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Things to do in los americas tenerife: 10 Fun Things to Do in Playa de las Americas September 2022

Опубликовано: July 25, 2020 в 11:12 am

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Категории: Miscellaneous

Top 7 Things To Do In Playa De Las Américas, Spain

Sophie 

Updated

Playa de las Americas is a holiday resort that was purpose-built in the 1960s. It is an island located at Tenerife, Spain. Want to relax and take a break from your busy life? Playa de las Americas is known for its fantastic scenic beach views and it also includes water activities for everyone. Not only does the island offer lots of activities during the day but it also comes to life at night and becomes the centre of nightlife. The island offers an array of shops, restaurants, night bars, and entertainment. You will never get bored here. Furthermore, it is perfect for everyone who wants to make the most out of their holiday. Here are some of the top things to do in Playa de las Americas, Spain.

1. Have a whale of a time at Siam Park

Source:
Photo
by Wikimedia Commons user
Wouter Hagens
used under CC BY-SA 4. 0

When one visits Playa de las Americas, it is a must-go-to the amusement park. The water park is located at Costa Adeje and features a Siamese theme. The park was opened by one of the Royal Thai family members, Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. The park is family-friendly and families will have a whale of a time. The water park has almost everything in one. You can relax at a cabana and their Balinese beds. What’s more is that you will be able to see some Sea Lions at the park too!

Siam Park

Address: Av. Siam, s/n, 38660 Costa Adeje, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

Website: Siam Park

Opening hours: 10am – 5pm (daily)

Price: From EUR 38 (USD 41)

2. Check out the impressive Piramide de Arona

Source: Pixabay

Piramide de Arona is a 1600-seated auditorium which has an iconic pyramid-like structure. The place hosts many events and shows including feisty flamenco shows! You and your family might just make it in time to watch some high-class, impressive performances! If not, come and marvel at the architecture of the building which is a perfect fusion of the old and new.

Piramide de Arona

Address: Av. las Américas, s/n, 38650 Arona, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

Website: Piramide de Arona

Opening hours: 24/7 (daily)

Price: Free entry

3. Bask under the sun at Playa de las Vistas

Source: Pixabay

Playa de las Vistas is a beach place and is located at the borders of Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos Resort. The beach is popular among tourists and locals because of the golden sand and blue waters. Soak up under the sun and relax. Along the beach, there are is a variety of restaurants and bars to choose from. The place will be perfect to have dinner and watch the sunset with your loved ones.

Playa de las Vistas

Address: Los Cristianos, Arona, Tenerife, Spain

Opening hours: 24/7 (daily)

Price: Free entry

4.

Experience riding like a Viking at Viking Tenerife Ragnarok

Source:
Photo
by Wikimedia Commons user
Wolfmann
used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Photo is only for illustrative purposes

Hop on board this Viking-themed boat. It will be a unique experience for families and loved ones. You will become a traveller, explorer, and adventurer on this short ride. When on board, there is a range of activities you will can engage in. You can learn how to fight with a sword, you can learn how to write in runes, you can snorkel in the ocean, and much more. Who knows? You might be able to spot some dolphins and whales when you are on board the boat.

Viking Tenerife Ragnarok

Address: Calle México, 3, loc. 6, 38660 Playa de la Américas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

Website: Viking Tenerife Ragnarok

Opening hours: Mon – Fri: 9am – 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

Price: 2-hour Viking trip: EUR 29 (USD 31)

5.

Play a round at Parque Santiago Mini Golf

Source:
Photo
by Wikimedia Commons user
trolvag
used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Photo is only for illustrative purposes

Are you a golf lover? Interested in finding an activity to engage in with your little ones? Fear not for you can have fun at Parque Santiago Mini Golf. The mini-golf and cactus park is located at the center of Playa de las Americas. The park is suitable for families with young children. The golf park has many courses and has a choice of 9-hole and 18-hole courses. The golf courses are interactive and they range from beginner to advanced levels. The place is well-maintained for visitors. Go and make the most out of your time.

Parque Santiago Mini Golf

Address: Av. las Américas, 2, 38650 Arona, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

Website: Parque Santiago Mini Golf

Opening hours: 10am – 12am (daily)

Price: EUR 10 (USD 11)

6.

Learn to surf with Friends of the Ocean

Source:
Photo
by Wikimedia Commons user
Niallio77
used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Photo is only for illustrative purposes

Ever want to learn how to ride the waves? Have someone to teach you the basic techniques at Friends of the Ocean, which is a surfing school in Tenerife. The school even has a surf camp! It is suited for beginners to advanced levels. Surfing is a complex water sport as you would have to deal with elements such as the tide and the wind. It will definitely be a challenge but it will be an enjoyable process. The important thing when you are surfing is to also have the right surfboard equipment based on your skill level. Go and conquer the waves!

Friends of the Ocean

Address: Paseo Guadalajara, 38660 Playa de la Américas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

Website: Friends of the Ocean

Opening hours: Mon – Sat: 8.30am – 9pm; Sun: 9am – 9pm (closed on Tue)

Price: From EUR 40 (USD 43)

7.

