When looking for things to do in Tenerife, we couldn’t help but reminisce about our past experiences on the island. A few years ago, we spent an entire year living in Tenerife and got to know it from north to south. Back then, we lived in the beautiful town of Puerto de la Cruz in the north. This time, in December, we traveled to the south and celebrated Christmas and New Year’s in pleasant temperatures on the island.
Our journey began at Tenerife South Airport. For this trip, we had originally chosen a beautiful beachfront hotel in the resort town of El Médano*. However, due to a last-minute booking issue, we had to change our plans and ended up staying in a lovely holiday apartment in Costa Adeje*, offering breathtaking sea views across to the island of La Gomera.
During our trip around Tenerife, we explored the entire island. We enjoyed exciting activities, visited the top attractions, and discovered stunning beaches, landscapes, and charming towns. In this guide, we’ll show you which excursions* are worth taking, what you shouldn’t miss, and provide plenty of tips for your Tenerife holiday.
Things to Do in Tenerife – Travel Guide & Contents
Top Activities – Things to Do in Tenerife
Thanks to Tenerife’s mild climate, you can enjoy summer-like weather and ideal conditions for outdoor activities all year round. Even in winter, you can relax on the beach and take a swim in the ocean.
The island’s spectacular water parks, such as the famous Siam Park* in Costa Adeje, remain open throughout the year. This is a major difference compared to the stunning Algarve, where the tourist season ends in late October.
In Tenerife, the season never truly ends. However, there are noticeable differences in climate between the warmer, sunnier south and the more humid and slightly cooler north. Our insights and tips on this topic can be found later in this guide in the section “Best Time to Visit Tenerife“.
Siam Park Tenerife
One of the highlights of our Tenerife trip was visiting Siam Park*, one of the most spectacular water parks in Europe. The park was just a 10-minute drive from our holiday apartment in Costa Adeje.
Siam Park is a fascinating blend of an exotic Thai-inspired atmosphere and a variety of thrilling water slides. From the relaxing Lazy River to the extreme Tower of Power, a nearly vertical slide that passes through an aquarium filled with sharks, the park offers everything you’d expect from a world-class water park. Additionally, the wave pools create some of the largest artificial waves in the world. We highly recommend visiting Siam Park.
For your visit to Siam Park, we suggest booking tickets in advance. You can conveniently secure your entry tickets here* to avoid long queues at the entrance.
Other Water Parks in the South: Jungle Park Zoo, Aqualand
In addition to Siam Park, Tenerife offers other exciting water parks. The Jungle Park Zoo* is famous for its exotic wildlife and lush greenery. This park is a unique combination of a zoo and a water park. Here, you can observe rare animal species and relax in a scenic water play area. You can book your tickets for Jungle Park Zoo here*.
Another popular attraction is Aqualand* in Costa Adeje. This water park features numerous slides and pools for all ages. A standout attraction is the dolphin show area, where you can watch impressive dolphin performances. Tickets for Aqualand can be purchased here*.
Tenerife’s Most Famous Zoo – Loro Park in the North
If you visit Puerto de la Cruz in the north of the island, you’ll find the well-known Loro Park*. It is considered one of the most beautiful and ecologically diverse zoos in Europe, boasting an impressive collection of exotic animals and plants.
The park is particularly famous for its extensive parrot collection, which is among the largest in the world. Other highlights include the Orca Ocean, the Penguinarium, and the shark aquarium. At Loro Park, you can enjoy fascinating shows and educational presentations that offer deep insights into the animal world. As with other attractions, it’s best to book your tickets online in advance* to avoid long queues at the entrance.
Dolphin and Whale Safari from Southern Tenerife
The waters around Tenerife are a paradise for dolphin and whale watching. Especially in the south of the island, in locations like Adeje and Los Cristianos, you’ll find some of the best tours available. We chose a safari from Los Cristianos* and enjoyed a fascinating boat trip, spotting dolphins and whales. With only a few other tourists on board alongside the skipper, the experience felt exclusive and intimate.
During our tour, we saw dolphins up close, swimming right next to our boat—so close that they felt almost within reach. To round off the trip, we visited a picturesque bay where we had the opportunity to jump into the crystal-clear waters from the boat.
Tip: If you are sensitive to motion sickness, we recommend bringing medication such as anti-nausea tablets or special chewing gum designed to prevent dizziness.
Most Popular Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Tours from Los Cristianos
- Eco-Yacht Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour with Swimming and Snorkeling*
- Whale and Dolphin Boat Tour Without Chasing the Animals*
Most Popular Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Trips from Adeje
Hiking in Tenerife and Other Nature Excursions
Tenerife is known for its diverse landscapes, shaped by unique geology and a pleasant climate. In addition to the famous Pico del Teide, Spain’s highest mountain, the Anaga Mountains in the northeast and the Teno Mountains in the northwest offer breathtaking hiking trails and stunning views.
Teide – Spain’s Highest Mountain and Why We Had to Visit Three Times
The impressive Teide volcano, Tenerife’s most iconic landmark, is visible from many parts of the island and a must-visit attraction. During our first trip to Teide*, we left at 9:00 AM and reached the parking areas near the cable car station within an hour. However, we quickly realized we weren’t the only early risers – all parking spaces were already taken. We parked further away and walked to the station, only to find that all cable car tickets were sold out.
