Tenerife holiday guide: Canary Islands beaches, volcanoes and endless sunshine

Tenerife stands as one of Europe’s most beloved year-round destinations, where winter never truly arrives and sunshine is almost guaranteed. 

For Estonians seeking an escape from long, dark winters or simply yearning for a holiday blessed with exceptional weather, Tenerife delivers an irresistible combination: dramatic volcanic landscapes, golden and black-sand beaches, vibrant culture, and temperatures that hover comfortably between 17°C and 30°C year-round. 

Whether you’re planning a winter sun escape, a summer beach holiday, or an active adventure exploring volcanic terrain, Tenerife offers something extraordinary for every traveller.

Introduction to Tenerife: the island of eternal spring

Tenerife’s allure and popularity

Tenerife earned its moniker “the Island of Eternal Spring” through consistently pleasant weather that defies the seasons. Set off the west coast of North Africa at the same latitude as the Sahara Desert, the island benefits from trade winds and the temperate Canary Current—cool water that swells up from deep in the Atlantic Ocean—creating a climate that remains comfortable year-round. 

This unique position has made Tenerife extraordinarily popular: the island welcomed 5.6 million visitors in 2024, making it the most visited of the Canary Islands.

What sets Tenerife apart from typical beach destinations is its diversity. The island offers dramatic volcanic landscapes centred around Mount Teide—Spain’s highest peak at 3,718 metres—alongside traditional Spanish villages, modern resorts, whale-watching opportunities, and a surprising variety of microclimates. 

According to meteorological data, August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 24°C, whilst January, the coldest month, still maintains a comfortable average of 17°C. This consistency makes Tenerife genuinely viable as a holiday destination any month of the year.

Key facts about the island

Tenerife is the largest of Spain’s seven Canary Islands, measuring approximately 80 km in length and 50 km at its widest point. The island’s compact size belies its diversity—Mount Teide divides Tenerife into distinct northern and southern regions, each with its own character and climate.

Essential Tenerife statistics:

• Population: Approximately 950,000 permanent residents
• Area: 2,034 square kilometres
• Highest point: Mount Teide at 3,718 metres (Spain’s highest peak)
• Capital: Santa Cruz de Tenerife (joint capital of the Canary Islands with Las Palmas)
• Annual visitors: 5.6 million tourists in 2024
• Climate zones: Multiple microclimates from arid south to lush north
• Languages: Spanish (official), with English and German widely spoken in tourist areas

The island’s volcanic origin has shaped everything from its distinctive black sand beaches to its unique wine production. Unlike many Mediterranean islands, Tenerife offers genuine variety within a small space—you can experience subtropical forests in the north, desert-like landscapes in the south, alpine conditions around Mount Teide, and coastal beaches all within an hour’s drive.

Getting to Tenerife from Estonia: flight deals and options

Direct flights from Tallinn to Tenerife operate during the winter season, typically from late October through March, making the island easily accessible for Estonians seeking winter sun. These seasonal routes recognise the strong demand from Northern European travellers seeking to escape harsh winters.

Travellers can choose between round-trip and one-way tickets when booking flights to Tenerife. Round-trip tickets are often more convenient and can sometimes offer a cheaper fare. In contrast, one-way tickets provide flexibility for those with open-ended plans or who want to combine flights with different airlines or routes. Comparing both options helps travellers find the cheapest price and the most suitable travel arrangements for their needs.

Travel options from Estonia:

• Direct flights: Seasonal services from Tallinn to Tenerife South Airport (TFS) operate during peak winter months, with flight times of approximately 6-7 hours
• Connecting flights: Year-round options via major European hubs (Madrid, Barcelona, Frankfurt, Amsterdam) offer flexibility for travel outside direct flight seasons
• Two airports: Tenerife South Airport (Reina Sofía, TFS) serves the sunny southern resorts, whilst Tenerife North Airport (Los Rodeos, TFN) is closer to Santa Cruz and the greener northern region

When searching for the cheapest flights, use online tools to compare prices across different days and dates. Flexible dates and adjusting your travel plans to fly on other days can help you find the cheapest price and more affordable options.