Try parascending with Parascending Tenerife

Source:
Photo
by Flickr user
Tambako The Jaguar
used under CC BY-ND 2.0

Photo is only for illustrative purposes

Ever want to reach up high in the sky and look over the ocean? Parascending Tenerife provides parascending, paragliding, whale watching, and more exciting experiences. It has been around for 16 years, giving guests one-of-a-kind experiences. If it is your first time trying any of these activities, it’s better to attempt it with the guidance of a professional. Parascending Tenerife offers safe, memorable experiences for your holiday in Playa de las Americas.

Parascending Tenerife

Address: Pantalan, 4, 38660 Adeje, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

Website: Parascending Tenerife

Opening hours: 11am – 5:30pm (daily)

Have a blast in Playa de las Americas

Source: Unsplash

With so many land and water activities in Playa de las Americas, it will surely be an unforgettable experience with your family or loved ones. Explore the different parts of Playa de las Americas. Go and learn a sport you have never learnt before or just soak up and enjoy the sun.

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Sophie

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15 AWESOME Things To Do In Tenerife

Tenerife is one of my favourite places in the world. The island offers a huge variety of landscapes and activities, ranging from tropical beaches lined with palm trees to lunar volcanic deserts.

When I was asked to participate in the #SpainOnMyMind campaign I was thrilled at the opportunity of writing about Tenerife. I spent two months living on the island, and would love to return one day.

There is more to Tenerife than the tourist resorts you might be thinking of. Tenerife is actually a very exciting destination, where you can go surfing, paragliding, whale watching, hiking and many other outdoors adventures.

In this article I put together a compilation of all the most awesome things to do in Tenerife, which made me fall in love with this Spanish island. If you love spending time outdoors, Tenerife is the perfect destination for you.

So without further ado, read on to discover all the beauties that Tenerife has to offer!

Contents

  • 1 15 awesome things to do in Tenerife
    • 1.1 Explore Teide National Park
    • 1.2 Go hiking in the Parque Rural de Anaga
    • 1.3 Relax at Playa de las Teresitas
    • 1.4 Enjoy the waves at Playa de Benijo
    • 1.5 Learn to surf in Las Americas
    • 1.6 Admire the view from Mirador Cruz del Carmen
    • 1.7 Discover the village of Masca
    • 1.8 Explore the Teno mountains
    • 1.9 Admire the cliffs of Los Gigantes
    • 1. 10 Join a whale watching catamaran cruise
    • 1.11 Visit San Cristobal de la Laguna
    • 1.12 Go paragliding!
    • 1.13 Go to a beach bar for sunset drinks
    • 1.14 Taste the local cuisine
    • 1.15 Hike the Rambla de Castro trail
    • 1.16 Visit the natural pools of Garachico
  • 2 Where to stay in Tenerife

Exploring the beautiful landscapes of Tenerife

15 awesome things to do in Tenerife

Explore Teide National Park

Mount Teide is an active volcano in Tenerife. Its peak is at 3,715 metres, making it the highest post in Spain and one of the tallest volcanoes in Europe. No visit to Tenerife would be complete without a visit to Mount Teide.

Teide National Park covers a surface area of 190km squared, and encompasses a vast variety of landscapes. If you love hiking, you need to dedicate at least a couple days exploring the beauty of this volcano.

Teide tours worth checking out:

Mount Teide: Cable Car Ticket – This is the standard cable car entrance for those who want to see the peak of Mount Teide.

From Playa de las Americas: Full-Day Teide Jeep Safari – For the most adventurous who want to properly explore all of Teide National Park!

Tenerife Teide National Park Stargazing – When you’re 3,700m above all light pollution sources, you can rest assured that the night sky views are incredible!

Hiking in Teide National Park, Tenerife

One of the most popular hikes is without a doubt Roque de García. This is a 3.5km circular trail, with a 170m elevation change.

The trail is well marked and easy to walk on, making it a fairly easy hike for all levels. It will take maximum 2 hours to do.

Sitting at 2,000 metres, this hike has excellent views of the summit of Mount Teide, as well as the surrounding rocky landscape. There are unique rock formations dotted all alongside the trail, which ensure the views never get boring.

The start of the Roque de Garcia trail, with the Teide peak in the back, Tenerife

The incredible rocky landscapes of Teide National Park

Another must-see hike is the one at Mirador de Sámara. Despite being at a similar height as Roque de García, the landscape and views here are completely different.

This hike is famous because of the distinctive view of the pine trees growing out of the black lava field, with the summit of Mount Teide on one side and the view over the sea on the other.

The trail is around 10km long, with an elevation change of 400m and takes around 2.5 hours. It was unlike anything I had ever seen, and one of the things that fascinated me most about Tenerife.

On almost every Spain bucket list you will also find visiting the summit of Mount Teide. Standing at 3,700 metres, high above the clouds with views of the sea and surrounding islands is an experience like no other.

The Teide summit from the Mirador of Samara hike

The distinctive views of the Samara hike

Go hiking in the Parque Rural de Anaga

The Parue Rural de Anaga is without a doubt one of the best places to visit in Tenerife. The natural landscape here is completely different from the south of the island and from the areas surrounding Mount Teide.

Here you will find a jagged green coastline, with dramatic peaks and cliffs directly over the sea.

I spent much of my time exploring Anaga playing the soundtrack of Jurassic Park in the background, and once you get here, it will be easy to see why.

Click here to book a hiking tour in Anaga Forest!

The panoramic views and mountains of Parque Rural de Anaga

The panoramic views and mountains of Parque Rural de Anaga

There are lots of hiking trails in Anaga, which will allow you to thoroughly explore this part of Tenerife. My personal favourite is the one leading to the Semaforo of Igueste.

