Tenerife Holidays

Tenerife is an island with great local cities, small fishing towns such as Puerto Santiago, vibrant resorts, and beaches that stretch for miles. With a distinct north "face" and south "face" in terms of landscape and infrastructure, the island is a fabulous escape for those who want to relax, those who want to explore, those who want to party and everyone in between. Affordable Tenerife holidays include the resorts of Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, Playa de las Americas and Puerto Santiago. 

Tenerife is actually the largest and most populated of the Canary Islands. It is also the most visited of the seven, with around five million tourists venturing there each year. Tenerife is one of the most important destinations in Spain, and generates the most revenue from tourism out of all the Canary Islands. It's also home to one of the world's largest carnivals, the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife which is held each February in the island's capital city. 

Teide National Park located in the centre of the island is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mount Teide reaches the highest elevation in both Spain and the islands in the Atlantic Ocean, and is the third largest volcano in the world. From the year-round sun and spectacular beaches to its unique natural wonders, there are so many reasons to consider a holiday in Tenerife. 

Cultural attractions and natural wonders to see in Tenerife

  • Teide National Park

    Teide National Park:

    A UNESCO World Heritage site, Teide National Park stands at the heart of Tenerife, with its 16 km-wide crater and Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide.

  • Santa Cruz de Tenerife

    Santa Cruz de Tenerife:

    The lively capital of Tenerife invites you to explore its rich history, enjoy a variety of tapas, and browse unique souvenir shops.

  • La Laguna

    La Laguna:

    As the former capital of Tenerife and now a UNESCO World Heritage site, La Laguna is a treasure trove of history, with 16th- to 18th-century mansions and charming artsy shops lining its streets.

  • Los Cristianos

    Los Cristianos:

    This southern coastal town is a hub of activity with its lively promenade and two beaches – great for water sports!

  • Masca

    Masca:

    Tucked away in the Teno Mountains, Masca is a village steeped in local culture, offering an adventurous hike through a dramatic gorge that leads down to the shore.

  • Piscinas Naturales El Caletón

    Piscinas Naturales El Caletón:

    These unique natural pools, formed by volcanic rock, are the ideal spot for a refreshing dip in calm waters.

Best beaches in Tenerife

  • La Tejita

    La Tejita:

    Located on the southern tip of the island, La Tejita is a stunning beach with over a kilometre of natural black sand and great views of the nearby Red Mountain volcano.

  • Fañabé

    Fañabé:

    This light sand beach is one of the most popular for tourists on the southern side of Tenerife, thanks to convenient amenities like showers, sun loungers, toilets, and watersports services.

  • Playa Jardín

    Playa Jardín:

    In the Puerto de la Cruz tourist area, this traditional black sand beach has been artistically decorated with bright flowers and lush trees.

  • El Bollullo

    El Bollullo:

    A little off the beaten track, this is a local favourite on the north side of the island with dark sand, cliffside views, and a traditional tapas restaurant close by.

  • Playa del Duque

    Playa del Duque:

    Known for its soft sand and beautiful tropical gardens, Playa del Duque in Costa Adeje is perfect for relaxing on sun loungers and working on your tan!

  • Los Gigantes

    Los Gigantes:

    This beach is famous for its dramatic 800-metre cliffs and natural black volcanic sand. Enjoy calm waters and convenient amenities like sun beds, umbrellas, and nearby local bars and restaurants.

  • Las Vistas

    Las Vistas:

    Uniquely accessible, Las Vistas features wheelchair ramps, along with toilets, showers, and soft golden sand, so everyone can feel welcome on this beautiful beach.

Family-friendly activities in Tenerife

  • Siam Park

    Siam Park:

    A Thai-inspired waterpark with thrilling adventure slides and lazy rivers, Siam Park is Tenerife’s biggest and best theme park.

  • Whale and Dolphin Watching

    Whale and Dolphin Watching:

    Nearly 30 species of whales and dolphins frequent the waters between Tenerife and La Gomera. Hop on one of the daily excursions from Los Gigantes or Los Cristianos to see them for yourself.

  • Camel Park

    Camel Park:

    This is a once in a lifetime chance to meet, interact with, and ride camels in a rugged landscape, right here in Tenerife.

  • Butterfly Farm

    Butterfly Farm:

    In the northern town of Icod de los Vinos, you’ll find Butterfly Park, home to 800 exotic butterflies.

  • Pueblo Chico

    Pueblo Chico:

    In this unique discovery park in La Orotava, families can explore 20,000 square metres of miniature towns, gardens, and landscapes showcasing the iconic architecture and nature of the Canaries.

  • Museum of Science and the Cosmos

    Museum of Science and the Cosmos:

    This popular museum combines elements of a traditional museum and a theme park to form an interactive experience teaching kids and adults about the workings of the natural world.

  • Submarine Tours

    Submarine Tours:

    Submarine safaris offer an incredible opportunity to take an underwater tour of Tenerife in a real submarine!

  • Lago Martiánez

    Lago Martiánez:

    Designed by famed Lanzarote architect Cesar Manrique, the Lago Martiánez is an intricate complex of beautiful pools, gardens, and restaurants in Puerto de la Cruz.

Getting around Tenerife

  • Car rental:

    A popular option for exploring Tenerife, renting a car offers the flexibility to visit remote beaches, mountain villages, and attractions at your own pace. At FlyShannon, we’ve partnered with Cartrawler to provide affordable and reliable car hire.

  • Public Buses (TITSA):

    Tenerife’s efficient bus system TITSA connects major towns, cities, and tourist spots. Route 111 is a popular choice, connecting the southern resort areas of Costa Adeje and Playa de las Americas with the capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

  • Taxis:

    Taxis are readily available and convenient for short trips or when you need direct transport without the hassle of parking.

  • Walking:

    Many tourist areas, especially in the south like Costa Adeje and Playa de las Américas, are pedestrian-friendly, making walking a popular and enjoyable way to explore.

Tenerife weather

Average temperatures in Tenerife
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