To avoid such disappointments, we highly recommend booking your Teide tickets in advance. Keep in mind that Teide National Park is one of the most visited in Europe, and parking can be a challenge.
Tip: To avoid stress, especially when looking for parking, it is worth booking a guided Teide tour with cable car ticket and transfer*.
Sunset and Stargazing in Teide National Park
The fact that Tenerife is an excellent location for stargazing is evident from the renowned Teide Observatory. The sky above Teide is one of the best places in the world to observe stars on a clear night.
One of our most unforgettable experiences was a nighttime tour to Teide to observe the stars through a powerful telescope. The tour* took place at an altitude of over 2,000 meters and began with a stunning sunset, followed by the darkness of night. Our tour guide explained the constellations before we looked through the telescope to see the Andromeda Galaxy.
Highly recommended! Tip: Bring warm clothing, as it can get very cold at night at this altitude. You can book this tour here*.
Hiking in Tenerife’s Natural Wonders: Exploring the Masca Gorge and Anaga Mountains
We discovered spectacular hiking routes in Tenerife that every nature enthusiast should experience. The Masca Gorge, in particular, left a deep impression on us with its steep rock walls and the challenging trail leading through the heart of the island.
Another highlight was the Anaga Mountains, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The diverse trails through lush vegetation allowed us to experience Tenerife’s impressive flora and fauna up close. The breathtaking views from the peaks of the Anaga Mountains are an unforgettable experience.
Horseback Riding in Tenerife
As we have done on our road trips in Campania and the Algarve, we also enjoyed a beautiful horseback ride in Tenerife. The prices for horseback riding on the island are relatively affordable, and the views during the ride are simply spectacular. Here are links to two riding stables we recommend.
Surfing in Tenerife
Thanks to its location in the Atlantic, Tenerife offers excellent surf conditions at several beaches. During our year in Puerto de la Cruz, we surfed almost daily at Playa Maria Jiménez, located right in front of the Loro Park*.
Near Tenerife South Airport lies El Médano, probably the most famous surf spot on the island. Along the beachfront promenade of Playa del Médano, you’ll find various surf shops where you can also rent boards.
Tip: The beach at El Médano borders a nature reserve featuring the iconic red mountain, La Montaña Roja. A hike from the beach to the summit takes about 30 minutes, offering a breathtaking view of the coastline. For serious surfers, we recommend Playa de Benijo. While there are no facilities, the waves are fantastic.
Another Tip: If you’re looking for fun in the water, try a high-quality bodyboard. If you want to seriously learn how to surf, consider taking surf lessons in Playa de las Américas*.
Kayaking and Snorkeling with Turtles
Another fantastic sea excursion is the kayaking and snorkeling tour* along Tenerife’s southern coast. This adventure allows you to explore the island’s fascinating volcanic coastline, paddle into hidden caves, and experience marine wildlife up close. A highlight is snorkeling near sea turtles and watching dolphins directly from the kayak. The tour starts at Los Cristianos beach and is led by an experienced guide who captures the experience with photos and videos. After the adventure, a small snack and refreshments await you onshore. You can book this tour here*.
Best Time to Visit Tenerife
The official high season in Tenerife runs from late April to late October. However, we have visited the island at various times of the year and can confirm that it truly lives up to its nickname, the “Island of Eternal Spring.” In our photos, you can see palm trees decorated with Christmas ornaments – proof that we spent time there during the holiday season and New Year’s. In the south, temperatures mostly stayed above 25°C, making it perfect for swimming in the ocean. The summer months are even warmer.
Personally, we prefer visiting Tenerife in winter to escape the cold temperatures back home.
Tenerife Weather – Differences Between North and South
During our year in Puerto de la Cruz, we had plenty of opportunities to experience the climatic differences between the north and south of the island. Just above Puerto de la Cruz lies the picturesque town of La Orotava. We noticed that it rained relatively often in La Orotava, which is at a higher elevation. Locals confirmed our observations, explaining that rain clouds often get trapped by Mount Teide and release precipitation on the northern side of the island.
This means the north is slightly wetter and cooler than the south. The contrast is also visible in the landscape – the north is lush and green, while the south has a drier, more arid terrain.
For us, this weather difference meant that on rainy days in Puerto de la Cruz, we could simply drive a few kilometers south, where the weather was usually sunny and summery. This unique climate variation allows you to “choose” your preferred weather and enjoy the outdoors year-round.
Tenerife Temperature Chart – North
Month | Average High Temperature (°C) | Average Low Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|
January | 20 | 14 |
February | 20 | 14 |
March | 21 | 15 |
April | 21 | 15 |
May | 22 | 16 |
June | 24 | 18 |
July | 26 | 19 |
August | 27 | 20 |
September | 26 | 20 |
October | 25 | 19 |
November | 23 | 17 |
December | 21 | 15 |
Tenerife Temperature Chart – South
Month | Average High Temperature (°C) | Average Low Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|
January | 21 | 15 |
February | 21 | 15 |
March | 22 | 16 |
April | 23 | 16 |
May | 24 | 17 |
June | 26 | 19 |
July | 29 | 21 |
August | 29 | 21 |
September | 28 | 21 |
October | 26 | 20 |
November | 24 | 18 |
December | 22 | 16 |
South or North – Which is the Best Place to Stay in Tenerife?
