Leisure and Culture

• WHERE ARE THE BEST BEACHES IN TENERIFE?

  The beaches in Tenerife will allow you to discover and immerse yourself in the true pleasures of enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic. The island’s coastline is one of planet earth’s truly unspoiled treasures. Some of Tenerife’s coastal areas have even been specially designated as conservation zones, recognition granted by the European Institute on Natural Biodiversity Conservation set up in 2000. Tenerife’s beaches aren’t just privileged spots where you can enjoy an afternoon or two, they’re a true showcase of the rich flora and marine fauna found in this heavenly part of the North Atlantic.

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    PLAYA DEL MÉDANO AND PLAYA DE LA TEJITA IN GRANADILLA

    Popular with locals, as well as some tourists and visitors, Playa del Médano is one of the most internationally-recognised beaches on the island. The sea and wind conditions make this the ideal spot for enjoying a day of windsurfing or kite surfing, which has given the area a worldwide reputation. Very close by, you’ll also find Playa de la Tejita, the perfect stretch of golden sand that welcomes nude bathing.

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    PLAYA DE LAS TERESITAS IN SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE

    One of the favourite beaches for the local tourism industry to promote Tenerife, this beach is also a favourite amongst locals and visitors alike. Its golden sands, swept in directly from the Sahara Desert, its close proximity to the island’s capital and the wide variety of services and facilities available all combine to make this a great option for tourists visiting the island of Tenerife.

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    LOS GUÍOS IN SANTIAGO DEL TEIDE

    Perhaps not the best known or most popular beach, in fact, it’s really more of a cove or inlet than a full beach. However, it’s the perfect destination if you enjoy total peace and quiet, spectacular views offered by the nearby Cliffs of the Giants, along with the chance to do a spot of whale watching... throw in some adrenaline-fuelled water sports, like kayaking, and you’ve got yourself a real day out!

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    PLAYA DE BENIJO IN SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE

    Situated furthest to the north west of all the beaches mentioned, a world away from the typical tourist resorts, you’ll find this wild and untamed jewel in Tenerife’s crown. Besides enjoying an unforgettable day at the seaside, at Playa de Benijo, you can witness one of the most spectacular sunsets in all of the Canaries.

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    PLAYA DE LAS VISTAS IN ARONA

    This beach is one of the most popular on the island practically all year round. Found to the south of Tenerife, which guarantees around 300 days of sunshine a year, pleasant water temperatures and great proximity to various tourist amenities make it one of the preferred spots for holidaymakers and visitors from all over the world.

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    PLAYA DE EL BOYUYO IN LA OROTAVA

    One of the most beautiful and calm black sandy beaches - volcanic sand - this particular stretch is emblematic of the Orotava Valley enclave. Surrounded by one of the hallmarks of the Canary Islands, the banana tree, as well as some amazingly rugged rock formations, you can enjoy bathing in the shelter of this secluded spot all day long.

  • Some beaches have strong underwater currents, invisible from above but can be quite risky. Don’t go too far into the water in these areas if you’re not experienced.
  • Most beaches have flags indicating sea conditions and whether or not it’s safe to swim at different times of day. Follow these indications carefully.
  • The island is a natural treasure, both for locals and visitors alike. Please respect the environment and don’t leave your rubbish behind.
  • Some plants are unique and indigenous to the Canary Island ecosystem. Don’t be tempted to take any ‘samples’ home with you. You will be damaging the island’s natural biodiversity and endangering the natural balance of your own country by introducing an alien species.
  • If you’re not sure what ingredients are in your meal, or you have any allergies, always ask the waiting staff for further information.
  • Some hiking trails can be challenging. Even if you’re experienced, only proceed with a local guide and always follow their advice.
  • Keep your important documents and papers safe.
  • If you intend to rent a car during your stay, make sure you know the rules of the road and any local signs you’ll find in Spain, as well as driving with a steering wheel on the left-hand side.
  • Don’t start any activities, walks or excursions on your own without knowing exactly where you’re going. Ask local hotel staff and guides before you set off.
  • We don’t recommend carrying more cash than you’ll need for the day. It’s better to use a credit or debit card.
  • Tenerife is home to open and welcoming people. Don’t be afraid to ask the locals for anything you need to know, especially if you try using a little Spanish at the same time!
• WHAT ARE THE BEST EXCURSIONS IN TENERIFE?