Use flight booking websites and search features to compare options, track prices, and find the best flight deals, including last-minute flight deals and discounts.

When planning your trip, compare flight options through our travel comparison tool on this page to find the best deals. Use historical data and price-tracking features to determine the optimal time to book tickets for maximum savings. Always check that all taxes and fees are included in the ticket price when booking online.

Premium economy and other seat classes are available on many airlines, allowing travellers to select their preferred seat and fare type during the booking process. International flights and domestic flights may have different booking requirements, so travellers should stay informed about payment options and any changes to their travel plans.

Airlines often offer more deals and affordable fares to popular destinations like Tenerife. Searching by route and departure city can help travellers find the best flight for their plans. Use features like flexible dates and fare alerts to save money and find cheap flights to Tenerife.

Travellers can use the website to search for flights, compare prices, and book flights securely. Tracking flight prices and setting up alerts can help travellers find the cheapest airline tickets and secure the best deal.

Focus on your travel experience by using user-friendly booking features and staying informed about your flight status for a smooth journey.

Tenerife’s exceptional year-round climate

Understanding the island’s unique weather patterns

Tenerife’s climate represents one of its greatest assets. The island enjoys a subtropical climate with minimal rainfall, averaging just 296 mm annually—most of which falls between November and February. This means abundant sunshine year-round, with an average of 300 sunny days per year.

The minimum and maximum annual average temperatures range from about 15°C in winter to 24°C in summer, but these figures mask significant regional variations. Mount Teide creates a natural barrier, dividing the island into two distinct climate zones:

Southern Tenerife:

• Consistently warmer and drier
• Minimal cloud cover and rainfall
• Popular resort areas like Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, and Costa Adeje
• Less wind and more predictable weather
• Ideal for beach holidays and water sports

Northern Tenerife:

• Slightly cooler with more rainfall
• Lush, green landscapes
• More authentic Spanish atmosphere
• Popular with hikers and nature enthusiasts
• Home to the historic capital, Santa Cruz, and the beautiful town of La Orotava

The trade winds and Gulf air currents are major weather factors contributing to this pleasant climate. Unlike Morocco, which can experience severe heat, Tenerife enjoys predictable, consistent weather thanks to the northeasterly trade winds blowing across the Atlantic.

Best time to visit Tenerife

Your ideal visiting time depends on priorities—weather, crowds, and budget. The best time to visit for optimal weather is between April and October, when temperatures are comfortable, rainfall is minimal, and conditions are perfect for exploring. However, Tenerife’s year-round appeal means there’s genuinely no “bad” time to visit.

Seasonal breakdown:

Winter (November-March):

• Average temperatures: 17-21°C
• Most rainfall (still modest by most standards)
• Lowest prices for accommodation and flights
• Fewer crowds
• Perfect for Estonians escaping harsh Baltic winters
• Sea temperatures remain pleasant at 19-20°C
• Carnival of Santa Cruz (February/March) is a major cultural highlight

Spring (April-June):

• Average temperatures: 20-25°C
• Low rainfall
• Fewer crowds than in the summer
• Sea temperatures rising to 19-23°C, ideal for swimming
• Excellent for hiking and outdoor activities
• Good value for accommodation

Summer (July-September):

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• Average temperatures: 24-30°C
• Almost no rainfall
• Busiest season with 5.6 million annual visitors, many concentrated in these months
• Highest accommodation prices
• Sea temperatures peak at 24°C in September
• Vibrant nightlife and full resort atmosphere

Autumn (October-November):

• Average temperatures: 22-26°C
• Low rainfall
• Fewer crowds than in the summer
• Still warm sea temperatures
• Better value than peak season
• Ideal for active holidays

For budget-conscious travellers, consider visiting during the winter months (excluding Christmas and New Year) or spring. You’ll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and significantly lower costs. Using flexible dates when searching for flights can help you find cheaper flights, especially during off-peak seasons. Our guide on cost-of-living crisis investing offers strategies for managing holiday budgets during economically challenging times.

