Where to stay in Tenerife to make the most of the island? Which city to choose? North or south? Here’s our guide comparing the best places to stay in Tenerife:
- Map with cities to stay,
- The criteria for choosing each location, with our own photos,
- Our selection of the best hotels to stay in,
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Content
Where to stay in Tenerife: map and summary
Map of towns to stay in Tenerife
Most of the towns to stay in are on the south coast. To help you find all the places we mention in this article, here’s a map.
For each of these locations, you’ll find a section below with its advantages, activities and our favorite hotels.
Where to stay in Tenerife to explore the whole island?
Unfortunately, there’s no central town to facilitate exploration of the whole island.
If you’re more interested in historic towns, Teide and hiking, choose La Laguna without beach (see top-rated accommodations) or Puerto de la Cruz with beach (see top-rated accommodations).
If you’re more interested in beaches, theme parks and sea excursions, choose a central location on the south coast, such as one of the districts of Costa Adeje (see top-rated hotels) or Los Cristianos (see top-rated accommodation).
Where to stay in Tenerife for the best beaches?
It all depends on what kind of beach you’re looking for:
- For golden sandy beaches with all amenities, choose Costa Adeje (see top-rated hotels).
- For an easily accessible urban beach with plenty of restaurants and activities, choose Playa de las Américas (see top-rated accommodations).
- For more natural beaches ideal for surfing, opt for El Médano (see top-rated accommodations).
- For a magnificent golden sand beach in a natural setting, choose Playa de Las Teresitas near Santa Cruz.
Where to stay in Tenerife with young children?
If you’re traveling with young children, the south of the island is more suitable. You can opt for:
- Costa Adeje with its safe beaches and Siam Park water park (see top-rated accommodations)
- Los Cristianos for its quieter, family atmosphere (see top-rated accommodations)
Where to stay in Tenerife for (romantic) couples?
After visiting all the places on the island, we find that the most romantic destinations are..:
- Playa del Duque with its luxurious hotels and refined restaurants
- Garachico for its historic charm and natural pools
- La Orotava for its colonial architecture and proximity to Mount Teide
- Puerto de la Cruz for its gardens and more authentic atmosphere
Other criteria:
- For peace and quiet: choose Garachico or the mountain villages
- For hiking: choose La Orotava or Vilaflor near Teide
- For luxury: choose Playa del Duque
- For partying: choose Playa de las Américas
- For water sports: choose El Médano
Where to stay: best hotels
If you’d rather choose one of the best hotels than the location, take a look at our selections:
- 5-star hotels
- Best boutique-hotels
- Best adults-only hotels (coming soon)
- Best all-inclusive hotels (coming soon)
- Best hotels for families (coming soon)
OUR TIPS TO RENT A CAR IN Tenerife
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- If you’re planning to explore the mountains, don ‘t take the smallest cars. A more powerful engine will be more comfortable.
- But don’t take too big a car either, as some roads are narrow.
- There’s a lot of demand and it’s an island, so book early.
City 1: Playa del Duque in Costa Adeje
Why stay at Playa del Duque?
If you want to combine beach and luxury, Playa del Duque is the destination for you. This area offers an upscale experience with elegant boutiques, fine restaurants and wellness facilities. We particularly appreciated the sophisticated atmosphere of the area. The beach, with its fine sand and calm waters, is ideal for swimming and relaxing. Walks along the seafront are pleasant, offering beautiful views of the ocean and the island of La Gomera in the distance.
Playa del Duque is also well located for exploring other parts of Costa Adeje. We found it to be an excellent base for excursions to the Siam Park water park or sea outings.
Beach types
Playa del Duque’s main beach is one of the most beautiful on the island, with its golden sands and calm waters. Access is easy and the beach is well maintained.
And you can see beautiful sunsets!
What to do in Playa del Duque
- Enjoy the beach and water sports
- Luxury shopping in boutiques
- Relax in hotel spas
- Dining in gourmet restaurants
- Explore the island and its treasures
- …
Where to stay in Playa del Duque – Hotels
Among our favorites:
- Hotel La Plantación del Sur – Check photos, photos and availability.
- Hotel Gran Tacande Wellness & Relax – Check photos and availability – and book now!
- Family: GF Victoria Hotel – Check photos and availability – and book!
See our selection of the most beautiful 5-star hotels in Costa Adeje. Many are in Playa Del Duque.
City 2: San Cristobal de La Laguna
Why stay in La Laguna?
A choice that may surprise some with this second position, as it’s not by the sea, but we fell in love with La Laguna, its hotels and restaurants.
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you’re looking for an authentic Canarian experience with a rich history, this is the place for you.
We were won over by its well-preserved colonial architecture and picturesque cobbled streets. What’s more, it’s a university town with a youthful, cultural vibe, thanks to its many cafés, restaurants and independent boutiques. And it’s ideally located for exploring the Anaga massif.