Starting at the small town of Igueste, this 4.5km trail has spectacular views everywhere you look. The hike is very steep (470m gain) and will take around 2.5 hours.

During the hike you will be able to admire the steep green mountains on one side, and the sea on the other.

The white houses of Igueste are perched along the mountainside, creating a beautiful contrast with the lush green vegetation.

Enjoying the view while hiking at the Semaforo of Igueste

There are lots of gorgeous hikes also on the northern coast of Tenerife, such as the ones at Roque de Taborno and Benijo. You can find all the hike specifications on the official Tenerife tourism website.

Whatever hike you choose, make sure to pack your hiking essentials and be ready for a fun day exploring stunning natural landscapes!

The northern coastline of Tenerife in the Parque Rural de Anaga

Relax at Playa de las Teresitas

There are many beautiful beaches all over the island, but Playa de las Teresitas was without a doubt one of my favourites.

Located in the north of the island, beyond Santa Cruz de Tenerife and nestled along the coastline of Anaga, it’s one of the most scenic beaches I’ve ever seen.

Playa de las Teresitas is 1.3km long and 80m wide, meaning there is plenty of space to go around! The beach is characterised by white sand, turquoise water and the dramatic cliffs of Anaga that surround it.

There is a viewpoint over the beach that I highly recommend visiting when you go there, as it will allow you to really admire the beauty and size of Playa de las Teresitas.

You can pair a visit to Playa de las Teresitas with one of the hikes in the Parque Rural de Anaga. After spending a few hours hiking and observing the beautiful views, you can relax on this white sand beach and cool down in the clear turquoise sea.

Playa de las Teresitas from above

Enjoy the waves at Playa de Benijo

On the northern coast of Tenerife, also nestled amongst the cliffs of the Parque Rural de Anaga, you will find Playa de Benijo. Playa de Benijo is a black sand beach, surrounded by steep cliffs.

This beach is famous for its scenic surrounding and huge waves. You can usually find children (and adults alike) jumping in the waves, and others relaxing and tanning on the black sand.

It has a wilder and more rugged feeling than Playa de las Teresitas, and it’s the perfect place for a relaxing stop after a hike on the northern side of Anaga.

Exploring Playa de Benijo in Tenerife

Learn to surf in Las Americas

Surfing in Tenerife was one of my absolute favourite things to do. I had previously been surfing in Bali, Fuerteventura and Costa Rica, but the surf in Tenerife was especially good.

Here you can find consistent waves for all levels. Playa Las Americas is the main surf spot, but as a beginner, I often found it too crowded and too close to the rocky reef for my liking.

I took regular classes with Surf Life Tenerife, and I loved that they always take you surfing to a different spot just along the coast. Here the waves are smaller, the reef isn’t as close and it’s nowhere near as busy.

Me surfing in Las Americas, Tenerife

Me surfing in Las Americas, Tenerife

Admire the view from Mirador Cruz del Carmen

As you may have guessed there are many gorgeous views all over Tenerife, but Mirador Cruz del Carmen deserves a special mention. Located on the outskirts of Anaga, you can combine this viewpoint with some easy hiking trails.

From the main parking area and tourist information desk you can do two easy trails that go through the surrounding laurel forests, and admire the view over the valley below.

On clear days you can see also the Teide summit. When I was visiting it had recently snowed on the Teide peak, which created the beautiful contrast you see in the photo below!

The view over Tenerife from Mirador Cruz del Carmen

Discover the village of Masca

Masca is one of the most unique places in Tenerife, and one you simply must visit while you’re on the island. This small mountain village is nestled amongst the Macizo de Teno mountains, and offers views like no other.

It was originally a Guanche settlement, before Spain took conquered the Canary Islands, and is now home to around 90 inhabitants.

The road to reach it is very narrow and with numerous bends, but the view while driving are well worth the slight motion sickness you might get!

There are a number of viewpoints that you can stop at while driving, to better admire the surrounding mountains and small town of Masca.

Once you reach the town itself you can spend some time walking around, soaking in the calm beauty of Masca.

The village of Masca and surrounding mountains

Explore the Teno mountains

Located on the north-western side of the island, the Teno mountain range often doesn’t get the attention it deserves. Here you will find many incredible hikes, views and cute towns.

We did a hike with Anaga Experience in the Teno mountains and despite the cloudy weather, it was a great experience.

Starting in Teno Alto we hiked for 10km all the way down to the Punta Teno lighthouse, crossing all sorts of different landscapes throughout the hike. The Punta de Teno hike has an elevation change of 900m, but it’s mostly all downhill.

Once we reached the bottom we even went for a swim in the sea, it was much needed after the long trek! Other popular hikes in Teno are those surrounding Masca.

For the proper trekking lovers, you can do an awesome Teno Mountains half-day hike to Masca.

Hiking in the Teno mountains in Tenerife

Hiking the Punta de Teno trail in Tenerife

Admire the cliffs of Los Gigantes

Los Gigantes is a town on the west coast of Tenerife, famous for the huge cliffs that surround it.

The Acantilados de Los Gigantes are giant rock formations that reach up to 500-800 metres in height, towering above the sea and town.

Los Gigantes means “The Giants”, an apt name! There is a beautiful viewpoint just before reaching the town, where you can enjoy the view over the cliffs and sea.

