Tenerife is mostly known for its holiday resorts that attract a large number of tourists every year. But there are so many more things to do in Tenerife beyond the resorts.
From spectacular nature to impressive architecture, theme parks to sandy beaches, Tenerife has it all!
I lived in the capital of Tenerife for one year, and I explored pretty much every corner of the island.
Here are Things to Do in Tenerife Beyond the Resorts!
Masca Valley
Masca Valley is the most popular hike and one of the most picturesque places on the island. This tiny mountain village, with its breathtaking landscape, is definitely a must-see in Tenerife.
Getting to Masca by car is an adventure itself since the road is extremely steep and narrow. It’s probably the scariest road I’ve ever seen.
Although driving down the winding road is very scary, it’s totally worth it. The natural beauty of this place is overwhelming. So, you’ll probably end up making stops to take some pictures of the stunning landscape.
If you are not an experienced driver or you prefer having a tour guide you can book Masca Valley Tour with Get Your Guide.
When you arrive at the village, you’ll find a fascinating and surprisingly rich flora. There are beautiful palm trees, cactus plants, and colorful flowers everywhere around. And, there’s a nice sea view too.
Stroll around the village and admire the beauty of nature. Make a stop at Casa Riquelme, a charming restaurant with an amazing view, and have some beer or lunch.
The Natural Pools of Garachico- El Caletón
The natural pools of Garachico were created by the volcanic eruption that occurred in 1706 and completely destroyed the picturesque town of Garachico. Despite its tragic history, Garachico became one of the most famous spots of Tenerife.
Swimming in these pools, surrounded by lava rocks, is a unique experience. You can easily spend a few hours here, enjoying the beautiful views and swimming in the crystal clear water.
Before you head to this place, you should check the weather because the pools can be closed due to the strong wind and big waves.
Mount Teide
At 3,718 meters above sea level, Mount Teide is Spain’s highest mountain and the third highest volcano in the world. It’s a UNESCO world heritage site too.
This unique geological treasure is the most famous touristic spot and one of the top things to do in Tenerife.
Climbing Mount Teide is a dream of many people. Although it takes one long hard day to ascend to the top, it’s totally worth it.
The first thing you need to do is to apply for a free permit that allows only a limited number of people per day to climb to the crater. The permit can be obtained via the park’s website.
There are two ways to do it: drive up with a car to the cable car station and buy a cable car ticket for 13.5 euros one way, or ascend to the crater without the cable car.
Having chosen the second way, I think it’s safe to say that it’s very difficult and not for everyone.
If you want to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience, you should sleep in Altavista del Teide Refuge where you’ll have a chance to enjoy the beautiful sunrise.
Whale & Dolphin Watching
Whale and Dolphin Watching is a must if you want to discover Tenerife’s marine wildlife. The waters surrounding the island are some of the best in the world to see the majestic creatures.
There are different tours to choose from, and they usually last 2 to 5 hours and include a stop for a refreshing swim. The best place to catch a trip is Los Gigantes, situated in the south of the island.
On this journey, you’ll see these majestic animals swimming around your boat and leaping in and out of the water.
Seeing them in their natural habitat is a very enjoyable experience.
La Orotava
Founded in the 16th century, La Orotava is the classiest and one of the oldest towns in Tenerife. Its old town is an open-air museum of perfectly preserved historical buildings and traditional houses, and it has been declared a Site of National Historic and Artistic Interest.
The best way to explore the town is on foot, and I recommend starting from the Victoria gardens. Stroll through the beautiful gardens full of colorful flowers and fountains, and enjoy the fabulous view over the old town. It’s spectacular, and it’s free.
After visiting the Victoria gardens, head to Hijuela del Botanico, a small botanical garden with a lot of interesting plants from different parts of the world.
Then, stroll around the town and admire the magnificent architecture. Visit Casa de Los Balcones and Nuestra Señora de la Concepcion Church.
The Anaga Rural Park
The Anaga Rural Park is a Natural Biosphere Reserve that occupies much of the mountain range in the northeastern part of Tenerife. With its stunning scenery and laurel forests, it’s the hikers’ paradise.
The journey to the Anaga Rural Park will take you through remote villages, dense forests and the beauty of the black sand beach of Benijo.
Benijo beach is the best place to escape the crowds. This beautiful black sand beach, with its rock formations, is one of the most remote beaches on the island.
Costa de Rojas, El Sauzal
If you want to take a coastal walk and get off the beaten track, you must head to El Sauzal and enjoy some of the most iconic landscapes of Tenerife.
Costa de Rojas, which is within the protected landscape of the cliffs of Acentejo, is a very quiet place with spectacular views and virgin nature.
Walking along the promenade while contemplating the imposing Atlantic coast, will make you disconnect and revitalize. And, if it’s too hot outside, you can beat the heat by taking a refreshing dip in the crystal clear water.
Bajamar Natural Pools
Amazing pools filled with sea water, and with plenty of space to sunbathe.
Whether you want to relax alone or with your family, this is a perfect place to spend a day enjoying the show of the waves that fill the pools.
There are two large pools and a smaller one for children. They are free and have a variety of facilities such as a shower, changing rooms, lifeguards and restaurants.
The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Tenerife’s carnival is the second most popular in the world after the Rio de Janeiro carnival in Brazil. It’s held each February in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and it attracts people from all over the world.
The best place to feel the magic of the carnival is the street. The music, the hoards of people dressed in dazzling costumes, the parade, and the dance.
Don’t miss a chance to take part in the wildest and the biggest event of the Canary Islands!
San Cristóbal de La Laguna
San Cristóbal de La Laguna is an ancient university city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in the north of Tenerife.
The city continues to attract visitors with its colonial architecture and historic buildings. Thus, if you are an architecture buff, this is a place for you.
Unlike Santa Cruz de Tenerife, La Laguna has a lot of nice bars and restaurants, as well as streets with a lively atmosphere.
Stroll around the city, admire the beautiful colonial architecture and have some craft beer.
The Endless Beaches
Tenerife is a paradise for beach lovers. From those beaches with volcanic black sand to those with golden sand, from busy beaches to those secluded, Tenerife has something for everyone.
If you are one of those who doesn’t like crowds, you must visit Playa de la Nea in Radazul. Known only among some locals, this secluded black sand beach will offer you plenty of space to sunbathe.
However, if you are looking for more beautiful beaches with golden sand and you don’t mind crowds, you should head to Playa de las Teresitas, the most popular beach in Tenerife.
Wow, incredible blog layout! How long have you been blogging for? you made blogging look easy. The overall look of your site is great, as well as the content!
Thanks 🙂 I’m glad you like it! I’ve been blogging for about 9 months now.