It's nearly impossible not to be awe-struck upon first (and second, and third) arrival at Los Gigantes, where imposing cliffs rise up to 600 meters, historically named "the wall of hell" during the Guanche era. The unique formations crafted by nature have created open spaces in Los Gigantes, giving way to secluded coves and charming beaches like the one near the Port of Los Gigantes. This locale, perfect for unwinding, offers a humbling experience as one marvels at the grandeur of the natural spectacle. La Arena Beach, characterized by its entirely natural black volcanic sand, is nestled in a small cove near Los Gigantes, in the town of Puerto de Santiago. It has been honored with the European Blue Flag award for several consecutive years.
This expansive and stunning beach, with its tranquil waters that consistently create a pleasant and inviting atmosphere, serves as a versatile haven. It's an ideal space for family enjoyment, water sports enthusiasts, serene sunbathing, or indulging in the vibrant beach bars and the lively surroundings filled with shops, restaurants, bars, discos, karaoke, and various entertainment options. Adorned with golden sands, the beach offers a plethora of amenities, including showers, parking, accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and the presence of lifeguards.
Situated in Los Cristianos, in the southern region of Tenerife, Las Vistas Beach has consistently received the prestigious Blue Flag award from the European Environmental Foundation. Spanning nearly one kilometer, this beach boasts fine golden sand, creating an ideal playground for children throughout the day. Its tranquil and clear waters, coupled with numerous beach bars to satiate your thirst, contribute to its status as one of the most sought-after beaches in the southern part of the island.
Situated in close proximity to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island's capital, Las Teresitas beach captivates both residents and tourists, establishing itself as a key attraction in the city. Boasting a range of amenities, including beach bars, lifeguards, and parking facilities, the beach's crystal-clear and tranquil waters make it a perfect destination for family outings. While it may not be the optimal choice for those seeking solitude and silence, it undoubtedly serves as an ideal spot to conclude a day in Santa Cruz, offering a refreshing swim against the backdrop of a stunning sunset.
Nestled within the peaks of the Anaga massif, one of the seven Biosphere Reserves in the Canary Islands, this idyllic beach stands as a perfect spot to witness Tenerife's sunset. Often visited by naturist swimmers and water sports enthusiasts, the atmosphere here is consistently tranquil and intimate. Services are minimal, with only a kiosk on the return path. It's recommended to visit during low tide to marvel at the untamed waters at their peak and succumb to the beach's captivating charm.
Located in the tourist hub of Puerto de la Cruz in the northern part of the island, Playa Jardín stands out as one of the most renowned beaches in the area. Crafted in the nineties by the esteemed Canarian artist César Manrique, this black sand beach is specifically designed to ensure visitors a peaceful retreat. The sole access to the beach is through gardens adorned with native flora, pathways weaving between stone walls, and cascading waterfalls, offering a serene journey into a day of relaxation. Playa Jardín is fully equipped with amenities and boasts magnificent views of Mount Teide.
Situated at an elevation of 1,400 meters above sea level, Forestal Park stands as Tenerife's exclusive adventure and zip lines park. Nestled within the breathtaking Canary pine forest of the Protected Landscape of Las Lagunetas, in Monte de La Esperanza, it provides a refreshing escape into the green heart of Tenerife.
A quintessential attraction in the Canary Islands, Loro Parque is a world-renowned adventure and animal park. Nestled in a natural paradise, it promises an unforgettable holiday experience. Home to diverse features and animals, highlights include Planet Penguin with over 200 penguins, the captivating OrcaOcean show, playful dolphins and sea lions, and, of course, the vibrant parrots (loro is Spanish for parrot). Conveniently, tickets and transportation arrangements can be made at the reception.
A Tenerife essential, Siam Park is a Water Park located in the San Eugenio area of Playa de las Americas/Costa Adeje. Constructed by the owners of Loro Park, this park is themed around the ancient Kingdom of Siam (now Thailand). Boasting five world records upon its opening, including the largest dragon statue, the greatest elevation within the slow river, the world’s largest artificial wave, the widest range of slides, and the most expansive Thai building outside of Asia. Tickets and transportation can be organized through the reception.
