Tenerife’s blissfully mild weather makes the largest of the Canary Islands a magnet for travelers escaping dreary winters. It offers perfect conditions for most outdoor activities. But set realistic expectations—for the most part, it’s still too cool for sunbathing. January in particular stands out as a dry and spectacularly sunny month.

Winter is one of the two busy tourist seasons in Tenerife, so be sure to book ahead, especially if you have your heart set on a particular hotel.

Held every February, Tenerife’s Carnival is considered one of the world’s best. These 15 days of parades, dancing in the street, elaborate costumes, and flamboyant displays draw party people from around the world. The island books up well in advance, so reserve your hotel early.

Winter is full of fun festivals and celebrations, all which offer a distinct Canary-Islands flair. Christmas celebrations include open-air concerts, while street parties usher in the new year.

Tenerife’s springtime temperatures start out mild and warm up as the season progresses, so if beach days are a top priority, time your visit for late spring. Since most tourists flock to the Canaries in winter and summer, spring gives a great opportunity to enjoy the best of Tenerife without the crowds and higher prices.

Though most of spring offers better overall hotel availability and prices, rates do tend to spike around Easter, but then they drop back down.

Summer brings the year’s warmest weather, along with the crowds to match—all headed to the beach. The southern parts of the island tend to be a bit hotter than destinations in the north. And the entire island can be impacted by the Calima, a hot, dusty wind that originates in the nearby Sahara Desert.

Tenerife’s waters are at their warmest in the summer and early fall. Don’t miss the chance to kayak, surf, jet ski, or snorkel in the sparkling waves.

Take long walks through Tenerife’s wooded interior and along its coastal paths in early summer, when the weather is warm (but not yet too hot).

On August 15, join thousands of locals making the pilgrimage to the town of Candelaria for the festival honoring the Virgin of Candelaria.