During our trip to Tenerife, we chose a stay in the south*, near Adeje. The south of Tenerife is known for its stable, dry, and warm climate, ensuring nearly year-round perfect beach weather. Additionally, this region has more and larger coastal towns, offering a wide range of activities*.
The neighboring towns of Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas are among the most popular holiday destinations. They feature large sandy beaches, numerous restaurants, bars, and shopping opportunities. For nightlife lovers, Playa de las Vistas promenade is home to many clubs and discos with stunning ocean views.
A less touristy alternative in the south is the surfer town of El Médano. This charming location is a hub for water sports and has a unique character, catering more to independent travelers rather than package holiday tourists.
North
As mentioned in the section on weather and temperatures, the north of Tenerife is significantly greener than the south. Lush vegetation, banana plantations, and flowers thrive here all year round. If you drive from the south to the north, the difference is immediately noticeable. For us, the lush landscapes of the north are more scenic than the drier south. Since Tenerife is a volcanic island, most beaches consist of black sand. There are more of these in the north, and they are particularly beautiful.
Puerto de la Cruz, the main center in the north, offers a variety of activities* and hotels*. Puerto even has a lively club scene with various nightclubs and bars. Interestingly, the city has a significant German community and even a German high school. The nearby town of La Orotava, situated at a higher elevation, is famous for its spectacular flower carpets, which you shouldn’t miss if you visit Tenerife in mid-June.
To the west of Puerto de la Cruz, in Icod de los Vinos, you’ll find the largest and most famous dragon tree in the world, which is several hundred years old.
Just about 6 kilometers further west, in Garachico, you’ll find the Piscinas Naturales El Caleton, natural swimming pools that we, unfortunately, missed during our year in Tenerife. On our next trip, they were our first stop. Swimming in these pools was one of the most amazing experiences, and we highly recommend it.
Other must-see places and top things to do in Tenerife
On the far west of the Canary Island, you’ll find the famous cliffs of Los Gigantes, where the rock formations drop up to 450 meters vertically into the sea. Los Gigantes is undoubtedly one of Tenerife’s top attractions. Parking is available at the harbor, where boat tours* for dolphin watching also depart.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife and San Cristóbal de La Laguna
The two largest cities on the island, Santa Cruz de Tenerife and San Cristóbal de La Laguna, are often overlooked by tourists, possibly because they don’t have beaches. Santa Cruz, the island’s capital, is a lively city offering excellent shopping and cultural experiences. One highlight is the Auditorio de Tenerife, a spectacular concert hall.
Although the city is right by the water, there is no real beach. Most of the coastline is built up, but just a 10-minute drive away, you’ll find the famous Playa de las Teresitas, a beach with bright sand imported from the Sahara in the 1970s.
Playa de las Teresitas is often considered the most beautiful beach in Tenerife because of its golden sand and palm-lined shores. We don’t entirely share this opinion, but the beach is very safe, as breakwaters significantly reduce the risks from waves and currents.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna, the island’s university town and former capital, is well known for its vibrant nightlife. The city is home to numerous clubs, bars, and student pubs, making it the perfect place to enjoy a night out in Tenerife.
Top 10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Tenerife
The choice of the most beautiful beaches is, of course, subjective and depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. However, here are our personal favorites in Tenerife.
- Playa Maria Jiménez (Puerto de la Cruz)
- Playa El Médano and Playa la Tejita (El Médano)
- Playa Jardin (Puerto de la Cruz)
- Playa el Bollullo and Playa del Ancón (Puerto de la Cruz)
- Playa de Benijo (Benijo)
- El Caletón (Garachico)
- Playa de Los Cristianos & Playa de las Vistas (Los Cristianos)
- Playa Fañabe and Playa Torviscas (Costa Adeje)
- Playa del Duque (Costa Adeje)
- Playa de Diego Hernández (Costa Adeje)
Tenerife Time Difference Info
Tenerife follows Western European Time (WET), which is one hour behind Central European Time (CET) in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Remember to set your clock back by one hour upon arrival—this is especially important for departure times and reservations. The time difference is minimal, making it an easy adjustment for travelers from Central Europe.
Tenerife Travel: Tips for Your Vacation
Here, we share our favorite providers for travel bookings. It’s important to us that these booking platforms offer fair prices, high quality, and excellent customer service.
Booking.com* is our top choice for accommodations thanks to fast & flexible service, a huge selection, and great prices.
Get Your Guide* is our first choice for high-quality excursions and activities while traveling.
Viator* also offers tours. If we don’t find what we’re looking for on Get Your Guide, Viator often has great alternatives.
Skyscanner* is our go-to platform for finding cheap flights.
Sixt* is our preferred choice for rental car bookings, often offering great discount deals.