February splits into two very different holidays depending on whether you are tied to school dates. Half-term week, usually the third week of the month, pushes prices up across every warm destination. Outside that window, February is one of the better-value months for a beach trip.
These four destinations all deliver warmth in February, from the Canary Islands to Cape Verde and Madeira. See our full month-by-month guide for other times of year.
| Destination | Feb Temp | Flights from UK | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lanzarote | 20°Cdaytime | ~4hmost airports | Beaches, walking, families, half-term |
| Marrakech | 18°Cdaytime | ~3hmost airports | Short breaks, culture, budget travel |
| Cape Verde | 26°Cdaytime | ~5.5hLGW, MAN | Beach, water sports, warmest option |
| Madeira | 19°Cdaytime | ~3.5hLGW, MAN | Walking, scenery, couples |
Lanzarote
The driest of the Canary Islands, Lanzarote averages around 20°C in February with very little rain. The volcanic landscape gives it a distinctive look: black lava fields, white-painted villages and the dramatic Timanfaya National Park. Puerto del Carmen is the main resort for beach holidays; Playa Blanca suits families looking for something quieter.
February half-term pushes prices up significantly. Flights and hotels in the half-term week typically cost 30-50% more than the weeks either side. Book at least four months ahead if you need the school holiday week. Outside half-term, February is one of the better-value months for Lanzarote travel.
For booking strategy, see our guide to when to book a holiday and our guide to cheap school holiday breaks.
Marrakech
February temperatures in Marrakech are similar to January: 17-19°C during the day, 6-9°C at night. Cold evenings are a consistent feature. The benefit is that Marrakech stays excellent value when beach destinations charge half-term premiums.
A three-night Marrakech trip in February often costs less than a single night in a Canary Islands resort during half-term week. Flights from Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh typically run from £60-90 return. Riad accommodation in the medina starts from around £60 per room per night for mid-range options.
Marrakech suits adults and older children better than young families. If the priority is exploring rather than swimming, it is an excellent-value alternative to the Canaries in February. See our Morocco budget guide for what to expect on costs.
Cape Verde
Sal and Boa Vista remain warm in February, averaging 25-27°C. Sea temperatures hold around 22°C. The harmattan wind is still present, making February one of the rougher months for sea conditions on exposed beaches, but the sun is consistent and rainfall is effectively zero.
February half-term sees a spike in package prices, particularly for Boa Vista. Sal tends to be slightly more affordable. All-inclusive packages dominate the Cape Verde market from the UK, and for this destination they often represent better value than self-catered alternatives.
Cape Verde is hotter in February than Lanzarote or Marrakech. If warmth is the priority and budget allows, it is the strongest February beach option on this list. See our Cape Verde budget guide for price context.
Madeira
Madeira is not a beach holiday. The island has a handful of swimming areas and one natural lido at Porto Moniz, but no long sandy beaches. What it has in February is outstanding: mild temperatures (18-19°C), the beginning of the flower season, and a levada walking network that is at its best in cooler, wetter weather.
Flights are around 3.5 hours from Gatwick or Manchester. They are cheaper than the Canaries and packages less common, which means booking flights and accommodation separately. Budget for £120-180 return on flights and £60-120 per room per night for mid-range hotels in Funchal.
Madeira suits couples and walkers better than families with young children. The dramatic coastal scenery and quieter atmosphere make it one of the more rewarding February destinations for those not fixated on beach time.
Frequently asked questions
Is anywhere warm in Europe in February?
The Canary Islands are the closest warm European option in February. Lanzarote, Tenerife and Gran Canaria all average 18-21°C. Cyprus averages around 15°C, which is mild rather than warm. For genuine beach warmth in February, you need to go further: Cape Verde, the Caribbean or Southeast Asia.
How warm is Lanzarote in February?
Around 20°C during the day, dropping to 13-14°C at night. Rain is minimal. The Atlantic wind can make it feel cooler than the air temperature suggests, particularly on exposed beaches like Famara. Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca are more sheltered and a better choice for families.
Is Madeira worth visiting in February?
Yes, for walkers and nature lovers. February marks the start of the flower season and the levada trails are in good condition. Average temperatures of 18-19°C make walking comfortable. It is not a beach destination, but for mild weather and dramatic scenery, February is one of Madeira’s better months.
What is the best holiday for February half-term?
The Canary Islands are the most popular choice: Lanzarote, Tenerife and Gran Canaria all offer reliable warmth and direct flights from most UK airports. Book at least four months ahead for half-term week. Cape Verde is warmer but more expensive. Marrakech is the budget alternative if beach weather is not essential.
Where can I go in February for guaranteed sun from the UK?
Cape Verde and Dubai are the most reliable for guaranteed sun in February. Cape Verde averages 25-27°C on Sal and Boa Vista; Dubai averages 24°C. Both have very low February rainfall. The Canary Islands are sunny most days but not as reliably as desert-climate destinations.
