If you’re planning a short vacation on the island of Lanzarote to enjoy the fabulous beaches, but you’re thinking about the weather, you’ll find everything you need to know here.
Lanzarote is a windy island, especially during the summer months, but don’t let that stop you. Pack your bags and start your adventure. The south of the island awaits you with warm weather, calmer winds, beaches with blue water and golden sand.
What’s the Weather Like in Lanzarote?
Your destination’s climate will influence your vacation. In Lanzarote, this influence will be positive, thanks to the arid-subtropical climate. For this reason, you can visit the island year-round, especially if you want to escape the cold.
Winter temperatures in Lanzarote range from 15 °C to 22 °C. Summers are warmer, and the thermometer can reach 25–28 °C.
Rainfall is rare in 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 to direct 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, has shaped the island’s unparalleled 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 in Lanzarote and blow from the northeast almost year-round, 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.
The island is also affected by “Calimas,” which are winds from the Sahara. They are dry and hot and can be bothersome as they carry sand with them; however, this won’t prevent you from enjoying your vacation.
When Is Lanzarote the Windiest?
The winds of Lanzarote have helped shape island life. For this reason, it’s important to understand seasonal trends to plan your vacation.
Windiest months of the year
From May to September, these are the windiest months in Lanzarote, with July recording the strongest wind gusts.
Wind strength in June and July makes these months ideal for water sports.
Calmer seasons – ideal for sun seekers
If you want to visit the island under calmer conditions, plan your visit 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 climate in June and July includes the strongest winds. During these months, wind speeds in Lanzarote are around 24–25 km/h.
From October to March, wind speeds are moderate, averaging 18 km/h.
Here is monthly information about winds in Lanzarote. This information helps you plan your next vacation, whether you’re looking for windy conditions for water sports or calmer days with the family at the beach.
| Month | Wind Speed | Wind Direction | Wind Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Around 18 km/h | North / Northwest | Moderate wind |
| February | Around 18 km/h | North / Northwest | Moderate wind |
| March | Around 18 km/h | North / Northwest | Moderate wind |
| April | Around 20 km/h | North / Northwest | Moderate wind |
| May | Around 23 km/h | North / Northwest | Strong wind |
| June | Around 25 km/h | North / Northwest | Very strong wind |
| July | Around 28 km/h | North / Northwest | Strongest winds |
| August | Around 25 km/h | North / Northwest | Strong wind |
| September | Around 20 km/h | North / Northwest | Moderate to strong wind |
| October | Around 19 km/h | North / Northwest | Weakest winds |
| November | Around 18 km/h | North / Northwest | Moderate wind |
| December | Around 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, allowing you to enjoy calmer vacations, especially if you’re planning quiet family days at the beach.
In Lanzarote, the most wind-sheltered areas are on the southern side of the island. This is due to several mountain ranges that help reduce the breeze. If you want to go to the beach but are worried about the wind, you’ll find Playa Flamingo beach 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 end of Lanzarote is the calmest zone on the island. You’ll find Playa Blanca there, which is protected by the island’s central highlands, keeping it relatively protected from northeast 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 tourist development in recent decades and now offers modern infrastructure. If you’re looking for a quieter place, Yaiza can be a good alternative, as it offers 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 located in the south. Playa Blanca is one of the most recommended destinations. Among the most popular beaches in the area are Playa Blanca Norte and Playa Dorada.
Puerto del Carmen, while somewhat windier, is also a good option to enjoy a calmer vacation 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. Among the recommendations for traveling to Lanzarote are:
- Check the orientation: Accommodations facing south or southeast experience much less wind than those facing north.
- Ask the locals: Hotel staff and local agencies can provide specific information about microclimates and current weather conditions.
- Consider distance from the coast: Accommodations situated some distance from the sea experience 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 to visit: The climate in Lanzarote in April offers you gentler winds to enjoy the island to the fullest.
How the Wind Affects Your Holiday in 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 influence your beach experience in Lanzarote. Where there’s wind, there are waves. The beaches with the strongest winds are in the north of the island, with Famara being the most popular and particularly renowned for surfing.
If you’re looking for a calm beach protected 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: Normally, wind is weaker in the early morning hours.
If you still have doubts about whether Lanzarote is windy, the answer is yes. With good planning, you can enjoy your holiday worry-free. This planning should include booking your airport transfers in Lanzarote to guarantee a smooth journey 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.
