Winter contrasts on Tenerife: sunbathing on the beach and snow on Mount Teide (3718 m)
The climate on Tenerife is very mild all year round. You hardly notice classic seasons here. Average winter temperatures are 17–20 °C, but the island differs greatly between north and south.
Best example of a winter contrast:
On the beaches in El Médano people sunbathe and swim in the ocean, while snow lies on the summit of Mount Teide (3718 m).
The south of the island (including El Médano) is dry, sunny and warm. The north is cooler and rainier. That is why you get unique situations here – 20–25 °C on the beach and snow just a few kilometres away in the mountains.
Such anomalies occur mainly in winter (December–February). Snow on Teide usually melts quickly, but the sight of snowy peaks from the beach is truly unforgettable.
Snow on Mount Teide seen from the south of the island
Tenerife is a perfect example of how diverse an island destination can be – from subtropical climate in the south to alpine conditions on the mountain peaks.