The Canary Islands have the privilege of enjoying gentle temperatures of around 22 degrees centi grade throughout the year as well as a rich and varied natural environment, with outstanding beaches and landscapes. The volcanic origin of the islands, their subtropical location and the influence of the sea have given rise to a characteristic ecosystem and combination of landscapes that is totally unique.
This natural wealth is supported by special protected status which safeguards 40.4% of the total area of the islands with a total of some 141 protected natural areas and four Biosphere Reserves, declared by UNESCO.         Â
To this must be added the four national parks covering large areas of land that are especially beautiful or unique in the world. These spaces conserve a valuable diversity of flora and fauna which it is necessary to safeguard for future generations.
The few days rain a year and a pleasant reliability in the weather offer the possibility of playing golf throughout the year in the Canary Islands. The islands have eighteen different golf courses at present. This number will soon increase when other courses that are now under construction are added.
Golf
The favorable climatic conditions together with the modern infrastructure and excellent services have made the islands a superb place to play golf on spectacular and varied courses all over the territory, providing a wide and diversified range of options for lovers of this sport.
The courses in the islands are well-prepared for holding large international tournaments while at the same time receiving less advanced players who can take their first steps or improve their handicaps. On numerous occasions, the islands have been the setting for the Spanish Open, once holding three consecutive championships, as well as other renowned competitions.
Golf has been played in the Canaries since 1891, when Spain’s first ever club was created This long tradition arose from the close commercial relationship between the islands and the United Kingdom.
Water Sports
The Canary Islands enjoy the influence of the Gulf Stream, a sea current which at these latitudes has a cooling effect, which arrives from the Caribbean via the North Atlantic, and the trade winds. These moist, cool winds keep the temperatures moderate and give the islands a pleasant climate which makes it possible to sail throughout the year. The water temperature on the islands varies between 18C and 23C in the course of the year.
Sailors have a total of forty-one marinas of fishing ports to choose from around the islands, many of which have the very latest services and supplies available. The islands also have a superb underwater fauna and landscapes that are truly incompatible thanks to the volcanic origin of the islands, which has led to the creations of beautiful and striking rock formations. There are a wide variety of options connected with the sea: from surfing and windsurfing, through big-game fishing, to diving and observation of whales and dolphins that make up some of the Islands’ greatest attractions. It is possible to take part in any sport that is related with the sea in the Canary Islands and in the course of the year there are international competitions and world championships.