Tenerife is one of the most popular destinations for UK holidaymakers. In fact, in the first 9 months of 2024, the island welcomed over 2 million passengers from British airports, with 44.1% of all visitors to the Canary Islands making their way to Tenerife. It’s easy to see why too, and for anyone that has been there before, there is a lot on the island that can justify a trip back. Stunning beaches, beautiful coastal towns, and breathtaking natural landscapes make the largest of the Canary Islands a popular choice, but how much of the island’s hidden gems do most tourists miss?
Below, you will learn more about the many parts of Tenerife that are less visited and still provide plenty to experience, so if you’re looking for the perfect excuse to book the next flight or want to explore the island for the first time, here are some of the places to seek out.
Secret Beaches Away From The Crowds
The island’s coastline is full of well-known resort beaches, but Tenerife also has some spectacular secret beach day locations to discover when looking for something different. One such hidden treasure is Playa Bollullo, located on the North coast just 4 km East of Puerto de la Cruz. This secluded black sand beach, accessible via a winding path, offers a dramatic contrast to the island’s busy tourist spots. The journey to get to Bollullo is part of the adventure, rewarding visitors with panoramic views and a quieter, more intimate beach.
Another is Playa de Abama, situated on the South West coast. The cove is best accessed by foot from the nearby car park, as it is surrounded by rugged cliffs that have banana plantations, adding to the beach’s pristine condition and tranquil atmosphere. You’ll enjoy crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkelling and a beautiful setting for the perfect beach day.
The absence of crowds and commercialisation that can be found at the resorts makes these spots perfect for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature and are just 2 examples of many secluded beaches to find.
Charming Villages To Explore
As well as the beaches, Tenerife is home to many charming villages that offer a glimpse into the island’s rich history and vibrant culture, far removed from the typical tourist spots. Masca is a perfect example, nestled in the Teno Mountains, and is perhaps the most picturesque of these. It is a tiny village with stunning terraced landscapes and traditional stone houses, providing a perfect setting for those looking to explore the island’s rural charm away from the cities. The village is also a good starting point for those wanting to hike the Masca Gorge, although you will need to book a place ahead due to limited capacity each day.
Further north, Taganana located in the Anaga Mountains within the nature reserve, is one of the island’s oldest villages, known for its ancient churches including Nuestra Señora de las Nieves, and exceptional views that have to be seen to be believed. The area is also great for hikers, with several trails to discover.
Visiting these villages not only supports the local economy but also preserves the unique heritage of the island. It will feel like a world away from the busy parts of the island.
Natural Wonders You Have To See
You cannot talk about Tenerife without mentioning the island’s many natural wonders. One of the island’s most stunning is the Anaga Rural Park, so if visiting Taganana you can’t miss it. Just under an hour’s drive from Tenerife’s capital, Santa Cruz, you can find this otherworldly location which is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that has forests, rugged cliffs, and deep ravines. The park has numerous trails that allow hikers to explore the area, and you can reach the coast at Roque de las Bodegas too.
The other unmissable location that can be seen from almost anywhere is Mount Teide, the active volcano that prominently oversees the island in Teide National Park. It’s also Spain’s highest peak at 3,718m. Heading here is always a rewarding experience, but there are nearby gems that can be missed too. One of these is Cueva del Viento, one of the largest volcanic tubes in the world. Also known as the ‘Wind Cave’, this underground labyrinth was formed by lava flows and is 18 km long. Guided tours of the cave offer a unique experience, unlike anything else on the island.
Exploring both Anaga Rural Park and Cueva del Viento will provide you with a deeper appreciation of the island’s natural heritage.
Travel Essentials Not To Forget
With all the excitement of planning a visit to any of Tenerife’s hidden hotspots, it’s easy to forget about all of the travel admin you’ll need to sort out first. The quicker you can arrange the following, the sooner you can get back to planning an exciting itinerary.
Check your passport expiry and whether your Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is still valid. The Spain foreign travel advice page will provide you with more information on the Gov.UK website, but you’ll need to ensure your passport is less than 10 years old from the date of issue and has an expiry date of at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave.
It’s crucial to travel with peace of mind, so taking out a comprehensive travel insurance policy is one of the best ways to ensure this alongside your GHIC, protecting you against unforeseen events like medical emergencies, lost luggage, or travel disruptions. A medical travel insurance policy that covers pre-existing conditions is a smart option to fully cover you, so make sure to research providers you find online if you are someone with any health concerns. You will need to declare any pre-existing medical conditions on your policy as this will avoid any potential claim from being declined, according to travel insurer Staysure. If you are planning on any adventurous activities whilst in Tenerife, be sure your insurance also covers this.
Think about how you will get around on the island. Some of the spots above are easier to get to than others, so you will need to consider whether you will rely on public transport or hire a car. Renting a car might be more convenient for reaching off-the-beaten-path locations, but public transport is an eco-friendly alternative. There’s also the option of booking a tour to reach certain places which will provide transportation, so research which is better for you and your budget.
Seek Out These Hidden Gems For an Unforgettable Trip
Whilst many will visit Tenerife for the great weather and stick to the tourist areas, as you can see, there are many other things to experience on the island if you venture out. There’s much more to the island than it first may seem, so add the above hidden gems to your itinerary and enjoy exploring more of the island that not everyone typically sees.