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What Can I Do on Tenerife?
Tenerife is one of the Spanish Canary Islands located in the Atlantic Ocean off the northwestern coast of Africa and is the largest of the seven islands. It is a popular holiday destination, with year-round sunshine and so much to do that it can be difficult to decide what to put on your itinerary. Here are some of the best activities you can take part in while visiting Tenerife.
Beaches
Tenerife boasts some of the most stunning beaches in Europe, ranging from white sandy coves to wide expanses of volcanic black sand. Playa de las Americas is one of the Canary Islands’ best-known beaches, and its popularity is thanks to its crystal-clear water, excellent facilities such as showers, lifeguards and beach chairs, and its proximity to souvenir shops, ice-cream stalls, restaurants and nightclubs. Other beaches worth a visit include nearby Playa de Troya, which also enjoys some fantastics views of Teide volcano, and El Médano, which is renowned for its unspoilt beauty.
Mount Teide
Mount Teide is an active volcano and the highest peak in Spain, at 3,718 metres. It is also the third tallest volcano in the world, after Hawai’i’s Mauna Kea and Mexico’s Pico de Orizaba. You can drive up to the base of the volcano and take a cable car or hire a 4×4 to take you to the summit where you can view astonishing vistas of the island, nearby islands and even Africa. On clear days, visibility can reach 200 km.
Water Parks
Tenerife is home to two world-class waterparks: Aqualand Costa Adeje and Siam Park. Aqualand Costa Adeje offers an array of fun water slides and exciting chutes suitable for all ages, while Siam Park provides an action-packed day out complete with water rides, white-knuckle stunts, and exotic gardens.
Island Tours
Discovering Tenerife by land is just as exciting as seeing it by sea. Bus tours allow you to explore the island’s rugged coastline, lush mountain ranges and hidden treasures tucked away in charming hilltop villages. There are also jeep excursions that take you away from the hustle and bustle of the main towns and through some of Tenerife’s most off-the-beaten-track places. For a special treat you can enjoy VIP tours by helicopter or by private yacht with a professional skipper.
Nightlife
The lively atmosphere in Tenerife gives way each night to an even wilder nightscene. The tourist hotspots feature buzzing bars, lively clubs and an eclectic range of restaurants offering both local and international cuisine. The most popular areas are Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos, with Puerto de la Cruz a slightly less frantic but equally entertaining option rated for salsa nights.
Conclusion
Tenerife has something for everyone, so whatever your tastes you’ll discover something special here. From sunrise till sunset you can cross off items from your bucket list: marvel at Mount Teide’s unique perspective on the world from its summit, take a dip in the ocean’s crystal-clear waters at a beautiful beach, or finish your day in one of Tenerife’s vibrant clubs. Moreover, you can explore the island’s stunning landscapes by bus or jeep tours, while those looking for some family fun will be spoiled with vast aqua attractions and magical botanical gardens. For those seeking year-round sunshine www.visittenerife.com/en/ is the perfect port of call for booking unforgettable holidays on the largest island in the Canaries.
An Insider’s Guide to Tenerife
Tenerife is the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands and one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe. With its stunning beaches, warm weather year-round, and many attractions, there is no shortage of things to do on this island. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a look at some of the top places to visit, eat, and experience in Tenerife.
Where to Go
One of the most popular attractions on Tenerife is Teide National Park, which is home to Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain. You can hike to the summit or take a cable car to take in the breathtaking view. Another popular spot is the Masca Valley, which offers hiking trails and stunning views of the island. If you’re interested in architecture, be sure to visit La Laguna, a world heritage city with beautiful colonial buildings and plazas.
For beach-goers, there is no shortage of options. Some popular beaches include Playa de las Teresitas, a stunning white-sand beach that stretches for 1.5km, and Playa de los Cristianos, a sheltered beach with calm waters that is perfect for families.
For a different kind of adventure, head to Siam Park, one of the best water parks in the world, or Loro Parque, a zoo and botanical garden that is home to hundreds of animals and exotic plants.
Where to Eat
Tenerife is known for its delicious seafood, so be sure to indulge in some fresh fish, octopus, or squid while you’re here. Some popular restaurants include Restaurante El Cine in Buenavista del Norte, which offers stunning views of the sea and delicious food, and La Tasca de Enfrente in La Laguna, which serves up traditional Canarian dishes.
If you’re looking for something on the go, be sure to try some of the local street food, including papas arrugadas, a dish of small potatoes that are boiled in saltwater, and gofio, a staple food made from roasted grains.
Cultural Experiences
Tenerife has a rich history and culture that is worth exploring. Be sure to visit the Museum of Anthropology in Santa Cruz, which offers a glimpse into the island’s past, or the Museum of Nature and Man, which showcases the natural history of the Canary Islands.
One of the most popular cultural events on the island is the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, which takes place in February and features parades, parties, and music. Another unique experience is the Ruta de Las Tradiciones, a walking tour of traditional Canarian life, complete with food and drink tastings.
Off the Beaten Path
If you’re looking for something a little more off the beaten path, consider visiting the village of Garachico, which was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1706 but has since been rebuilt. Today, it is a charming town with beautiful architecture and a unique history. Or head to the Anaga Mountains, a stunning and remote area that is perfect for hiking.
Another option is to visit El Medano, a laid-back coastal town that is popular with windsurfers and offers a more relaxed vibe than some of the busier parts of the island.
In conclusion, Tenerife is a destination that has something for everyone. From stunning beaches and natural parks to delicious seafood and unique cultural experiences, there are endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation in this beautiful island paradise.
