Ah, Tenerife! Just thinking about it brings a smile to my face. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve found myself daydreaming about its sun-kissed beaches and dramatic landscapes during a dreary London afternoon. If you’re anything like me – always on the hunt for that perfect blend of relaxation and adventure – then pack your bags because this gorgeous Canary Island is calling your name. Allow me to share with you some of my favourite things to do in Tenerife that I hope will inspire you to add this gem to your travel wishlist!
Beach Bliss: Where the Sand Meets the Sea
Let’s kick things off with what drew me to Tenerife in the first place – those gorgeous beaches! I remember the first time I stepped onto Playa de Las Teresitas, just north of Santa Cruz. The golden sand (imported from the Sahara, would you believe?) between my toes and the crystal-clear water stretching out before me – it was love at first sight.
But here’s a little secret: while Las Teresitas is a stunner, my heart belongs to Playa de Benijo. It’s a bit of a trek to get there but oh boy is it worth it! Picture this: black volcanic sand framed by towering cliffs, with the waves of the Atlantic crashing dramatically against the shore. It’s the kind of view that makes you pause and think, “Yep, this is what holidays are all about.”
Teide National Park: A Slice of Mars on Earth
Now, if you’re anything like me and can’t sit still for too long, you’ll want to add Teide National Park to your list of things to do in Tenerife. I swear, stepping into this park is like landing on another planet! The landscape is otherworldly – all rust-coloured rocks and bizarre formations that’ll have you reaching for your phone every two seconds to snap some photos.
The star of the show (quite literally) is Mount Teide itself. It’s not just the highest peak in Spain; it’s a dormant volcano that dominates the island’s skyline. I’ll never forget taking the cable car up near the summit. As we rose above the clouds, I felt like I was in some kind of dream. The view from up there? Let’s just say it’s the kind of sight that makes you feel very small and very alive all at once.
Charming Towns: Where Time Stands Still
Don’t get me wrong, I love a good beach day or a hike as much as the next person. But there’s something special about wandering through Tenerife’s quaint towns that really captures the island’s essence. La Laguna, with its colonial architecture and buzzing student vibe, quickly became one of my favourite spots. I spent hours meandering through its narrow streets, popping into quirky shops and cosy cafes. It’s the kind of place where you can feel the weight of history around you, yet it’s anything but stuffy.
And then there’s Masca. Oh, Masca! Perched high up in the mountains, this tiny village looks like something straight out of a fairytale. Getting there involves a white-knuckle drive along winding mountain roads but, trust me, it’s worth every hairpin turn. The view of the village, nestled snugly between towering peaks with the ocean shimmering in the distance, is nothing short of breathtaking.
Dive into Adventure: Water Sports Galore
If you’re a water baby like me, you’ll find no shortage of things to do in Tenerife that’ll get you wet and wild. I tried my hand at surfing in El Médano and let me tell you it was equal parts exhilarating and humbling. There’s nothing quite like the rush of catching your first wave – or the laughs that come with the many, many wipeouts before that!
But the absolute highlight of my aquatic adventures was a whale-watching tour from Los Gigantes. We set out early one morning, the sea breeze whipping through my hair, full of anticipation. And then it happened – a pod of pilot whales, their sleek bodies breaking the surface of the water. Seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, so close I could almost touch them, was a moment I’ll treasure forever.
A Feast for the Senses: Tenerife’s Culinary Delights
Now, let’s talk about something close to my heart (and stomach) – food! Tenerife’s cuisine is a delightful mix of Spanish and African influences, with a dash of tropical flair. I started each day with a bowl of gofio – a toasted grain flour that’s a bit of an acquired taste, but one I quickly came to love. Mix it with a bit of milk and honey and you’ve got a breakfast that’ll keep you fuelled for all your Tenerife adventures.
But the real star of Tenerife’s culinary scene, in my humble opinion, is the seafood. I can still taste the tender, flaky vieja sancochada (parrotfish) I had at a tiny beachside restaurant in Los Abrigos. Paired with a crisp local white wine from the Orotava Valley, it was the kind of meal that makes you close your eyes and savour every bite.
Starry Nights: Tenerife After Dark
As the sun sets, Tenerife transforms into a different world entirely. One of my favourite things to do in Tenerife was joining a stargazing tour in Teide National Park. Picture this: the day’s warmth giving way to a cool evening breeze, the sky above you a canvas of twinkling stars. I laid back on a blanket, a cup of hot chocolate warming my hands, and watched as our guide pointed out constellations and planets. It was one of those moments where you feel incredibly small yet connected to something much bigger than yourself.
For those nights when I was in the mood for something a bit livelier, Playa de las Américas was my go-to spot. The energy there is infectious – streets lined with bars and clubs, music spilling out onto the pavements, people from all over the world coming together to dance the night away. I may have embarrassed myself attempting to salsa more than once, but hey, that’s what holidays are for, right?
The Unexpected Joys: What Made Tenerife Special
You know, it’s funny. When I first planned my trip to Tenerife, I had a list of all the ‘must-do’ activities. But looking back, it’s the unexpected moments that stand out the most. Like the time I stumbled upon a local fiesta in a tiny village, complete with traditional Canarian folk music and dancing. Or the afternoon I spent chatting with an elderly gentleman in a sun-drenched plaza, his stories bringing the island’s history to life in a way no guidebook ever could.
That’s the magic of Tenerife, I think. Yes, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Tenerife, from scaling volcanoes to lounging on beautiful beaches. But it’s the warmth of the people, the laid-back island vibe and those serendipitous moments of discovery that truly make it special.
As I sit here, back in my London home with the rain pattering against the window, I can close my eyes and transport myself back to Tenerife. I can feel the warm sun on my face, taste the salt in the air, hear the gentle lapping of waves against the shore. And I know without a doubt that I’ll be back. Because Tenerife isn’t just a holiday destination – it’s a place that captures your heart and never quite lets go.
If you’re pondering where to head for your next getaway, why not give Tenerife a chance? Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation or a bit of both, this Canary Island gem has got you covered. Pack your sunscreen, bring your sense of wonder and prepare for an unforgettable journey. You might just fall in love with Tenerife as hard as I did. And trust me, that’s a love affair worth having.
Post kindly written by guest Ruth <3