Why Visit Gran Canaria in November
November marks the start of Gran Canaria's celebrated winter sun season. While northern Europe plunges into early darkness, persistent rain and temperatures hovering around freezing, the island offers a genuine alternative: 21°C average temperatures, a sea still warm enough for swimming and daylight that stretches well past 18:00.
The island undergoes a quiet transformation in November. The first autumn rains bring the landscape back to life, painting the ravines and mountain slopes in vivid green. Hiking trails that were parched and brown during summer become lush and scenic, with temporary waterfalls appearing in the deeper barrancos after rainfall.
The first wave of long-stay visitors -- Scandinavians, Germans, British and Dutch retirees escaping the northern winter -- begins to arrive, giving the island a relaxed, international character. These snowbirds settle in for weeks or months, filling the beachfront cafes and creating a convivial atmosphere quite different from the summer tourist rush.
November is firmly in low season territory. Flights are affordable, accommodation rates hit their annual lows and the island delivers exceptional value. It is also the start of the whale watching season, with resident pilot whales and migrating humpbacks appearing off the southwest coast.
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Weather in November
November is a gentle transition month. Temperatures ease down from October's highs but remain far warmer than anywhere on the European continent.
| Weather data | Value |
|-------------|-------|
| Average air temperature | 21°C (highs 23-24°C, lows 17-18°C) |
| Sea temperature | 21°C |
| Sunshine hours per day | 6-7 hours |
| Rainfall | 20-30 mm over 4-5 days |
| Humidity | 60-65% |
| UV index | 3-4 (moderate; sunscreen still recommended) |
| Daylight hours | 10 hours 45 minutes |
Rain increases slightly compared to October but remains modest by any continental standard. Showers are typically short and concentrated on the northern slopes. The south of the island (Maspalomas, Mogan) stays reliably drier and 2-3°C warmer than Las Palmas.
Evenings cool noticeably, particularly in the interior and at altitude. A light jacket is essential for evening dining and nighttime walks along the promenade.
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Events and Festivals
Dia de los Finaos (1st-2nd November)
The Canarian version of All Saints' Day. Families gather in town squares to eat roasted chestnuts, almonds and walnuts, accompanied by sweet wine and anis. A deeply traditional celebration that visitors are welcome to join, particularly in the inland villages.
Gran Canaria Jazz Festival
November brings jazz performances by national and international artists to the Auditorio Alfredo Kraus and other cultural venues across Las Palmas. Tickets from 15 EUR.
San Mateo Weekend Market
Every weekend in the agricultural town of Vega de San Mateo. A genuine farmers' market selling local cheeses, fruits, vegetables, wines and artisan goods. Open 08:00-14:00. 25 minutes from Las Palmas on the GC-4. Free entry.
Christmas Lights Switch-On
Towards the end of November, Las Palmas begins installing its Christmas illuminations, particularly along Calle Triana and the Mesa y Lopez shopping district. The official switch-on typically takes place in the final week of the month.
International Film Screenings
Independent cinema and documentary festivals take place at various venues across Las Palmas during November. Check local listings for current programmes.
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Best Activities
Whale and Dolphin Watching
November marks the start of the peak cetacean season off the southwest coast of Gran Canaria. Boat excursions from Puerto de Mogan and Puerto Rico offer sightings of resident short-finned pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins and occasionally migrating humpback whales. Cost: 45-55 EUR adults, 25-30 EUR children. Duration: 2.5-3 hours. Sighting rate exceeds 90%.
Hiking Through the Green Interior
The first autumn rains transform the island's interior. Trails through the Barranco de los Cernicales (near Telde, 3 hours) and the Barranco de la Mina (Valleseco) reveal lush vegetation, streams and seasonal waterfalls. Temperatures of 16-19°C at altitude make for ideal hiking conditions. Free access.
Surfing at La Cicer and El Confital
November brings more consistent and powerful swell. La Cicer produces waves of 1-2 metres suited to intermediate surfers, while El Confital can reach 3 metres on the best days. Lessons from 35 EUR. A 3/2mm wetsuit is recommended.
Mercado del Puerto
The gastronomic heart of Las Palmas, open Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to midnight. Fresh fish counters, Canarian cheese stalls, creative tapas bars and international food stands. A complete dinner costs 15-25 EUR per person.
Wine Tasting at Bandama
The Monte Lentiscal and Bandama wine region produces impressive wines from indigenous varieties including Listan Negro and Malvasia. Tasting visits from 15 EUR. Some wineries require advance booking. 15 minutes from Las Palmas.
