Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, offers travellers a variety of natural landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks of the Teide volcano to golden beaches and majestic rocky coastlines. With a unique climate that keeps the weather warm and sunny all year round, Tenerife is the perfect holiday destination at any time. Tenerife resorts scattered across the island offer excellent facilities for all types of holidaymakers, from families with children to young people and older couples. In this article we take a look at the best resorts in Tenerife, which combine high quality service, excellent beaches and plenty of activities, making them a desirable destination for travellers from all over the world.
- Costa Adeje Resort
- Playa de Las Americas Resort
- Los Cristianos Resort
- El Medano Resort
- Puerto de Santiago Resort
- Los Gigantes Tourist Resort
- Tourist resort town of Puerto de La Cruz
- Playa Paraiso Tourist Resort
Costa Adeje Resort
Costa Adeje, located on the south-west coast of Tenerife, is one of the most prestigious and developed resort areas on the island. This resort is perfect for tourists looking for a sophisticated holiday with a high level of comfort and a variety of entertainment. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Costa Adeje such a special holiday destination.
Geographical location and accessibility
Costa Adeje is 20 kilometres from Tenerife South International Airport (Reina Sofia), which is approximately 15-20 minutes by car. Thanks to its proximity to the airport, transfers to hotels are quick and hassle-free, making this resort an ideal choice for those who don’t want to spend a lot of time travelling after a long flight.
Beaches of Costa Adeje
The resort is renowned for its beautiful beaches, including:
Playa El Beril
Playa El Beril is a calm beach with soft golden sand, ideal for families with children due to its calm waters. This beach is less well known amongst tourists, making it a great choice for those who prefer privacy and silence.
Playa del Duque
Playa del Duque delights with its beauty and elegance. The beach is equipped with everything you need for a comfortable holiday: sun loungers, umbrellas, and there are numerous restaurants and bars nearby. The sand is dark and volcanic, which is a characteristic feature of many beaches in Tenerife.
Playa de Fañabé
Playa de Fañabé is a wide and popular beach, ideal for active travellers. It offers many water activities including water skiing and banana boats. The beach is well equipped and offers various facilities for holidaymakers.
Playa de Torviscas
Playa de Torviscas is closely related to Playa de Fañabé, with which it practically merges. Also wide and equipped with everything you need for a comfortable holiday, this beach attracts many tourists with its active atmosphere and excellent conditions for water sports.
Playa del Bobo
Playa del Bobo is a more secluded and less busy beach than the previous ones. The soft sand and relatively calm waters make it suitable for couples and those who prefer a quieter holiday.
Playa de Troya
Playa de Troya is one of the most famous beaches in Costa Adeje. It attracts young people and nightlife enthusiasts due to its proximity to numerous bars and clubs. The beach is fully equipped for the comfort of visitors.
Playa de la Enramada
Playa de la Enramada has coarser, grey sand and bigger waves, making it popular with surfers. This beach is less suitable for quiet family holidays, but is ideal for lovers of active seaside holidays.
Each of these beaches has its own unique characteristics and offers different types of holidays to suit all preferences.
Entertainment and leisure activities
Costa Adeje is not only known for its beaches, but also for its wealth of activities for all ages and preferences. Here is a detailed overview of the entertainment and leisure activities in this resort area:
Water Parks
Siam Park : One of the largest and most famous water parks in Europe, Siam Park offers a variety of attractions, from extreme water slides to tranquil rivers, making it an ideal destination for families. The atmosphere of the park immerses visitors in the world of Thai culture with magnificent oriental pavilions and exotic gardens.
Aqualand : Another water park that is particularly popular with families with children. Aqualand also offers a dolphinarium where you can watch dolphin shows and take part in an encounter with these amazing sea creatures.
Nature Parks and Zoos
Jungle Park : This is a zoological and botanical garden where you can see many species of wildlife including eagles, leopards and monkeys and enjoy hiking trails amongst the subtropical vegetation.
Monkey Park: An interactive contact zoo where visitors can feed and interact with different species of monkeys and other small animals.
Sports and outdoor activities
Karting : For those who love speed and adrenaline, Costa Adeje has several karting tracks where you can test your driving skills.
Paragliding: Experience the unforgettable sensation of flying over the island while enjoying spectacular bird’s eye views of the ocean and the resort.
Sea Adventures
Travelling to whales and dolphins: Costa Adeje offers marine excursions where you can see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. These excursions become an unforgettable experience for all participants.
Sailing and water skiing: Thanks to the ideal weather conditions and the well-developed infrastructure, Costa Adeje offers many opportunities for water sports.
