Whale Watching in Tenerife is undoubtedly one of the must-do activities in the Canary Islands, as its waters provide the perfect environment for rich marine biodiversity. For this reason, organizing a tour to discover dolphins and whales has become one of the most outstanding experiences in Tenerife.
To date, 21 different species of cetaceans have been identified in the vicinity of the Canary Islands. So, if you want to see dolphins in Tenerife, in this article I detail the most recommended excursions, along with the ideal season and the best locations. You also have the option to rent a boat in Tenerife; however, if you’re looking for higher chances of a sighting, it is preferable to have an experienced captain who knows where to find them
We took a 5-hour tour and were fascinated by the experience of whale watching in Tenerife. The departure was from Costa Adeje and, during the trip, we explored the surroundings of the island until we located the area inhabited by these majestic cetaceans.
This tour, like the others detailed in this guide, is carried out in a completely environmentally respectful manner and, above all, with regard to the cetaceans. This ensures maintaining a safe distance so as not to disturb their behavior and using vessels appropriate for their well-being, so you can include it in your trip to Tenerife with complete confidence.
Best Excursions for Seeing Whales and Dolphins in Tenerife
There are many options for excursions in Tenerife, but few are as impressive as those designed to see dolphins and whales. Most of these tours depart from Costa Adeje or the port of Los Gigantes, and the best part is that, practically any time of the year, you can observe both dolphins and whales.
Given the wide range of excursions for cetacean watching in Tenerife, below you will find the most outstanding options. Many of these tours allow you to repeat the experience free of charge if luck is not on your side, since, being wild animals, their movements are unpredictable. However, the organizing companies have years of experience and know perfectly the areas where these magnificent animals are most abundant.
1. Cetacean Watching in Tenerife with Underwater Views (3 hours)
If you are looking for a unique experience to see whales and dolphins in Tenerife, this tour is one of the best alternatives, as it is carried out aboard a catamaran that offers underwater viewing windows to observe the fauna beneath the surface.
The excursion begins at Puerto Colón, Costa Adeje, and its duration varies between 2 and 3 hours, depending on the option chosen. In the 3-hour tour, a lunch, a cold beer or a glass of sangria is also included, and there is a stop so that participants can enjoy a refreshing swim.
Throughout the journey, you can spot dolphins and pilot whales, which are very common in the area, while enjoying stunning panoramas of Costa Adeje, Guía de Isora, and Santiago del Teide. The crew also provides detailed information about the different species that can be found in the waters of Tenerife.
I recommend going down to the lower part of the deck to have a privileged view of the cetaceans, observing them just beneath the surface.
Highlights: Catamaran ride with underwater views to see dolphins and pilot whales
Starting Point: Puerto Colón, Costa Adeje
Duration: Approximately 2 or 3 hours
Price: from 24 €
Description: Catamaran tour equipped with underwater windows that allow you to see cetaceans beneath the surface. You can choose between the 2- or 3-hour option, with the longer one being more complete as it includes a stop for swimming, lunch, and a drink.
2. Eco-Cruise with Dolphin and Whale Watching in Tenerife (5 hours)
Another excellent alternative to enjoy a boat ride and see dolphins in Tenerife is the eco-cruise that we took, undoubtedly one of the ideal options for observing cetaceans in their natural environment. It is an experience I highly recommend, especially for the cruise’s environmental commitment. During the journey, we were fortunate enough to see numerous dolphins and a group of pilot whales, making it one of the most memorable activities of our trip.
The excursion departs from Puerto Colón, Costa Adeje, and you can choose between two durations: 3 or 5 hours (we opted for the 5-hour option). In both cases, food and drinks are included onboard, but in the 5-hour option, there is also a visit to Los Gigantes and Masca Bay. Additionally, if cetaceans are not spotted, the tour can be repeated free of charge.
The catamaran sails to the Teno-Rasca sanctuary, a zone protected due to its significant marine life, while also offering spectacular views of Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos, with the possibility of spotting Teide on clear days. Undoubtedly, it is an exceptional option for whale watching in Tenerife.
Highlights: Teno-Rasca sanctuary, Playa de las Américas, Los Cristianos, Los Gigantes, and Masca Bay
Starting Point: Puerto Colón, Costa Adeje
Duration: Approximately 3 or 5 hours
Price: from 45 €
Description: Tour on an eco-friendly, low-consumption catamaran. You can choose between two options, with the 5-hour tour being the most complete as it includes a visit to Los Gigantes and Masca Bay, along with food, drinks, and cetacean sightings, with the possibility of a free repeat.
