11 'must do' things to add to your Tenerife bucket list

Tenerife is the largest island in the Canary Archipelago and thanks to its direct flights from Europe and the USA is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

The year round sunshine and vibrant lifestyle of the south of the island is a big pull with a certain demographic of visitors, whilst the more natural and relaxed way of life in the North caters for a different type of holiday-maker.

With an island so popular, its no surprise that there is a great selection of things to see and do, ranging from natural phenomena to man made family attractions.

Here is our top 11 list of things to do whilst on holiday in Tenerife.

1. Visit Teide National Park

Without a doubt, the number one thing on anybodies list of things to see in Tenerife is the Teide National Park. This stunning area of the island is home to Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain. It’s possible to take a cable car ride to the summit for breathtaking views of the island and ocean.

Mount Teide itself is a stratovolcano, characterised by its steep sides and a cone-shaped profile. Its summit reaches an elevation of 3,718 meters (12,198 feet). Due to its elevation, it's often referred to as the "Roof of Spain.”

The area surrounding Mount Teide was designated a national park in 1954. This park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique geological features and diverse ecosystems and the landscape is dominated by volcanic formations, including craters, lava flows, and the mountain itself.

Teide National Park is known for its exceptional conditions for stargazing. The high elevation, clear air, and low light pollution make it a popular spot for astronomers and stargazers. In fact, it's one of the best places in the world to observe the night sky.

2. Relax on the Tenerife Beaches

Tenerife has some stunning beaches where you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming and water-sports in crystal clear blue waters. Some of the best beaches include.

a). Playa del Duque: Situated in the upscale resort area of Costa Adeje, this Blue Flag beach offers soft golden sand and is known for its luxury facilities, beachfront restaurants, and beautiful sunsets.

b) Playa de las Vistas: Also located in Costa Adeje, this family-friendly beach features fine sand, shallow waters, and a range of amenities, including loungers, umbrellas, and water sports equipment rentals.

c) Playa de Los Cristianos: Located near Playa de las Américas, this popular beach offers a mix of golden sand and calm waters, making it a great choice for swimming and relaxation.

d) Playa de la Arena: Found in the southwest of Tenerife, this black sand beach in the town of Puerto de Santiago is known for its unique volcanic sand and stunning backdrop of cliffs.

3. Loro Parque

Loro Park is a popular rescue and conservation animal park in Tenerife located in Puerto de la Cruz that was founded back in 1972. It’s a great day out for families . There are numerous shows and interaction experiences during the day where you can see dolphins, penguins and exotic birds.

Whilst Loro Parque's is committed to conservation, animal welfare, and education ethical concerns about keeping animals in captivity do exist, and opinions on this matter can vary.

4. Whale and Dolphin Watching

Tenerife is a hot spot for Whale and Dolphin watching. There is nothing quite like the experience of seeing these amazing animals in their natural habitat. 

There are numerous whale watching tour operators in Tenerife, offering a range of options from smaller, more intimate boats to larger vessels equipped with knowledgeable guides and hydrophones to listen to the underwater sounds of these creatures.

5. Explore Anaga Rural Park



Anaga Rural Park is a breathtaking natural area located in the northeastern part of Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain. It is characterised by its rugged landscapes, ancient laurel forests, dramatic cliffs, deep valleys, and picturesque villages. Anaga Rural Park is not only a place of outstanding natural beauty but also holds cultural significance due to its historical and traditional roots.

6. Visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Explore the island's capital city, Santa Cruz, known for its vibrant carnival, modern architecture, shopping districts, and cultural attractions.

Visiting Santa Cruz de Tenerife offers tourists a sample of local life, excellent shopping, festivals and events and more.

7. Take a scenic drive to the charming village of Masca.



Masca is a charming and picturesque village located in the northwest of Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain. Known for its stunning natural beauty, unique geography, and remote location, Masca is a popular destination for visitors seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

The village's remote location contributed to its historical isolation. Access to Masca used to be challenging and was primarily by foot or mule. While road improvements have made it more accessible, the journey to Masca still involves navigating winding mountain roads.

8. Siam Park Waterpark

Enjoy a day of fun at Siam Park, a Thai-themed water park featuring thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and a beautiful tropical setting.

The park is home to a variety of water attractions, including water slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and more. Find out more in our in-depth guide to Siam Park.

9. Cueva del Viento



Cueva del Viento, which translates to "Cave of the Wind," is a complex of lava tubes and caves located on the island of Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Spain. It is one of the largest volcanic caves in the world and offers a unique opportunity to explore underground geological formations created by ancient volcanic activity.

Due to the delicate nature of the cave environment and the need for guided tours, it's important to book your visit to Cueva del Viento in advance. The tours have limited availability and are subject to specific schedules.


10. Visit Garachico and the natural pools



Garachico is a historic town located on the northern coast of Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain. It's known for its charming atmosphere, well-preserved architecture, and rich history. Garachico offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a relaxed coastal ambiance.

One of Garachico's most iconic features is the natural pools formed by the solidified lava from the volcanic eruption. These pools, known as "El Caletón," offer a unique opportunity for visitors to swim in the cool, clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean while being surrounded by black lava formations.

11. Book a Tenerife Trip or Excursion

If you want to get around to see the sights of the island, take part in activities or explore the waters on a boat or catamaran then check out our website to book a Tenerife Trip or Excursion.

Our top things to do in Tenerife is limited to just 11 but Tenerife has even more to offer, including cultural events, local cuisine, and vibrant nightlife. The activities you choose will depend on your interests, when you visit, whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both.