December 2026 Weather Guide: Gran Canaria
“Mild and bright — an underrated time to visit.”
Roughly 7 rainy days across the month, on average.
December returns Gran Canaria to winter-mild territory with highs at 18.1°C (64°F), nights at 10.5°C (51°F), 27mm rain across 7 wet days, and 9.5 hours of daily sunshine. Water cools to 20°C, still swimmable for the acclimatised. Passing Atlantic fronts bring 24-48 hour rain windows interspersed with long sunny stretches, particularly across the leeward south.
Christmas markets appear from mid-November onward in Vegueta and San Fernando de Maspalomas, and Belénes (nativity displays) in Firgas and Agüimes rival Spanish mainland traditions. Nochevieja on 31 December brings massive fireworks over Muelle Deportivo in Las Palmas, with 12 grapes eaten at midnight per Spanish custom. Whale watching enters its winter peak with sperm whales, pilot whales, and dolphins reliably close to shore.
Analysis of 11 complete years covering 2015 to 2025 places December highs from 17.2°C to 19.4°C, remarkably consistent. Rainfall varied 12mm to 65mm, with 2019 hitting the wet extreme thanks to a persistent trough. Sunshine held around 9-10 hours daily. The 2026 outlook trends slightly warmer, with reduced storm frequency compared to the last three Decembers.
Travellers heading to Gran Canaria in December 2026 for Christmas or New Year should book by early October, particularly for Maspalomas beachfront hotels. German charter demand peaks 24-27 December. Nochevieja fireworks at Muelle Deportivo need dinner reservations at Auditorio Alfredo Kraus terraces booked 8 weeks ahead for the best views this December 2026.
Vegueta neighborhood's Plaza de Santa Ana is where Columbus reportedly heard mass before crossing. Real papas arrugadas with mojo picón lives at Casa Montesdeoca in Vegueta, not the tourist strip. Take GC-200 to Puerto de las Nieves for grilled vieja and Agaete Valley coffee — the only coffee grown commercially in Europe. Maspalomas dunes are literally a Sahara fragment blown across in prevailing easterlies.
What to pack for Gran Canaria in December
Winter-mild kit for December:
- Light packable puffer for evenings
- Waterproof jacket for showers
- Long trousers plus shorts for beach days
- Trainers plus one dressy shoe
- Warm layer for Nochevieja outdoor waits
What to pack for Gran Canaria in December
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Where to stay in Gran Canaria
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Peak season prices — book early or shift by 2–3 weeks to save. Rule-based estimates from a couple based in London — actual prices vary.
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Delayed flight to Gran Canaria?
Flights to Gran Canaria in December can be delayed by storms. Claim up to €600 if yours is 3+ hours late. EU regulations cover flights departing from or arriving in the EU/UK.
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Things worth doing
Nochevieja fireworks at Muelle Deportivo, Vegueta Christmas market, Agüimes belén visits, whale watching peak season, coastal walking Meloneras to Maspalomas.
December vs. the rest of the year
How this month compares in Gran Canaria. Tap any month to read more.
highlighted months are among the best time to visit.
Best time to visit Gran Canaria
While December has its own character in Gran Canaria, the data-backed best months to visit Gran Canaria are April, May, June, July. These months combine the most favourable temperatures, rainfall, and sunshine across an 11-year climate record (2015–2025).
See the full best-time-to-visit guide for Gran CanariaOther places with a similar climate right now
Gran Canaria in December — FAQ
Q01Should I visit Gran Canaria in December?
Should I visit Gran Canaria in December?
Yes — it is a good time to visit, with pleasant, comfortable weather. In December, Gran Canaria averages a high of 18°C (65°F) and a low of 11°C (51°F), with 27mm of rainfall across roughly 7 rainy days. Carnaval de Las Palmas in February rivals Santa Cruz de Tenerife's; almond blossom hikes at Tejeda peak late January through February for a two-week window.
Q02What temperatures should I expect in Gran Canaria during December?
What temperatures should I expect in Gran Canaria during December?
The average high temperature in Gran Canaria during December is 18°C (65°F), with an average low of 11°C (51°F). These figures are averaged from 11 complete years of daily records (2015–2025, Open-Meteo Archive). Roque Nublo at 1813m gets sleet December-January; Vega de San Mateo Sunday market moves indoors and sells almogrote cheese spread.
Q03Is December a rainy month in Gran Canaria?
Is December a rainy month in Gran Canaria?
Gran Canaria averages approximately 7 rainy days in December, with a total monthly rainfall of about 27mm. This is based on daily precipitation records where days with 1mm or more of rain are counted as rainy days.
Q04How should I dress for Gran Canaria in December?
How should I dress for Gran Canaria in December?
For Gran Canaria in December, pack layered clothing for changing temperatures, comfortable walking shoes. These recommendations are based on 11 complete years of weather averages for this specific month. Sturdy hiking sandals with toe protection — Gran Canaria's volcanic ravines (barrancos) require water crossings and closed shoes overheat instantly.
Q05Is December a busy travel month for Gran Canaria?
Is December a busy travel month for Gran Canaria?
Tourist crowds in Gran Canaria during December are typically moderate. Consider this when planning accommodation — prices track crowd levels closely. Vegueta neighborhood's Plaza de Santa Ana is where Columbus reportedly heard mass before crossing. Real papas arrugadas with mojo picón lives at Casa Montesdeoca in Vegueta, not the tourist strip. Take GC-200 to Puerto de las Nieves for grilled vieja and Agaete Valley coffee — the only coffee grown commercially in Europe. Maspalomas dunes are literally a Sahara fragment blown across in prevailing easterlies.