Top 10 things to do in Tenerife, Canary Islands

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Known as the ‘Island of Eternal Spring’, Tenerife isn’t your typical island getaway. Busier than it’s neighbors, this unique European island is a captivating destination with remarkable geography from desert landscapes to lush green mountains and stunning seascapes. With 75 degree weather, the island is one of the few places in Europe year-round and have great weather. From dolphin and whale watching to sampling the islands wine and exploring the UNESCO site of Mt. Teide, here’s the top 10 things to do when visiting Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands. View my “Tenerife” highlight on Instagram for even more Tenerife!

1. Pamper yourself at Hotel Botanico

For those looking for the ultimate luxury experience, the Oriental Spa Garden at the Hotel Botanico in Puerto de la Cruz should be next on your list. Ranked the #1 spa in Europe by Conde Nast, the 5-star facility gets its thermal spa water from the volcano, Mt. Teide. The spa not only has thermal pools, saunas and steam rooms, but also gives you the option to indulge in specialized treatments such as chocolate treatments, wine therapy or volcanic body wraps.

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2. Go Dolphin and Whale Watching

A“must-do” activity while in Tenerife, dolphin and whale watching on the catamaran was my favorite thing to do during our trip on the island! It didn’t seem like real life, it was so beautiful not to mention the crew was a BLAST! We did it with White Tenerife.

3. Visit Mt. Teide National Park

Feel on top of the world on Mt. Teide. A UNESCO World Heritage site that more than three million people visit yearly is on Spain’s highest peak at 12,198 feet above sea level. While we didn’t head all the way to the top, the views were still incredible! While you’re there, check out Mt. Teide National Park where you can learn all about the history of Mt. Teide. Mt. Teide is a must-do when visiting the island of Tenerife!

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4. Relax on a Black sand beach

5. Eat Traditional Spanish Tapas & Go Wine Tasting

Unique flavors, colors and aromas: Spanish wines. In Tenerife, the largest of the seven Canary Islands, wine holds up to this promise. Traditional food in Tenerife is also rustic but simple, and the favor combinations and rustic ingredients are worth trying. While you’re there, visit Bodega Reveron and sample some of the island’s wines.

6. Tour La Laguna

You’ll definitely want to spend a day touring the city of Cristóbal La Laguna, where there is plenty to see and is full of culture and history. La Laguna is also one of the island’s two UNESCO World Heritage sites.

7. Visit the Rock Pools of Garachico

Cobbled stones, beautiful Churches and a Canarian vibe is not all that Garachico has to offer. What you really need to see is along “El Caleton”, where you will find the famous natural salt-water lava formed pools.

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8. Have a Drink on the Hard Rock Cafe Rooftop

Located on the edge of Costa Adeje, the Hardrock Hotel Tenerife had it’s grand opening in December 2016. With three different pools (one adults only and a kids club), poolside service, and an oceanfront view, the Hardrock’s new location doesn’t disappoint. From the Skybar’s rooftop terrace with the best views of Costa Adeje, to the colored flamingos in Alioli, the Spanish restaurant, the Hard Rock Tenerife is an overall fun environment. The hotel also has a really cool music vibe and is filled with pictures of the Beatles in the 70s taken around Puerto de la Cruz.

9. Watch the Show at Loro Parque & See the Zoo

While many islands claim to be family friendly, Tenerife takes it up a notch. Not only is Loro Parque a stunning wildlife park and aquarium, but is also regarded by some as the best zoo in Europe. In fact, it’s even ranked the #1 zoo in the world by Trip Advisor in 2017. See dolphins perform right before your eyes, watch the Orcas show or stop by and say hi to the Penguins in their frozen habitat.

10. Check out the island’s 5* hotels (Ritz Carlton Abama, San Roque, Gran Melia)

Whether you’re looking for a hotel full of luxury, music, authenticity, easy accessibility, or a resort that is family oriented, Tenerife has it all. With more 5 star hotels than Madrid or Barcelona, the island has a wide range of accommodation options that will make your stay extraordinary no matter your budget.

A location surrounded by banana plantations, The Ritz Carlton Abama resort encompasses the term “luxury.” With it’s own golf course, spas, and Michelin star restaurants, the Ritz Carlton is the resort to stay if you’re looking for days full of exceptional extravagance. Did I mention it has its own beach? Because of the banana plantations, the Ritz essentially has its own beach that is only accessed from the hotel.

In addition to the well-known hotels you can choose from a variety of boutique hotels in charming villages such as the Hotel San Roque in the town of Garachico. If you’re looking to discover the real, local and authentic Tenerife, Hotel San Roque is the place to find it. The owner here is the cutest and makes you feel right at home!

With black-sand beaches at its feet and the majestic Tenerife as a backdrop, The Gran Melia is an all- inclusive resort that is full of luxury. Located in the small town of Alcala and close to Los Gigantes (the area known to have the most sunshine on the island), the resort also has the largest seawater hotel infinity pool in Europe.