Whale-watching, hiking, sunbathing – whatever you’re into, Tenerife has you covered. All part and parcel of being the largest, most popular Canary Island.
Destination highlights
Perfect for couples and family holidays
Year-round sunshine - making it a top pic for something last-minute!
Home to the famous Veronica's Strip
Golden sandy beaches
Read more about things to do in Tenerife and travel advice for Tenerife by clicking the tabs above!
Tenerife holidays 2024 - Best beaches
With over 40 beaches to choose from, snorkellers, sunbathers and sandcastle-makers can find their perfect spot of shore in sunny Tenerife - the perfect way to pass the time on one of our cheap holidays. Here are our top Ten picks for Tenerife beaches:
Playa del Duque - one of the golden oldies on the island, and famous throughout the Canary Islands, Playa del Duque is a hit with everyone. The well-kept stretch of shore is a mix of golden sands and pebbles, and features sun loungers that are perfect for keeping sand our your bits and bobs. If you’re one who likes a wander between sunbathing sessions, there are plenty of shops and restaurants nearby for you to explore.
Mesa del Mar - located in the north of the island, this unspoilt slice of paradise is a real hidden gem and will never disappoint.
Playa del Puertito - fancy escaping the crowds and getting back to nature? Then Playa del Puertito is 100% a must-visit. This unspoilt cove is usually pretty quiet and offers some a peaceful day of relaxing and swimming. Top tip - if you grab your snorkel and take a swim just by the fishing boats, you’re likely to be greeted by friendly marine life including turtles and butterfly rays!
Playa de las Vistas - with a 1km-long stretch of lovely blonde sands and beautiful waters. Beach bars are also located down the beach raring to serve up your beers, cocktails, Fanta Limon or some snacks for when the kids (and you) get peckish.
Playa los Gigantes - sat at the base of giant cliff sides, this black sand beach offers a pretty special beach day. With calm waters and minimal breeze, it's made for those 'ahhhh' days.
Playa de la Nea - peace and quiet, in beach form. This one’s a bit of an adventure to get to, but if you’re looking for something away from the crowds, then it’s worth it. Make your way down to this rustic stretch of coast and you’ll be greeted by coarse lava sand and even a playground for the kids! Just be careful if you are travelling with the little ones, because the shoreline is known to deepen quite suddenly.
Playa de Torviscas - if you like your beach the same way we like our all-inclusive breakfast - with a bit of everything - then this is the place for you. Sun loungers and parasols everywhere, along with a playground for the kids, plenty of watersports and a breezy promenade.
Playa de la Enramada - black volcanic sands and some of the clearest waters you will ever see make this beach a must-visit in this part of Tenerife. Hire a sun lounger or bring a towel and relax… maybe nip to the beach bar for a drink or two. There’s also live music in the evening here, making it a great place to take a sunset stroll.
Playa del Médano - family beach day anyone? This inviting bay is just the place for it, with a sheltered location which means gentler waves for paddling in, and ramps for easy access. Plus, this beach flies the Blue Flag award, offers activities such as windsurfing and kitesurfing, has a dedicated swimming area AND a breezy promenade lined with bars and restaurants. Talk about the whole shebang!
Playa Diego Hernández - for the more daring amongst you, Playa Diego Hernandez is an isolated and unspoiled nudist beach that’s a great spot for topping up your tan or having a lovely swim. Keep in mind there are no facilities here, so whilst you can leave your cozzy at the hotel, you might want to bring a drink and a bite to eat.
What are the top hotels to stay at on your holidays to Tenerife?
When it comes to where to stay in Tenerife, we've got you covered. Our huge range of Tenerife hotels offers everything from All Inclusive resorts to budget-friendly breaks if you're looking for a cheap holiday to Tenerife.
Sol Tenerife - Located in Playa de las Americas, this four-star hotel is only 200m from the beach and is a great pick for family fun.
Checkin Bungalows Atlantida - Perfect for a Self Catering or All Inclusive budget-friendly stay in Los Cristianos, this three-star accommodation boasts three pools, a games zone and a mini club.