3. Excursion to See Whales and Dolphins in Tenerife on a Luxury Yacht (3 hours)
For those seeking an exclusive tour to observe cetaceans in Tenerife, this luxury yacht excursion is an unbeatable option. It is a 3-hour cruise with a small group, which allows for a more personalized experience. The vessel also features state-of-the-art sonar, ideal for listening to the famous songs of whales and the sounds emitted by dolphins.
During this tour, not only will you be able to spot whales and dolphins, but there is also time set aside for swimming among turtles and other marine animals in a hidden, tranquil bay. Complimentary snacks and drinks are offered onboard for all participants.
Highlights: Luxury yacht tour with advanced sonar and snorkeling with turtles
Starting Point: Puerto Colón, Costa Adeje
Duration: Approximately 3 hours
Price: from 65 €
Description: Luxury yacht experience with small groups (up to 11 people) or in private mode, which includes cetacean watching and a stop to swim among turtles, with complimentary snacks and drinks.
4. Budget Whale and Dolphin Tour in Tenerife with Snorkeling (2 hours)
There is also a more economical option for seeing cetaceans in Tenerife—a 2-hour tour that departs from Los Cristianos port and sails along the coast in search of whales and dolphins. During the journey, a proper distance is maintained so as not to disturb the animals.
In addition to the sightings, this tour visits the famous Cueva del Amor (Cave of Love), where you can enjoy spectacular views of the island and make a brief stop to snorkel and explore the seafloor. It is, without a doubt, an ideal option for those with limited time or budget.
Highlights: Cetacean watching and snorkeling at Cueva del Amor
Starting Point: Los Cristianos
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Price: from 25 €
Description: Budget tour that combines cetacean watching in Tenerife with a snorkeling stop at Cueva del Amor, allowing you to enjoy beautiful coastal landscapes.
5. Excursion to See Dolphins and Whales in Tenerife on a Catamaran (3 hours)
Another highly recommended alternative for those wishing to enjoy a catamaran excursion to see dolphins in Tenerife is this tour which departs from Puerto Colón, Costa Adeje. It sails along the southwest coast of the island, an area where dolphins and pilot whales are frequently spotted throughout the year.
If at any point the cetaceans do not appear, the tour offers the possibility of repeating the experience at no additional cost. The journey concludes with a stop at Espagueti Beach, perfect for taking a swim or snorkeling, and complimentary drinks are provided onboard.
If you have never sailed on a catamaran, I highly recommend this tour, as it is a very fun experience, especially when encountering a group of playful dolphins that accompany the vessel during the trip.
Highlights: Cetacean watching and a stop at Espagueti Beach for snorkeling
Starting Point: Puerto Colón, Costa Adeje
Duration: Approximately 2–3 hours
Price: from 31 €
Description: Catamaran tour that allows you to see dolphins and whales in Tenerife, including a stop at Espagueti Beach for swimming or snorkeling, along with complimentary drinks and panoramic views of the southwest coast.
6. Cetacean Watching in Tenerife Los Gigantes on a Sailboat (3 hours)
If you prefer to observe cetaceans from Los Gigantes, this sailboat excursion is the ideal option. This tour departs from Los Gigantes and La Caleta and is conducted in small groups, which enriches the experience. Additionally, if the weather permits, participants can help hoist the sails.
During the journey, the areas with the highest probability of encountering dolphins and whales are visited, and there is a stop for those interested to enjoy a swim or snorkel, all set against the spectacular backdrop of the cliffs, with complimentary drinks onboard. It is, without a doubt, a standout option for cetacean watching from Los Gigantes.
Highlights: Sailboat cetacean watching and a stop for snorkeling
Starting Point: Los Gigantes
Duration: Approximately 3 hours
Price: from 65 €
Description: Sailboat tour in small groups for observing cetaceans in Tenerife, which includes a stop for swimming or snorkeling and enjoying impressive views of the cliffs, with complimentary drinks onboard.
Best Time to See Whales in Tenerife
One of the most common questions is when is the best time to see whales in Tenerife. Thanks to its privileged location, it is possible to spot cetaceans throughout the year, especially those species that consider the Canary waters their home, such as common dolphins and pilot whales.
However, to enjoy a greater variety of species, it is advisable to take the tour in winter or spring. During these months, migratory movements of dolphins, beaked whales, blue whales, and minke whales, among other species, occur, increasing the chances of an exceptional sighting.