Beach types
La Laguna isn’t a coastal town, but you’re just a 15-minute drive from north coast beaches like Playa de las Teresitas, a beautiful golden sand beach.
What to do in La Laguna
- Explore historic streets and admire colonial architecture
- Visit La Laguna Cathedral
- Discover traditional markets
- Hiking in Anaga rural park
- Enjoy the many restaurants and tapas bars
- …
See our article on attractions in La Laguna.
Where to stay in La Laguna – Hotels
Among our favorites:
- La Laguna Gran Hotel – in an 18th-century colonial house in the heart of the historic center, with all modern comforts and a rooftop pool. See prices, photos and availability.
- Hotel Nava Suites – a unique haven of elegance and refinement with pretty green patios in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city. Check photos, photos and availability.
See our article on the best hotels in La Laguna.
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City 3: Los Gigantes
Why stay at Los Gigantes?
Los Gigantes takes its name from the impressive cliffs that surround it, rising up to 600 metres above the ocean. It’s a quieter destination than the big seaside resorts of the south, with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Its Los Gigantes marina is the heart of the activity, offering dolphin- and whale-watching excursions by boat.
We particularly enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and spectacular views of the cliffs and ocean, especially at sunset.
Beach types
The main beach is Playa de Los Gigantes, a black volcanic sand beach. It’s smaller than the other southern beaches, but offers a unique setting with the cliffs in the background.
See our article on the beaches of Los Gigantes.
What to do in Los Gigantes
- Take a boat trip to see the cliffs or watch whales and dolphins
- Enjoy the beach and harbour
- Hiking in the area
- Admire the sunset from the many panoramic restaurants
- And of course, explore the island!
- …
See our article on Los Gigantes attractions.
Where to stay in Los Gigantes – Hotels
Among our favorites:
- Aparthotel Klayman Diamond – Check photos and availability
- Family: Hotel Landmar Playa de La Arena – Check photos, photos and availability
- Luxury: Hotel Crystal Los Gigantes – Check photos, photos and availability
See our article on the best hotels in Los Gigantes.
City 4: Puerto de la Cruz
Why stay in Puerto de la Cruz?
Puerto de la Cruz is the main seaside resort in northern Tenerife. We really liked its balance between Canarian authenticity and tourist infrastructure.
It offers a refreshing alternative to the seaside resorts of the south, with plenty of greenery. This coastal town combines the charm of an old fishing town with modern tourist attractions.
However, you should be aware that many hotels are located in the higher parts of the city.
Beach types
The town boasts several beaches of volcanic black sand, the most famous of which is Playa Jardín, designed by the artist César Manrique. The beaches are surrounded by magnificent tropical gardens. There’s also the Lago Martiánez seawater pool complex, perfect when the ocean is rough.
Our favorite is Playa Jimenez. See the list.
What to do in Puerto de la Cruz
- Visit the historic Botanical Gardens
- Swimming in the natural pools of Lago Martiánez
- Explore the old town
- Discover street art
- Enjoy the many traditional restaurants
- Visit Loro Parque, one of Europe’s top zoos
- …
See our article on Puerto de la Cruz attractions.
Where to stay in Puerto de la Cruz – Hotels
Among our favorites:
- 5-star Hotel Botanico & Oriental Spa Garden – Check photos, photos and availability
- Resort: Atlantic Mirage Hotel (adults-only) – Check photos, photos and availability
- Aparthotel: Tigaiga Suites – Check photos, photos and availability
See our article on the best hotels in Puerto de la Cruz.
Town 5: Playa Fanabe and Playa del Bobo in Costa Adeje
Why stay in Costa Adeje?
Costa Adeje is the top-of-the-range seaside resort in the south of Tenerife. To the south of the Playa del Duque section we’ve already mentioned, Playa Fanabe is the most popular area. The quarteir is dynamic. The seafront promenade is lined with restaurants, bars, shops, beaches and even shopping centers. It includes Puerto Colón, the resort’s lively port. Some hotels are havens of peace in this hectic city center.
Beach types
Costa Adeje boasts several fine beaches:
- Playa de Fañabé, with its golden sand and calm waters
- Playa de Puerto Colon, between 2 dikes
- Playa del Bobo / playa de la Pinta, with its relaxing atmosphere
All these beaches are well equipped with showers, deckchairs and parasols. See all beaches in Costa Adeje.
What to do in Costa Adeje
- Beaches and water sports
- Visit Siam Park water park
- Shopping in modern malls
- Take a boat trip to see the whales
- Swimming at Aqualand
- …
Where to stay in Costa Adeje – Hotels
Among our favorites:
- 5 stars: Adrián Hotels Jardines de Nivaria – Check photos, photos and availability
- Family: Hotel Dreams Jardin Tropical Resort & Spa – Check photos, photos and availability
- Boutique: Flamingo Suites Boutique Hotel – Check photos and availability
See all our favorite hotels in Costa Adeje.
