If you’re planning a holiday in Lanzarote to enjoy the beautiful beaches but worried about the weather, here you’ll find everything you need to know.
Lanzarote is a windy island, especially during the summer months, but don’t let that discourage you. Pack your bags and start your trip. The south of the island awaits you with warm weather, weaker winds, beaches with blue water and golden sand.
What’s the weather like in Lanzarote?
Your destination’s climate impacts your holiday. In Lanzarote’s case, this effect will be positive, thanks to its arid subtropical climate. So you can visit the island any time of year, especially if you want to escape the cold.
Winter temperatures in Lanzarote range between 15 °C and 22 °C. Summers are warmer, and the thermometer can reach between 25–28 °C.
Rainfall is low in Lanzarote, meaning you’ll enjoy over 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 north-easterly winds.
Lanzarote has a desert-like and windy landscape, while other islands have more vegetation and higher humidity. This dryness, combined with the winds, 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 affects your visit.
Understanding the trade winds (Alisios)
Trade winds are the most common winds on Lanzarote and blow almost year-round from the north-east, bringing dry, cool air. The presence of these winds has made the island an extraordinary destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts, attracting athletes from around the world.
But the island is also affected by “Calima”, which are Saharan winds. They’re dry and hot and can be annoying because they bring sand; but this won’t stop you from enjoying your holiday.
When is Lanzarote the windiest?
The winds in Lanzarote have shaped the lives of its inhabitants. Therefore, it’s important to understand seasonal patterns to plan your holiday.
Windiest months of the year
May to September are the windiest months in Lanzarote, with July experiencing the strongest gusts.
The wind intensity during June and July makes these months ideal for water sports.
Calmer seasons ideal for sun seekers
If you want to visit the island in calmer conditions, plan your holiday 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 mentioned, the weather in June and July means the strongest winds. In these months, wind speeds in Lanzarote average around 24–25 km/h.
From October to March, wind speeds are moderate, about 18 km/h.
You’ll find information here about winds in Lanzarote month by month. This information helps you plan your next trip, whether you’re looking for windy conditions for sports activities or calmer days for a family beach day.
| Month | Wind Speed | Wind Direction | Wind Intensity |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | approximately 18 km/h | North / North-West | Moderate wind |
| February | approximately 18 km/h | North / North-West | Moderate wind |
| March | approximately 18 km/h | North / North-West | Moderate wind |
| April | approximately 20 km/h | North / North-West | Moderate wind |
| May | approximately 23 km/h | North / North-West | Strong wind |
| June | approximately 25 km/h | North / North-West | Very strong wind |
| July | approximately 28 km/h | North / North-West | Strongest winds |
| August | approximately 25 km/h | North / North-West | Strong wind |
| September | approximately 20 km/h | North / North-West | Moderate to strong wind |
| October | approximately 19 km/h | North / North-West | Lighter winds |
| November | approximately 18 km/h | North / North-West | Moderate wind |
| December | approximately 18 km/h | North / North-East | 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 intensity isn’t the same everywhere on the island. Some areas are sheltered and let you enjoy a peaceful holiday, especially if you’re planning family beach days.
On Lanzarote, the areas sheltered from the wind are those on the south of the island. This is due to several mountain obstacles that help reduce the breeze. If you want to go to the beach but worry about the wind, you’ll find Playa Flamingo at Playa Blanca, and at Puerto del Carmen you’ll find Playa La Piñita. Both are protected by tall cliffs that slow down the wind.
The sheltered south: Playa Blanca and beyond
The southernmost tip of Lanzarote is the calmest area of the island. Here you’ll find Playa Blanca, which is protected by the island’s central highlands, keeping it relatively sheltered from north-easterly winds.
The beaches in this area are known for their golden sand, crystal-clear water and calm conditions, even during the windiest months.
Playa Blanca has experienced significant tourism 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 in Lanzarote are found in the south. Playa Blanca is one of the most recommended places. Among the most popular beaches in the region are Playa Blanca North and Playa Dorada.
Puerto del Carmen is a bit windier, but it’s also a good option to enjoy a quieter holiday compared to the north.
Local tips: choose accommodation wisely based on wind exposure
It’s important to consider wind conditions when planning your trip. Here are some recommendations for travelling to Lanzarote :
- Pay attention to orientation: Accommodation facing south or south-east experiences considerably fewer winds than those facing north.
- Ask locals: Hotel staff and local agencies can give you specific information about microclimates and current weather conditions.
- Consider distance from the coast: Accommodation set slightly away from the beach experiences less intense winds than those directly beachfront.
- Prioritise the south of the island in summer: If you’re planning a visit between May and September, the south is essential for a calmer experience.
- Choose the best month for your stay: Lanzarote weather in April offers you calmer winds to enjoy the island to the fullest.
How the wind affects your holiday in Lanzarote
Every time you visit Lanzarote, there will be wind – particularly between May and September. This doesn’t mean you should avoid the island during these months. On the contrary, many athletes and nature lovers consider these conditions ideal.
No matter when you visit, booking airport transfers in Lanzarote in advance will make your trip smoother. Check our travel hacks for Lanzarote to prepare for the wind.
Beach days: what to expect and how to prepare
The wind affects your beach experience in Lanzarote. Where there’s wind, there are waves. The beaches with the strongest winds are found on the north of the island, Famara is the most popular and particularly famous for surfing.
If you’re looking for a calm beach, sheltered from the wind, with small waves, visit the south of the island. Playa Dorada is recommended for families and children.
To make the most of Lanzarote’s beaches, we recommend:
- Choose the right beach depending on the day: If the wind is strong, look for sheltered beaches like Playa Blanca or Los Pocillos.
- Plan your beach time: Generally, wind is less intense in the early morning.
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.