There is also a small beach in town, where you can relax while enjoying the surrounding scenery of Los Gigantes.

A popular way to admire Los Gigantes is from the sea; there are many boat tours that will take you sailing along the coast of Los Gigantes. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some whales and dolphins!

View over the town and cliffs of Los Gigantes

Admiring the cliffs of Los Gigantes from Punta Teno Lighthouse

Join a whale watching catamaran cruise

Doing a whale watching cruise is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Tenerife, which is why it’s such a popular Tenerife shore excursion.

I didn’t get round to doing one until after a year of being in Tenerife, and I wish I’d done it sooner! Did you know that Tenerife was the first place to be nominated Whale Heritage Site in Europe?

Thanks to the warm weather and water all year round (even in winter!) and the conformation of the seabed between Tenerife and La Gomera, here you’re almost guaranteed to spot whales and dolphins.

When I did the whale watching cruise they told me there was a 99% chance to spot whales and 60% to spot dolphins, pretty good odds if you ask me!

Whale watching boat tours worth checking out:

Los Gigantes Whale Watching Cruise by Sail Boat with Pick-Up – Combine whale watching with a relaxing sailing cruise and admiring these beautiful cliffs!

Dolphin & Whale Eco-Cruise with Food & Drinks – An environmentally friendly experience with dolphins, food and drinks, what more can you ask for?

A pair of pilot whales we spotted in Tenerife

The catamaran we did our whale watching cruise with

Visit San Cristobal de la Laguna

San Cristobal de la Laguna, commonly known as just La Laguna, is a city in the northern part of Tenerife. It used to be the capital city of the island, and even if it no longer holds that title, it’s still a must-see in Tenerife.

The historical centre of the city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.

You can easily spend a few hours walking around the historical centre, admiring the colonial architecture and feeling like you stepped back in time.

Some of the iconic architecture in San Cristobal de la Laguna

The historical city centre of La Laguna in Tenerife

Go paragliding!

For the real adrenaline junkies out there, this is a must-do bucket list activity! The mountains of Tenerife make for excellent set off spots, and the views are second to none.

You set off from the tall Jurassic Park style mountains, soaring high above the trees and rock formations, flying towards the sea.

Paragliding is always a thrilling experience, but with such a gorgeous landscape it becomes even more special.

Click here to book your paragliding experience in Tenerife!

Paragliding in Tenerife

Go to a beach bar for sunset drinks

While the stunning natural landscapes and fun activities are what made me fall in love with Tenerife, the sense of normalcy that comes with enjoying drinks on the beach at sunset is one of the things I’m craving the most, and can’t wait to go back to.

The west coast of Tenerife is lined with fun beach bars, for all sorts of budgets and tastes. Some have a more club and dancing vibe, while others have a more laid back and chilled surfer vibe.

Some of my favourites were Roca Negra Sunset Club and Coqueluche Beach Bar. Here you can sip on a mojito while nibbling tasty snacks, and watching the sun set in the ocean.

Enjoying some sunset drinks with my friend Ari at Coqueluche Beach Bar in Tenerife

Taste the local cuisine

Spanish cuisine is amongst my favourite in the world, and in Tenerife there are plenty of restaurants where you can taste it. I especially love tapas and pinchos, since with their little dishes they allow you to taste lots of different plates in one meal.

Some of my favourite restaurants in Tenerife were El Jardin de la Abuela and La Cuevita del Mar. You can try all the traditional Canarian dishes like papas arrugadas, pimientos del padron and almogrote cheese.

Eating delicious Canarian food after a long day of exploring Tenerife, hiking or surfing is the perfect ending for a day in Tenerife. I can’t wait to go back to Tenerife and taste the flavoursome Canarian cheeses again.

An awesome platter of fresh fish that we had at Delicias del Mar in Tenerife

Hike the Rambla de Castro trail

This coastal walk was amongst my favourite trails in Tenerife. With its steep cliffs and palm trees, Rambla de Castro will give you some serious Bali vibes.

You can also hike down to Playa de Castro, a black rock beach surrounded by tall cliffs. Here you will also find a waterfall that you can stand under and cool down, it’s easily one of the most scenic waterfalls I’ve ever seen!

There isn’t much elevation and the path is well kept and easy to walk along. It’s a fairly easy hike with stunning coastal views, which I think should feature on any Tenerife bucket list.

Enjoying the coastal views during the Rambla de Castro hike

Playa de Castro seen from the Rambla de Castro trail

Visit the natural pools of Garachico

Given the rocky coastline and powerful sea of Tenerife, it shouldn’t surprise you that there are countless natural pools all over the island. My personal favourites were the natural pools of Garachico.

Located in the town of Garachico, the Piscinas Naturales de El Caleton are natural salt-water rock pools that you can swim in. There are also man made additions where you can sun bathe and chill between swims.

Personally I really enjoyed these pools as we were visiting on a day when the sea was very big, and we spent the afternoon diving in the huge waves and playing in the current.

The Piscinas Naturales de El Caleton in Garachico, Tenerife

Where to stay in Tenerife

When deciding where to stay in Tenerife, you need to take into account your personal preferences. Tenerife is an incredibly varied island, which can accommodate many different type of travellers.