Cultural Activities
Visit La Gomera Island : Take a day trip to the neighbouring island of La Gomera, which offers spectacular scenery and cultural heritage.
Port Activities
Puerto Colón: As one of the most beautiful harbours on the island, Puerto Colón offers a variety of water activities as well as a wide range of cafes and restaurants.
Pros and cons of holidaying in Costa Adeje
Pros:
- High level of service and infrastructure.
- Proximity to the airport and other resorts of southern Tenerife.
- A variety of entertainment and leisure activities for every taste.
Minuses:
- High prices compared to less popular resorts.
- In season, the resort can be overcrowded, making holidays less secluded and relaxing.
In conclusion, Costa Adeje is a resort that can offer a luxurious and varied holiday, suitable for families and young people alike. Its convenient location, superb beaches and wide range of activities make it one of the best choices for a holiday in Tenerife.
Playa de Las Americas Resort
Playa de Las Americas, located in the south-west of Tenerife, is known as one of the most dynamic and youthful resorts on the island. This resort offers everything you need for an active and varied holiday, from golden sandy beaches to nightclubs, shopping and numerous activities.
Geographical location and accessibility
Playa de Las Americas is located approximately 18 kilometres from Tenerife South (Reina Sofia) International Airport, providing easy access to the resort and making it particularly convenient for international travellers. The distance can be covered by car or taxi in around 15-20 minutes, making the resort an ideal choice for those who wish to get to their holiday destination quickly after a flight.
The resort’s beaches
Playa del Camisón
Playa del Camisón is one of the most popular beaches in Playa de Las Americas and is known for its golden sands and calm waters, making it ideal for family holidays and swimming. The beach is well-equipped, with sunbeds and umbrellas available to rent and cocktails to enjoy at the beach bars.
Playa de las Vistas
Playa de las Vistas is another famous beach that connects Playa de Las Americas to neighbouring Los Cristianos. This beach is renowned for its spaciousness and cleanliness, as well as the availability of all the necessary amenities for a comfortable leisure time, including water sports and beach cafes.
Nightlife and entertainment
The Playa de Las Americas resort is particularly known for its active nightlife:
Las Veronicas
Nightclubs in Las Veronicas is the heart of the resort’s nightlife, home to many clubs and bars that attract young people from all over the world. From Latin rhythms to electronic music, there is entertainment to suit all tastes.
Beach Club Papagayo
Beach Club Papagayo is a popular open-air club offering live music, DJ sets and magnificent ocean views. This place is perfect for those who want to enjoy the nightlife right by the sea.
Shopping Complexes and Shopping
The Safari Shopping Complex is one of the largest and trendiest shopping centres in Playa de Las Americas, featuring big name brand shops, restaurants and cafes. It’s a great place to shop and relax after a day at the beach.
Additional attractions nearby
- Siam Park and Aqualand Waterparks – both parks are located in close proximity to the resort and are a great choice for a family day out.
- Jungle Park and Monkey Park – offer visitors a unique experience of being close to nature and the chance to see exotic animals.
- Karting , paragliding, boat trips to whales and dolphins, visiting La Gomera Island – the variety of activities available in the area makes a holiday in Playa de Las Americas unforgettable and full of adventure.
Pros and cons of holidaying in Playa de Las Americas
Pros:
- Great choice of entertainment and activities.
- Good accessibility and proximity to the airport.
- Developed infrastructure and many amenities.
Minuses:
- Can be noisy and crowded in high season, which is not suitable for those looking for a quiet holiday.
- High prices in peak season can be higher than other areas of the island.
Playa de Las Americas continues to be one of the most popular resorts on Tenerife, offering a lively and energetic atmosphere suitable for young people and anyone looking to maximise their holiday experience.
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book the best offer in advance and enjoy a carefree getaway.
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Los Cristianos Resort
Los Cristianos, located on the south coast of Tenerife, is the ideal destination for those who appreciate modern amenities combined with traditional Canarian cosiness. This resort is renowned not only for its beautiful beaches and variety of activities, but also for its cultural heritage, which is felt in every corner.
Port of Los Cristianos
One of the gems of the resort is the Port of Los Cristianos, which plays an important role in both the economic and tourist life of the region. The harbour is the starting point for many boat trips, including whale and dolphin trips, as well as ferries linking Tenerife to other islands in the archipelago, including the pictured island of La Gomera . There are also numerous cafes and restaurants serving the freshest seafood and traditional Canarian specialities.
