Month-specific sea-surface temperature · Spain
Tenerife Sea Temperature in May
21.4°C
70.5°F
In May, sea-surface temperature near Tenerife has a historical monthly average of 21.4°C. This is not the reading for any particular holiday date.
Across 2022–2025, the lowest and highest yearly May monthly means were 21.1–21.7°C. These are not daily extremes.
Previous month
April · 20.7°C
Change into May: +0.7°C
Next month
June · 22.6°C
Change into next month: +1.2°C
Can you swim or snorkel in Tenerife in May?
At 21.4°C our temperature-only guide describes the water as cool water. Comfort depends on your cold tolerance, immersion time and wind. A historical average cannot determine whether conditions are safe on any given day.
Do you need a wetsuit?
A 3 mm shorty or full wetsuit will make longer snorkels more comfortable.
Which beach should you choose?
Look for a beach sheltered from the actual forecast waves and wind on your visit. Exposure, currents and entry conditions vary even where water temperatures are similar. Follow local warnings.
Tenerife has exposed and sheltered coasts. Water temperature can be similar while wind and waves differ, so check the forecast for the exact beach.
Check the current waves, wind and snorkeling forecast →
A live forecast does not predict a future May. Check again close to your trip.
Data source and limitations
Source: Open-Meteo Marine API, MeteoFrance sea-surface temperature; 2022–2025. Marine model grid near 28.29, -16.63. Based on 3 yearly monthly means and 2232 recorded samples. Source methodology.
Modelled sea-surface temperatures do not establish underwater visibility, wildlife, calm currents or safe entry.