If you’re dreaming of an island escape that offers far more than just sunbathing on the sand, Tenerife might be exactly what you’re looking for. I spent a few weeks wandering this incredible Canary Island, and it left me genuinely amazed. Imagine black-sand beaches framed by crashing waves, volcanic craters and lunar-like landscapes that feel like another planet, towering pine forests scented with fresh resin, and towns painted in bright colors where every street seems photo-worthy.
And the food? It’s a revelation—fresh seafood, local wines, tapas with a Canarian twist—so good you’ll find yourself thinking about your next meal before you’ve finished the one in front of you. Whether you’re hiking up Mount Teide, whale watching off the coast, or getting lost in hidden villages, Tenerife packs a surprising amount of adventure, beauty, and culture into one unforgettable island.
Tenerife
Wander in Tenerife
Highlights and Tips
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Why You Should Visit
Tenerife isn’t just one kind of place—it’s several rolled into one island. The south is sunny and buzzing with beach resorts and nightlife, while the north feels lush and wild, with misty forests and dramatic coastal cliffs. In the middle towers Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak, surrounded by a surreal volcanic landscape that looks like another planet.
The beaches range from golden stretches to black volcanic sands. You can hike through green ravines in the morning, wander cobbled colonial streets by lunch, and catch sunset above the clouds at Teide by evening.
And the food? Absolutely delicious. From fresh seafood and local cheeses to hearty dishes like papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce, eating here is half the fun. Plus, the local wine scene is seriously underrated.
One of the best parts about Tenerife is that it’s easy to get around, it’s safe, and it’s budget-friendly compared to many other European destinations. Whether you’re into hiking, surfing, food, culture—or just soaking up the sun—it’s all here.
Surfing in Tenerife
Tenerife is one of those islands that keeps surprising you. One day you’re wandering through ancient laurel forests, the next you’re standing on volcanic peaks above the clouds or unwinding on a black-sand beach with the Atlantic at your feet. It’s not just about ticking off sights—it’s about slowing down, tasting local flavors, and finding magic in the small details, whether it’s a sunset at Punta de Teno or a quiet village square. Come open-minded and curious, and chances are you’ll leave already dreaming about your return. 🌴🌊
Best Time to Visit
One of Tenerife’s biggest perks is its eternal spring-like weather. You can visit any time of year, but each season has its perks:
November to March – Pleasant and mild, perfect for hiking and exploring. Some days might be cooler, especially in the north or at higher altitudes.
April to June – Fewer tourists, lovely temperatures, and lots of blooming flowers. A great shoulder season.
July to September – Hotter and busier, especially in the southern resorts. Perfect beach weather if you love the heat.
October – Warm and quieter after the summer rush. A great time for swimming and sunshine without peak crowds.
How to Get to Tenerife
Tenerife has two airports:
Tenerife South Airport (TFS) – Where most international flights land, especially if you’re coming for beach resorts.
Tenerife North Airport (TFN) – Good for domestic flights from mainland Spain and inter-island connections.
Direct flights from major European cities are plentiful, and budget carriers like Ryanair and EasyJet often have great deals.
Once you’re on the island, renting a car is the best way to explore, especially if you want to reach quieter beaches, hiking trails, and charming towns off the main tourist path.
Top Things to Do in Tenerife
🌋 Visit Mount Teide National Park
Standing in the middle of Tenerife is Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak at 3,718m. The national park feels like another planet with its lunar landscapes, lava fields, and craters. You can explore on foot through marked hiking trails, ride the cable car almost to the top, or, with a special permit, hike the final stretch to the summit for breathtaking views across the Canary Islands. If you’re not into climbing, sunset is magical here—the sea of clouds turns shades of orange and purple, and stargazing later at night is world-class thanks to the clear skies.
Travel Tips
Pack layers 🌞❄️ - It might be sunny at the coast and chilly up in Teide National Park. A light jacket always comes in handy.
