What's the weather like in Tenerife in January?
Those looking for a winter getaway can do much worse than northern Tenerife. With mild weather and long sunny days, the region has become more and more popular in recent years.
As an island approximately 785 square miles, the climate can be different from the northern half to the southern half. In January, the northern half of the island doesn't see quite as much sun, but it can still be just as nice to visit.
Temperature
The average daytime temperature in January in Tenerife North is 18°C (68°F) with an overnight average low temperature of 15°C (59°F). It is chilly enough to need a light jacket, but still pleasant enough to enjoy outdoor activities even in the dead of winter, especially as the average high temperature reaches 20°C (64°F). This month tends to be the coldest on average throughout the year.
Rain
The chances of rain are slim despite the time of year and Tenerife North receives only 40mm of rain throughout the month. On average, there are 7 days that see rain out of the 31 in the month. Additionally, each day will receive an average of 7 hours of sunlight allowing for plenty of time to enjoy the outdoors.
Sea Temperature
Despite the relatively pleasant air temperature, the water surrounding the northern half of the island may be a little too cold to swim in during this time of year. The average water temperature is 15°C (59°F). Water at that temperature is cold enough to need a wet suit if a visitor decides to go for a dip.
Winters in Tenerife North are generally milder and drier than elsewhere in Europe and make for a pleasant destination, but be sure to check the live weather forecast before traveling in-case you do need the odd extra layer of clothing.
Tenerife Hotels in January
Hotel Botanico
If visitors don't mind spending a few extra dollars, Hotel Botanico is one of the best choices one the island. Decorated with Thai influenced interiors, Hotel Botanico boasts four restaurants, a world-class spa, large pool and many other amenities. The service is second to none with a very attentive, multi-lingual staff that will see to guests every need. The grounds of the hotel are dotted with palm trees and include a carp filled lake. The room themselves have private balconies that overlook the valley. The breakfast buffet is one of the best on the island and the four restaurants serve a mixture of food including traditional dishes, as well as one restaurant with an Oriental flare.
Hotel Adonis Capital
For those visitors who are a little more budget conscious, Hotel Adonis Capital is a great choice for not breaking the bank. Newly renovated, this hotel offers a great location and is centrally located to all that Tenerife North has to offer. The hotel offers car rental, room service and Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.
Hotel Colon Rambla
Those looking for a getaway in January may also want to look at Hotel Colon Rambla. Located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the hotel is surrounded by a lush garden and offers visitors a swimming pool, bar, restaurant and laundry service. There is also Internet service, air conditioning, fully equipped kitchens and terraces in each room.
Bars and Restaurants
Blanco Bar
One of the coolest bars on Tenerife is also one of the hottest right now. Blanco Bar located in Puerto de la Cruz, offers a contemporary style along with a courtyard to enjoy the chilly January air. The courtyard actually takes up three levels that fills up with those customers looking to be seen. Live music can be heard on the weekends.
El Calderito de la Abuela
Those looking for a great meal will want to check out El Calderito de la Abuela. Situated in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, this restaurant is one of the best on the north side of the island and infuses new life into traditional Canary recipes. The restaurant uses fresh produce from its own garden and also offers wonderful views of the Orotava Valley, Atlantic Ocean and Mount Teide.
Things to Do in Tenerife in January
With cooler conditions in January in Tenerife North, and the ocean waters too cold for a swim, this month is the perfect time to explore some of the indoor activities around the island.
Museum of Man and Nature
One of the more popular spots is The Museum of Man and Nature located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The museum is located in the Old Civil Hospital and houses the collections of the Archeological Museum of Tenerife, the Canary Islands Institute of Bio-anthropology and the Museum of Natural Sciences of Tenerife. Its collections offer visitors a complete look at the natural history of the island and so much more.
Military Museum
Another great museum to visit during the cooler winter months is the Military Museum that is also located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This museum is a tourist favorite because it is not very big, but offers a wealth of information regarding the island's military past. The collection includes guns, cannons, maps, flags and uniforms.
Catholic Traditions
The Canary Islands, a part of Spain, observes secular and Catholic traditions. On New Year's Eve, the Canary Islands celebrate with the Spanish tradition of eating twelve grapes within the twelve tolls of a bell at midnight. If you can eat all of the grapes before the bell stops, you'll have good luck throughout the New Year.
Eve of the Epiphany
On January 5th, the Canary Islands celebrate the Eve of the Epiphany, or a celebration of the Three Kings from the nativity story. Many towns on Tenerife will celebrate with lavish festivals and processions.
