The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife holds the crown as one of the most visited travel destinations in Spain. And it’s not hard to see why. From golden beaches to dramatic volcanic scenery, Tenerife has got something amazing for everyone. The island’s rich cultural heritage can also be seen in historic towns and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which add a unique charm to every visit. Loved by many travellers, it’s no wonder it’s truly solidified its status as a must-visit destination for wanderlusts looking for a perfect coastal holiday escape. But, what exactly makes a Tenerife holiday so irresistible?
Year-Round Sunshine
With over 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, Tenerife is a paradise for sun-seekers like me. It is one of the sunniest places in Europe, making it a perfect destination no matter the season. To soak up some much-needed sun in its subtropical climate, we visited Tenerife in early spring. With daytime temperatures comfortably reaching the mid-20s Celsius, we enjoyed summer-like warmth. However, it became a bit chilly in the evenings. So it’s wise to bring a sweater or light jacket for when the temperatures drop after sunset. Winter, on the other hand, tends to be milder. However, the abundant sunshine ensures a perfect getaway at any time of the year. Check the weather, pack your sunglasses and sunscreen for the daytime. Again, don’t forget a sweater or light jacket for those cooler evenings when you visit in the colder season.
Stunning Beaches
The beaches in Tenerife are what I would describe as pure paradise. Depending on what you’re looking for, be aware that the South, in particular, is usually much warmer than the North. And therefore quite popular for family holidays. The island offers a diverse range of beaches to suit every preference, including stunning black sand beaches. One of the most famous is Playa Jardin, featuring an impressive botanical garden, black volcanic sand, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Another must-visit beach is El Socorro in Los Realejos, which is popular among surfers due to its powerful waves. For a more secluded experience, Playa de Troja in the north of the island is perfect for avoiding large crowds. Families on the other hand, can enjoy safe, shallow waters at beaches like Playa Fañabé. Here, there’s also a lively promenade filled with restaurants and shops.
City-Sized Resorts
As a staunch beach vacationer, Tenerife’s city-sized resorts are a dream come true. Combining luxury, convenience, and a wide range of activities, they are more than just places to stay; they are destinations in their own right. During our visit, we stayed at the Guayarmina Princess – Adults Only (16+) resort, which offered a serene and sophisticated atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing getaway. And thanks to this adults-only advantage, we were able to actually lazy-around and unwind peacefully. And if you’re the kind of person who loves staying in places where everything is provided for then you’ll also love the convenience of the resorts strategically located for easy access to Tenerife’s top attractions. Whether you want to explore the volcanic landscapes of Mount Teide, visit the famous Siam Park water park, or take a whale-watching tour, you can do so conveniently from these well-connected resort areas.
Volcanic Landscapes
If you love collecting memories from UNESCO World Heritage sites, then you must visit Tenerife for its stunning volcanic landscapes. Dominated by Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak and one of the world’s largest volcanoes, Tenerife’s landscapes provide a dramatic and breathtaking backdrop.
But before you visit Mount Teide, it’s highly recommended that you book tickets in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly. And also remember to dress appropriately for the excursion. Wear comfortable shoes, preferably sneakers, as the terrain can be a bit rugged, and cover up warmly as it can get really cold and windy up there. I’d recommend carrying a backpack instead of your usual handbag for ease and comfort when walking around.
Another volcanic wonder on the island is the Cueva del Viento, one of the longest lava tubes in the world. This underground labyrinth stretches over 17 kilometres and offers guided tours that take you through its fascinating tunnels, showcasing unique geological features and ancient lava flows.
Hiking Trails
It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned trekker or simply a casual hiker, a Tenerife holiday offers an array of stunning hiking trails for all experience levels. And one of the most popular destinations is Mount Teide National Park. Which amazingly, features some beautiful scenic trails through volcanic terrain. If it’s a challenge you’re after, the ascent to Mount Teide will give you some unparalleled views from Spain’s highest peak. On the other hand, there’s the Sendero de los Roques trail which offers a more picturesque route through unique rock formations like the Roques de García.
For beach views, Tenerife’s coastal trails are equally impressive. The Anaga Rural Park in the northeast will lead you to trails winding through ancient laurel forests as well as some rugged coastlines.
Cycling Routes
Tenerife’s cycling routes are legendary, attracting even Tour de France pros for training. A cycling holiday to Tenerife will sure present you with a mix of cycling routes that are perfect for even amateur cyclists. Starting with some leisurely coastal rides to challenging mountain ascents.
For road cyclists, the TF-28 coastal route is a favourite, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. For a more serious challenge, then the TF-21, known as the “Road to Mount Teide,” is unbeatable. This ascent to Spain’s highest peak will sure test your endurance with steep gradients and hairpin bends. But ultimately you get rewarded with panoramic views of the volcanic landscape.
Mountain bikers will also find excitement in Tenerife’s Anaga Rural Park. The park has got some trails that provide a thrilling challenge at high altitudes.
Instagram Friendly Spots
Looking for the ultimate Instagram destination? Then you absolutely have to visit Tenerife for countless Instagrammable spots. The village of Masca in particular, has charming streets and traditional Canarian architecture for great photos. For amazing coastal views, the cliffs of Los Gigantes provide some stunning photo backdrops. You can also capture beautiful sunsets over the sea or pose against the cliffs for Instagram-worthy moments.
Not to mention the colourful streets of La Laguna. A UNESCO World Heritage site in its own right, with some historic architecture on top of a more vibrant ‘townish’ atmosphere. Wander through cobbled streets with colourful buildings and snap some cool selfies for your insta! And of course, no Tenerife holiday is complete without visiting Mount Teide! The island’s most iconic landmark — perfect for Instagram-worthy shots.
Water Sports
Tenerife’s crystal-clear waters and year-round sunshine make it heaven for anyone who enjoys water sports. Adrenaline junkies — there are endless action-packed activities for you to try. Think jet skiing, parasailing, flyboarding, and of course windsurfing, the options are thrilling and endless. Head to popular beach resorts like Playa de las Américas or Costa Adeje, where rental shops and tour operators are ready to help you get your adrenaline fix.
If you prefer a more laid-back approach, try paddleboarding or kayaking. For those who want to dive beneath the surface, Tenerife offers some of the best snorkelling and scuba diving in Europe. So make sure before you leave, you have explored the beautiful coral reefs, underwater volcanic formations, and even the abundant marine life. Let’s not forget about fishing! Tenerife is a must-visit for anglers, with ample opportunities to reel in big catches like marlin, tuna, and dorado.