Discovering Tenerife’s diverse regions and attractions

Mount Teide National Park: volcanic wonderland

Mount Teide stands as Tenerife’s crown jewel—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Spain’s highest peak. The national park surrounding this dormant volcano presents otherworldly landscapes that seem transported from another planet. Volcanic rock formations in shades of red, orange, and black create a dramatic backdrop for hiking and photography.

Visiting Mount Teide:

• Cable car access: Takes visitors to 3,555 metres, close to the summit (permit required for final ascent to peak)
• Hiking trails: Multiple routes of varying difficulty, from easy walks to challenging summit attempts
• Star gazing: One of the world’s best locations for astronomy due to clear skies and minimal light pollution
• Temperature warning: Even when coastal areas enjoy 25°C sunshine, temperatures at the summit can drop near freezing with occasional snow in winter
• Best visiting times: Morning for clearest views before afternoon clouds develop

The park’s lunar-like landscape provides a stark contrast to Tenerife’s coastal regions. This national park is truly a unique place that you should not miss, offering landscapes that seem to come from another plane, where you’ll feel tiny in these impressive surroundings.

Southern resorts: sun, sea and entertainment

Southern Tenerife hosts the island’s most developed tourist areas, built specifically to maximise sunshine and beach access. These modern resorts offer everything from world-class hotels to water parks, championship golf courses, and vibrant nightlife.

Popular southern destinations:

Playa de las Américas:

• Most lively resort area
• Extensive nightlife and entertainment
• Multiple beaches with golden sand (imported)
• Water sports facilities
• Shopping centres and restaurants
• Popular with younger travellers and families

Los Cristianos:

• Slightly more relaxed than Playa de las Américas
• Traditional fishing village turned resort
• Excellent for families
• Ferry connections to La Gomera island
• Good selection of restaurants and bars

Costa Adeje:

• More upmarket than neighbouring resorts
• Luxury hotels and high-end restaurants
• Beautiful beaches, including Playa del Duque
• Excellent for couples and those seeking quieter sophistication
• Water sports and boat excursions

Los Gigantes:

• Dramatic cliffs rising 600 metres from the sea
• Excellent whale and dolphin watching
• Black sand beaches
• More tranquil atmosphere
• Popular with older visitors

Northern Tenerife: authentic culture and lush landscapes

Northern Tenerife offers an entirely different experience—greener, more traditional, and less tourist-focused. The north receives more rainfall, creating lush landscapes that contrast dramatically with the arid south.

Northern highlights:

Santa Cruz de Tenerife:

• Joint capital of the Canary Islands
• Authentic Spanish city life
• Host to the famous Carnival of Santa Cruz, one of the world’s largest carnivals (February/March)
• Excellent shopping and dining
• Beautiful parks and architecture
• Less touristy than southern resorts

La Orotava:

• Historic town with beautiful colonial architecture
• Traditional Canarian balconies and courtyards
• Surrounded by banana plantations
• Excellent base for exploring the north

Puerto de la Cruz:

• Traditional resort town
• Natural tidal pools (Lago Martiánez)
• Botanical gardens
• More Spanish atmosphere than southern resorts
• Slightly cooler and cloudier than south

Anaga Rural Park:

• Ancient laurel forests
• Dramatic mountain scenery
• Excellent hiking
• Traditional villages
• Less visited by tourists

Coastal experiences and beaches

Tenerife’s volcanic origin creates distinctive beaches unlike typical Mediterranean golden sands. The island offers variety—from black volcanic sand to golden imported sand, from busy resort beaches to secluded coves.