  The island of Tenerife has leisure options and excursions to suit all tastes. Besides relaxing on the ocean’s shore, there are plenty of ways to unwind and discover this great island, both at the coast and further inland. The natural diversity of the Canary Islands means you can experience - without having to leave the island - a whole host of different environments and activities, all totally different from one another and more exciting than the last. And some might just change your life.

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    SCUBA-DIVING EXPERIENCES FOR BEGINNERS

    If you think the wonders of Tenerife are beautiful on land, you’ve got an even greater treat in store under the sea. With one of the most diverse and protected seabeds in the whole of Europe, throw yourself into the wonders of a beginner’s scuba-diving experience to enter a whole new world. After just a few simple classes covering all the basic safety tips and concepts, in just one day with the support of a trained professional, you can explore the mysteries of life underwater that are normally hidden from those stuck on land.

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    VISITING TEIDE NATIONAL PARK

    The summit of Mount Teide is another part of the regional identity, both for Tenerife and the wider island chain. The highest point in the whole of Spain, the mountain stands at 3,718 metres above sea level. At the same time, it’s also the third largest volcano in the world, despite (thankfully!) being inactive. The ascent to Mount Teide is one of the must-see attractions for any visitor to the island and, fortunately, it’s not a journey you have to make on foot - unless you want to! You can enjoy all the spectacular views on offer without breaking into a sweat by taking one of the cable cars right to the top.

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    STARGAZING

    One of the main advantages of being so close to the highest point in the whole of Spain is that you can effortlessly rise above all the bright lights and noise of everyday life. And, of course, way beyond any light pollution. That means the skies above Tenerife are perfect for gazing into the night sky from up high in the most stunning surroundings. And it’s not just an evening guaranteed to take your breath away, it will also leave you with a new perspective on the entire universe.

  • Some beaches have strong underwater currents, invisible from above but can be quite risky. Don’t go too far into the water in these areas if you’re not experienced.
  • Most beaches have flags indicating sea conditions and whether or not it’s safe to swim at different times of day. Follow these indications carefully.
  • The island is a natural treasure, both for locals and visitors alike. Please respect the environment and don’t leave your rubbish behind.
  • Some plants are unique and indigenous to the Canary Island ecosystem. Don’t be tempted to take any ‘samples’ home with you. You will be damaging the island’s natural biodiversity and endangering the natural balance of your own country by introducing an alien species.
  • If you’re not sure what ingredients are in your meal, or you have any allergies, always ask the waiting staff for further information.
  • Some hiking trails can be challenging. Even if you’re experienced, only proceed with a local guide and always follow their advice.
  • Keep your important documents and papers safe.
  • If you intend to rent a car during your stay, make sure you know the rules of the road and any local signs you’ll find in Spain, as well as driving with a steering wheel on the left-hand side.
  • Don’t start any activities, walks or excursions on your own without knowing exactly where you’re going. Ask local hotel staff and guides before you set off.
  • We don’t recommend carrying more cash than you’ll need for the day. It’s better to use a credit or debit card.
  • Tenerife is home to open and welcoming people. Don’t be afraid to ask the locals for anything you need to know, especially if you try using a little Spanish at the same time!
• WHERE TO HAVE FUN IN TENERIFE?

  Tenerife is designed to be enjoyed, no matter what your tastes and preferences might be. If you’re up for some fun and want to really enjoy your time here, the island has plenty to offer to make your next holiday a truly unforgettable experience.

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    CARNIVAL IN TENERIFE

    If you’re planning to visit Tenerife in the first few months of the year, particularly during February or March, you might just be lucky enough to witness one of the most impressive shows on earth. We’re of course talking about Tenerife Carnival, a genuine explosion of music, joy, colour and fun that has made a name for itself the world over, up there with the likes of Rio Carnival in Brazil!

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    NIGHTLIFE

    In Tenerife, there are endless options when it comes to enjoying the local nightlife. With all kinds of different atmospheres and styles, local music, international and amazing Latin sounds, you can enjoy a whole host of discos and cocktail bars, as well as lounges, nightclubs, theatres and shows of all kinds right here on the island. Pick the one you like, or try them all... why choose?

