Discover seven Canary Islands where adventure, nature and relaxation come together.
In the Canary Islands there’s something for every type of traveler to enjoy. And if there’s one thing you can count on, it’s that you’ll never be bored! Read on to discover our selection of fun activities you can do on the Canary Islands.
1. Tenerife: The island of 1000 experiences
With a wide variety of landscapes and activities, Tenerife is the island of endless possibility. It’s home to Spain’s highest mountain, and also the world’s third tallest volcano – Mount Teide.
The island is the perfect place for all those who love hiking and breathtaking views. With stunning natural parks and long golden sand beaches such as La Tejita, nature lovers will have a blast! Take a boat along the south side to admire dolphins, orcas and even blue whales.
In the north, explore the busy towns of La Laguna and Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Finally, don’t leave the island without tasting Malvasia white wine – Tenerife’s signature nectar of the gods – paired with some small shrimp or an octopus salad.
Tenerife at a glance
- Top destination for: Adventurers, hikers and nature lovers
- Most beautiful beach: Playa de la Tejita
- Attractions and activities not to miss:
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2. Gran Canaria: A small paradise
Gran Canaria is an island that boasts stunning natural landscapes. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Gran Canaria Biosphere Reserve is rich in rare flowers, thanks to its unique climate.
You can explore nearly 60km of beaches around the island, including the beautiful dunes of Mespalomas beach where you can go camel riding. Gran Canaria’s charming villages include Agaete, with its bright white hues, and Vegueta, with its quaint historic center. Savor seafood in Puerto de Mogan, a pleasant and colorful fishing village on the south of the island. Party animals will have plenty to do in the capital, Las Palmas.
Gran Canaria at a glance
- Top destination for: Families, beach lovers and culture enthusiasts
- Most beautiful beach: Playa de Maspalomas.
- Attractions and activities not to miss:
- A photography tour in the south of Gran Canaria
- Eating seafood and taking a boat trip in Puerto de Mogán
- A camel ride through the Maspalomas sand dunes
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3. Fuerteventura: A sports destination!
Bathed by the sun and with over 300km of breezy beaches, Fuerteventura is the perfect island for those who love water sports such as surfing, kite surfing, windsurfing and jet-skiing, just to name a few.
But there’s plenty to do on dry land, too. Head to the mountainous hinterland for a few invigorating hikes or explore gorgeous towns such as Betancuria. Dating back to the 15th century, it’s home to a fascinating archaeological museum dedicated to the archipelago’s first settlers.
And don’t forget to visit the fishing village of El Cotillo, known for its white sandy beaches in the northern part of the island, or go surfing at the black sand beach of Playa de los Muertos. Between surf sessions, make sure to try Majorero cheese—the island’s pride and joy!
Fuerteventura at a glance
- Top destination for: Water sports enthusiasts and adventurous travelers
- Most beautiful beach: Playa de El Cotillo
- Attractions and activities not to miss:
- Surfing at Playa de los Muertos
- A Cofete 4×4 safari at sunset
- Tasting local Majorero cheese on a farm
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4. Lanzarote: The volcanic beach
Lanzarote is synonymous with spectacular landscapes. The volcanic soil covers the mountains and hills in hues of red, orange, yellow, brown and black.
There are also many fun activities you can indulge in, such as soaking up sun on black-sand beaches like El Golfo. This beach is located in the crater of an extinct volcano, half of which has sunk into the sea. At its center lies a striking green lagoon—a definite must-see!
Otherwise take a trip to the unique wine-growing region of La Geria, where grapes are cultivated in black volcanic soil. Or explore the ochre-colored terrain of Timanfaya National Park on the back of a camel.
And if you’re looking for peace and quiet, head to La Graciosa, just north of Lanzarote. On this small, unspoiled island, you won’t find any paved roads.
Lanzarote at a glance
- Top destination for: Peace seekers, nature lovers and wine enthusiasts
- Most beautiful beach: Playa de El Golfo
- Attractions and activities not to miss:
- A visit to Timanfaya National Park
- Wine tasting in La Geria
- A day trip to La Graciosa
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5. El Hierro, La Gomera and La Palma: Small and charming
A small island with deep dense forests and remarkable volcanoes, La Palma is characterized by a lush natural environment. Discover many natural parks, black sand beaches, and seaside salt pans. Protected from urbanization, La Palma is also the perfect island to admire the stars in high definition.
Instead La Gomera is home to the fascinating Garajonay National Park, a fantastically unique ecosystem, and Los Organos, a volcanic cliff shaped like organ pipes. An excursion to these natural parks is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in the Canary Islands.
Self-sufficient as far as renewable energy is concerned, El Hierro is the smallest island, yet it offers a multitude of contrasting landscapes. To the south, next to the village of La Restinga, you can explore one of the world’s best scuba diving areas with wonderfully impressive aquatic life.
El Hierro, La Gomera and La Palma at a glance
- Top destination for: nature lovers, peace seekers, stargazers
- Most beautiful beach: Playa de Nogales (La Palma)
- Attractions and activities not to miss:
- Stargazing on La Palma
- Hiking in Garajonay National Park
- Diving at La Restinga (El Hierro)
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Looking for more Canary Islands inspiration?
Then dive into one of our blog articles packed with tips: