Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, draws travelers with its striking volcanic landscapes, vibrant towns, and year-round sunshine. Palm-fringed beaches line the coast from north to south, where black and golden sands welcome both sunseekers and surfers. The dramatic slopes of Teide National Park, crowned by Spain's highest peak Mount Teide, create a backdrop that feels almost otherworldly. Whether you're after a relaxed retreat or an energy-filled adventure, Tenerife offers something for everyone.
Diving into the island’s highlights, visitors can hike moon-like craters in Teide National Park, spot dolphins on boat trips from Los Cristianos, and stroll through the colonial streets of La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lively resorts like Playa de las Américas buzz with nightlife and entertainment, while the calmer northern towns—such as Puerto de la Cruz—offer botanical gardens and artisan markets. For family fun, Siam Park is renowned as one of Europe’s top water parks, and Loro Parque wows with its impressive animal shows and conservation exhibits.
Tenerife’s atmosphere reflects a blend of Spanish and local Canarian traditions—fiestas fill village streets with music and color, and you’ll find friendly locals sharing tapas at seaside chiringuitos. Seafood stew, papas arrugadas with mojo sauce, and the sweet wine of Tacoronte are mainstays of island cuisine. While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few Spanish phrases can go a long way, especially in more rural regions.
Getting around is straightforward, with reliable local buses connecting key towns and car rentals readily available for exploring mountain villages or winding coastal roads. Accommodation ranges from family-friendly resorts to luxury spas and boutique hotels. Booking ahead is wise during school holidays, while quieter months like spring and autumn allow for a more relaxed visit and milder crowds.
While Tenerife is pleasant year-round, the period from April to June and September to November strikes a nice balance of ideal temperatures and fewer crowds. Stargazing in Teide National Park is a highlight thanks to low light pollution, and local festivals such as the Santa Cruz Carnival create unforgettable cultural moments. Packing a light jacket for high-altitude hikes and sunscreen for coastal adventures ensures you can embrace every facet of this diverse island.
Diving into the island’s highlights, visitors can hike moon-like craters in Teide National Park, spot dolphins on boat trips from Los Cristianos, and stroll through the colonial streets of La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Lively resorts like Playa de las Américas buzz with nightlife and entertainment, while the calmer northern towns—such as Puerto de la Cruz—offer botanical gardens and artisan markets. For family fun, Siam Park is renowned as one of Europe’s top water parks, and Loro Parque wows with its impressive animal shows and conservation exhibits.
Tenerife’s atmosphere reflects a blend of Spanish and local Canarian traditions—fiestas fill village streets with music and color, and you’ll find friendly locals sharing tapas at seaside chiringuitos. Seafood stew, papas arrugadas with mojo sauce, and the sweet wine of Tacoronte are mainstays of island cuisine. While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few Spanish phrases can go a long way, especially in more rural regions.
Getting around is straightforward, with reliable local buses connecting key towns and car rentals readily available for exploring mountain villages or winding coastal roads. Accommodation ranges from family-friendly resorts to luxury spas and boutique hotels. Booking ahead is wise during school holidays, while quieter months like spring and autumn allow for a more relaxed visit and milder crowds.
While Tenerife is pleasant year-round, the period from April to June and September to November strikes a nice balance of ideal temperatures and fewer crowds. Stargazing in Teide National Park is a highlight thanks to low light pollution, and local festivals such as the Santa Cruz Carnival create unforgettable cultural moments. Packing a light jacket for high-altitude hikes and sunscreen for coastal adventures ensures you can embrace every facet of this diverse island.
Expected Weekly Budget
$900-$1300 USD (per person, excluding flights)
Known For
Things to Do
- Ride the cable car to the summit of Mount Teide
- Relax on Playa de las Teresitas
- Explore the historic town of La Laguna
- Visit Loro Parque animal park
- Splash around at Siam Park water park
- Go dolphin and whale watching by boat
- Wander through the Botanical Gardens in Puerto de la Cruz
- Hike the cliffs of Los Gigantes
Notable Sites
- Mount Teide
- Teide National Park
- La Laguna (San Cristóbal de La Laguna)
- Loro Parque
- Siam Park
- Playa de las Teresitas
- Los Gigantes Cliffs
- Botanical Gardens (Jardín Botánico), Puerto de la Cruz
General Advice
Tenerife is a destination that suits most types of travelers, from adventurous explorers to families with young children and couples seeking romance. While public transport is efficient for major towns, renting a car gives you flexibility to discover hidden beaches and remote mountain villages at your own pace. Reserve accommodations and experiences like Mount Teide cable car and Loro Parque in advance during high season. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but attempting Spanish greetings is always appreciated. The island is generally safe, but always check local advice before setting out on hiking trails or water excursions.
