest | Very strong wind |
| July | About 28 km/h | North / Northwest | Strongest winds |
| August | About 25 km/h | North / Northwest | Strong wind |
| September | About 20 km/h | North / Northwest | Moderate to strong wind |
| October | About 19 km/h | North / Northwest | Lightest winds |
| November | About 18 km/h | North / Northwest | Moderate wind |
| December | About 18 km/h | North / Northeast | Moderate wind |
Source: https://weatherspark.com/d/150430/8/31/Average-Weather-on-August-31-in-Lanzarote-Spain
Which areas are most sheltered from the wind?
Wind strength is not the same everywhere on the island. Some areas are sheltered and allow you to enjoy a calm holiday, especially if you’re planning family beach days.
On Lanzarote, the areas most sheltered from the wind are on the southern side of the island. This is due to several mountain barriers that help reduce the breeze. If you want to go to the beach but worry about the wind, you’ll find Playa Flamingo in Playa Blanca, and in Puerto del Carmen you’ll find Playa La Piñita. Both are protected by large cliffs that slow down the wind.
The sheltered south: Playa Blanca and beyond
The southern tip of Lanzarote is the calmest zone on the island. Here you’ll find Playa Blanca, which is protected by the island’s central highlands, keeping it relatively safe from northeast winds.
The beaches in this area are known for their golden sand, crystal-clear waters and calm conditions, even during the windiest months.
Playa Blanca has seen significant tourist development over recent decades and now offers modern infrastructure. If you’re looking for a quieter spot, Yaiza can be a good alternative, as it has a more authentic and less touristy atmosphere than Playa Blanca.
Best resorts and beaches with less wind
Some of the best resorts on Lanzarote are located in the south. Playa Blanca is one of the most recommended areas. Among the most popular beaches in the region are Playa Blanca Norte and Playa Dorada.
Puerto del Carmen, though somewhat windier, is also a good option for enjoying a calmer holiday compared to the north.
Local tips: choosing accommodation wisely based on wind exposure
It’s important to pay attention to wind conditions when planning your trip. Some recommendations for traveling to Lanzarote include:
- Check the orientation: Accommodations facing south or southeast will experience significantly less wind than those facing north.
- Ask the locals: Hotel staff and local agencies can provide specific information about microclimates and real-time weather conditions.
- Consider distance from the coast: Accommodations slightly away from the sea have less intense winds than those right on the beach.
- Prefer the south of the island in summer: If you visit between May and September, the south is ideal for a calmer experience.
- Choose the best month for your visit: The climate on Lanzarote in April offers you gentler winds to enjoy the island to the fullest.
How the wind affects your holiday on Lanzarote
No matter when you visit Lanzarote, it will be windy, especially between May and September. However, this doesn’t mean you should avoid the island during these months. Many athletes and nature lovers actually consider these conditions ideal.
Beach days: what to expect and how to prepare
The wind will affect your beach adventure on Lanzarote. Where there are winds, there are waves. The beaches with the strongest winds are on the northern side of the island, with Famara being the most popular and particularly known for surfing.
If you’re looking for a calm beach sheltered from wind and waves, head to the south of the island. Playa Dorada is one of the most recommended beaches for families and children.
To make the most of Lanzarote’s beaches, we recommend:
- Choose the right beach for the day: In strong wind, visit sheltered beaches like Playa Blanca or Los Pocillos.
- Plan your beach time: The wind is usually weakest early in the morning.
- Use extra sun protection: The wind doesn’t reduce the sun’s strength; it can even increase sun exposure.
- Stay well hydrated: The wind accelerates skin and body dehydration.
- Bring a beach umbrella or windbreak: These accessories are essential on windy beaches.
If you still have doubts about whether Lanzarote is windy, the answer is yes. With good planning, you can easily enjoy your holiday. An important part of this planning should be booking your airport transfers in Lanzarote to guarantee a smooth trip on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lanzarote windy in summer?
Yes, Lanzarote
Abdel Samouh is a tourism professional specialising in the Canary Islands, with a solid track record in visitor experience management on Lanzarote. His career has centred on promoting the island's landmark attractions and enhancing transfer and excursion services across this volcanic destination.
