Tenerife is hardly a secret holiday destination. Millions of tourists visit the largest island of the Canary Islands archipelago every year to discover its unique landscape adorned with lush valleys and ancient forests, all dominated by the volcanic peak of Mt. Teide that reaches an altitude of 12,198 feet. However, most travelers prefer to set their base on the dry south coast. This is where the most famous strips of sand await guarded by five-star resorts and wrapped in a distinctive exotic beach destination vibe.

Straw umbrellas and loungers on the Playa de Las Americas, Tenerife

Playas de las Americas

The party capital of the island and a lively holiday destination, Playas de las Americas awaits at the edge of the desert and welcomes visitors with 24-hour fun. Young people flood the streets of the resort, especially Veronica’s strip where all the famous nightclubs, bars, live music venues, and restaurants await. People are dancing in the street, under the neon lights, and the resort never sleeps!

Surfing and body boarding at the beach in Playa Las Americas, Tenerife.

Playas de las Americas might not be for you if you’re looking for quiet nights and peaceful days in the sun. The beach is perfect not only for sunbathing on golden sand beaches, but also for practising a variety of water sports, like jet-skiing, windsurfing, and scuba diving. Whale and dolphin watching cruises are a fun way to spend the day, as are the trips on pirate ships or on board a yellow submarine. Gold las Americas, an 18-hole course situated in the heart of the resort, is the perfect spot to have fun golfing on verdant greens while admiring spectacular views. For those looking to surf as well, this spot has some amazing waves to enjoy.

Los Cristianos Beach on the island of Tenerife

Los Cristianos

Situated nearby Playa de las Americas, Los Cristianos is as popular and crowded. Once an old fishing town, the resort is now a colorful party scene filled with nightclubs, bars, and cafes. Los Cristianos has a large beach dressed in golden sands and crystal clear tranquil waters, perfect for swimming and enjoying a relaxing day in the sun. The next beach is Playa de las Vistas, another impressive ribbon of golden sand, equipped with all the necessary facilities for long days in the sun, as well as for practicing water sports. The resort’s harbor connects Los Cristianos to the other islands of the archipelago, including La Gomera, Fuerteventura, and Gran Canaria and offers access to fishing trips, diving excursions, as well as adventures on glass bottom boats. Once the beach day is over, you’ll discover a maze of streets lined with shops, cafes, and bars.

Playa del Duque beach. Costa Adeje, Tenerife.

Costa Adeje

A classy resort and a destination for travelers who prefer luxurious accommodation, fine dining, and immaculate sandy beaches, Costa Adeje promises sunshine and relaxation. Moreover, the resort abounds in fun activities you can enjoy, such as windsurfing, jet-skiing, whale and dolphin watching, and golfing. It also houses two amazing water parks – Aqualand and the spectacular Siam Park, a giant water park that has everything you can wish for, from tranquil pools to a 90-foot drop into a “shark” aquarium. The beaches of Costa Adeje are among the best in the archipelago, all blessed with golden soft sand and warm clear waters. Playa del Duque is a destination for tourists who prefer to relax on sumptuous lounges and to dine at select restaurants and bars while Playa Fañabé invites visitors on a large stretch of soft sand and creates the perfect setting for swimming in the ocean. The tranquil cove of Playa Paraiso is home to a variety of fish and famous for its fabulous 5-star hotel.

Picturesque beach and volcanic rocks in Alcala on Tenerife, Spain

Alcala and Alabama Beach

A former fishing village, Alcala is now a favorite destination for honeymooners and couples who enjoy spending their time on one of its lovely, quiet beaches and pamper their taste buds with delicious fish and seafood. Moreover, the resort is home to one of the best hotels in Tenerife, Red Level at Gran Melia Palacio de Isora – Adults Only, and has a sailing school where you can attend private lessons. Another romantic destination, especially due to the presence of the sophisticated Ritz-Carlton Alabama complex, Alabama Beach enchants visitors with superb views and a beautiful beach where they can enjoy splendid seafood at a pretty beach bar. The hotel’s architecture is inspired by the Tuareg and its rooms offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and La Gomera Island. Moreover, the complex is surrounded by a tropical park and has seven outdoor pools, a tennis court, and a colossal golf course. This means that you’ll have absolutely no reason to leave its premises!