Tenerife is more than an island; it’s a world of its own. With other-worldly landscapes plucked from a science-fiction film, platinum beaches and prehistoric forests, there’s a lot to love. My first visit felt like stepping into a painting — jagged cliffs, dolphins in the Atlantic, and Mount Teide’s looming profile at every corner.
Yet this place isn’t just for beach bums. Tenerife isn’t just for beach lovers. It’s a place for adventure, where you can hike lush trails in the morning and relax on golden sands by afternoon. Looking for the best things to do in Tenerife in the Canary Islands? From extreme adventures to peaceful oasis, follow me and you’re sure to book a ticket straight to paradise soon enough.
Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure-seeker, or just want to relax on the beach, Tenerife has you covered. Here’s a list of awesome things to do in Tenerife that you absolutely cannot miss.
Explore Mount Teide: Tenerife’s majestic volcano
Unique amongst the biggest volcanoes you’ll find in the world due to its decidedly alien-like landscape, Mount Teide towers over Tenerife extensively. If you’re on a short trip, make sure this iconic summit is on your list! Why visit Mount Teide? Its Mars-like terrain and majestic presence make it a must-see for any adventurer.
Kick off your itinerary at Teide National Park. Its volcanic landscape, unique rock formations, and lava fields will leave you in awe. Want to reach new heights? Take the cable car to summit and enjoy stunning panoramas of Tenerife and, on clear days, even the nearby Canary Islands.
Is Mount Teide still active? The answer is yes, but don’t worry, the last sizzling eruption happened in 1909. Want an out-of-this-world experience? Book a stargazing tour. Gazing up at the Milky Way arching high up above the mountain will feel like you’re in a dream.
Relax on Playa de las Teresitas: Golden sands and crystal waters
Nothing is quite as picturesque in Tenerife South as Playa de las Teresitas. Just a short drive from Santa Cruz, it’s the perfect escape from crowded beach. Its unique charm comes from white sand imported all the way from the Sahara Desert, making it a standout among Tenerife’s most beautiful locations.
Ideal for swimming, this beautiful golden sand beach has calm, turquoise waters that are sheltered by an artificial barrier. Palm trees fringe the shore adding to the tropical feel of the beach. There are plenty of places to pick up fresh fish at lunch or just have a cool drink.
Relax with a good book, snorkel in the shallow waters, or just enjoy the sun. For all these reasons, Playa de las Teresitas is one of the top things to do in Tenerife Canary Islands.
Visit the stunning “Los Gigantes” cliffs
The Los Gigantes cliffs are a sight to behold: a must among the top things to do in Tenerife. These massive formations, which reach 600 metres above the Atlantic, are appropriately titled “The Giants.” Counted among the most famous landmarks in Tenerife, the natural wonder is a beauty to behold.
The best way to see these cliffs? From the water. Hop aboard a boat or kayak designed for tours to witness the scale of the cliffs up close. If you are lucky, dolphins or even whales might accompany you on your way. Prefer solid ground? Visit one of the scenic viewpoints in the nearby town of Los Gigantes.
Or, if you are into snorkelling or diving — you will absolutely love Los Gigantes! Whit crystal-clear water and abundant marine life, this spot is a must-see for cool things to do in Tenerife.
Discover the Anaga Rural Park: A hiker’s paradise
The Anaga Rural Park is an absolute fantasy for nature lovers. Set in Tenerife’s northeastern corner, this mountainous, lush landscape feels like something from a storybook. Covered in ancient laurel forest, these trails are a top Tenerife attraction for nature lovers.
Boat Tours from Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje run daily and you have options that range from catamaran cruises to private yachts. The ideal time to see whales in Tenerife is between November and February, but these magnificent mammals are often spotted throughout the year. Guides provide valuable wildlife info in the course of viewing trips, so an afternoon of whale watching in Tenerife is not only fun but informative too.
But Anaga Rural Park isn’t only about nature. As you traverse its landscapes, you’ll stumble upon ancient villages that appear not to have changed a jot since the 15th century. Taganana is one such place, and it’s a hiker’s paradise, as well as a wonderful addition to your things to do and see in your Tenerife wish list. If this topic interests you, read also The best hiking trails in the Canary Islands.
Take a whale watching tour in the Atlantic Ocean
One of the best things to do in Tenerife? The Atlantic Ocean is an excursion you won’t forget. The island’s surrounding waters are teeming with wildlife, both residents — like pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins and sea turtles — and seasonal visitors.
Head out to sea and you’ll find a bevy of boats spinning and bobbing on the water in search of animals. Encounters include the gentle pilot whale, the swell of migratory species like humpback whales and Minke whales in the open waters and docile, friendly bottle-nosed dolphins riding the bow waves. Catch them in the calmer months, when the high seas are still and the sun shines down for a truly special morning or afternoon at sea.