Security & Safety
Tenerife is considered safe for travelers, with a low rate of serious crime. However, like many popular destinations, pickpocketing can occasionally occur in crowded areas, markets, or on public transport, so stay aware of your belongings. Avoid leaving valuables unattended on beaches. If hiking in Teide National Park or on coastal paths, be prepared with adequate supplies and inform someone if you plan to go off the beaten path. Always use registered taxis or official transport services, especially at night.
Travel Tips
- Renting a car allows you to explore more remote beaches and mountain villages.
- The sun is strong even on cloudy days—bring high-factor sunscreen.
- Expect microclimates: the north can be wetter and cooler than the south.
- Book popular attractions and accommodation in advance during school holidays.
- Try local Canarian dishes and wines for an authentic dining experience.
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking Teide or exploring natural parks.
- Tap water is safe to drink in most areas, but bottled water is widely available.
- ATMs are common but check with your bank about overseas withdrawal fees.
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Traveler Comments
Visited in May 2024
We loved the variety Tenerife has—beaches during the day, exploring La Laguna at night. The volcano views were unreal. Eating dinner on the terrace at sunset was such a treat. Only wish the main beaches were less busy!
Stayed in March 2024
Hiking Teide and seeing the stars at night was a highlight for me. The whole trip felt like an adventure, especially driving around the remote northern coast. Local food was a pleasant surprise—go for the papas arrugadas!
Traveled here in August 2023
Great for families! Siam Park kept our kids happy for hours, and the beaches were super clean. It did get really hot in the afternoons, so plan for siesta time. Public buses worked well but were crowded sometimes.
Visited in November 2023
We explored both the north and south—Puerto de la Cruz was quieter and had lovely botanical gardens. Nightlife in Playa de las Américas was lively. Bring layers, weather changes quickly up in the mountains.
Visited in February 2024
Carnival in Santa Cruz was colorful and fun, dancing in the streets with locals was unforgettable. Even in winter, it was warm enough to swim. Would absolutely come back just for the energy.
Traveled here in September 2023
Loved the food scene and how easy it was to get fresh seafood right by the water. The sand is surprisingly dark in most areas, but that gives the island a unique character. Some areas outside main resorts felt a bit quiet in off-season.
Visited in January 2024
Spent a week here escaping winter at home, and the sunshine was just what I needed. The boat trip to see dolphins was magical, saw so many! It's definitely helpful to know a bit of Spanish, especially in small towns.
Visited in July 2023
The views from Mount Teide are incredible, but it was difficult to get tickets for the cable car on short notice. Some tourist zones felt a bit commercial for my taste. Still, the nature trails and local markets made up for it.
Stayed in December 2023
Christmas in Tenerife felt different but so relaxing. We rented a car to visit small coastal villages—highly recommended! A bit of traffic around Santa Cruz but nothing too bad.
Visited in April 2024
Hands down one of my favorite islands. The local wine tasting in Tacoronte was so memorable, and the sunset from Los Gigantes was breathtaking. I appreciated how safe I felt everywhere, even at night.
Stayed in June 2024
We took our teenagers and they loved Siam Park and the surf lessons in El Médano. Plenty to do for all ages. Some parts of the island get windy, so bring a jacket!
Traveled here in October 2023
Great destination for photography—the volcanic scenery is so dramatic. I enjoyed the local artisan markets in the north. Can be pricey in tourist hotspots, so budget accordingly.
Visited in March 2024
As a solo traveler, I felt welcomed everywhere I went. Took a day trip to La Gomera by ferry—totally worth it! The botanical gardens in Puerto de la Cruz are not to be missed.
Visited in February 2024
We hopped around beaches—our favorite was Las Teresitas for the golden sand. Loved all the small cafes with local coffee and pastries. Wish we’d avoided the midday beach crowds.
Traveled here in May 2023
Tenerife was perfect for our hiking group. We explored Teide National Park and Masca Valley—the trails were challenging but rewarding. Just make sure to check weather forecasts for sudden changes.
Visited in December 2023
The Christmas lights in Santa Cruz were so pretty! Enjoyed trying all the tapas, especially in small family-run spots. Some museums close early, so plan ahead.
Stayed in September 2023
Really liked the mix of activities from water sports to history in La Laguna. Renting a car gave us freedom to see lesser-known beaches. Driving mountain roads takes a bit of confidence!
Visited in June 2024
The Los Gigantes cliffs at sunset are spectacular. Whale-watching tour was educational and so much fun. Wish there were more vegetarian options at local restaurants, though.
Traveled here in January 2024
Fantastic weather and friendly locals. The Carnival in Santa Cruz was unforgettable and very family-friendly. Our hotel had stunning views of Mount Teide.
Visited in October 2023
Nice island for a relaxed break. I enjoyed the wine tours and laidback pace. It can be humid in the north, but the lush scenery is worth it.
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