If you’re a young traveller looking to party and meet new people you would have more fun staying in Las Americas, if you’re a family looking for a peaceful beach holiday you will prefer Costa Adeje, or if you’re a hiking fan you would probably prefer staying in Puerto de la Cruz or La Laguna.

However it’s always handy to remember that Tenerife is a small island, and regardless of where you’re staying you can easily drive around the whole island in around one hour.

So while you might prefer staying close to the lively nightlife of Las Americas, you could be hiking up Mount Teide after just a 1.5 hour drive. 

The sunset view from my apartment at El Dorado Residence in Las Americas, Tenerife

I listed below some accommodation options for every budget in different parts of the island.

Budget: Banana Surf House – This cute surf house is perfect for those looking for a cosy stay in a great location, without breaking the bank. It also has a huge rooftop with great sea views.

Click here to book your stay at Banana Surf House!

Mid-range: El Dorado Residence  – I spent my first two months in Tenerife in an apartment in this residence, and loved every day of it. My apartment was spacious, in a great location (close to both the beach and supermarket) and had awesome sea and sunset views. I can highly recommend it.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability for apartments in El Dorado residence!

Luxury: Hotel Rural La Correa Del Almendro – This hotel is set in a traditional Canarian barn from the 1720s, and it still retains the rugged look, while having modern comforts like a pool. Located in Arona, it’s perfect for those who want to be close to Las Americas, without being in the heart of the party town.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Rural La Correa Del Almendro!

The pool at Hotel Rural La Correa Del Almendro in Arona, Tenerife

Final thoughts on the top things to do in Tenerife

There you have it, the ultimate compilation of best things to do in Tenerife! I hope you find this guide useful in planning your trip to Tenerife, and that it has inspired you to head straight to the island once we’ll be able to travel freely again!

Spain has always been one of my favourite countries in Europe. I spent time in Barcelona, Seville and many of the Canary Islands, but Tenerife has a special place in my heart.

Thanks to the huge variety of landscapes and things to do, you never run the risk of being bored. Even after spending two months living there, I always found a new hiking trail or surf spot I hadn’t yet explored.

With its warm temperatures it’s one of the best winter sun spots in Europe, and a place that I absolutely adored living in for a winter.

So while Spain is without a doubt on my mind, it’s mostly Tenerife I’m thinking about, and I can’t wait to go back there!

This post was brought to you as a result of the #SpainOnMyMind campaign, created and managed by iambassador in partnership with the Spain Tourist Office. Greta’s Travels maintains full editorial control of the content published on this site.

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35+ Fun Things To Do In Tenerife Besides The Beach – Explore With Lora

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Most people come to Tenerife seeking sun and sand in the south, but there are so many other parts of the island to discover. As the largest and most geographically diverse of the Canaries, there are endless fun things to do in Tenerife.

From stunning mountains hikes to stargazing over volcanoes, be sure to add some of these top Tenerife activities to your itinerary.

Getting around Tenerife

Before I tell you about all the amazing Tenerife attractions, you should know that getting around without a car can be a challenge.

If you want to visit many places, I highly recommend renting a car for at least a portion of your trip – especially if you plan to travel between the north and south.

There are buses in Tenerife that go between most places, but they are time-consuming. Traveling between the north and south on the express bus takes almost two hours, and you’ll still likely need to make transfers for where you actually want to go. It’s not impossible, but it’s going to add a considerable amount of time to your day.

Otherwise, many of the tours recommended include pickup, so that’s another way to get around without a car. Still, there’s no better way to see the island than with your own vehicle. Is there anything better than the freedom of a road trip?

Car rentals in Tenerife vary considerably between rental agencies. To find the best price, look on Discover Cars which quickly searches all car rental agencies to find you the best deal.

Get a quote for a car rental in Tenerife here

Tenerife Photoshoot

Arco de Tajao

The landscapes in Tenerife are a dream for photos. From the black-sand beaches to lava-carved forests and snowy top of Mount Teide; there are so many different scenes to explore here. You’ll definitely want some beautiful vacation photos to take home with you!

While I used to rely on my friends or those around me for photos, I’ve realized the value of getting them done by a local, professional photographer.

They know all the best spots for photos and can take stunning pictures of you in several locations, so you can then just enjoy the rest of your trip without worrying about trying to capture everything.

I did a Tenerife photoshoot with Andy Cannon, a UK photographer based between Tenerife and Barcelona. He knows the island quite well and can take you to some really unique places in Tenerife that you wouldn’t otherwise find on your own.

During our photoshoot, we went to Arco de Tajao, a fascinating natural arch formation in the east side of the island.

It’s one of those landscapes in Tenerife that made me feel although I had been transported to another continent!

Aside from showing you the best spots on the island, Andy is a joy to work with.

He’ll talk with you first to understand the look and feel of the images you want and then combine those ideas with the stunning natural landscapes of Tenerife. He’s a visual storyteller, and you’ll end up with some breathtaking images to remember your time in Tenerife (or even use professionally).

As a reader, you can get an extra 5% off and 5 extra photos if you book a shoot with Andy. Just mention my name or Explore with Lora when you reach out to him.

Book your photoshoot here – mention Explore with Lora and get 5 extra photos and 5% off!

Things to do in Tenerife South

Whale watching Tenerife

Tenerife does not have much going on in terms of wildlife experiences when it comes to land mammals, but what it lacks, it makes up for it in marine life.