City Centre
The centre of Los Cristianos has retained many elements of traditional architecture and cultural atmosphere. Narrow streets painted in bright colours lead to small shops, art galleries and cosy cafes. Strolling through the centre, you can see the locals enjoying a relaxed lifestyle, which creates a special atmosphere of hospitality and warmth.
Waterfront
The Los Cristianos seafront is a picturesque place to stroll at any time of day. It offers magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean and neighbouring islands. Along the promenade are a variety of establishments, from luxury restaurants to casual bars, as well as shops offering souvenirs and local handicrafts. It is the perfect place for evening strolls to the sound of the sea waves and live music from the waterfront cafes.
These elements of Los Cristianos resort make it a unique blend of traditional Canarian culture and modern tourist services, offering visitors not only a relaxing beach holiday, but also an immersion in the living history and culture of Tenerife.
Geographical location and accessibility
Los Cristianos is only 17 kilometres from Tenerife South International Airport (Reina Sofia), which is approximately a 15-minute drive. This makes the resort easily accessible to international travellers, ideal for families with children and older travellers who prefer to minimise travel time.
Beaches of the resort
Playa de Las Vistas
Playa de Las Vistas: One of the largest and most beautiful beaches in Los Cristianos, known for its golden sand and calm waters. The beach is well equipped, with sunbeds and parasols available to hire and a variety of water sports to enjoy.
Playa de Los Cristianos
Playa de Los Cristianos: This beach is in the heart of the resort and has a more lively atmosphere. The beach promenade is full of cafes and restaurants, making it the perfect place to relax all day.
Playa de los Tarajales
Playa de los Tarajales: A more secluded beach on the southern edge of Los Cristianos, attracts those looking for tranquillity and privacy.
Nightlife and entertainment
Nightclubs in San Telmo: The San Telmo neighbourhood is known for its bars and clubs that come alive after the sun goes down. It is a popular destination for youngsters and tourists looking to enjoy the resort’s nightlife.
Shopping
Avenida de Suecia: The main shopping street in Los Cristianos, where you can find a wide range of shops, from clothing boutiques to souvenir shops. It’s a great place to shop and stroll around.
Nearby Entertainment
- Siam Park and Aqualand Water Parks: Both water parks are in close proximity to Los Cristianos and offer plenty of water activities for the whole family.
- Jungle Park and Monkey Park: Parks where you can see many species of wild animals and exotic birds and spend time in nature.
- Karting , paragliding, boat trips to whales and dolphins: These activities are available around the resort and offer exciting adventures to suit all tastes.
- Visiting La Gomera Island : Ferries depart regularly from Los Cristianos to the neighbouring island of La Gomera, making it possible to spend one or more days there.
Pros and cons of holidaying in Los Cristianos
Pros:
Wide range of activities and facilities for family holidays.
Easy access to the airport and other resorts in the south of Tenerife.
Rich infrastructure and variety of leisure activities.
Cons:
The place can be quite noisy and crowded in high season.
Prices for accommodation and services can be higher, especially during peak holiday periods.
Los Cristianos continues to be one of the most attractive resorts in Tenerife for those looking for a combination of a relaxed family holiday and availability of activities.
El Medano Resort
- A paradise for water sports enthusiasts in Tenerife
El Medano, located in the south-east of Tenerife, is well known for its windy beaches and is one of the best windsurfing, kitesurfing and surfing destinations in Europe. This resort combines unique natural beauty with a well-developed infrastructure for active holidays, making it an ideal choice for sportsmen and tourists looking for active adventures.
Geographical location and accessibility
El Medano is only 8 kilometres from Tenerife South International Airport (Reina Sofia), making it easily accessible to international travellers. A short and convenient airport transfer makes the resort attractive to those who do not wish to spend a lot of time travelling once they arrive.
The resort’s beaches are
Playa del Medano: The resort’s main beach, Playa del Medano, stretches for several kilometres and is one of the longest natural sandy beaches on the island. It is ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing due to the constant winds that create ideal conditions for these sports.
Playa La Tejita: This nudist beach is known for its seclusion and beautiful scenery. Located at the foot of Red Mountain, it attracts those seeking tranquility and contact with nature.
Attractions and attractions
Red Mountain (Montaña Roja): This nature reserve is not only a significant attraction, but also offers unique hiking and photography opportunities. Climbing the mountain offers magnificent views of the resort and the sea.
Water sports: El Medano is a gathering place for athletes from all over the world, thanks to the ideal conditions for windsurfing, kitesurfing and surfing. International competitions take place here and local schools offer lessons for anyone wishing to learn these sports.
Pros and cons of a holiday in El Medano
Pros:
- Proximity to the airport provides easy access to the resort.
