What makes August the most special month in Gran Canaria?
August is the warmest and most vibrant month: sea reaches 23–24°C (highest of the year), nights stay above 21°C, and the island runs at full summer intensity. The Bajada de la Rama festival in Agaete (4 August) — a pre-Hispanic ritual declared of National Tourist Interest — is a unique spectacle. [Casita Palmera](/) offers 30 metres from Las Canteras with air conditioning. Book 2–3 months ahead: August sells out.
What makes August the best month for swimming?
August is the warmest month in Gran Canaria and also the most vibrant. This is when the island reaches peak summer intensity: locals are on holiday, the beach buzzes from early morning, and the nights are long and festive.
The sea reaches its best temperature of the summer (23-24°C) and social life in Las Palmas spills onto terraces, concerts and street festivals. If you don't mind sharing the sand with more people, August delivers a lively, unforgettable experience.
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Weather and Temperatures in August
August is the hottest month of the year, though the Atlantic Ocean tempers things considerably compared to mainland Europe.
| Weather Data | Value |
|--------------|-------|
| Avg daytime temp | 26-28°C |
| Avg nighttime temp | 21-23°C |
| Sea temperature | 23-24°C |
| Daily sunshine hours | 9h |
| Rainy days | 0 |
| Avg humidity | 60-70% |
| UV index | 9-10 (very high) |
| Daylight hours | 13.5h (sunrise 7:30, sunset 20:45) |
Important: August has the highest likelihood of calima (Saharan dust). During these episodes, temperatures can soar above 35-40°C and the sky turns hazy. They typically last 2-5 days.Warm evenings
One of August's great advantages is the balmy evenings. With temperatures staying above 21°C after dark, dining al fresco or strolling the Las Canteras promenade at midnight is a genuine pleasure.
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Events and Festivals in August
Bajada de la Rama (Agaete) - Early August
One of the oldest and most spectacular festivals in the Canary Islands. Participants climb the mountain to gather pine branches, then dance down to the sea, beating the water with the branches in a pre-Hispanic ritual to summon rain. Thousands join this celebration, which holds National Tourist Interest status.
- Where: Agaete (40 min drive from Las Canteras)
- When: 4 August
- Don't miss: Dress in white, as tradition demands
Fiestas of the Patron Saint of the Canary Islands - Teror
The Basilica of Teror celebrates the Virgen del Pino, patron of Gran Canaria. Though the main date is 8 September, celebrations and pilgrimages begin in August.
Other events
- Summer nights in Parque Santa Catalina: Continuous cultural programme throughout August
- WOMAD Las Palmas: Depending on the year, this world music festival may fall in August (check the 2026 schedule)
- Neighbourhood festivals: Nearly every barrio in Las Palmas holds its own patron saint festival in summer, with live orchestras, street parties and local food
- Outdoor cinema: Free screenings in parks across the city
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Best Activities in August
On the water
- Swimming at Las Canteras: The sea at 23-24°C is blissful. This is the warmest water temperature of the year for spending hours in the ocean
- Snorkelling at Playa Chica and La Barra: Warm, clear water reveals parrotfish, octopus and starfish
- Boat excursions: Departures from Puerto de la Luz for dolphin and whale watching (abundant in summer)
- Surfing at La Cicer: Consistent swell and warm water make this ideal for beginners and intermediates
- Kayaking and paddle boarding: Best in early morning when the sea is flat
On land
- Daily sunset at Las Canteras: Never gets old; every evening is different
- Vegueta and Triana walking tour: The historic districts are most pleasant in the late afternoon
- Puerto market: Crafts, food and relaxed vibes by the harbour
- Jardin Botanico Viera y Clavijo: Spain's largest botanical garden, showcasing endemic Canarian flora
- Local food: August is the season for prized fish like vieja (parrotfish), cherne (wreckfish) and red tuna; try them at the Las Canteras promenade restaurants