Notable beaches:

Golden sand beaches (southern resorts):

• Playa de las Vistas (Los Cristianos)
• Playa del Duque (Costa Adeje)
• Playa de Troya (Playa de las Américas)
• These beaches use imported Saharan sand
• Full facilities and water sports
• Family-friendly with calm waters

Black sand beaches:

• Playa de la Arena (Puerto de Santiago)
• Playa Jardín (Puerto de la Cruz)
• Playa de Benijo (Anaga, wild and dramatic)
• Natural volcanic sand
• Often less crowded
• Unique aesthetic appeal

Natural pools:

• Piscinas naturales de Garachico (stunning volcanic rock pools)
• Charco del Viento (Tenerife’s largest natural pool)
• Free access
• Calmer waters than open beaches

Unique experiences and adventures in Tenerife

Whale and dolphin watching

Tenerife’s waters host permanent populations of pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins, making it one of Europe’s best locations for marine mammal watching. The channel between Tenerife and La Gomera offers year-round opportunities to see these magnificent creatures.

What to expect:

• Multiple tour operators offering half-day and full-day trips
• High success rate (pilot whales visible year-round)
• Responsible operators maintain respectful distances.
• Often combined with swimming stops
• Departs mainly from Los Cristianos, Puerto Colón, and Los Gigantes

Hiking and outdoor activities

Beyond beaches and resorts, Tenerife offers exceptional hiking opportunities through varied landscapes.

Popular hiking routes:

• Masca Gorge: Challenging descent through a dramatic ravine from a mountain village to the sea
• Teide Summit: Requires a permit, best attempted early morning
• Anaga Mountains: Multiple trails through ancient forests
• Barranco del Infierno: Popular canyon walk (booking required)
• Lunar landscapes: Easy walks through surreal volcanic terrain

For those planning active holidays, proper footwear and sun protection are essential. Our article on finance health checks can help ensure your holiday budget accommodates activities and necessary equipment.

Local cuisine and wine experiences

Tenerife’s volcanic soil and unique climate produce distinctive wines and foods. The island has developed its own culinary identity, blending Spanish traditions with local ingredients.

Must-try dishes:

• Papas arrugadas con mojo: Wrinkled potatoes with spicy or mild sauce—Canarian classic
• Fresh fish: Vieja, cherne, and other local species
• Conejo en salmorejo: Rabbit in marinade, a traditional Canarian dish
• Ropa vieja: Chickpea and meat stew
• Gofio: Toasted grain flour, an ancient Guanche staple
• Canarian bananas: Smaller and sweeter than standard bananas

Wine tasting:

Tenerife produces exceptional wines thanks to volcanic soil, with five designated wine regions. The island specialises in unique grape varieties rarely found elsewhere.

• Malvasía: Sweet white wine, historically famous
• Listán Negro: Red wine grape producing fruity, approachable wines
• Wine regions: Tacoronte-Acentejo, Valle de la Orotava, Ycoden-Daute-Isora
• Bodega tours: Many wineries offer tastings and tours, often with spectacular views

Cultural experiences

Carnival of Santa Cruz:

One of the world’s largest and most vibrant carnivals is held in February or early March. The event features elaborate costumes, street parties, music, and parades. The celebration is so culturally significant that it’s currently seeking UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Local festivals:

• Corpus Christi flower carpets (June)
• Romería pilgrimages throughout the summer
• Traditional Canarian wrestling demonstrations
• Local village fiestas year-round

Practical planning for your Tenerife holiday

Getting around the island

Tenerife’s compact size makes exploration manageable, but having transport significantly enhances your experience.