- Ideal weather conditions for water sports.
- Picturesque scenery and the opportunity for solitude in nature.
Cons:
- Due to strong winds, beach holidays may be less comfortable for those who prefer calm seas and no wind.
- Limited options for those who are not interested in water sports or prefer more traditional activities.
El Medano offers unique opportunities for active holidays in Tenerife and is a place where there is something for everyone, whether it be sport, relaxing on one of the secluded beaches or exploring the local natural attractions.
Advance Booking
To ensure your hotel availability during your vacation,
book the best offer in advance and enjoy a carefree getaway.
Tenerife Adventures
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– book your unique adventure today!
Puerto de Santiago Resort
- Tranquil Holidays with Views of Los Gigantes Rocks
Puerto de Santiago, located on the west coast of Tenerife, is a cosy resort known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Its distinctive location is its proximity to the impressive Los Gigantes cliffs, making the resort particularly popular with tourists looking to enjoy natural landscapes and a less crowded holiday.
Geographical location and accessibility
Puerto de Santiago is approximately 42 kilometres from Tenerife South (Reina Sofia) International Airport. The journey from the airport to the resort takes around 40 minutes by car, making it easily accessible but remote enough to retain a secluded atmosphere.
Beaches at the resort
Playa de La Arena: This beach is known for its dark volcanic sand and clear waters, which attracts tourists to it every year. Playa de La Arena is often awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness and safety, making it an ideal choice for family holidays.
Playa Chica: A smaller and more secluded beach offering privacy and tranquillity. This spot is suitable for those seeking seclusion away from the main tourist streams.
Attractions nearby
Los Gigantes Rocks: These are one of the most significant natural attractions of Tenerife. These impressive cliffs reach up to 600 metres above sea level and offer unforgettable views and excellent photographic opportunities.
Masca Gorge and Village: Located near Puerto de Santiago, these places offer unique trekking routes and the opportunity to experience traditional Canarian architecture and lifestyle.
Nearby activities
Boat trips in Los Gigantes harbour: The harbour offers various types of boat trips, including yacht and boat trips, which allow you to get a closer look at the marine life of the region, including the chance to see dolphins and whales.
Pros and cons of holidaying in Puerto de Santiago
Pros:
- Gorgeous natural scenery and less crowded beaches.
- Proximity to unique natural attractions such as Los Gigantes cliffs and Masca Canyon.
- Cleanliness and safety of the beaches, confirmed by Blue Flags.
Cons:
- Relative remoteness from the main tourist centres and airport can be a disadvantage for those who prefer a more active holiday and easy access to a variety of activities and services.
- The limited nightlife and entertainment may not suit young people looking for an active night out.
Puerto de Santiago offers holidays in a quiet and peaceful environment surrounded by natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities, making it an ideal choice for couples, families and anyone looking for privacy away from the bustling tourist spots.
Los Gigantes Tourist Resort
- Natural splendour and relaxing holidays
The resort of Los Gigantes, known for its spectacular cliffs and tranquil atmosphere, is one of the most picturesque places in Tenerife. This resort attracts travellers looking for seclusion and natural beauty, while offering a variety of activities and facilities.
Geographical location and accessibility
Los Gigantes is located on the west coast of Tenerife, about 45 kilometres from Tenerife South International Airport (Reina Sofia). The journey by car takes around 40 minutes, which is important to consider when planning a trip, especially if short transfers are favoured.
Beaches in the resort
Playa de los GuÃos – this beach is located directly at the foot of the Los Gigantes cliffs, offering unrivalled views and excellent snorkelling and swimming conditions. The black volcanic sand and clear waters make it popular with holidaymakers.
Piscina Natural de Los Gigantes – natural water pools displaced in the volcanic rock provide a safe and unique swimming spot protected from the ocean waves.
Nearby Attractions
Los Gigantes Cliffs – One of the island’s main natural attractions, reaching 600 metres in height, these cliffs offer magnificent views and excellent photographic opportunities.
Masca Gorge and Village – A picturesque gorge and traditional Canarian village close to the resort offer unique hiking trails and an insight into the culture of the region.
Nearby activities
Boat trips in Los Gigantes harbour – the harbour offers a variety of boat trips including whale and dolphin watching opportunities, making this an ideal destination for marine life enthusiasts.
Pros and cons of holidaying in Los Gigantes
Pros:
- Incredible natural scenery and less crowded beaches.
- Proximity to unique natural and cultural attractions.
Cons:
- Relative distance from the airport and other major resorts, which can make it difficult to access a wider variety of activities and services.
