Europe’s Warmest Winter Beach Awaits in Tenerife
Dreaming of winter sun without crossing an ocean? Spain’s Canary Islands offer some of Europe’s sunniest year-round beaches, with Las Teresitas in Tenerife claiming the title of the continent’s warmest off-season destination. A study analyzing 30 European beaches based on annual sunshine hours and seasonal temperatures revealed Las Teresitas averages a balmy 22°C from November to April—topping the list for winter warmth.
From Volcanic Pebbles to Golden Sands
Nestled in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, this iconic beach underwent a dramatic transformation in the 1970s when its volcanic black pebbles were replaced with golden sand imported from the Sahara Desert. The result? A breathtaking coastline that’s become a winter haven for tourists and locals alike. “Sunshine boosts mood, skin health, and bone strength—when enjoyed responsibly,” notes Dr. Hana Patel, a GP involved in the study.
Year-Round Sunshine Champions
Las Teresitas also ranks as Europe’s fourth-best year-round beach for sunseekers, scoring 92/100 points. Only Turkey’s Ölüdeniz Beach, Greece’s Anthony Quinn Bay, and Cyprus’s Nissi Beach scored higher. The study meticulously analyzed climatic data, including annual sunshine averages, to create “a guide to Europe’s sunniest coastal escapes—where golden shores and clear skies await in every season.”
Maspalomas: Gran Canaria’s Sunny Showstopper
Gran Canaria’s Maspalomas beach also shines in the rankings, praised for its stable climate and year-round appeal. With its famous dunes, oceanfront hotels, and over 300 sunny days annually, it’s a reliable choice for off-season warmth. Pharmaceutical expert Carolina Goncalves, who endorsed the study, recommends traveling in winter to avoid crowds: “Sunny winter getaways combat seasonal fatigue and replenish vitamin D levels naturally.”
