What's the weather like in Puerto del Carmen in July
Temperatures really begin to heat up in July, and despite the pleasant afternoon sea breezes in coastal areas it will really feel very hot indeed. July is also the sunniest month on Lanzarote, sea temperatures are at the highest, and even overnight it is unlikely to be very cold. This is peak tourism season in Lanzarote, and in Puerto del Carmen, so expect crowded beaches and tourist sites.
Temperature
You can expect high temperatures in Puerto del Carmen in July. The average temperature is 19C, with average highs of 22C and lows of 15C. The average temperature for Lanzarote as a whole is 24C, with highs of 28C. Overnight, temperatures are usually around 16C in Puerto del Carmen. There are similar conditions across the Canary Islands, with average temperatures of 21C in Tenerife, 23C in Gran Canaria and La Gomera, and 24C in Fuerteventura.
Daytime temperatures in Puerto del Carmen are likely to reach 28C by mid-afternoon, and it's not unusual for temperatures to be above 30C for several days in the month; the highest ever recorded temperature in the area for July is just over 42C. Cool sea breezes in coastal areas help make the high temperatures much more manageable, although it can be quite windy in northern parts of the island (July sees the highest wind speeds in Lanzarote); Puerto del Carmen, in relatively sheltered southerly part of the island, should still see quite calm conditions. Any cloud cover usually breaks up by mid-morning, leaving clear skies and perfect conditions for soaking up the sun.
Average Sunshine Hours
July is the sunniest month of the year on Lanzarote, with between 9 and 11 hours of sunshine per day, and dry conditions (the rainfall average is 0 for the month). However, UV levels are extremely high (classified as 11) and it is advisable to take all reasonable precautions; wearing a hat and sunglasses, suncream, and staying inside or in the shade during the hottest part of the day.
The hot, dry weather makes this the perfect time for a beach holiday in Puerto del Carmen. However, bear in mind that this is peak season and the beaches will be crowded. The high temperatures and crowds can also make sightseeing and outdoor activities or sports quite uncomfortable, so holidays at this time are usually confined to sunbathing and organised tours.
Puerto del Carmen Hotels in July
The Parque Tropical Apartments are right in the heart of the town center, with beaches, restaurants and bars on your doorstep. The hotel prides itself on its eco-credentials, and all the hot water is provided by solar panels. The two lovely swimming pools (one of which is for children) are on a split level, and surrounded by delightful and well-tended gardens.
For something a little further out, if you are planning to rent a car, the five star Hotel Hesperia in Puerto Calero is pure luxury. The marina, with bars and shops, is on the doorstep and the busier, lively Puerto del Carmen is a ten minute drive away. The hotel boasts four restaurants, each serving a different cuisine, three bars, two pools, a spa and sports club. There's tennis and minigolf, a private beach, a range of organised activities, and a very well run kids' club.
Puerto del Carmen Beach for July
There are three excellent beaches, all with Blue Flag status, in Puerto del Carmen: The Playa Grande, Playa Chica and Playa Pocillos. All have a range of amenities and are very popular in the summer months.
If you fancy heading further afield, however, there are plenty of beautiful beaches to discover in Lanzarote. Famara on the northwest coast of the island, away from the resorts, is backed by spectacular, pinkish cliffs. Surfing, windsurfing and kiteboarding professionals often train here. The cliffs are popular with hang-gliders too.
Alternatively, visit Playa Quemada. The name translates as "burnt beach", and when you see the gravelly dark sand and rocks you can understand why. On the south-east coast of the island, it adjoins a former fishing village near Puerto Calero. The beach is often a little quieter, even at peak times, and is very popular with locals escaping the tourists and crowded beaches at nearby resorts. Sheltered from the wind, it is very pleasant for sunbathing, and also safe for swimming (so good for children too).
Bars and Restaurants
Blair's on Avenida Juan Carlos serves a mix of traditional English and Scottish pub food. Think fish and chips, haggis and steak. They do a very hearty full English breakfast, complete with black pudding (if you've never tried it) and are quite lively in the evenings.
If you're looking for something sweeter, try Smooy on Avenida de Las Playa for a whole range of mouthwatering desserts. They serve everything from delicious ice cream and frozen yoghurt, with toppings and sauces and sprinkles, to smoothies and pancakes. It's the perfect treat to end an evening!
The nightlife in the summer months really gets going in Puerto del Carmen. For a great night out, try The Venue on Avenida de las Playas. They have karaoke most evenings, and while you're waiting for the microphone you can distract yourself with their incredible cocktails and reasonably priced drinks. There's food served early on in the evening, and during the day they often show football games on the TV.
Things to do in Puerto del Carmen in July
There are any number of boat trips and excursions available at coastal resorts, including submarine safaris. The submarine safaris are very popular and are a great way to keep the kids entertained. The submarine travels along the sea floor, giving you a great view of all marine life and a rather spooky old submerged wreck. The trip isn't cheap, but it's certainly unique.
There are any number of great dive and surfing schools in Puerto del Carmen, but for something a little different, why not visit the Paracraft Watersports Centre on Playa Chica beach. They have a great range of activities, including jetboard rides and parascending, for the more adventurous.
If you get bored of the beach and fancy taking in some culture, the International Museum of Contemporary Art in Arrecife. The museum was established in 1975 to promote, collect and exhibit significant works of modern art. The initiative was pioneered by Lanzarote's most famous mayor, Cesar Manrique, who personally directed the remodel of the Castle of San Jose.
Alternatively, if you want to see more of the breathtaking volcanic landscape of the island, visit one of the miradors (viewpoints). One of the loveliest is Los Valles-Haria, where you'll also find Ermita de las Nieves (the Hermitage of the Clouds). This chapel is dedicated to the Virgin of las Nieves, to whom the locals have prayed for rain for many centuries. Past the chapel lie various outcrops of rock with incredible views down to Famara below, over to Graciosa and back down to the center and south of the island.