Walking the Salinas de Tenefe
The historic salt pans on the southeast coast between Vecindario and Pozo Izquierdo offer a peaceful coastal walk with interpretive panels and sea views. A lesser-known corner of the island. Free access.
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What to Pack
- Transitional clothing: mix of short-sleeved and long-sleeved tops, trousers
- Swimwear (the sea at 21°C still allows swimming during the middle of the day)
- SPF 30-50 sunscreen (the sun remains significant)
- Light jacket or windbreaker for evenings and mountain areas
- Thin waterproof layer for occasional showers
- Hiking boots essential if you plan interior trails
- A warm fleece or jumper for summit excursions (8-12°C at altitude)
- Sunglasses
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Beach Conditions
November still delivers good beach conditions, especially in the south and during the warmest hours of the day. The sea at 21°C is pleasant for moderate swimming sessions.
Las Canteras Beach
Las Canteras in November is a calm and inviting stretch of sand. The beach is quiet, the promenade terraces remain open and La Barra shelters the bathing zone from open-ocean swell. Sunsets at this time of year are particularly striking.
Maspalomas Beach
The south coast offers the best November beach conditions, with temperatures 2-3°C warmer than Las Palmas and near-guaranteed sunshine. The dunes and beach can be enjoyed in peaceful solitude.
Natural Pools of Agaete
The rock pools at Las Salinas in Agaete provide sheltered seawater bathing when the open north coast is too rough for comfortable swimming. Free access and surrounded by dramatic cliff scenery.
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Day Trips
The Viewpoint Route
A driving loop through the island's finest panoramic spots: Mirador del Balcon, Mirador de la Degollada de las Yeguas and Mirador de Unamuno in Artenara. Pack a picnic and enjoy sweeping views across the ravines. Half day by car.
Agaete and the Agaete Valley
Home to the only coffee plantation in Europe. Tour a coffee farm, taste Agaete coffee and walk through the valley's tropical fruit orchards. Finish with a fresh fish lunch at Puerto de las Nieves. 40 minutes from Las Palmas.
Firgas and Moya
Two charming northern hill towns. Firgas is known for its Paseo de Gran Canaria, a decorative tiled walkway with fountains. Moya houses the Tomas Morales Museum. A combined half-day excursion.
Caldera de Bandama
A volcanic crater 1 km in diameter and 200 metres deep. The climb to Pico de Bandama (574m) rewards with 360-degree views. Circular route of 3 km, approximately 1.5 hours. 15 minutes from Las Palmas. Free.
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Where to Stay
The Las Canteras area is the top recommendation for November. The neighbourhood thrives year-round thanks to its local population, and in November it gains the added warmth of the first long-stay international visitors. The beachfront promenade, restaurants and proximity to the historic quarters of Vegueta and Triana make it the most well-rounded base on the island.
For a comfortable stay just 30 metres from Las Canteras beach, [Casita Palmera](https://casitapalmera.es) offers a well-equipped holiday apartment from 90 EUR per night. It is an ideal base for enjoying Gran Canaria's winter sun season: equipped kitchen, wifi and the beach just a minute's walk away.
The south coast (Maspalomas, Puerto de Mogan) offers the most reliable sunshine in November, though with less cultural and nightlife variety. It is the right choice for visitors who prioritise warmth above all else.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim in the sea in November?
Yes. The sea temperature is 21°C, comparable to the Mediterranean in June. Many locals and visitors swim daily, especially during the middle of the day when air temperatures reach 23-24°C. The sheltered lagoon at Las Canteras is ideal for relaxed bathing.
Does it rain much in November?
November averages 20-30 mm of rain spread over 4-5 days. Showers tend to be brief and concentrated on the northern side of the island. The south coast is rarely affected. It is unusual to lose an entire day to rain.
Is November good for whale watching?
Excellent. November opens the peak cetacean season off Gran Canaria. Short-finned pilot whales are resident year-round in the southwest waters, and migrating humpback whales begin appearing in November. The sighting rate on boat excursions exceeds 90%.
How much do flights cost in November?
November is one of the cheapest months to fly to Gran Canaria. Return flights from London: 80-140 EUR. From Berlin: 90-150 EUR. Booking 4-6 weeks ahead secures the best fares.
How many days should I spend in Gran Canaria in November?
A minimum of 5-7 days allows a good combination of beach, hiking, village visits and gastronomy. If whale watching and thorough island exploration interest you, 10 days is ideal. November's low crowds allow a relaxed pace throughout your stay.