Canary Islands

Spain

Canary Islands
Del Duque Beach featuring swimming, general coastal views and a sandy beach
Cueva de los Verdes showing caves
Puerto del Carmen which includes a bay or harbour, a coastal town and boating
Corralejo Beach featuring mountains, swimming and a beach

Move from island to island for year-round pleasant weather, relaxing seafront resorts, historic Spanish architecture, varied landscape and friendly locals.

Although they are closer to Africa than to Europe, the seven large Canary Islands and smaller islets offer a fascinating glimpse of Spanish development in a gorgeous tropical setting. Plan a beach vacation and discover much, much more.

Over 40 percent of the lands and waters of the Canary Islands are protected parks and reserves. Enjoy varied terrain of volcanoes, laurel forests and natural swimming pools. Visit some of the four national parks, three marine reserves and seven biosphere reserves.

All seven islands have exceptional dive sites, with clear water to 100 feet (30 meters) deep. Investigate the Gran CanariaOpens in a new window wreck of the Plasencia and explore the underwater lava of Punta Restinga on El Hierro. If you’re not a diver, try snorkeling in the warm waters, a comfortable temperature year-round.

TenerifeOpens in a new window is the largest island. Ride a cable car or hike to the top of its volcanic Mount Teide, the islands’ highest peak. In Santa Cruz de TenerifeOpens in a new window, see 17th-century buildings with Islamic and Spanish architectural influence. Drive to Costa Adeje for superb beaches and exciting water parks.

For an otherworldly experience, ride a camel over the multicolored lava rocks of Timanfaya National ParkOpens in a new window, part of a UNESCO biosphere on LanzaroteOpens in a new window. Appreciate the contrasting lush forests of laurel and ferns of Garajonay National Park on La Gomera. Walk among pine trees and gaze into a volcanic cleft nearly 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) deep in La Caldera de Taburiente National Park on La Palma.

Climb the sand dunes of Corralejo Dunes Natural ParkOpens in a new window on FuerteventuraOpens in a new window or windsurf off its western coast. Take a water taxi to the small, uninhabited Lobos Island to enjoy the shallow lagoons. Look for some of the thousands of plant and animal species endemic to the islands and surrounding waters.

Fly to the main Canary Island airports on Tenerife or Gran Canaria and fly, ferry or sail between islands. Rent a car to explore your home island or simply find your favorite beach spot and enjoy days of quiet relaxation.

Popular cities in Canary Islands

Del Duque Beach featuring swimming, general coastal views and a sandy beach
Adeje
Known for Dining, Beaches and Shopping
A popular resort location, this gathering spot is home to stylish promenades, sophisticated restaurants and a number of excellent beaches.

Reasons to visit

  • Siam Park
  • Fañabé Beach
  • El Duque Beach
Gran Canaria which includes mountains, tranquil scenes and mist or fog
San Bartolomé de Tirajana
Known for Dining, Beaches and Family-friendly
Romantic San Bartolomé de Tirajana is calling! Discover its beaches, sports, desert views and more.

Reasons to visit

  • Maspalomas Dunes
  • Maspalomas Lighthouse
Puerto del Carmen Beach showing a sunset, general coastal views and a sandy beach
Tías
Known for Dining, Beaches and Bars
Travel to this dynamic municipality to find peaceful villages, extensive volcanic plains and Lanzarote's most popular resort.

Reasons to visit

  • Pocillos Beach
  • Playa de Matagorda
Yaiza showing a small town or village
Yaiza
Known for Beaches, Marinas and Family-friendly
Admire the award-winning landscaping of Villa Yaiza, enjoy luxury beach living at Playa Blanca or explore vast volcanic plains in this exciting Lanzarote region.

Reasons to visit

  • Playa Blanca
  • Marina Rubicon
Mogan showing a coastal town, a bay or harbour and boating
Mogan
Known for Beaches, Sea and Relaxing
Nicknamed “Little Venice” for its quaint bridges and narrow streets, this charming town also features a sheltered beach and a busy weekly market.

Reasons to visit

  • Mogan Port
Las Vistas Beach showing a beach, general coastal views and a coastal town
Arona
Known for Dining, Beaches and Shopping
This sleepy village is an excellent starting point for visiting some of Tenerife’s most popular beach resorts.

Reasons to visit

  • Playa de las Américas