Tenerife South is full of fascinating corners, and if there is one thing this part of the island is known for, it is its spectacular coastline. In this area you can unwind on white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, ideal for relaxing, or dive in and enjoy a wide variety of water sports. Moreover, the region is home to numerous towns full of history and charm, where you can breathe in the authentic island essence.
To help you plan your trip to Tenerife, in this guide I suggest some of the best activities to do in the south, as well as the beaches, towns, and must-see spots. Our team was struck by the fact that the attractions in the south differ quite a bit from the tourist spots found in the north of Tenerife, as the south offers an atmosphere more oriented toward sun and beach tourism.
If you’re like us and decide to rent a car in Tenerife (we trust DiscoverCars), you’ll have the freedom to explore both the north and the south. Although it is also possible to get around by bus or organized tours, the convenience and flexibility of having your own vehicle is unmatched.
Anyway, while we do have another general article on the best things to see in Tenerife, here we will focus exclusively on the highlights of the south. At the end of this guide you will also find recommendations for accommodations and restaurants in this area.
Costa Adeje: A Key Spot to Discover in Tenerife South
Costa Adeje has established itself as one of the liveliest and most touristy areas in the south of the island. In this enclave you will find a wide range of bars, restaurants, boutiques, and shopping centers.
Here you will also find some of the most renowned beaches in Tenerife, such as Las Américas and Los Cristianos. It is important to note that these beaches are usually very crowded; therefore, if you prefer a more peaceful atmosphere, Costa del Silencio is the ideal alternative, with clean waters, a charming volcanic landscape, and excellent conditions for scuba diving and snorkeling.
In Adeje you cannot miss the Siam Park, which is detailed later, nor Puertito de Adeje, a nature reserve where you can discover local wildlife such as crabs, fish, seahorses, and turtles in their natural habitat. Don’t miss this post about the 12 best things to do in Costa Adeje.
Additionally, Costa Adeje is home to some of the most exclusive nightclubs in Tenerife, making it the perfect destination for couples or groups of friends looking to enjoy a lively night out.
Playa de Las Américas and Other Coastal Gems in Tenerife South
The Playa de Las Américas stands out for its fine, golden sand and the wide range of water and leisure activities it offers. Strolling along its boardwalk, you will find numerous bars, restaurants, and shops.
Next to it, Los Cristianos beach is another favorite, appreciated by both locals and visitors thanks to its family-friendly atmosphere, white sand, and gentle waves. It is considered one of the best beaches in Tenerife South along with Playa de Las Américas.
It is true that during the high season both beaches can become very crowded; if you are looking for a more serene environment, I suggest visiting Diego Hernández beach, Montaña Pelada beach, or El Médano beach, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Tenerife.
For sea lovers, staying in one of the apartments in Las Américas is an excellent option to be close to these popular beaches.
Dolphin and Whale Watching: A Unique Experience in Tenerife South
An unmissable activity in the south is cetacean watching. Whenever we visit Tenerife or destinations where you can see these animals, we never hesitate to book an excursion to experience it.
Our latest adventure started from Puerto Colón on a catamaran excursion with a glass bottom, which allowed us to get close to areas with a high probability of encountering dolphins and pilot whales. It is worth mentioning that although up to 21 species of cetaceans can be found in the Canary waters, their behavior is unpredictable and no company can guarantee a sighting.
In some cases, if luck is not on your side, you are allowed to repeat the tour for free. I invite you to check out our guide on whale and dolphin watching in Tenerife for more details about these tours.
Siam Park: The Ultimate Water Park in Tenerife South
Siam Park is undoubtedly one of the most fun attractions to visit in the south, especially if you are traveling with children or friends. This water park, located in Costa Adeje, has been recognized as the best in the world on TripAdvisor for several consecutive years.
Among its attractions, the wave pool, The Wave Palace, stands out as the largest in the world, along with thrilling slides such as the Tower of Power, which is 28 meters high. You will also find attractions geared more towards families, like the Mekong Rapids and the Jungle Snake, which offer fun for all tastes.
To avoid long lines, I recommend booking your tickets in advance. Without a doubt, it is an excellent option for a day of maximum fun in Tenerife South.
Vilaflor de Chasna: A Charming Retreat in Tenerife South
Vilaflor de Chasna is one of the most beautiful and peaceful towns in the south, ideal for disconnecting and enjoying a few days of relaxation, especially if you have a week or more on the island.
Located 1500 meters above sea level, this town enjoys a mild climate all year round. Its streets and squares retain the architectural charm of the 17th and 18th centuries, and it offers a circular hiking route that traverses the famous Lunar Landscape.
If you decide to venture on this hike, you will walk through a beautiful pine forest until you reach an almost sci-fi setting, with rocky formations in sandy hues. To fully experience this adventure, I advise staying at least one night in one of the rural hotels in Vilaflor.
Surfing and Bodyboarding: Must-Do Water Sports in Tenerife South
Another exciting activity in the south is practicing water sports such as surfing and bodyboarding. The beaches in this area offer ideal conditions all year round, making them attractive to both residents and tourists.
If you have never tried these sports before, don’t worry: many beaches have schools where you can learn to master the board. I recommend booking a three-hour class to familiarize yourself with the sport.
Playa de Las Américas is one of the best places to practice, with specific zones like El Conquistador or Las Palmeras, which offer waves for different skill levels. Another excellent option is Playa de Las Galletas, located next to a picturesque town where you can relax after your surfing session.