Transport options:

Rental car:

• Most flexible option
• Well-maintained roads
• Essential for exploring remote areas
• Book in advance for better rates
• Automatic transmission is often more expensive
• Parking is generally available, but can be tight in old town centres

Public buses (TITSA):

• An extensive network connecting major towns
• Economical option
• Less frequent in rural areas
• It can be slow for long distances
• Buy a Bono travel card for discounted fares

Taxis:

• Readily available in tourist areas
• Metered fares
• More expensive than buses, but convenient for short trips

Organised tours:

• Good option for specific attractions (Teide, Masca, whale watching)
• Eliminates driving and parking concerns
• Can be more expensive but stress-free

Accommodation considerations

Tenerife offers accommodation for every budget, from budget apartments to five-star luxury resorts.

Accommodation types:

All-inclusive resorts:

• Popular in southern resort areas
• Simplifies budgeting
• Multiple restaurants, pools, and entertainment
• Less authentic local experience
• Can feel isolated from “real” Tenerife

Self-catering apartments:

• Excellent value, especially for families
• Flexibility for meals
• More space than hotel rooms
• Requires more planning

Boutique hotels:

• Found mainly in northern towns and rural areas
• More personalised service
• Often in historic buildings
• Better for experiencing local culture

Rural houses (casas rurales):

• Traditional Canarian properties
• Often in the mountains or the countryside
• Peaceful settings
• Requires a car for accessibility

Booking considerations:

• Peak season (summer and Christmas) requires booking months in advance
• Southern resorts are generally more expensive than northern ones
• Sea-view rooms command premium prices
• Check cancellation policies carefully

Budgeting for your Tenerife holiday

Tenerife offers good value compared to many European destinations, but costs vary significantly depending on your choices.

Typical daily costs per person (excluding accommodation):

Budget traveller:

• Meals: €20-30 (self-catering breakfast, lunch menu del día, casual dinner)
• Activities: €10-20 (beaches free, museums modest fees)
• Transport: €5-10 (buses)
• Total: €35-60 per day

Mid-range traveller:

• Meals: €40-60 (breakfast out, lunch, nice dinner)
• Activities: €30-50 (paid attractions, tours)
• Transport: €20-30 (rental car, parking)
• Total: €90-140 per day

Luxury traveller:

• Meals: €80+ (upscale restaurants, resort dining)
• Activities: €60+ (private tours, premium experiences)
• Transport: €30+ (taxis, premium car rental)
• Total: €170+ per day

Money-saving tips:

• Visit during shoulder seasons (April-June, October-November) for lower accommodation costs
• Eat menu del día lunches (three courses with drink, typically €10-15)
• Shop at local supermarkets (Mercadona, HiperDino) rather than resort shops
• Use public transport where practical
• Book activities directly rather than through hotel concierges
• Free beaches and natural parks provide excellent entertainment
• Consider northern Tenerife for more authentic, less expensive dining

For comprehensive guidance on managing holiday finances, explore our article on how to teach children about money, which includes budgeting strategies applicable to all ages.

Essential practical information

Before you travel:

• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language: Spanish (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
• Time zone: GMT/WET (same as UK, 2 hours behind Estonia)
• Electricity: 230V, European two-pin plugs
• Travel insurance: Essential—ensure coverage includes activities you plan to undertake
• European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): Provides access to the Spanish healthcare system

Health and safety:

• Sun protection is crucial: UV levels are high year-round, reapply sunscreen regularly
• Tap water: Safe to drink but often heavily chlorinated; bottled water is widely available
• Healthcare: Excellent public and private healthcare available
• Emergency number: 112 (universal European emergency number)
• Pharmacy: Well-stocked pharmacies (farmacias) in all towns
• Crime: Very safe destination; petty theft in tourist areas exists but is uncommon

Cultural considerations:

• Siesta: Many smaller shops close 2-5 PM
• Dining times: Lunch 1-3 PM, dinner 8-11 PM (restaurants accommodate tourists earlier)
• Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated (5-10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares)
• Dress code: Casual; cover shoulders and knees for churches
• Language effort: Basic Spanish phrases appreciated, even in tourist areas