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    PLAYING GOLF IN TENERIFE

    If you’re passionate about golf, you can enjoy a fantastic round or two at any one of the eight golf courses spread between the north and south of the island of Tenerife. Some have even been designed by the golf legends themselves, including Severiano Ballesteros, Donald Steele and John Jacobs. Besides the spectacular views and amazing weather, you’ll be able to improve your handicap on a variety of courses with a number of unique features, including impressive black sand banks and water obstacles that are without compare.

  • Some beaches have strong underwater currents, invisible from above but can be quite risky. Don’t go too far into the water in these areas if you’re not experienced.
  • Most beaches have flags indicating sea conditions and whether or not it’s safe to swim at different times of day. Follow these indications carefully.
  • The island is a natural treasure, both for locals and visitors alike. Please respect the environment and don’t leave your rubbish behind.
  • Some plants are unique and indigenous to the Canary Island ecosystem. Don’t be tempted to take any ‘samples’ home with you. You will be damaging the island’s natural biodiversity and endangering the natural balance of your own country by introducing an alien species.
  • If you’re not sure what ingredients are in your meal, or you have any allergies, always ask the waiting staff for further information.
  • Some hiking trails can be challenging. Even if you’re experienced, only proceed with a local guide and always follow their advice.
  • Keep your important documents and papers safe.
  • If you intend to rent a car during your stay, make sure you know the rules of the road and any local signs you’ll find in Spain, as well as driving with a steering wheel on the left-hand side.
  • Don’t start any activities, walks or excursions on your own without knowing exactly where you’re going. Ask local hotel staff and guides before you set off.
  • We don’t recommend carrying more cash than you’ll need for the day. It’s better to use a credit or debit card.
  • Tenerife is home to open and welcoming people. Don’t be afraid to ask the locals for anything you need to know, especially if you try using a little Spanish at the same time!
• WHAT TO EAT IN TENERIFE?

  The local cuisine in Tenerife has everything you need for a magical culinary journey. Though seafood naturally plays a starring role, you can enjoy great quality meats and other local delicacies, the likes of which you’ll only ever find in this part of the world.

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    GOFIO

    Gofio is a typical Canarian dish that goes back to the original ancestors of the islands, the Guanche people (who were wiped out after the islands were conquered by the Spanish between 1402 and 1496). This flour-based dish from various roasted cereals made up the basis of their diet and its preparation and consumption has survived to this day. It can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes and styles, just ask at any local restaurant to try it.

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    CANARIAN MOJO

    This sauce is another dish you’ll only find right here in the Canary Islands. It’s used as an accompaniment to various local dishes and comes in two varieties, either red and spicy, made with local peppers, oil and vinegar, or green, a softer version made with garlic, fresh cilantro, oil and vinegar. The red version usually goes very well with meats, while the green type is normally used as an accompaniment to fish.

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    ’WRINKLY POTATOES’

    You’ll often see locals tucking into their crumpled or wrinkly potatoes, another of the typical dishes you’ll find here in Tenerife and on the rest of the islands. It’s a dish of small potatoes cooked with the skin on in a small amount of water and plenty of salt. The potatoes are cooked until the water has completely evaporated, leaving the salt stuck to the skins and ready to be devoured. The skins are thin and easy to peel off, but you can eat these salty-skinned delicacies as they’re served, too. They’re usually accompanied by a typical Canarian mojo sauce.

  • Some beaches have strong underwater currents, invisible from above but can be quite risky. Don’t go too far into the water in these areas if you’re not experienced.
  • Most beaches have flags indicating sea conditions and whether or not it’s safe to swim at different times of day. Follow these indications carefully.
  • The island is a natural treasure, both for locals and visitors alike. Please respect the environment and don’t leave your rubbish behind.
  • Some plants are unique and indigenous to the Canary Island ecosystem. Don’t be tempted to take any ‘samples’ home with you. You will be damaging the island’s natural biodiversity and endangering the natural balance of your own country by introducing an alien species.
  • If you’re not sure what ingredients are in your meal, or you have any allergies, always ask the waiting staff for further information.
  • Some hiking trails can be challenging. Even if you’re experienced, only proceed with a local guide and always follow their advice.
  • Keep your important documents and papers safe.
  • If you intend to rent a car during your stay, make sure you know the rules of the road and any local signs you’ll find in Spain, as well as driving with a steering wheel on the left-hand side.
  • Don’t start any activities, walks or excursions on your own without knowing exactly where you’re going. Ask local hotel staff and guides before you set off.
  • We don’t recommend carrying more cash than you’ll need for the day. It’s better to use a credit or debit card.
  • Tenerife is home to open and welcoming people. Don’t be afraid to ask the locals for anything you need to know, especially if you try using a little Spanish at the same time!
• WHAT ARE THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN TENERIFE?
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    SWIM WITH DOLPHINS

