What's the weather like in Puerto del Carmen in October
Autumn is a transition season in Lanzarote, as temperatures gradually begin to cool and the dry, arid landscape is transformed by a few millimetres of rainfall in preparation for the comparatively colder, wetter winter months. It's still a good time to visit, as with peak season passed, it is far less crowded and conditions remain warm and temperate with plenty of sunshine hours.
Temperature
Temperatures are likely to be slightly milder in October in Puerto del Carmen than preceding months. The UV index rating falls to a very moderate 7, the average daily temperature is 18C, with highs of 21C and lows of 15C. The average temperature on Lanzarote as a whole is 23C, with highs of 26C and lows of 19C.
And the hottest temperature recorded in the area at this time is 36C. It's likely to be slightly colder in coastal resorts, compared to those inland, though the south of the island is still hotter and maximum daytime temperatures are often around 27C or 28C. Similar conditions are seen on the other Canary Islands, though Tenerife and Fuerteventura are slightly colder with average temperatures of between 21C and 22C.
Rain
There is usually around 7mm of rainfall over four days in Puerto del Carmen, which is still a relatively small amount of precipitation and shouldn't spoil any plans to sunbathe. The rainy season is really beginning on the other Canaries in October; Tenerife sees rainfall averages of 41mm, and La Palma 40mm over 7 days.
Humidity
The humidity is still relatively high at 74% in Puerto del Carmen, though this is quite moderate it is higher than seen on other Canaries (the humidity is only 64% in Tenerife, despite much higher rainfall averages).
October is the start of the weaker dust storm season on Lanzarote, when dust from the Sahara is blown across the island, often followed by a short, refreshing shower. However, in October any dust storms are likely to be very mild; the wind picks up and the sky will look slightly hazy. They shouldn't impact on any activities. If you have any conditions such as asthma or other respiratory complaints, which may be negatively impacted by the dust, it might be best to avoid the beach and other outdoor activities at these times, however.
Puerto del Carmen Hotels in October
The Hyde Park Lane Bungalows are an excellent choice for self-catering accommodation in Puerto del Carmen. Unlike some of the apartment complexes, they are a little more spacious and have a more relaxed feel. With a restaurant, supermarket, pool, tennis court, spa and solarium, they are also a little more upmarket and offer a more luxurious experience.
If you don't fancy self-catering, try the four star Hipotels La Geria. The restaurant serves a range of international cuisine, and during the day light snacks are served on the terrace and by the pool. There's a gorgeous pool area, where you can even order a poolside massage to help you relax! The gym and tennis courts are well maintained, and there's plenty of evening entertainment for the whole family.
Puerto del Carmen Beach for October
There are three excellent beaches, all with Blue Flag status, in Puerto del Carmen, however, while temperatures in the autumn months are still mild enough to enjoy a little sunbathing, you may need to plan activities and excursions for colder days and to fill your time during any showers.
If you enjoy a hike, Playa El Risco is probably the wildest beach on the island. It's pretty difficult to access, which ensures it's generally pretty quiet. The easiest way is by boat from Orzola, or a one-hour hike down a steep cliff path. Be warned, because it's so remote, there are no amenities here. No bars or restaurants, and no toilets or banana boats.
Bars and Restaurants
Charlie's Bar in Centro Atlantico, the main nightlife district in Puerto del Carmen, offers live music and bands and a club atmosphere. They regularly host salsa and flamenco nights and it's guaranteed to be lively.
For cocktails and something a little different, try Africa Puerto Del Carmen on Calle Nicaragua. They have a fantastic range of cocktails, and their frozen drinks are delightful. They also regularly host acoustic and live music nights, when they bar can really be quite lively.
Friends Bar has very reasonably priced drinks, but it's really the food that draws in a crowd. The menu is traditional English pub food, but it's very well presented and makes the most of local ingredients.
Things to do in Puerto del Carmen in October
There's plenty to do in Puerto del Carmen itself, with shops and beaches and restaurants, the arcades, casinos and spas. However, for something a little further afield (and quieter), visit La Graciosa, a tiny island off the North tip of Lanzarote. It has no roads but offers incredible cycling and hiking opportunities. You can take a ferry from Orzola, or book a trip from your resort.
Cueva de Los Verdes or The Green Caves is one of the most interesting volcanic structures on the island. As far back as the Guanches (an aboriginal people who inhabited the Canary Islands) the Green Caves have been used as a place of refuge. The Green Caves remain quite unspoilt, and the lighting is atmospheric.
El Grifo Wine Museum in Masdache is the island's oldest bodega and an excellent opportunity to learn more about Lanzarote's unique method of viniculture. The views over the vineyards and volcanic landscape are stunning, and the museum often hosts tasting sessions and wine lectures.
If you're looking for something a little different, hire a car and take a windmill tour of the island. Known as 'molino de viento', windmills were once integral to the agricultural life here. Originally used for grinding maize, barley and other grains (called gofio), on the coast they were also used to pump sea water for salt making. There are remains of these traditional agricultural markers in Guime, San Bartolome (one of which is still working) and Teguise.