Sahara-style sands, a volcanic national park and endless bars and restaurants – holidays to Tenerife have loads lined up.

Sterling reputation

Tenerife is the big sister of the Canary Islands family in Spain. It’s been leading the way in the sun, sea and sand business since the Seventies. It definitely plays in the big league – as well as a bundle of sandy beaches, it can brag about hosting Spain’s tallest mountain and the second-biggest carnival in the world, the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival. Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly, self-catering stay or fancy indulging in All Inclusive on an adults-only escape, Tenerife has it all.

Crown-deserving coastline

Many have visited Tenerife over the years, and there’s good reason for it. The island has put a lot of time and money into sprucing up its beautiful beaches. In Costa Adeje, they pulled white sand from the sea bed, while Playa de las Teresitas was made using golden grains from the Sahara Desert. You’ve still got some volcanic, black belts, too – like the one in mellow Playa de la Arena.

Mother Nature

Sunbathing’s not the only thing to do on a Tenerife holiday. It’s also a great place to lace up your walking boots. Teide National Park is chock-full of hiking tracks, which wind around craters, rocks and crowds of cacti. Plus, you can hitch a ride on a cable car up Mount Teide for go-one-better views. For even more greenery, hop on a ferry to Tenerife’s little sister, La Gomera, from Los Cristianos.

Manmade appeal

You don’t have to take it easy in Tenerife – the island’s packed with buzzing resorts to keep you busy. Playa de las Americas is a sure bet for shopping and family-friendly attractions. Just outside of town, you’ve got Siam Park – a massive, Thai-themed waterpark. In fact, it’s the biggest in Europe and home to the longest lazy river in the world. Plus, an hour’s drive will drop you off in Tenerife’s old-and-new capital, Santa Cruz.

At a Glance

  • Whip your binoculars out on a whale-watching trip
  • Hit the hiking trail in Teide National Park
  • Set up camp on one of Tenerife’s signature black beaches
  • View hotels in Tenerife

Top Destinations

TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN TENERIFE

BEACHES

SHOPPING

NIGHTLIFE

FOOD & DRINK