The warm ocean waters are home to an abundant variety of animals, including over 25 species of dolphins and whales. Pilot whales are the most commonly sighted, as they live here year-round.

If you love wildlife, don’t miss the chance to go on a whale-watching cruise in Tenerife. There are tours departing from Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje, and Los Gigantes every day.

Your chances of seeing whales and dolphins are excellent in Tenerife. I went on five boats and saw pilot whales every time. But by far my favorite memory was seeing pilot whales on my friend’s sailboat, swimming by the side of it at sunset.

Please choose an accredited dolphin watching tour that respects the animals and the local laws which protect them.

This tour from Costa Adeje goes with a biologist to respectfully observe the whales and dolphins in the Teno-Rasca Marine Protected area of Tenerife. They even bring a hydrophone so you can listen to the whales!

Check prices of whale watching tours here

Los Gigantes Natural Pools

Tenerife has many natural pools, but my favorites are the ones by The Acantilados de Los Gigantes, towering 600m cliff formations formed by volcanic rock.

From the natural pool, you get a great view over the towering cliffs. There’s also a ridge you can sit on and feel the ocean water splash up over you. I could have sat there for hours! It’s one of the most beautiful things to see in Tenerife.

Surfing

One of the main reasons so many digital nomads come to Tenerife is for the surfing opportunities.

One of the best things to do in Playa de Las Americas is go surfing, where you can find plenty of surf lessons and board rentals readily available.

Some other popular beaches for surfing in Tenerife south are Las Conchas, Punta Blanca, and Las Galletas.

Check prices of surf lessons here

Tandem Paragliding

For a completely different view of Tenerife, check out this tandem paragliding tour.

You’ll take off from a hillside and soar in the sky, getting an incredible birds-eye view. Enjoy the scenery as you descend into the golden beaches for a soft landing.

Check prices of paragliding tours here

Tenerife Horse Rescue

One organization that is making a difference in the lives of animals here is the Tenerife horse rescue.

While they started out rescuing horses, the center now provides a safe home to dozens of animals in Tenerife, including donkeys, dogs, cats, guinea pigs, birds, and more.

What’s even more impressive is that they are 100% sustainably run! They feed all the volunteer sand animals using food waste from the local supermarkets, and everything there is powered with renewable energy. It’s an amazing place to see in Tenerife and talk with the volunteers who are so passionate about what they do.

They are only open for tours by donations, so be sure to contact them in advance to arrange.

Go windsuring in El Medano

El Medano is the official windsurfing and kitesurfing capital of Tenerife, so this is the place to go if you’re into those sports!

After spending some time in the water, fuel back up at one of the town’s bohemian-inspired cafes. I loved Bliss Cafe, which has delicious and healthy bowls.

Siam Park

One of the best things to do in Costa Adeje is visit Siam Park. It’s an epic waterpark full of adrenaline-packed rides, an enormous wave pool, and a mile-long lazy river. There are also lush gardens around that make this park feel like paradise.

Get skip-the-line tickets to Siam Park here

Visit Playa Las Amarilla

Okay, I know I said besides the beach in the title, but Playa Amarilla is so beautiful I can’t leave it out.

Just a couple of minutes’ walk from the parking lot you’ll see the sparling turquoise water against sandstone cliffs. But you can walk along them further to get an up-close look at their unique carvings. At the end, there’s a place you can go cliff diving into the water!

Go sea kayaking with dolphins

One of the best ways to see Tenerife is from the coast! On this kayaking tour, you’ll get the chance to paddle through marine reserves in search of dolphins and turtles.

Tenerife is home to five species of dolphins, including bottlenose, striped, and common dolphins. After watching the dolphins play in the water, you’ll then jump in to snorkel with sea turtles.

Visit underground caves

Did you know Tenerife is home to the 4th longest lava tubs in the world? And you can go inside them on a guided tour!

Visiting La Cueva de Los Vientos (the Cave of the Winds) is a Tenerife must see. Tours are limited in size and number per day, so you’ll want to book this one in advance.

Join a sailing tour

There’s no better way to spend a day in Tenerife than on a sailboat

We joined a private sailboat for the day and watched pilot whales, swam in the warm water, and enjoyed a fantastic seafood lunch before taking in the breathtaking sunset. It was one of my most memorable days in Tenerife!

Check prices of sailing tours here

Rent a jet ski

With so much ocean around to play in, renting a jet ski is one of the best ways to go Tenerife sightseeing.

On this tour, you can choose to ride a single-seater or a double-seater jet ski with a friend, bouncing over the Atlantic past cliffs and beaches.

Check prices of jet ski rentals here

Go diving

There’s a whole other world in the waters of Tenerife! While the diving here wasn’t as spectacular as the Galapagos or Malaysia, it’s probably the best you’re going to get in Europe. You can see marine life like sea turtles, stingrays, eels, and colorful fish.  

Check prices of diving here

Swim with sea turtles

I will never get tired of swimming with sea turtles, and Tenerife provides a great place to do with its rich marine habitat

This snorkeling trip from Costa Adeje takes you to the best sea turtle viewing spots and includes snorkeling gear, so you don’t need your own equipment. 

Barranco Del Infierno Hike

Many people say that there isn’t any good hiking in the south of Tenerife, but clearly, they haven’t seen Barranco Del Infierno. This nature preserve is just a 10-minute drive from Playa Las Americas.

