Weather Lowdown
When you think about sunny weather in the Canary Islands, it's likely that you are thinking about the peak summer months. Thankfully, the temperature only falls to a mild level during the winter months here, as you will discover if you visit in January.
Puerto de Santiago has a great year-round climate with only a small amount of variation. Make sure that you take the time to check out the forecast in the weeks before you arrive, as the weather can take a turn for the colder at this time of year but only by a small amount. There are an average of 9 hours of sunshine a day even in this winter month, so you can be sure that you will still get plenty of sun on your skin.
The average daily temperature is around 18°C, with the sea temperature rising just a little above that at 19°C. With average highs of 21°C and lows of 16°C, this does however take the title of coldest month jointly with February although it will be warmer than most places in northern Europe.
The average daily rainfall is also at a peak at this time of year, though November and December are wetter. There is an average of 86mm of rain falling throughout this month, with all of that coming down over 6 days in total so you still get another 24 days which are rain-free. Even with a two-week holiday, you might get away dry!
The good news is that this month is not as popular with tourists, so you might actually end up getting some time to yourself on the beach. Resorts still accept lots of holidaymakers all year round, but the crowds are smaller and there is more of a chance to relax without lots of other people around you. You are also less likely to be sunburnt at this time of year, though sunscreen is still recommended.
Where to Stay
When January kicks in, it's easier to find rooms even at the more upmarket hotels, which could definitely work in your favour for some cheap deals. The Be Live Family Costa los Gigantes is a four star hotel with a spa to tempt you into some pampering. It also offers special family rooms where kids can enjoy amenities such as a PlayStation and free cookies.
The Holiday Village Tenerife could be a great choice for visitors who are travelling with their families, as it offers a great range of kid's entertainment all year round. It's only a short distance from the beach, but if you want to stay closer to your room, there are three main pools and one extra for children.
The Barcelo Santiago is a luxury choice with plenty to offer. You might get to stay here for cheaper than you think if you book for the off season! The eating options include a buffet-style restaurant, a pool snack bar, a tapas bar, and a couple of drinking bars as well.
Things to Do
The Diving Spirit Tenerife experience is fantastic at this time of year, as the wetsuits you wear will ensure that you do not feel any less warm in the January water than you would during the summer. They offer you the chance to earn a diving certification if you do not already to have one, or just to enjoy a dive with expert help. Clear waters will reveal an abundance of marine life!
The Santiago Sporting Centre is great for a couple's night out or just a chance for the whole family to have fun. Here you will find the chance to partake in sports like tennis, snooker, bowls, and golf. You can also just stay for the evening, have a drink, and enjoy a meal.
Remember to take full advantage of the facilities in your hotel as well. Many of them will offer live entertainment on a weekly basis in the bar or restaurant area, such as a dance show or live bingo. These nights can be a lot more fun than you might think!
Restaurants and Nightlife
If you want your nightlife to come with a lot of drinks and live entertainment, then you just have to head down to Route 66. This bar is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. They have a schedule of entertainment that changes regularly, so there will always be something to try.
The Deli on The Hill offers the perfect place to stop for lunch. Here you will find a great selection of sandwiches and other lunch options that you can choose from to eat fresh. Everything is sourced locally too, so it's a great way to support the community here.
If you want cake, you have to stop at Macaronesia. They do coffee and all types of cake for you to choose from, making this one of the favourite haunts of those who come back here year on year. They also have a great little location from where you can sit and watch the world go by.
