Is Tenerife a good holiday destination for families?

SAM | 13th December 2018

 

Great beaches, pleasant year-round sunshine, superb resorts that are perfect for fun family breaks away…it’s easy to see why holidays to Tenerife are so popular.

 

Beyond the buzzing Playa de las Americas, this Spanish island is also hugely popular with families looking for year-long sunshine with child-friendly flight times. It’s barely a four-hour hop from the UK (short enough for an iPad battery to last on the plane!).

 

The likes of Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje on the south coast are two of the island’s most-visited hot spots, both of which boast white-sand beaches and water sports. From visiting Mount Teide National Park and splashing in waterparks, to simply kicking back on the beach, Tenerife is jam-packed with amazing choices for family breaks.

 

All-inclusive hotels are a good option if you want a completely stress-free trip. You can chill by the pool with a drink to hand, basking in the sun’s warming rays. You won’t need to worry about money, as everything’s included in the price – that’s the food, accommodation and unlimited local drinks.

 

Home to Spain’s tallest mountain, Mount Teide, and one of the country’s biggest national parks, the island is a magnet for anyone who appreciates breathtaking beauty.

 

Villages are teeming with festivals in the months of June, July and August. And you can surf on Tenerife’s coast all year long, but the summer is best for lessons. The good news for keen surfers is that in the autumn and winter, waves can get pretty huge.

 

Here are a few of the resorts in Tenerife that make it such a good destination for families.

 

 

Playa Paraiso

 

Located on the south-west coast of the island, this serene resort has an easy-going vibe all while boasting a fabulous array of eateries, shops, activities and bars. It’s also home to a small, sandy beach, however, most holidaymakers head to the tropical-style lido, featuring sun loungers, waterfalls and an eatery, too. Or, if you want a livelier scene, pick up the pace in the nearby resorts of Costa Adeje and Las Americas.

 

Los Cristianos

 

While this resort doesn’t have quite as busy a nightlife scene as the neighbouring Playa de las Americas, it boasts fine golden beaches and tranquil seas, making it a top choice for families. You’ll find activities aplenty on the beach for children to enjoy, including snorkelling, swimming, jet-skiing, windsurfing and banana-boat rides.

 

On dry land, put your feet up on a sunbed or check out the numerous dynamic bars and restaurants located close by. Wander along the gorgeous promenade or take a ferry and explore the beautiful islet of La Gomera – it’s truly stunning. What’s more, you may see a dolphin, or even a whale or two.

 

You’ll find a variety of beaches which are great for water sports as well as families, such as Playa de las Vistas, El Camisón and Playa de Los Cristianos, the latter a popular spot for paragliding.

 

In Los Cristianos, you’ll experience all manner of international food and you’re very near to the harbour where ferries connect Tenerife to other Canarian islands, such as Fuerteventura and La Gomera.

 

Los Gigantes

 

Situated in the west of the island, Los Gigantes is famed for its attractive Acantilados de los Gigantes cliffs, which border the black-sand coastline. Beachgoers will enjoy the Blue Flag stretch, a mere two kilometres away in Play La Arena. You’ll spend many an hour discovering and selecting from a range of excursions at the Los Gigantes harbour, including fishing vessels, enchanting catamarans and even a pirate-themed ship – perfect for those seeking even more excitement. Better yet, this delightful seaside town also has a gorgeous marina, chock-full with lively karaoke bars, restaurants and shops – making it a wonderful spot to relax in the evenings.

 

Costa Adeje

 

A fairly new resort, Costa Adeje sits on the southern coast of Tenerife and has become a firm favourite with families seeking a fun-packed holiday. Feast your eyes on magnificent, panoramic views of the Mount Teide behind the beach and pristine waters. Bordering the coast are incredible five-star properties, charming restaurants, boutique shops and elegant villas. And the best thing? It’s close to the world-renowned Siam Park, making it a big hit with kids looking for adventure.

 

If you’re something of a party goer, this resort won’t disappoint. Some of the best beach clubs include Monkey Beach Bar, Bahia Beach and Achaman DiscoPub.

 

The biggest convenience of Costa Adeje is that it’s just a stone’s throw from the Tenerife South airport and the legendary Siam Park.

 

Playa de las Americas

 

Full of character, this resort is home to some of the finest water sports and activities that the whole family can enjoy. Teens are catered for here, too – they’ll love the various karaoke bars and restaurants in the town. Playa de las Americas is an energetic resort boasting a vibrant beach scene with exciting water sports to get stuck into. Expect banana boats galore, lots of fly-fishing excursions, wake-boarding, water-skiing and lots more. Holidaymakers will be impressed with the bustling shops, restaurants and bars to check out nearby. And don’t miss the Sunday market – it’s definitely worth a look.

 

Most families flock to Tenerife’s shores because of its guaranteed sunshine all year. It’s no surprise that this safe, family-friendly island is one of the UK’s top family holiday destinations. Tenerife’s hotels and attractions tend to be incredibly family focused and its reliably warm, dry weather make it a great spot for adults and kids alike.