The trail takes about three hours round-trip, taking you through a stunning canyon with a small waterfall at the end.

Permits must be booked online in advance here as space is limited to 300 people a day, and you are required to wear a helmet.

Visit Masca Village

Masca Village is one of the best places to visit in Tenerife and my personal favorite place on the island.

Nicknamed the “Machu Picchu” of Spain, this quaint village is nestled in the Toro mountains. It’s where residents used to hide out when they were being attacked by pirates!

As you drive down the curvy road into the village, you’ll want to pull over constantly to soak in the spectacular views (and luckily, there are a few places to do so safely).

Masca is also one of the best places to go hiking in Tenerife. The most popular hiking trail, Masca Gorge, requires a permit that gets booked up well in advance. This 7km trail begins at the village and descends to the rocky beach below, with gorgeous views along the way.

But if you can’t get a permit, don’t worry. Check out some of the other trails on WikiLoc. We did this one, and the views were breathtaking.

Visit Punta de Teno lighthouse

Punta de Teno lighthouse is the most westerly point on the island. There’s a small lighthouse there you can see, but what I loved most about this area was watching the waves crash over the jagged cliffs.

Yoga class

Tenerife is a very spiritual place and has a huge yoga community. You can find yoga retreats and classes all over the island, and many people visit for that reason alone.

I did classes regularly with Sandrita at Playa Del Duque, which was a great way to start or end my day.

Things to do in Teide National Park

Teide National Park is one of Tenerife’s top attractions, so it’s worthy of its own section with so many exciting activities to do within the park.

Designated a UNESCO world heritage site, Teide is Europe’s most visited national park, with around three million visitors every year! It’s a hub for outdoor adventure, with endless hiking trails and rock climbing areas.

Climb the highest point in Spain

Tedie Nationa Park is most famous for Mount Teide, an epic volcano with a height of 3,718 meters. It’s Spain’s highest peak and can be spotted from all over the island.

It’s free to climb to the top of Teide, but you must obtain a permit in advance if you want to climb it in the day. For this reason, many people climb it at night and watch the sunrise from the top.

Take the cable car to the top

If you want to see the highest point without breaking a sweat, you can get (almost) to the top by taking the cable car up.

It’s a dramatic ascent up to 3500m, and if you want to get to the highest point, you’ll have to hike another 200m (and you need the permit).

The Teide cable car is one of the most popular Tenerife tourist attractions, so be sure to book your tickets online in advance.

They are also canceled often due to weather (sadly this happened to me), so leave some flexibility in your travel plans or add this to the start of your Tenerife itinerary so that you don’t miss out. Make sure to bring a jacket to the top, as it can be quite cold.

Watch the Sunset at Teide

One of my most memorable experiences inside Teide national park was watching the sunset over the clouds.

As you’re driving along the windy roads (which is an experience in itself), you’ll gain thousands of meters of elevation, putting you above the clouds.

And if you’re driving along around sunset, you’ll see many people parked off the side of the road to watch the spectacular sunset. Be sure to join them; it’s incredible.

Go stargazing

Due to the lack of light pollution around the park and geographical location, Teide offers some of the best stargazing in the world. You can see 83 of the 88 officially recognized constellations!

If you have a car you can go stargazing on your own, but if not, you can join a guided night tour.

This one combines two tours in one – a romantic sunset experience followed by stargazing. And it comes with a glass of Cava to go with the view! At night comes, your guide will provide you with information about the constellations and night sky.

Go Hiking Inside The Park

Aside from Mount Teide, there are several other excellent hiking trails inside the park.

One of my favorites is the Chinyero Volcano Loop, an easy two-hour loop with epic views of Tenerife’s newest volcano. This hike also takes you through pine forests, which are interesting to see in contrast to the desolate landscapes.

Another place you must see in Teide National Park is the Roques de García, which are fascinating 3000m+ rock formations created by millions of years of erosion.

ATV tour

For an adventurous alternative to exploring Teide by bus or car, check out this ATV tour.

You’ll get to enjoy the sun, breezes, and unobstructed views as you drive through rolling forests, with the chance to get off the paved road and discover dirt tracks inside the park.

Fun things to do in Tenerife North

Visiting Tenerife north is like going to a new country. After Teide, the landscapes completely change, and everything becomes much more green and lush. If you want to spend your Tenerife trip hiking, the north is the place to stay.

Anaga Rural Park

Covering the north of the island, Anaga rural park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Tenerife. Here you’ll find green, jagged mountain peaks descending into volcanic black-sand beaches.

Anaga is accessible from Santa Cruz and La Laguna, so if you want to do multiple hikes within the park, it’s best to book a few nights’ accommodations in one of those places. Otherwise, you’ll be doing a lot of driving. From Playa Las Americas, it’s an hour+ drive to hiking trails within the park.

Known as the “enchanted forest,” Anaga is also one of the best places to see Laurel forests in Tenerife, which you can see driving through the park.

Another must-see place in Anaga is the black sand beach of Playa Benijo. It’s a popular place for surfing and has one of the best views of the Roques de Anaga. It’s also a nudist beach!

If you’re driving out of the park to La Laguna, be sure to stop at Mirador Cruz del Carmen viewpoint on the way out. It’s right off the road, and you’ll see many people pulled over admiring the stunning rolling hills and quaint villages.