- Limited options for nightlife and entertainment.
Los Gigantes is ideal for those seeking tranquillity and wanting to enjoy the natural beauty of Tenerife, while offering a variety of activities and facilities for a comfortable holiday.
Tourist resort town of Puerto de La Cruz
- An idyllic retreat with a variety of activities
Puerto de La Cruz, located on the north coast of Tenerife, is one of the most attractive tourist destinations on the island, thanks to its historic architecture, botanical gardens and magnificent beaches. This resort is the ideal destination for those looking for a combination of relaxation and active entertainment.
Geographical location and accessibility
Puerto de La Cruz is 25 kilometres from Tenerife North Airport (Los Rodeos), providing quick access to the resort. However, for international travellers arriving via Tenerife South (Reina Sofia) Airport, the distance is around 90 kilometres, or approximately an hour’s drive, which should be taken into account when planning your trip.
Beaches in the resort
Playa de San Telmo: A small and picturesque beach with black volcanic sand, ideal for those who prefer privacy.
Complejo Playa JardÃn: Designed by the famous Canarian artist César Manrique, this beach complex includes landscaped gardens, volcanic sand and all the necessary amenities for a comfortable holiday.
Playa Martiánez: Great for surfers thanks to good waves and winds.
Lago Martiánez: A complex of seven saltwater pools that is a popular place to swim and relax on the water.
Attractions nearby
El Castillo San Felipe: Historic fortress converted into a cultural centre where exhibitions and events are held.
JardÃn Sitio Litre: The oldest garden on the island, known for its orchids and historical atmosphere.
The historic towns of La Orotava and Garachico: They offer a rich cultural programme, beautiful architecture and traditional Canarian festivities.
Nearby entertainment
Loro Parque : World-class zoo with a variety of animals, parrots and exotic plantations.
JardÃn Botánico: Botanical garden with rare plants from around the world, ideal for relaxing walks.
Pros and cons of holidaying in Puerto de La Cruz
Pros:
- Variety of natural and cultural attractions.
- Well-developed infrastructure with a lot of entertainment.
- Proximity to Tenerife North airport makes access easy for domestic and European travellers.
Cons:
- Frequent cloud cover and a cooler climate can be a disadvantage for those looking for guaranteed sunshine.
- International travellers arriving via the southern airport require a longer transfer journey.
Puerto de La Cruz remains an attractive choice for those seeking a balanced holiday with elements of beach relaxation, cultural enrichment and active entertainment.
Playa Paraiso Tourist Resort
- Secluded Holidays in Tenerife
Playa Paraiso, located in the south-west of Tenerife, is renowned for its tranquillity and picturesque scenery. From here you can enjoy spectacular views of the neighbouring island of La Gomera , making every moment of your stay truly unforgettable. This resort is ideal for tourists seeking seclusion away from the busy tourist centres, while offering comfortable accommodation and plenty of activities to keep you busy.
Geographical location and accessibility
Playa Paraiso is only 27 kilometres from Tenerife South International Airport (Reina Sofia), which is approximately 25 minutes by car. This close proximity to the airport makes the resort easily accessible to international travellers and ideal for short or long holidays.
Beaches of the resort
Playa Las Galgas: This cosy beach with soft golden sand is one of Playa Paraiso’s attractions. It is characterised by calm waters, making it safe for families with children and ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
Zona de Baño el Marquez: It is a natural swimming area where you can enjoy clean and clear waters, ideal for snorkelling and swimming in a natural environment.
Attractions nearby
Barranco del Infierno: This gorge is a popular hiking destination for tourists and locals. It offers impressive trekking routes with spectacular views of nature and the opportunity to see unique species of plants and animals.
Nearby Entertainment
Playa Paraiso, although tranquil, offers a variety of activities:
Water sports: Due to its proximity to the ocean, a variety of water activities are available including diving, snorkelling and kayaking.
Golf: There are several golf courses close to the resort, offering facilities for both beginners and experienced players.
Excursions and hiking: Organised tours to Barranco del Infierno and other scenic spots on the island are available for nature lovers and adventurers.
Pros and cons of holidaying in Playa Paraiso
Pros:
Proximity to the airport makes it easy to arrive and depart.
Calm and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a secluded holiday.
Clean and safe beaches suitable for family holidays.
Cons:
Limited evening entertainment and nightlife may not satisfy tourists looking for an active night out.
Beaches may be more crowded during high season.
The Playa Paraiso resort offers the perfect combination of relaxed holidays, cultural attractions and active leisure activities, making it an attractive choice for tourists seeking tranquillity and quality holidays.