Try local food 🍤🥔🧀 - Don’t leave without tasting mojo sauces, Canarian potatoes, fresh fish, and local cheeses.
Drive carefully 🚗⛰️ - Roads in the mountains can be steep and winding. Take your time and enjoy the views.
Sun protection is a must 🌴☀️ - Even on cooler days, the UV is strong thanks to Tenerife’s location. Use mineral reef safe sunscreen!
Book Teide cable car in advance 🚡📅 - Spots fill up fast, especially during high season.
Explore beyond the resorts 🏘️🌿 - The north has gorgeous towns and scenery many tourists miss.
Bring cash for small places 💶🛍️ - Many restaurants and small shops in rural areas prefer cash.
🌴Relax on unique beaches
Tenerife’s beaches are as diverse as the island itself. Playa de Las Teresitas, near Santa Cruz, has golden Saharan sand and calm waters perfect for swimming. In Puerto de la Cruz, Playa Jardín mixes volcanic black sand with gardens designed by César Manrique. For something wilder, Playa de Benijo in the north offers powerful waves, dramatic cliffs, and sunsets that feel raw and untamed. Each coast has a different vibe—relax, surf, or just wander and watch the Atlantic.
🌳 Explore Anaga Rural Park
Tucked in the northeast, Anaga is a paradise for hikers. This ancient rainforest is covered in laurel trees that often sit under a dreamy mist, giving it a fairytale atmosphere. Trails wind through rugged mountains and lead to remote villages where time seems to stand still. Don’t miss Taganana, a small hamlet with stunning ocean views and simple local restaurants serving fresh fish. For foodies, Anaga is also dotted with guachinches—family-run eateries offering traditional Canarian dishes and homemade wine.
Stroll La Laguna’s old town
Once Tenerife’s capital, San Cristóbal de La Laguna is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its colorful colonial houses, cobbled streets, and lively plazas make it one of the island’s cultural highlights. You’ll find student energy thanks to the university, as well as a mix of art galleries, street markets, and buzzing cafes. It’s the perfect place for slow wandering, photography, and soaking up the everyday rhythm of local life.
🌊 Go whale and dolphin watching
The waters between Tenerife and neighboring La Gomera are some of the best in Europe for spotting marine life. Resident pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins live here year-round, and migrating species like sperm whales and even orcas can sometimes be seen. Many tours are eco-certified, keeping the encounters sustainable. You can head out from Los Cristianos or Costa Adeje for a half-day trip and often combine it with swimming or snorkeling.
🏄♂️ Surf in Tenerife
Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer chasing Atlantic swells, Tenerife delivers. The north coast around Playa de Martiánez and Playa del Socorro has powerful waves and a raw vibe, while the south (El Médano and Las Américas) is more consistent and beginner-friendly, with surf schools lining the beach. The island’s volcanic reefs and point breaks mean there’s always a spot working, and the water stays warm enough to surf year-round. After a session, you can grab fresh fish by the beach or just chill with a cold cerveza, watching the sun drop behind the waves.
🚴 Try outdoor adventures
Beyond hiking, Tenerife is a playground for thrill-seekers. Paraglide from the mountains above Adeje and soar over banana plantations and the cliffs of Los Gigantes. Rent a mountain bike and take on forest trails around Vilaflor, or head to El Médano, the island’s windsurfing and kitesurfing hub, for adrenaline on the waves. The island’s variety of landscapes means you can be in pine forests one moment and by the ocean the next.
🍷 Tour local wineries
Tenerife’s volcanic soil and microclimates create unique wines, unlike anywhere else in Europe. White wines from the north are crisp and aromatic, while reds from Tacoronte have rich, smoky notes. Visit a bodega in La Orotava or the Güímar Valley to sample directly from the source, often paired with local cheeses, gofio (toasted grain flour), and Canarian potatoes. Many vineyards sit on terraced hillsides with sweeping views of the Atlantic.
Last updated: June 2025
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✅ Must-Haves (Don’t Skip These)
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