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Underwater origins
The islands are the peaks of colossal mountains whose base sits at 3,000 metres deep.
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Guide · Canary Islands · 2026Tenerife
Tenerife
an island of eternal spring
Everything you need for a first trip: where to go, what to see, how to move around the island and what to pack.
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Anhelina Chemerys@angelina_ch_
GeologyHow the
How the
island was born
The Canaries are volcanic islands that grew straight from the ocean floor. A "hot spot" beneath the crust pushed lava upward for millions of years.
02
How Tenerife formed
Three separate landmasses rose first: Anaga, Teno and Adeje. Central eruptions filled the gaps with lava and merged everything into one island. Pico del Teide grew at the seam.
03
Living geology
It isn't over: Tenerife's last major eruption took place as recently as 1909.
Two sides of the islandNorth
North
and south
North
Green resort
More rain, more forests, more old towns. Atmospheric, historic, authentic – the real nature of Tenerife.
South
Sunny resort
Dry, almost rainless, more swimming beaches and hotels. Pure resort relaxation.
Where to stayFour
Four
reliable bases
Costa Adeje
The best beaches on the island, clean and modern. Great for a first trip, couples and families.
Los Cristianos
A balance of price and atmosphere. Cheaper than Adeje, a nice town beach and lots of apartments.
Playa de las Américas
Bars, clubs, surfing. For young travellers and nightlife – can be very loud.
Puerto de la Cruz
The best pick for nature and atmosphere. Old town, parks, an authentic Spanish vibe.
BeachesFrom white sand
From white sand
to black lava
Seven beaches I recommend seeing first – from luxurious to wild and volcanic.
South
Playa del Duque
A premium resort area with white sand, clean sea, sunbeds and cafés right at hand.
South
Playa de las Américas
One of the largest tourist beaches. Restaurants, bars, surf spot.
South
Playa Fañabé
A sandy beach with all amenities. Calm ocean – ideal for families.
South
Playa de los Cristianos
The town beach in Los Cristianos. Soft sand and an easy location to walk to.
North
Playa Jardín
Black volcanic sand surrounded by gardens and palms. Great for striking photos.
North
Playa Bollullo
Wild black sand, untamed conditions and bigger waves – solid spot for surfing.
East
Playa de las Teresitas
Golden sand brought from the Sahara. The classic family beach with palm trees.
What to tryCanarian
Canarian
cuisine
Seafood
Fresh Vieja (parrotfish), Cherne (sea bass) and grilled squid.
Staple sides
Papas arrugadas – small potatoes boiled in their skins in heavily salted water, served with the bright fresh Mojo sauce.
Cheese & desserts
Goat cheese (Queso de cabra) and Bienmesabe – a Canarian dessert of almond, honey and spice.
Tenerife drinks
Local wine
The vines grow on volcanic soil – you can taste it. The wines are light, fresh and have a fine mineral edge. The whites are especially good.
Signature drinks
Honey rum (Ron miel) and the local Barraquito coffee – condensed milk, liqueur, espresso and cinnamon.