So, although the best time to see whales in Tenerife is during the winter months and spring, there is no problem traveling at any other time of the year.
Where to See Whales in Tenerife
Another frequent question is about the best places to observe whales in Tenerife. Although this island is the most suitable in the Canaries for this activity, most tours depart from the southern part of the island. Specifically, most excursions leave from Puerto Colón in Costa Adeje, although there are also options starting at Los Gigantes Port or Los Cristianos.
Whale Watching in South Tenerife
Most whale watching excursions in Tenerife begin from Puerto Colón, in Costa Adeje, one of the most touristy areas where attractions such as Siam Park and the popular Playa de las Américas are located. Additionally, this area is home to numerous hotels, restaurants, and charming towns, making it an ideal location to stay.
In Costa Adeje, the following whale watching tours are available:
- Whale and Dolphin Tour in South Tenerife with Underwater Views
- Eco-Cruise with Dolphin and Whale Watching in Tenerife
- Whale and Dolphin Watching on a Luxury Yacht
- Excursion to See Dolphins and Whales in Tenerife on a Catamaran
Although Los Cristianos is located in a less popular area, it also offers some alternatives to enjoy this experience.
Cetacean Watching in Tenerife Los Gigantes
Another option is to book a tour to see cetaceans in Los Gigantes, Tenerife, considered one of the best areas for observing dolphins and whales, as the chances are much higher. In fact, some tours departing from Costa Adeje head toward the waters of Los Gigantes, where the imposing cliffs add a special touch to the experience.
Personally, I believe that this is the ideal tour for those who wish to see whales in Los Gigantes.
What Types of Cetaceans Can Be Seen in Tenerife
The Canary Islands are located in a privileged area for observing whales and dolphins all year round. Below, the most common species in Tenerife and their characteristics are described to facilitate identification.
Dolphins in Tenerife
If you want to see dolphins in Tenerife, the most common species is the short-beaked common dolphin, which is sighted year-round. They are usually found near the coast and are easily visible in groups of 10 to 30 individuals, with a length ranging between 2.5 and 3 meters and a dark gray coloration that lightens on the underside.
In Tenerife, other dolphins also inhabit the waters, such as the Atlantic spotted dolphin, with its body speckled with small spots; the rough-toothed dolphin, recognized by the ridges on its teeth and elongated skull; the striped dolphin, with a bluish tone and lighter lines; and the common dolphin, which has yellowish sides. These species, less frequent or seasonal, may vary according to the time of year.
Pilot Whale in Tenerife
Pilot whales, also known as calderones, are very easy to see in Tenerife. They can reach up to 5 meters in size and weigh between 1 and 2 tons. Although they belong to the dolphin family, they are considered whales due to their large size.
Among their characteristic features are a rounded head, a small snout, and a curved mouth, as well as their black coloration with a gray patch behind the dorsal fin.
It is also possible to observe specimens of the gray pilot whale, which are distinguished by the tone of their skin and the dark color of their dorsal fin, and are also smaller, weighing between 300 and 600 kg.
Sperm Whale in Tenerife
With some luck, as sightings are sporadic, you might have the opportunity to see a sperm whale in Tenerife. This imposing marine mammal can measure between 11 and 18 meters and weigh between 15 and 60 tons, and is distinguished by its enormous head and streaked skin.
Killer Whales in Tenerife
Seeing killer whales in Tenerife is somewhat challenging, although not impossible. The killer whales that are observed can reach up to 9 meters in length and weigh about 5,500 kg, being easily recognizable by their black coloration on the upper part and white on the lower part and around the eyes.
While sightings of killer whales are rare, it is more common to see the so-called false killer whale, which can measure 6 meters and weigh up to 1,500 kg, living in groups of between 10 and 50 individuals.
Other Cetaceans in Tenerife
In addition to the species mentioned, during a cetacean watching tour you may observe various species of beaked whales, including the tropical, common, and northern beaked whales, and rarer specimens such as Fraser’s dolphins, humpback whales, fin whales, or the dwarf sperm whale.
Furthermore, in the waters of the Canaries you can also find sea turtles and a wide variety of fish, so it is recommended to book a tour that includes a snorkeling stop, as mentioned earlier.
I hope this guide has helped you learn about the best options to see dolphins and whales in Tenerife. Enjoy your excursion. I assure you it will be an unforgettable experience!
Happy cetacean watching day in Tenerife!