    The Atlantic Ocean - owing to its perfect water temperature - is the ideal environment for a certain species of cetaceans, which are mammals that live in the sea, from small dolphins all the way up to giant whales. On Tenerife’s coast, it’s not unusual to see either of these species, although usually at different times of year. Boat trips off the south western coast of the island, given the great conditions, are often where you’re most likely to see some of these amazing creatures.

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    HIKING TRAILS

    If you enjoy a spot of hiking or trekking now and again, Tenerife is the perfect place to get out and about in nature. There are literally dozens of great routes and trails to help you explore the island as part of a pleasant walk or hike, all of different lengths, complexity and difficulty. Depending on your level of experience, you can come up with your own excursions to get to know the best of Tenerife, though we always recommend you seek the advice of local professionals who know the island well.

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    VISITING LORO PARQUE

    One of the most popular activities for tourists visiting Tenerife is to visit the well-known Loro Parque. What began as a 13,000m² space dedicated to the conservation of parrots, where you could also meet them up close, the site has now become one of the most respected and popular zoos, not just in the Canaries, but in the entire world. Throughout its history, it has welcomed more than fifty million visitors, which gives you a good idea of the scale of its quality and excellent projects, earning it the accolade of being named best zoo in the world by Travellers Choice in 2017 and 2018.

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    LEARN HOW TO WINDSURF AND KITE SURF

    Some of Tenerife’s best beaches, because of their location and the prevailing winds, are perfect for windsurfing and kite surfing, two of the most fun and enjoyable water sports to try without the need for any prior experience whatsoever. With just a little patience and the help of a patient tutor, you’ll be having the time of your life in the water in no time at all.

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    SAILING EXPERIENCES ALONG THE COAST

    If there’s one thing everyone should experience once in their life, it’s seeing the sun melt into the Atlantic from the deck of a sailboat. One of the most romantic things you can do if you’re travelling with your other half - and the best way to wake up your most adventurous side if you’re travelling alone - there are plenty of excursions and boat trips on offer, from the shortest tours of the most beautiful stretches of Tenerife’s coastline to entire days out on the high seas followed by a magnificent sunset. Make sure you add this to your list of things to do.

  • 

    VISITING CHARMING TOWNS THAT ARE FULL OF CHARACTER

    Both on the coast and further inland, Tenerife is full of charming towns and villages with plenty of charisma. Known for their traditional architecture and being havens of local culture, as well as their open and welcoming people, Tenerife is well-known for opening up to visitors from across the world. Garachico, Candelaria, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, El Rosario and Icod de los Vinos are just some amazing examples you can discover.

  • Some beaches have strong underwater currents, invisible from above but can be quite risky. Don’t go too far into the water in these areas if you’re not experienced.
  • Most beaches have flags indicating sea conditions and whether or not it’s safe to swim at different times of day. Follow these indications carefully.
  • The island is a natural treasure, both for locals and visitors alike. Please respect the environment and don’t leave your rubbish behind.
  • Some plants are unique and indigenous to the Canary Island ecosystem. Don’t be tempted to take any ‘samples’ home with you. You will be damaging the island’s natural biodiversity and endangering the natural balance of your own country by introducing an alien species.
  • If you’re not sure what ingredients are in your meal, or you have any allergies, always ask the waiting staff for further information.
  • Some hiking trails can be challenging. Even if you’re experienced, only proceed with a local guide and always follow their advice.
  • Keep your important documents and papers safe.
  • If you intend to rent a car during your stay, make sure you know the rules of the road and any local signs you’ll find in Spain, as well as driving with a steering wheel on the left-hand side.
  • Don’t start any activities, walks or excursions on your own without knowing exactly where you’re going. Ask local hotel staff and guides before you set off.
  • We don’t recommend carrying more cash than you’ll need for the day. It’s better to use a credit or debit card.
  • Tenerife is home to open and welcoming people. Don’t be afraid to ask the locals for anything you need to know, especially if you try using a little Spanish at the same time!