Barranco del Infierno: The Star Hiking Trail in Tenerife South
The Special Natural Reserve of Barranco del Infierno is a must-visit spot for hiking enthusiasts. Its main trail, approximately 3 hours long, is accessible to almost everyone, as the maximum elevation gain is around 200 meters. If you enjoy walking, here you will find the best hiking routes in Tenerife.
During the trek, you will enjoy several viewpoints and, at the end of the path, be surprised by a beautiful waterfall. It is important to note that access to the ravine is regulated, limited to 20 people every half hour, a measure implemented to protect its fragile flora and fauna.
I recommend visiting the official website to check the schedules and book your entry. You can also opt for a guided tour that includes transportation, entry, lunch, and the company of an expert who will tell you all the details about the place.
Scuba Diving: Explore the Marine Biodiversity of Tenerife South
The best of Tenerife South is not limited to its beaches, but also extends to its impressive marine life. Practicing scuba diving is a wonderful way to discover the diversity of species that inhabit its waters. If you haven’t yet ventured into scuba diving, don’t worry, as you can book this activity to get started.
If you have never dived before, there are tours designed for beginners where you will be accompanied by a professional instructor at all times, ensuring a safe and exciting experience.
If scuba diving isn’t your thing and you prefer snorkeling, you can opt for this tour in an area where sea turtles are frequently spotted; or choose the kayak tour. You can also read our guide on the tours in Tenerife that we loved the most if you want more information.
El Médano: A Charming Town and Beach in Tenerife South
El Médano is another town you cannot miss visiting in the south. Known for its excellent conditions for sports like surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing all year round, this place is a magnet for adrenaline lovers.
In addition to sports activities, El Médano offers spectacular beaches, such as La Tejita, located within the Montaña Roja Natural Reserve, where you can enjoy panoramic views of this volcanic crater.
If you prefer to take a break from the sand, I recommend hiking to the top of Montaña Roja, where the characteristic reddish color and the diversity of flora and fauna, especially birds, will take your breath away. Don’t miss visiting the Cueva del Hermano Pedro, declared a Cultural Interest Site, another highlight of this picturesque town.
El Teide: The Must-See National Park in Tenerife South
Finally, the Teide National Park stands out as one of the must-visit destinations in Tenerife South. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and part of the Natural Network 2000, it is a place worth exploring both in the north and the south of the island, even if you only have 3 days in Tenerife.
If you enjoy hiking, I highly recommend climbing to the peak of Teide. The most common way to do so is by taking the cable car, located at 2356 meters above sea level, which connects you to La Rambleta at 3555 meters. From there, you must complete the last 200 meters on foot to the summit, following Trail 10 or Telesforo Bravo.
It is important to note that to access this trail you must request a permit in advance. If you do not have it, you will not be able to reach the summit, although from La Rambleta you also have the option of taking Trail 11, which leads to the Mirador de la Fortaleza, or Trail 12, which takes you to the Mirador del Pico Viejo—two viewpoints of Teide that I recommend visiting.
Another alternative to climb Teide is to complete the entire route on foot. We chose Trail 7, known as Montaña Blanca, which covers about 8 kilometers and takes approximately 4 hours. This route reaches La Rambleta, so you also need the permit if you wish to reach the summit. However, by staying overnight at the Altavista Refuge, we were able to access the summit in the early morning without a permit, as long as we left the summit before 9 a.m. The experience was worth it, as we had the opportunity to enjoy the sunrise from the peak of Teide.
If the above options do not suit your plans, you can choose one of the organized tours in Teide. The most comprehensive alternative is this tour, which includes both the permit to access the peak and the cable car; there is also another option that covers only the cable car. Additionally, you have the option of taking this free tour, which will allow you to discover the Cañadas del Teide, including the Roques de García and the Roque Cinchado, the most interesting areas to visit.
Where to Stay in Tenerife South – Best Hotels in Tenerife South
To make the most of the charms of the south, an excellent option is to stay in one of the hotels in the area.
Among the numerous alternatives where to stay in Tenerife, I recommend the Iberostar Selection Sábila, one of the best 5-star hotels in Spain, located in front of Fañabé beach in Costa Adeje. Its facilities include a pool, spa, and a buffet restaurant, making it one of the best hotels in Tenerife South.
If this establishment does not have rooms available for your dates, you will find other equally interesting options on Booking.
Where to Eat in Tenerife South – Best Restaurants in Tenerife South
If you are looking to enjoy the local cuisine, there are excellent options in Tenerife South. For example, the restaurant Almar Tenerife, located near Puerto Colón in Costa Adeje, specializes in seafood and fish, although it also offers meats as well as vegetarian and vegan options.
Another alternative is the Taberna del Tío Martín at Playa de Las Américas, a tavern-style venue with a varied selection of tapas.
In El Médano, Restaurante Familiar stands out for its friendly and warm service, serving dishes ranging from fresh fish to grilled meats at very reasonable prices. Check out our guide on where to eat in Tenerife to discover more restaurant recommendations, including some dedicated to Canarian cuisine.
Map of South Tenerife, Canary Islands
To help with your planning, here is a map of South Tenerife where you can locate all the places mentioned in this guide:
I hope this guide helps you discover all the attractions that South Tenerife has to offer. If you wish to explore even more of the island, remember that the most practical way to get around is by renting a car; however, if you prefer not to drive, you can opt for some of the best excursions, such as one departing from Costa Adeje and touring the entire island.
Enjoy Tenerife to the fullest, one of the most amazing Canary Islands! If you have any questions or would like to share your experience, leave a comment below. I would be delighted to read it!