See the Drago tree

While there used to be a lot of Drago trees in Tenerife, few remain today. However, you can still see one of the oldest known Drago trees in the world in Tenerife at Icod de los Vinos in the 15th-century historical quarter. It’s estimated to be over 1,000 years old!

San Cristobal de Laguna

San Cristobal de Laguna is one of Tenerife’s most charming Spanish towns. This UNESCO world heritage site is one of the best places to go if you’re interested in learning more about the island’s history; it was the island’s original capital.

Walking through the well-preserved 15th-century colorful buildings made me feel although I’d been transported back to Colombia!

You’ll also find many of Tenerife’s top cultural attractions here, including  The Cathedral of La Laguna and Plaza del Adelantado. As La Laguna is also a university town, you’ll find plenty of trendy cafes and bars here.

Visit the island’s capital Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is the capital of Tenerife and the largest city. It’s full of history, with architecture dating back to the 15th century.

There are many things to do in Santa Cruz Tenerife, as it’s home to the top museums and architecture including the Tenerife Auditorium and the stunning Tenerife Espacio de las Artes.

Another must-see place is The Museum of Nature and Man, which contains an extensive collection of native tools and carving related to the history of the Canary Islands.

For one of the most local experiences, time your Tenerife vacation with Carnival in February. It’s considered the second largest in the world after Rio in Brazil and has been a Festival of International Tourist Interest since 1980.

Eat at a local Guachinche

Guachinches are local Canarian restaurants, and they are one of the best places to eat on a budget. Go with a group, as you’ll want to order several items and share.

Typical foods include potatoes with spicy sauce, fried goat cheese, grilled peppers, and lots of meat and seafood (it’s not great for vegans).

They will also serve you a liter or so of homemade wine to go with your meal. It’s extremely satisfying and will leave you feeling full for hours, and each person’s bill shouldn’t be more than 10 euros. To find one, just put ‘ Guachinche’ into Google Maps – they are mainly in the north of the island.

Visit Puerto de la Cruz

I spent my first three weeks living in Puerto de la Cruz which is a lovely seaside town. If you’re visiting the north, stop in for an afternoon and take a stroll along the palm-fringed promenade and through the town’s square. It has some nice restaurants, shops, and many street art murals thanks to the ongoing Puerto Street Art Project.

Some of the top things to do in Puerto de la Cruz are the castle of San Felipe, stroll along the boardwalk, the Botanical Gardens, and Plaza del Charco.

Go wine tasting

The rich volcanic soil in Tenerife provides the right environment to produce delicious wine that you can try on a wine tasting tour.

On this guided tour, you’ll visit a family-owned winery in the North of Tenerife surrounded by rolling hills.

The passionate sommelier will tell you all about the traditional production methods used on a tour of the cellars and vineyards, followed by a wine tasting paired with an aperitif.

Take in the views of Playa de las Teresitas

Ok, I’m making another exception about the beach because I can’t leave this one out. It’s not just black-sand beaches in the north; this part of Tenerife is home to one of the most beautiful golden sand beaches – Playa De Las Tersitas.

The sand was imported from former Spanish colonies in the Sahara. To truly appreciate it, head up the road that goes to Anaga to get a viewpoint from above. The contrast of the turquoise water next to the beach with the mountains in the distance is stunning!

Garachico Natural Pools

Garachico is one of the prettiest towns in the north of Tenerife. Many people visit for the natural salt-water rock pools that you can swim in. It’s a fun place to spend the afternoon in Tenerife, playing in the natural currents and chilling in the sun between swims.

Bonus: Take a day trip to La Gomera

La Gomera is the closest island to Tenerife and well worth a day trip. You can take a ferry there with Fred Olsen, which takes just under an hour. I recommend joining a day tour to maximize your time, as there is a lot to see.

The views of Teide from here are epic as you drive up the windy road from the port. Head up to the highest point on the island, Alto de Garajonay, where a quick 30-minute hike takes you up to sweeping views over the island. La Gomera is also home to some of the best-preserves Laurel forests in the Canary Islands.

End your day walking around the charming town of San Sebastian. It’s so colorful and cute!

There you have it, the top things to do in Tenerife in 2022! Did I miss any amazing Tenerife tours? Let me know in the comments below!

Thinking about moving to Tenerife? Don’t miss these posts!

  • The cost of living in Tenerife
  • Digital nomad guide to Tenerife
  • Best Tenerife coliving spaces

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The 10 Best Things to do in Playa de las Americas, Canary Islands

The 10 Best Things to do in Playa de las Americas, Canary Islands


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  3. The 10 Best Things to do in Playa de las Americas, Canary Islands

September 24, 2021 Rebbecca Marino

Playa de las Americas, near Tenerife’s southwestern tip, is a lively, upbeat resort built in the 1960s. Today it’s crammed with British restaurants, bars and hotels and North European tourists. Its white sands attract hordes of sun worshippers, while nearby El Medano is famed for its windsurfing. Top attractions include sailing, golf and dinner theater shows, but it’s the nightlife on Veronica’s Strip that is the top draw for the crowds of young tourists who flock here to party around the clock.

Restaurants in Playa de las Americas

1. Escape Rooms Island Phobia (6 High-Quality Rooms)

Calle San Eugenio Dominguez, 23 Hotel Iberostar Bouganville, 38660 Playa de las Americas, Arona, Tenerife Spain +34 602 65 68 44 [email protected] http://www.islandphobia.com

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5.0