Las Palmas weather: today, 7-day forecast & sea temperature

Weather in the capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Las Palmas is situated on the north-east coast of Gran Canaria. The capital is perched on a headland between two bays. It is directly exposed to the north-easterly trade winds, which bring moisture, clouds and a noticeable breeze. As a result, the weather in Las Palmas is often cooler and more overcast than in the south of the island. In Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, there is often a thick layer of cloud in summer, whilst in Maspalomas the sun is beating down.

Visitors can generally enjoy a more relaxed shopping experience, as the thin layer of cloud keeps temperatures slightly cooler. This is another reason why the city is typically a residential area rather than just a seaside resort.

The climate in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

The average annual temperature is 21.4 degrees. There is a 6.7-degree difference between January, the coolest month, and August, the warmest. As a result, Las Palmas does not have distinct seasons.

Rain falls almost exclusively during the winter months. Total rainfall amounts to 134 millimetres. However, July remains dry, whilst December sees 28.7 mm of rain. This is also why the landscape usually looks dry and the holiday season does not have a proper rainy season. The average humidity is between 64 and 69 per cent.

Swimming conditions in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

An offshore rocky reef, known as the Barra, breaks the waves at Playa de las Canteras, keeping the water calm over long stretches. The local authority has designated four official bathing areas. These include Playa del Confital and Playa de las Alcaravaneras in the harbour bay. The current water quality is shown in the relevant section above.