City 6: Playa de las Américas
Why stay at Playa de las Américas?
A dynamic seaside resort in the south of Tenerife, Playa de las Américas is renowned for its lively atmosphere and numerous activities. We particularly appreciate the variety of entertainment on offer for all audiences, from miniature golf to sea excursions. Nightlife is particularly lively here, with numerous bars and clubs. What’s more, the resort’s fully-equipped beaches offer all the comforts you need to enjoy the sunny climate of the Canary Islands.
Beach types
There are six different beaches in the area:
- Playa de las Américas, large golden sand beach
- Playa del Camisón, quieter, protected by two dikes
- Playa de las Vistas, large and well-equipped
The beaches are all imported golden sand, with calm waters perfect for swimming.
What to do in Playa de las Américas
- Nightlife in the Verónicas area
- Shopping in the malls
- Golfing at Golf Las Américas
- Try your hand at water sports
- Enjoy the many shows and events
- You’re also close to the Costa Adeje parks: Siam Park, Aqualand
- And rent a car to explore Tenerife!
- …
Where to stay in Playa de las Américas – Hotels
Among our favorites:
- By the sea: Hotel Cleopatra Palace – Check photos, photos and availability
- Family: Aparthotel Green Garden Eco Resort – Check photos, photos and availability
- Boutique-hotel: Hotel Vanilla Garden – See photos, prices and availability
See our article on the best hotels in Playas de las Americas.
City 7: Los Cristianos
Why stay in Los Cristianos?
It’s a lively seaside resort on the Costa Adeje, offering a wide range ofwater sports and beautiful golden beaches. We appreciated its slightly more authentic atmosphere (fishing port and pedestrian streets) than that of its famous neighbor, Playa de las Americas. It’s a destination of choice for seaside vacations. We enjoyed the calm waters of its golden sandy beaches. We were particularly keen to strike a balance between liveliness and authenticity, while remaining on a human scale.
Beach types
Los Cristianos has two main beaches:
- Playa de Los Cristianos, a large sheltered beach near the port
- Playa de las Vistas, a magnificent artificial beach with golden sand (straddling Playa de las Americas)
Both beaches are well equipped and protected from the waves, making them ideal for swimming.
What to do in Los Cristianos
- Stroll along the lively waterfront
- Explore downtown stores and restaurants
- Take a boat trip from the port to see dolphins and whales
- Climbing Montaña Chayofita
- Take the ferry to La Gomera
- …
Find out more about Los Cristianos attractions.
Where to stay in Los Cristianos – Hotels
Among our favorites:
- Sea view: Hotel Spring Arona Gran – Check photos, photos and availability
- Family: Paradise Park Fun Lifestyle Hotel – Check photos, photos and availability
- Best located: Hotel Reveron Plaza – Check photos, photos and availability
See our selection of the best hotels in Los Cristianos.
Town 8: El Médano
Why stay at El Médano?
El Médano is a small-scale seaside resort with an authentic, relaxed atmosphere. In fact, it features in our article on Tenerife’s most beautiful villages! We particularly appreciated its exceptional natural setting between grey sandy beaches and volcanic mountains, as well as its many opportunities for water sports.
Beach types
El Médano boasts several famous beaches:
- Playa El Médano, a long sandy beach ideal for windsurfing
- Playa de La Tejita, a magnificent natural beach
- Red Mountain Beach, at the foot of Montana Roja
Some beaches are perfect for swimming, others for water sports.
What to do in El Médano
- Surfing, windsurfing or kitesurfing
- Hike to the summit of Montana Roja
- Explore the lively central square
- Cafés and restaurants
- Stroll along the promenade
- …
See our article on attractions in El Medano.
Where to stay in El Médano – Hotels
Few hotels:
- Hotel Playa Sur Tenerife – Check photos, photos and availability
- Hotel Medano – Check photos, photos and availability
- And many rental apartments
See the top-rated accommodations in El Medano.
City 9: Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Why stay in Santa Cruz?
The capital of the Canary archipelago, Santa Cruz de Tenerife seduced us with its blend of avant-garde architecture and historic heritage. We were struck by its cultural diversity, from the iconic, futuristic Tenerife Auditorium to the more traditional, historic squares. Its lively city center, green spaces and waterfront make it a very pleasant urban destination. The town is also an excellent base for exploring the nearby Anaga massif. It’s a truly vibrant Spanish city, with its port, museums and cultural scene.
Beach types
- No space in the town center
- Beaches are on the coast north of Santa Cruz, including Playa de las Teresitas, the best known. Find out more here.
