Best Places to Visit on the Canary Islands in March
Written by Our Hidden Earth Editorial Team
Last updated 23 October 2026
Summary: March in the Canary Islands offers a blend of coastal sun and cooler mountain air, making it ideal for those seeking both beach time and hiking. Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and La Palma serve as distinct bases for diverse landscapes, from volcanic craters to Atlantic shorelines.
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Canary Islands in March: at a glance
Tenerife remains a versatile hub, combining high-altitude volcanic trails with coastal resorts.
Gran Canaria offers the most varied microclimates, ranging from sand dunes to rugged central peaks.
La Palma serves as the preferred choice for hikers, with lush laurel forests and deep caldera landscapes.
March is a transition period, often requiring layers for high-elevation excursions despite generally mild coastal weather.
How to choose your Canary Island trip in March
Selecting an island requires balancing your interest in varied terrain against the logistics of travel. The archipelago is not a single entity; Lanzarote and Fuerteventura lean toward arid, windswept landscapes, while the western islands like Tenerife and La Palma feature higher elevations and denser vegetation.
March is a time when coastal zones remain pleasant for daytime outings, but the mountains often retain a chill. Deciding between islands involves choosing your preferred primary activity—whether it is coastal relaxation, cultural exploration in larger towns, or long-distance hiking through protected national parks.
Public transport varies significantly between islands; while major hubs have reliable networks, more remote regions on the smaller islands almost always necessitate a rental car to reach trailheads or smaller coastal villages.
Six islands to explore in March
1. Tenerife: The volcanic interior
Tenerife is defined by the massive bulk of Mount Teide, which anchors the island’s central national park. In March, the slopes of the park offer high-altitude exploration where temperatures drop significantly compared to the coast.
You can traverse the volcanic landscapes of the Cañadas del Teide, where unique rock formations and expansive lava flows create a stark contrast to the verdant northern coast. Base yourself in towns like La Orotava to access the northern hiking trails, or stay near the southern coast for more reliable sunshine.
The diversity of the landscape means you can experience alpine-like conditions in the morning and reach a seaside promenade by the afternoon, provided you have a reliable vehicle to navigate the winding roads.
2. Gran Canaria: A continent in miniature
Gran Canaria earns its reputation for diversity by packing deserts, forests, and steep mountain ravines into a relatively small area. The Maspalomas Dunes in the south represent one of the most iconic landscapes on the island, offering expansive sandy terrain that feels removed from the rest of Europe.
Conversely, the central highlands, particularly around Cruz de Tejeda, provide access to dramatic vistas of the Roque Nublo monolith. March is an excellent time to visit the central interior, as the terrain is often green following the cooler winter months.
The island is well-suited for travellers who want to mix beach-based activities with significant mountain driving and cultural visits to historic neighbourhoods like Vegueta in Las Palmas.
3. La Palma: The hiker’s paradise
Known as the 'La Isla Bonita', La Palma is dominated by the Caldera de Taburiente, a massive erosional crater that challenges even seasoned walkers. This island is significantly quieter than its larger neighbours, focusing on nature and traditional agricultural landscapes rather than large-scale coastal tourism.
In March, the laurel forests are frequently shrouded in mist, creating a lush, prehistoric atmosphere that is ideal for photography and slow-paced trekking. Staying in Santa Cruz de la Palma allows for easy access to the eastern trailheads.
Be aware that the terrain is exceptionally steep, and weather changes in the mountains can happen quickly, making it essential to monitor local mountain conditions before heading out on any multi-hour hike.
4. Lanzarote: Volcanic artistry
Lanzarote provides a distinct experience compared to the lush western islands. Its landscape is largely shaped by recent volcanic activity, resulting in fields of black basalt and dramatic cinder cones. Visiting the Timanfaya National Park allows you to see the geothermal activity that defines the island’s character.
In March, the brisk Atlantic winds are often noticeable, which can make the coastal paths feel cooler than expected. The island is famous for its integrated architecture, where villages reflect a traditional style focused on white-walled houses and volcanic stone.
It is a fantastic choice for those interested in landscape photography and a slower, more minimalist pace of life away from high-rise resort developments.
5. Fuerteventura: Endless coastal stretches
If your primary motivation is access to vast, open beaches and wind-based activities, Fuerteventura is the standout choice. The island features some of the longest stretches of sand in the archipelago, particularly in the Corralejo Natural Park and the southern peninsula of Jandía.