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What to Pack
Essentials:- SPF 50+ sunscreen (reapply every 2 hours)
- Wide-brim hat and sunglasses
- Very light clothing: cotton, linen, light colours
- Multiple swimsuits
- Reusable water bottle (staying hydrated is crucial)
- Sandals and open-toed shoes
- UV rash guard for extended snorkelling sessions
- Light jumper for air-conditioned spaces
- Your own snorkel mask (hire shops can sell out in peak season)
- Handheld fan or portable fan for calima days
- Aloe vera aftersun gel
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Beach Conditions at Las Canteras
August provides the best swimming conditions of the year:
| Beach Zone | Conditions | Best for |
|------------|-----------|----------|
| La Puntilla (north) | Very calm, shallow water | Children and gentle swimming |
| Central zone | Protected by La Barra, crystal-clear | Long swims, snorkelling |
| Playa Chica | Most sheltered, waveless | Snorkelling, total relaxation |
| La Cicer (south) | Consistent waves | Surfing, bodyboarding |
Crowds: August sees peak footfall. The beach is at its busiest, especially between 11:00 and 17:00. Strategy: arrive early to claim your spot or enjoy the beach from 18:00 onwards, when it empties out and the light is beautiful. Lifeguards: On duty every day from 10:00 to 19:00. Green flag most of the month.---
Day Trips from Las Canteras
| Destination | Travel Time | What to See |
|-------------|-------------|-------------|
| Agaete (Bajada de la Rama) | 40 min | Traditional festival, natural pools, tropical valley |
| Maspalomas & Dunes | 35 min | Vast beach, camel rides, lighthouse |
| Mogan & Puerto de Mogan | 50 min | The "Canarian Venice", tranquil beaches |
| Roque Nublo | 50 min | Island summit, hiking (leave at dawn) |
| Barranco de Guayadeque | 30 min | Cave dwellings, cave restaurants |
| Artenara | 55 min | Highest village on the island, views to Tenerife |
August tip: Roads heading south get congested. Avoid leaving between 9:00 and 11:00 for Maspalomas. Go early or wait until mid-afternoon.---
Where to Stay in August
August is the peak season in Gran Canaria. Accommodation books up weeks or months ahead and prices reach their highest point. The key is to book early.
Casita Palmera sits just 30 metres from Las Canteras beach, meaning you can walk from bed to sand in one minute. That's a luxury in the middle of August.- Location: Las Canteras beachfront, Las Palmas
- Price: From EUR 90/night
- Amenities: Full kitchen, high-speed WiFi, air conditioning (essential in August)
- Advantage: Unbeatable location with no need for a car or long transfers
Staying right by the beach in August makes all the difference. You can pop down for a swim at any time of day without relying on transport.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is August too hot?
The heat is manageable thanks to the Atlantic breeze. Temperatures of 26-28°C are far milder than mainland Spain, where 40°C+ is common. Only calima brings intense heat, and it's short-lived.
Is August the best month for swimming?
Yes, along with September. The sea reaches 23-24°C, the warmest of the year. You can spend hours in the water without feeling cold.
Is it too crowded in August?
It's the busiest month, with both tourists and residents on holiday. Las Canteras fills up, but its 3 km length always offers options. Avoid the midday hours for a more comfortable experience.
Do prices rise much in August?
Accommodation and flight prices are at their annual peak. Booking 2-3 months ahead can save you a significant amount. Restaurant and activity prices remain broadly similar to the rest of the year.
What's the difference between the north and south in August?
The south (Maspalomas, Mogan) is 2-4°C warmer and drier. The north (Las Canteras, Las Palmas) enjoys slightly cooler temperatures thanks to the trade winds and offers more urban and cultural life.
Should I hire a car in August?
If your plan is beach and city, you don't need one. Las Canteras has everything within walking distance. For excursions inland, a hire car is recommended, but book well ahead: rental demand in August is extremely high.