Many Tenerife whale-watching tours also venture out to sea to see wild dolphins as well.
Venturing out into the big blue will surely be up there among the very best things to do in Tenerife Canary Islands. And don’t forget the camera to document every flipper, splash and breach!
Experience the thrills of Siam Park: Tenerife’s famous water park
For adrenaline junkies to fun-seeking families, Siam Park in Costa Adeje is the ultimate water wonderland. Named the best water park in the world, countless times, it’s a place that ticks all the boxes for serious amounts of wows and chilled-out vibes, all day long. Based on the grandeur of authentic Thai architecture, the aesthetic beauty of this water park is as amazing as the adventure. If you want a more leisurely day out, head down the Mai Thai River. You’ll gently float around tropical surroundings, past waterfalls and under bridges. Daredevils can slide into a chute that catapults you at the speed of light into a tube surrounded by sharks- the legendary Tower of Power.
Looking for things to do in Tenerife in Siam Park? Go from surfing a perfect wave to floating on a lazy river with a slow current around amazing scenery. The park offers a virtually endless selection of attractions that caters to all ages.
Stroll through the historic streets of La Laguna
Visiting San Cristóbal de La Laguna is like opening a beautifully preserved history book. Once the island’s bustling capital, this UNESCO World Heritage Site transports you back in time with its cobbled streets, colourful facades and impressive colonial architecture. You almost hear stories whispering into your ears from every corner.
But La Laguna is no mere museum piece. This city is alive with life and character. The streets are lined with colourful markets, independent stores and friendly cafés, offering a perfect mix of old-school loveliness and modern verve. Fish for local handicrafts, enjoy an artisanal coffee, or simply meander and people-watch — there’s always something to put a smile on your face.
The jewel in Tenerife’s crown of attractions, La Laguna is one of the coolest things to do in Tenerife (in any sense!). It feels a world away from resorts and tourists, mixing its photogenic beauty with a pulsating contemporary vitality. An excursion? In Tenerife. That can’t be a bad thing.
Visit Loro Parque: A world-class wildlife experience
A trip to Puerto de la Cruz may be on the opposite side of the island, but for animal lovers, it’s worth the effort. Loro Parque is a Puerto de la Cruz zoo opened as a refuge for parrots many years ago. Since then, it’s transitioned into a must-visit wildlife park that sees visitors marvelling at various species from gorillas to tigers and penguins. The unmissable Orca Ocean show sees killer whales showcasing their prowess and intelligence.
You’ll also want to head to Penguinarium to admire one of the biggest penguin habitats in the world — complete with artificial snow so they feel at home. And if you have an interest in unusual plants and wildlife, you’ll love the beautiful grounds to stroll around as well.
With so much to see on the park’s extensive grounds, be ready to spend at least half a day here. The park’s fascinating displays and diverse wildlife make it a zoo worth visiting in Tenerife for the whole family.
Admire the breathtaking scenery of Masca Village
Located in the Teno Mountains, Masca Village is a fairytale place and many consider it one of the top places to see in Tenerife. Nestled in between steep cliffs and thriving vegetation, this tiny village makes you feel like you’ve been transported to another era.
The hike in Masca is an impressive steep walk through the wild mountainous terrain down to the ocean. It is one of the best attractions in Tenerife for those who admire fairy tale views and seek adventurous activities. Of course, you don’t have to complete the challenging hike to get the most out of this area — simply driving to Masca offers beautiful landscapes at every turn!
Walk the quaint streets of the town, take in the sweeping views, or just sit and enjoy the peace of this magical place. It’s one of the best things to do in the Tenerife Canary Islands, full of wonder and magic!
Explore the Cueva del Viento: Europe’s largest lava tube
Looking for more unique things to do in Tenerife? Venture to the Cueva del Viento, the largest lava tube cave in all of Europe. Situated in the north of the island, this phenomenal underground system extends over 17 kilometres, carved out by volcanic lava flow many thousands of years ago. Professional cavers lead tours along part of the tunnel, sharing the curious geologic story of the surrounding rock formations.
While visiting the tunnels, you’ll discover the ecosystem of this subterranean tube and the rare bugs and rocks that flourish there — none of which can be seen anywhere else. Apart from being fun, the guided ride is also a fascinating trip through history you can’t see anywhere else.
The Cueva del Viento is one of the things to do in the Tenerife Canary Islands that you would not have had on your radar. This experience delivers nature, science, and adventure, a rare and memorable experience, and one that will soon be the highlight of your Canary Island vacation.
Tenerife is not just a location. It is an adventure vacation waiting to unfold. From the peaks of Mount Teide to the depth of Cueva del Viento, no part of this amazing destination goes without a shock. Want to come and investigate? Reserve a group tour to Tenerife, and come fall head over heels in love with every part of the realm. Tenerife is calling; are you going?