What to pack

Essential items:

• High SPF sunscreen (50+) and reapply frequently
• Hat and sunglasses
• Comfortable walking shoes (necessary for cobblestone streets and hiking)
• Light layers (temperatures can vary with altitude)
• Swimwear and beach equipment
• Camera for stunning volcanic landscapes
• Adapters for European two-pin plugs
• Basic Spanish phrasebook or translation app

Additional considerations:

• Warm jacket if visiting Mount Teide or travelling in the winter months
• Hiking boots if planning mountain trails
• Snorkelling equipment (though rentalis  widely available)
• Reusable water bottle

The Estonian connection: Tenerife’s expatriate community

Tenerife hosts a notable Estonian expatriate community, often called “kliimapagulased” (climate refugees)—Estonians who’ve relocated to escape harsh Baltic winters. This community has grown steadily, drawn by the island’s year-round pleasant weather, lower cost of living compared to Northern Europe, and relaxed lifestyle.

Why Estonians choose Tenerife:

• Escape from long, dark Estonian winters
• Significant cost-of-living advantages (housing, utilities, dining out)
• Pleasant climate enabling outdoor activities year-round
• Direct flight connections during the winter season
• Growing Estonian community providing social support
• Spanish residency is relatively accessible for EU citizens
• Remote work opportunities allow many to maintain Estonian income whilst enjoying the Canarian lifestyle

The Estonian community celebrates Estonian national holidays together, maintains cultural connections, and has even established an Estonian library on the island. For visiting Estonians, this means familiar faces, potential language support, and insider knowledge about living on or visiting Tenerife.

Tenerife beyond the beaches: sustainable tourism considerations

Tenerife received 5.6 million visitors in 2024, contributing significantly to the local economy but also raising sustainability concerns. The island faces challenges in balancing tourism’s economic benefits with environmental protection and local quality of life.

Responsible tourism practices:

• Support local businesses rather than international chains
• Use public transport or car-sharing where possible
• Respect natural areas—stay on marked trails, don’t remove volcanic rocks
• Choose eco-certified accommodation and tour operators
• Avoid contributing to water waste (a precious resource on a volcanic island)
• Be mindful of wildlife, particularly when whale watching
• Learn basic Spanish and respect local customs
• Visit during shoulder seasons to reduce pressure on infrastructure

Conclusion: Tenerife awaits your discovery

Tenerife delivers on its promise of eternal spring. At this destination, sunshine is virtually guaranteed, regardless of when you visit, as dramatic volcanic landscapes contrast with lush forests and beautiful beaches, and genuine Spanish culture coexists comfortably with modern tourist facilities. For Estonians, the island offers particularly compelling appeal: direct winter flights, an established expatriate community, and a reliable escape from Baltic darkness.

Whether you seek adventure hiking through lunar landscapes around Mount Teide, relaxation on golden or black sand beaches, cultural immersion in traditional northern towns, or simply guaranteed sunshine and pleasant temperatures, Tenerife accommodates every holiday style. The island’s compact size means you’re never far from your next experience, whilst its microclimates offer genuine variety within easy reach.

With 5.6 million annual visitors, Tenerife has clearly captured hearts worldwide. The island’s enduring popularity stems from delivering consistently on its core promises: excellent weather, diverse experiences, and genuine value. 

For Estonians planning their next holiday, Tenerife represents not just a destination but a complete escape—a place where winter never arrives, where outdoor activities are possible year-round, and where the only decision is whether to spend your day hiking volcanic peaks, lounging on beaches, or savouring local wine whilst watching the Atlantic sunset.

Start planning your Tenerife adventure today. 

The island of eternal spring awaits, promising sunshine, discovery, and memories that will warm you through even the darkest Estonian winter. For more holiday planning guidance, explore our comprehensive travel section and don’t forget to arrange appropriate travel insurance before departure.

¡Buen viaje! (Have a great journey!)