8 Things To Do In Tenerife: An Authentic Local's Guide
Tenerife isn’t just about sunny resorts and all-inclusive packages. This Canary Island is a land of contrasts, bursting with natural wonders, local charm, and a rich culture that thrives beyond the typical travel brochures.
Whether you're into wild landscapes, colonial architecture, or local food experiences, Tenerife has a way of surprising you, often when you least expect it. After exploring the island, I’ve gathered some of the most memorable, under-the-radar experiences to help you discover the real Tenerife, one story at a time.
1. Hike Mount Teide: Starry Skies and Otherworldly Views
Mount Teide isn’t just the tallest peak in Spain—it’s a whole universe above the clouds. Rising 3,718 meters (12,198 feet), this dormant volcano dominates Tenerife’s skyline and is one of the best places in Europe for stargazing thanks to its altitude and low light pollution.
For adventurers, the hike up Montaña Blanca to the summit is demanding but deeply rewarding. If you're short on time or energy, the cable car offers a shortcut to jaw-dropping views of the vast caldera and the surreal "sea of clouds" that surrounds the peak.
2. Wander Through the North: Garachico & La Orotava
The north of Tenerife feels like stepping into a time capsule—quiet cobblestone streets, traditional Canarian balconies, and nature carved by ancient lava flows.
Garachico, a picturesque coastal village partly rebuilt after a 1706 volcanic eruption, is famous for its natural lava-rock pools. But there’s more to explore—quaint churches, scenic viewpoints, and the peaceful rhythm of local life away from the crowds.
Just inland, La Orotava enchants visitors with its colonial mansions and lush gardens. Don’t miss the Victoria Gardens, a tranquil spot perfect for a reflective pause. Time your visit with the Corpus Christi festival to see the streets transformed into a colorful canvas of volcanic sand and flowers—an awe-inspiring expression of local artistry.
3. Hit the Beaches: Gold, Black, and Everything in Between
Tenerife’s coastline offers a striking variety—golden sands in the south and jet-black volcanic beaches in the north.
For wild beauty, head to Benijo Beach. Set against dramatic cliffs and rugged rock formations, it’s an unspoiled gem that feels like the edge of the world. Sunset here? Pure magic.
Prefer something livelier? El Médano is a buzzing beach town and a hotspot for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Don’t worry if you’re not into water sports—the promenade is perfect for bike rides, and the beach cafés serve up some of the island’s best people-watching.
4. Trek Through the Enchanted Forests of Anaga
If fairytales had hiking trails, they’d be in Anaga Rural Park. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the island's northeast is home to ancient laurel forests that once blanketed much of southern Europe.
Whether you're taking on the cliffside hike from Chamorga to Benijo or opting for the gentler Path of the Senses, Anaga offers a deep connection with nature, complete with hidden viewpoints, misty trails, and ecosystems that change in the blink of an eye.
5. See the Cliffs of Los Gigantes from the Sea
They don’t call them “The Giants” for nothing. The Los Gigantes cliffs rise up to 600 meters above the ocean, creating a natural fortress that’s best appreciated by boat.
Several tours operate from the nearby marina, often including stops for swimming and dolphin- or whale-watching. For an unforgettable experience, book a sunset cruise—the view as the sun slips behind these colossal walls is nothing short of breathtaking.
6. Taste Tenerife: From Guachinches to Gourmet
Food in Tenerife is full of soul—earthy, flavorful, and deeply rooted in tradition.
The island’s guachinches offer a truly local dining experience. These rustic restaurants, often located in garages or home patios, serve hearty Canarian dishes like conejo al salmorejo (rabbit in garlic and wine sauce) and grilled vieja, a local fish.
Looking for something truly unforgettable? Try queso asado con mojo, grilled cheese topped with a garlicky red or green sauce. Simple, delicious, and full of character—like the island itself.
7. Explore La Laguna: History, Culture, and Coffee Breaks
San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, feels like a living museum, without the velvet ropes. Its pastel-colored buildings, historic convents, and vibrant plazas make it a joy to explore on foot.
Highlights include the Convent of Santa Catalina, the Museum of the History of Tenerife, and the bustling Plaza del Adelantado—a great place to sip a local coffee and soak in the atmosphere.
8. Take a Ferry to La Gomera: A Day Trip to Another World
If you have an extra day or two, hop on a ferry from Los Cristianos to La Gomera—a neighboring island just 50 minutes away that feels like a different planet.
The star here is Garajonay National Park, home to mystical laurel forests straight out of a fantasy film. Hiking trails weave through mossy trees, ancient rock formations, and panoramic lookouts.
And don’t miss the Silbo Gomero, a whistled language unique to the island, still taught in schools and used in rural communities.
Conclusion
Tenerife is often underestimated—but that’s part of its magic. Beyond the all-inclusive resorts and postcard beaches lies an island of deep traditions, wild landscapes, and a warm local spirit that stays with you long after you leave.
Whether you’re hiking through prehistoric forests, dining in a guachinche, or watching the stars from the summit of Teide, what makes Tenerife unforgettable isn’t just its beauty; it’s how it makes you feel.
And maybe that’s the best travel advice of all: don’t just visit Tenerife. Feel it.
Looking for places to stay?
Karta offers great deals on vacation rentals across the Canary Islands, perfect for making your Tenerife adventure even more personal.
FAQs
1. Is Tenerife safe for travelers?
Yes, Tenerife is a safe and welcoming destination. Just follow basic precautions, like you would anywhere else.
2. When’s the best time to visit Tenerife?
Tenerife enjoys spring-like weather year-round. For fewer crowds and mild temps, consider visiting in spring (April–June) or fall (September–November).
3. What can I do in Tenerife on a rainy day?
Check out the Museum of Nature and Archaeology in Santa Cruz, savor a slow lunch at a cozy guachinche, or explore the underground world of Cueva del Viento, Europe’s largest lava tube.