March brings consistent Atlantic breezes, which are favourable for water sports, though the water temperature itself remains brisk. The interior is largely arid, offering a sense of space that is hard to find elsewhere.
While it lacks the dense forests of Tenerife or La Palma, the rugged, open coastline provides a different kind of visual appeal. It is the most suitable island for travellers who prefer flat landscapes and long, uninterrupted coastal walks.
6. La Gomera: The rugged escape
La Gomera is accessible primarily by ferry from Tenerife, making it a perfect extension for those already visiting the larger island. The Garajonay National Park sits at the centre, protecting one of the most significant laurel forests in the region.
March is a quiet time here, perfect for those looking to avoid crowds and focus on traditional village life. The island is defined by its deep, steep-sided ravines known as 'barrancos'. Navigation here is slow and requires patience, as the roads are narrow and twisting.
It is the ideal destination for independent travellers who prefer small-scale accommodation and a deep, immersive connection with the landscape through walking and local village exploration.
Planning your March trip
When planning your trip, consider focusing on one or two islands to avoid spending excessive time on ferry connections or regional flights. Tenerife and La Gomera combine well due to their proximity, while Gran Canaria is best enjoyed as a standalone destination due to the sheer variety of activities on offer.
For a car-free stay, base yourself in the larger cities like Las Palmas de Gran Canaria or Santa Cruz de Tenerife, where bus networks provide reliable access to major attractions. In more rural areas or on smaller islands, a rental car is almost always necessary to provide the freedom required to reach trailheads and remote beaches.
Pack in layers, as the transition from sea level to mountain peaks can result in significant temperature changes. Always carry a waterproof shell, even if the coast appears sunny, as the north-facing slopes and highlands are prone to moisture throughout the spring.
Frequently asked questions
Is March considered peak season in the Canary Islands?
March is a busy period but generally sits outside the absolute height of the mid-winter or summer holiday rushes. You will encounter steady numbers of visitors, particularly in major coastal hubs, but hiking trails and smaller interior villages often remain peaceful and accessible compared to other times of the year.
Can I swim in the ocean in March?
While the air temperature can be warm enough for sunbathing, the Atlantic Ocean remains cool in March. Swimming is possible for those accustomed to refreshing water, but it is not the month for long sessions in the sea. Always check local signage on beaches, as currents can be strong.
Is it possible to hike Mount Teide in March?
Yes, hiking is possible, but you must be prepared for variable conditions. At higher elevations, it is not uncommon to find chilly winds or even lingering patches of snow early in the month. Always check the official national park website for any trail closures or requirements for permits before you travel.
Which island is the most suitable for families?
Tenerife and Gran Canaria offer the widest range of infrastructure, including large-scale theme parks, varied accommodation, and accessible beach facilities. These islands provide the easiest logistics for families, allowing for a mix of relaxed beach days and shorter, manageable excursions into the interior without requiring long drive times.
Are the ferry connections between islands reliable?
Ferry services between the Canary Islands are frequent and well-established. They are an essential part of the regional transport network, connecting the western islands reliably. However, they can be affected by high winds or sea swells, so it is wise to maintain flexibility in your schedule if you plan to island-hop.
What should I pack for a March trip?
Pack a mixture of light summer clothing for the coast and warm, wind-resistant layers for the mountains. Sturdy hiking boots are essential if you plan to explore the national parks, as the terrain is often uneven and rocky. A daypack for water and snacks is necessary for any excursion outside the main towns.
Do I need a rental car on every island?
While urban centres like Las Palmas and Santa Cruz have good public transport, a rental car is highly recommended for exploring the dramatic interiors, hidden viewpoints, and remote beaches of any of the islands. It provides the flexibility to adjust your plans based on the localized weather conditions of the day.
How different are the climates between the islands?
The islands have distinct microclimates. The northern coasts of the larger islands are generally cooler and greener due to the influence of trade winds, while the southern coasts are drier and sunnier.
Furthermore, elevation plays a critical role, as central mountains can be significantly colder than the surrounding coastline.
Final thoughts
For a balanced trip, focus on Tenerife if you want a mix of high-altitude landscapes and established coastal convenience. If your primary goal is tranquil hiking through protected forests, choose La Palma or La Gomera, where the scale is smaller and the focus remains firmly on the natural environment.
Regardless of your choice, prioritise a rental car to fully appreciate the diverse geography across these volcanic islands.
Weather, opening times and transport details in this guide were correct as far as we could check. Always confirm directly before you travel.
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