On the same latitude as Florida and just 60 miles away from the coast of Africa, it is not hard to see why there is so much sun blazing down, so consistently, across these stunning islands. Even in January - temperatures stay between 15 and 18 degrees C, perfect for those wishing to get away from it all on winter sun holidays.

Add to this great hiking routes, water sports, swimming and bicycle trails, golfing, horse-riding, beautiful beaches and energetic nightlife and it’s clear to see that Canary Island holidays offer a diverse, fun-filled and action-packed experience for all the family. Well-known for its vibrant nightlife, the Spanish archipelago attracts a range of different visitors all year round. Leading holiday operator, Thomas Cook , looks at some of the most pressing reasons to visit the Canaries in 2013.

Tenerife
Surrounded by soft sand beaches with safe bathing areas, this is the island for water sports and Tenerife holidays are renowned for being very family-friendly. Kite boarding, surfing, windsurfing, diving and snorkelling are all up for grabs on this island - perfect for getting the kids active in 2013. Why not get your holiday going with a visit to Siam Park Water Kingdom? It’s full of flumes and slides for hours of fun. Keen hikers can attempt the highest peak in Spain, Tenerife’s Pico del Tiede , a mountain surrounded by a photogenic landscape marked by its volcanic past.

Lanzarote
More than 100 breathtaking beaches surround this island’s coastline, ranging from black lava rock pebbles to fine white sand, so this really is a paradise for sunbathers and explorers alike. The centre of the island has a moonlike look to it, while the north of Lanzarote is much greener and flatter; offering diverse trails to mountain bike through and help you burn off those seafood feasts you’ve been indulging in! Those visiting the island can enjoy locally-made herb liquor at the Museo Artesania.

Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura is the second largest Canary Island and is famous for its long stretches of beaches and rocky inland areas. Great cycling is to be had there, as well as an abundance of surfers riding the famous swells brought in on the Atlantic. Diving schools and swimming schools make this island the ideal place to indulge in your favourite water sports.

Gran Canaria
A beautiful mix of soft, silky sand beaches, desert areas and mountainous landscape, Gran Canaria is a hiking paradise. This island has the Sahara to thank for its picturesque rolling sand dunes and rolling, golden bays which have drifted in across time from the African desert itself. It is also the hottest island with a temperature that rarely drops below 20C. Contrast this with the fact that Gran Canaria is known as one of the most vibrant nightlife spots in the Canary Islands and you won’t be able to resist.