Spanning 75,000 m², Jungle Park Las Águilas is an extraordinary zoological and botanical park, housing over 500 animals amidst lush jungle surroundings. Embark on an unforgettable journey through tunnels, hanging bridges, waterfalls, lagoons, and caves, unveiling an incredible ecosystem of flora and fauna from the southern region of Tenerife. Among its myriad attractions, the park hosts a spectacular bird of prey show, ranked among the world's best, featuring freely flying falcons, vultures, and eagles—the true stars of the park.
There are plenty of shopping centres throughout the whole area, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
The north’s biggest shopping centre just outside Puerto de la Cruz with over 100 different outlets. The interior design is based on a Canarian town. Free Parking.
As well as an enormous Carrefour Hipermarket, this shopping centre in the newest area of Santa Cruz has over 100 different shops and restaurants. Free Parking.
don’t miss out on the atmosphere of these two busy city centres with shops and restaurants galore. Santa Cruz as the islands capital has a special atmosphere and La Laguna, a world heritage site, is a required visit – and not just for the shopping!
Within the network of national parks in the Canary Islands dedicated to preserving their distinctive ecosystems, Mt. Teide National Park stands out. Situated at an average altitude exceeding 2,000 meters, it showcases one of the world's most spectacular instances of volcanism and represents the premier example of an alpine volcanic ecosystem in the Canary Islands. As Spain's highest peak, Mt. Teide is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ranking as the third-largest volcano globally, following Hawaii's Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, a visit to Tenerife would be incomplete without exploring this iconic destination.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna, honored as a UNESCO World Cultural and Heritage Site, has meticulously preserved its historically significant center. Alongside notable monuments and historic structures, the city boasts a vibrant commercial hub offering opportunities to acquire souvenirs commemorating your island visit, including fashion, Tenerife wines, Canarian craftsmanship, and local gastronomic delights. With a rich university tradition, La Laguna exudes the lively and relaxed atmosphere of its numerous tapas bars.
Serving as the island's capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a cosmopolitan, joyful, and vibrant city with a distinct island character. Overlooking the sea, it features intriguing landmarks and maintains a marked island essence. Ideal for leisurely strolls along its avenues and pedestrian streets, Santa Cruz is a dynamic city offering diverse cultural activities, a pedestrian shopping zone, and retail outlets showcasing a wide array of products and goods from around the world at reasonable prices.
Recognized as an area of ethnographical and architectural significance, Masca has been carefully preserved due to its challenging accessibility until recent times. The Masca ravine ranks among the island's most spectacular, and its descent to the sea is awe-inspiring. Many organized excursions culminate at the beach at the ravine's base, where a boat transports trekkers back to coastal towns.
Extending across the valley of banana plantations that lends its name, La Orotava is replete with historical buildings, offering an ideal immersion into local culture and traditions. Puerto de la Cruz presents visitors with a cosmopolitan town that, after a century of tourism, retains the charm of a city open to the sea and diverse cultural influences. The town harmoniously blends traditional island architecture with the modernity of top-notch hotels.
The Anaga Rural Park stands out as one of Tenerife's ecologically richest areas, distinguished by its unique geological formations and extraordinary biodiversity. The Anaga Massif, one of the island's three corners, showcases remarkable scenery, hidden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and lush laurisilva forests—a living relic of prehistoric Mediterranean vegetation.
Positioned between La Palma, El Hierro, and Tenerife, La Gomera spans a surface area of 372 square kilometers, ranking as the second smallest island in the archipelago. Divided into six districts, with San Sebastián de La Gomera as the capital, the island's 20,000 inhabitants primarily engage in tourism, agriculture, and the service sector. UNESCO has designated the Garajonay National Park, located in the island's center, as a World Heritage Site.