Meliá Jardines del Teide - Looking for a stylish stay in Tenerife? This four-star hotel offers modern interiors, restaurants and entertainment for all, as well as stunning panoramic views over Costa Adeje.
Bahia Principe Fantasia Tenerife - A fantastic five-star family hotel located on a volcanic sand beach, guests can enjoy luxury rooms, brilliant entertainment and a mini aqua park for kids!
Hotel KN Arenas del Mar Beach & Spa (Adults Only) - Unwind in the Thalasso Spa, dip into the sun-drenched pool or relax on the beach that lies on the hotel doorstep. A great pick for couples wanting an adult-only getaway.
Gara Suites - a bit of bouj in Playa de las Americas with facilities to keep the whole fam happy, we're talking a spa centre, a games area and even an on-site golf course.
Make that jolly extra jolly with On the Beach perks!
🧑🧑🧒🧒 Things to do in Tenerife for Families
Tenerife is a playground for families, with enough to keep the kids entertained and you beaming because they haven't said "I'm bored" for approx 3 hours. For starters, why not kick things off with a day at Aqualand Costa Adeje? It’s got all the slides, wave pools, and splash zones you could ever need for a splashtastic time. Plus, there's a dolphin show that’ll have your little ones grinning from ear to ear.
If you’re in the mood for some land-based fun, take the kiddos to Monkey Park. Here, they can interact with cheeky monkeys, lemurs, and other cute critters. The best bit? You get to feed the animals and snap some proper good family pics. Maybe you're after something a lil' more on the thrill side, well, that's what the jeep safaris are for, zoom around the island’s rugged landscapes and soak up the sights on the way, we reckon it's a surefire way to satisfy any sense of adventure.
❤️ Things to do in Tenerife for Couples
Tenerife is the ultimate spot for couples looking for a bit of sunshine and romance. Start your day with a hike through Anaga Rural Park, where you can wander hand-in-hand through lush forests and dramatic landscapes. The views? forget about it. Too stunning to speak on. Feeling peckish after all that trekking? Book a vineyard tour in one of the island’s scenic wine regions – sip some vino, soak up the stunning views, and toast to a top-tier holiday to Tenerife.
For a more chilled-out vibe, why not take a stroll along Playa de las Teresitas? The golden sand and palm trees make it a picture-perfect spot to relax and dip your toes in the sea. And if you’re all about those memorable moments, a stargazing tour up on Mount Teide is an absolute must. The night sky here is one of the clearest in the world, so get cosy and watch the stars twinkle above. We've got romance down to a tea here, thank us later.
🍷 Things to do in Tenerife for Foodies
Foodies, Tenerife is calling your name. Kick off your culinary journey with a trip to a local market – places like Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África are bursting with fresh produce, from juicy tropical fruits to Canarian cheese that’s begging to be sampled. Speaking of cheese, Tenerife’s goat cheese is a proper delicacy – creamy, tangy, and perfect with a glass of local wine.
Fancy something a bit heartier on your Tenerife holidays? Tuck into a traditional Canarian feast at a local restaurant – think slow-cooked meats, mojo sauce, and papas arrugadas (those delicious wrinkled potatoes). And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, turrón is the island’s take on nougat, and it’s an absolute dream. Pair that with a coffee made from local beans, and you’ve got yourself a 10/10 treat.
🚵🏽♂️ Things to do in Tenerife for Adventurers
If you’re the type who can’t sit still by the pool for too long, Tenerife’s got plenty to satisfy your adventurous spirit. Kick things off with a hike up Barranco del Infierno, one of the island’s most popular trails. The views are nothing short of epic, and the waterfall at the end is the cherry on top.
For something that’ll get your heart racing on your holidays to Tenerife, try windsurfing in El Médano, the conditions are ideal for catching some waves, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. Prefer to keep your feet on solid ground? No problem. Tenerife’s volcanic landscapes are made for mountain biking – you can cycle through pine forests, around craters, and along rugged cliffs for a proper good thrill. And if you’re looking to go even higher, give paragliding a go and see the island from a bird’s-eye view.