What to do in Santa Cruz
- Explore the old town
- Discover gardens like Palmetum
- Appreciate modern architecture such as the Auditorium designed by Santiago Calatrava
- Visit the Nuestra Señora de Africa market
- Head north to explore the beaches and Massif d’Anaga
- Discover the works of César Manrique
- …
Read our article on must-do activities in Santa Cruz!
Where to stay in Santa Cruz – Hotels
Among our favorites:
- Luxury: Hotel Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey – Check photos, photos and availability
- Boutique: The Park Suites by IRES LAR – Check photos, photos and availability
- Best located: AC Hotel by Marriott Tenerife – Check photos, photos and availability
See our selection of the best hotels in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
City 10: Garachico
Why stay in Garachico?
Garachico is a charming coastal town in the north of Tenerife. It offers an authentic experience that bears witness to the island’s history. The natural pools of El Caleton, created by the eruption of 1706, the preserved historic center and the local atmosphere make this a unique destination that combines architecture and natural beauty. Garachico is a small town easily explored on foot. Most attractions are located in or near the historic center.
Beach types
- Garachico is best known for a series of natural pools formed in volcanic rock. To be seen at low tide for swimming and at high tide for the show.
- There is also a small black sand beach
What to do in Garachico
- Swimming in natural pools
- Explore the cobbled streets of the historic center
- Visit churches and convent
- …
Find out more about Garachico’s top attractions.
Where to stay in Garachico – Hotels
If you like charming hotels, Garachico has two of the finest on the island of Tenerife.
- Hotel San Roque, in an 18th century stately home – Check photos, photos and availability
- Hotel Quinta La Roja, in a 17th-century colonial mansion – Check photos, photos and availability
- See more suggestions for boutique hotels in Tenerife.
Other places to stay in Tenerife
11. San Andres and Playa de la Teresitas
This magnificent beach of golden sand imported from the Sahara is a real gem in the region. It is considered one of the most beautiful on the island. We particularly appreciate its gentle, gradual slope as you enter the water. It’s perfect for a family outing with swimming, water polo, beach volleyball, pedal boats and other modern facilities.
The setting is spectacular, with the ocean stretching as far as the eye can see, and the mountains as a backdrop. The village isn’t big and you’re far from many attractions. But if you want to spend some time at the beach, this is a great option.
See accommodations close to the beach.
11. La Orotava
La Orotava is one of Tenerife’s most beautiful historic towns. Set in a fertile valley high above Puerto de la Cruz, it boasts exceptional colonial architecture and magnificent gardens. It’s the ideal place for those seeking Canarian authenticity. La Orotava is not by the sea, but Puerto de la Cruz and its beaches are just a 10-minute drive away.
See accommodations in La Orotava.
12. Candelaria
Candelaria is an important pilgrimage site in the Canaries, famous for its basilica dedicated to the Virgin of Candelaria, patron saint of the Canary Islands. This small coastal town offers immersion in local culture and a more authentic atmosphere than the tourist resorts. We also really enjoyed his stroll along the waterfront.
See accommodations in Candelaria.
14. Bajamar and Punta del Hidalgo
On the northern tip of Tenerife, if you’re looking for quieter, less touristy spots, these two small towns lie at the foot of the Anaga massif.
Both offer beautiful seawater pools with magnificent views.
See accommodations in Bajamar and Punta del Hidalgo.
15. Teide National Park
Tenerife’s most incredible area is the Teide National Park, with its volcano, lava fields and fascinating geological formations.
The park is also famous for its light pollution-free stargazing.
You can spend one or more nights in the park at the Parador de la Canadas del Teide. But book early as this is the only hotel.
See photos, prices and availability
Frequently asked questions
Tenerife: North or South?
It all depends on what you’re looking for:
- If you want guaranteed sunshine and modern seaside resorts, choose the south.
- If you prefer more authenticity and greenery, with a more variable climate, opt for the north.
Costa Adeje or Playa de las Américas?
The two areas are close to each other but offer different atmospheres:
- Costa Adeje for a more upmarket family holiday
- Playa de las Américas for more entertainment and nightlife
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO tenerife
- Best of
What to do in Tenerife
Most beautiful towns and villages
Most beautiful beaches
Best natural pools
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful roads
Amusement parks
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Secret places, off the beaten track (coming soon)
- Practical advice
25 tips for a successful trip to Tenerife
How to get around
How to rent a car in Tenerife
Driving tips
Best excursions (coming soon)
Where to stay in Tenerife
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 1 week – 10 days
- The must-dos
Dolphin watching in Tenerife (coming soon)
Teide National Park
Anaga Rural Park (coming soon)
La Orotava (coming soon)
Garachico
Village of Masca
Pyramids of Güimar
