Maspalomas Weather in January
January in Maspalomas is the reason northern Europeans buy plane tickets in November. While the rest of the continent shivers, the south of Gran Canaria delivers daytime temperatures of 21°C, 7 hours of sunshine per day, and a coastline that feels genuinely summer-like. It is the most popular winter month at the resort, and for good reason. Unlike Las Palmas to the north, Maspalomas benefits from the shelter of the island's central mountains, which block much of the cloud and rain that occasionally reaches the capital. The result is a drier, sunnier microclimate — particularly relevant in January, when Atlantic fronts most frequently affect the island.
Avg High
21°C
Avg Low
16°C
Rain Days
3 days
UV Index
5
Humidity
67%
Sea Temp
19°C
Sun Hours
7 hrs/day
Rain (mm)
20 mm
Climate Detail
January averages 7 hours of sunshine per day in Maspalomas — significantly more than Las Palmas at the same time of year, thanks to the southern location sheltered from trade wind clouds. Rainfall is minimal: around 20mm across 2–3 days, and showers are typically brief. The UV index sits at 5 — moderate, but enough to warrant sunscreen on long beach days. Sea temperature in January is 19°C — cool but swimmable, particularly on warm, windless mornings. The dunes area and Playa del Inglés beach face south and southwest, catching maximum winter sun and sheltering from the northeast trade winds that can affect the north coast.
What to Do in January
The Maspalomas Dunes
January light on the dunes is extraordinary — the low sun angle creates dramatic shadows and warm golden tones. Early morning visits, before the crowds arrive, are magical.
Playa de Maspalomas
The south-facing beach is calm and warm in January mornings. The lighthouse at Faro de Maspalomas makes for a scenic end-of-beach walk.
Cycling and walking
The flat terrain around Maspalomas and the coastal path toward Meloneras are excellent for cycling and walking in January. The temperature is ideal for sustained outdoor effort.
Boat trips and whale watching
January is productive for whale and dolphin watching off the southwest coast of Gran Canaria. Pilot whales are resident year-round, and January Atlantic swell makes for dramatic sea conditions.
Day trip to Las Palmas
The 45-minute drive or bus journey north takes you to a completely different Gran Canaria — urban, cultural, historic Vegueta, and the famous Las Canteras beach.
What to Pack
- ✓Light daytime clothes — t-shirt weather in the sun
- ✓A light layer for evenings and the occasional coastal breeze
- ✓Sunscreen SPF 30+ — 7 hours of southern sun adds up
- ✓Swimwear — beach and pool conditions are good
- ✓Comfortable shoes for dune walking and coastal paths
Maspalomas — Monthly Climate
Average temperature and rainfall days per month
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the weather like in Maspalomas in January?+
January in Maspalomas is mild and mostly sunny — the warmest winter resort on the island's south coast. Highs average 20°C with 14°C nights, 7 hours of sunshine, just 10mm of rain across 2 days, and sea at 19°C. UV index is 4.
Is January a good time to visit Maspalomas?+
January is one of the most popular months for Maspalomas — the mild 20°C days, 7 hours of sunshine, and minimal rain (10mm/2 days) make it an outstanding European winter escape. The dunes, lighthouse, and lagoon are at their January best, and the resort is busy with northern European winter sun visitors.
Is Maspalomas warm in January?+
Yes — Maspalomas averages 21°C in January, which is warm and sunny by any European standard. The south-facing beaches are sheltered from winter winds and receive more sunshine than the north coast of Gran Canaria.
Can you sunbathe in Maspalomas in January?+
Yes — with 7 hours of daily sunshine and temperatures around 21°C, sunbathing is perfectly comfortable in January. The south-facing orientation of the Maspalomas beaches maximises winter sun exposure.
Other Months
Sponsored · Pic y Poc Motorcycle Rentals
Explore Gran Canaria your way. Tours available whatever the weather.