which canary island to visit

How to pick which Canary Islands you should visit in the summer

You may have heard of Tenerife or Gran Canaria, but there's more to Spain's Canary Islands than these two popular spots. The Canary Islands are popular with European travelers, but may not be on the radar of U.S.-based travelers thanks to their far-flung location closer to Africa than Spain. With United's new nonstop service from Newark (EWR) to Tenerife South (TFS), though, these islands are much easier to reach and much more accessible for American travelers.

You may be surprised at what each of the seven different islands has to offer — from shopping, star-gazing and volcanic wine tastings to lava tubes, kite-surfing and rolling sand dunes. Don't forget about the beautiful long stretches of sandy shores and picturesque rocky outcrop over the sea.

If you're excited to have a Canary Islands vacation, but aren't sure where to go or which island is right for you, this guide can help you figure out which of these seven volcanic islands (Tenerife, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, La Palma, Fuerteventura, El Hierro or La Gomera) is best for your trip.

Getting to the Canary Islands

United's new nonstop flight means that U.S. travelers can finally fly without having to stop in another Spanish or European hub. The flight launched on June 9, 2022, flying three times per week.

Hoping to reach another island that's not Tenerife? You'll have to change planes in Tenerife, or in a hub like Madrid. There you can get nonstop flights on various airlines, such as Iberia, Air Europa and low-cost carriers, to five of the seven islands: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and La Palma. You can also reach many of the islands from European hubs, flying on full-fare carriers or low-cost carriers like Wizzair, Ryanair, Vueling, Jet2 or EasyJet.

The smallest islands, El Hierro and La Gomera, both have airports, but you can only fly to these islands from Tenerife and Gran Canaria. It's also possible to travel by ferry. La Gomera is reachable in under an hour by ferry from Tenerife.

For outdoor adventures: Tenerife

Tenerife is home to one of the largest and most impressive volcanoes in Europe: El Teide. Even though it may be a breezy, summery day down below at sea level, you might spot snow near the peak of the volcano. It's possible to get nearly all the way to the top of the volcano via an intense hike or a cable car, but a trip to the summit requires a permit .

Paragliding is a popular sport around Tenerife. You can also go canyoning on Tejina Mountain, an ancient lava dome system of craters and caves. If you still haven't had enough of volcanic remnants, explore one of the biggest lava tubes in the world, Cueva del Viento, with over 10 miles of passages.

Hikers should trek through Anaga Rural Park, home to the Mercedes Forest, which features a number of moss species and laurel trees.

A walk up (or drive, if you're feeling lazy) the Los Gigantes cliffs, aptly named due to their massive size, offers a stunning overlook of the cliffs with views of the ocean and Tenerife's famous black sand beaches. Or, enjoy them down below at Los Guios Beach, which sits in the shadow of these hulking rock formations.

For wine and culture: Lanzarote

Few places in the world can boast volcanic vineyards. However, you can enjoy sipping, tasting and exploring in Lanzarote's volcanic wine country while soaking up views of the neighboring national parks: Timanfaya and Los Volcanoes. Besides sampling the wine, you'll learn all about how grapes are grown in the ashy, volcanic soil with small stone circles protecting the vines from wind and other damaging weather conditions.

Beyond Lanzarote's famous vinos and volcanoes and beaches (Papagayo is one of the wildest on the island and Playa Blanca has fine white sand), visitors can take in art, architecture and design.

You'll find original creations by artist César Manrique in various spots around the island. One of the most interesting examples is his former home, where he incorporates the natural landscape of caves, cactus and volcanic rock and tunnels into his eclectic design aesthetic.

For beaches, sand dunes and spa visits: Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria has 37 miles of beaches. Whether you want shallow, family-friendly waters or a quiet, romantic escape, Gran Canaria has enough sand and sea for everyone.

Couples can savor the peace and quiet of a stroll along the cliffside path from Playa de Puerto Rico to Playa de Amadores. Once in Amadores, sample some Spanish cava while sunbathing at the chic Amadores Beach Club. For a relaxing, four-hour spa circuit, the Corallium Spa at the Lopesan Costa Meloneras menu features unique offerings like a saltwater cave, a zodiac room with water beds and a Himalayan salt room, among other installations ($45 per person).

Families should head to Maspalomas, a lengthy run of golden sands with numerous restaurants and amenities nearby. Kids will love playing in the giant sand dunes — it's almost like you're in the Sahara, but with the sparkling sea beyond.

To hang with the locals, wander along the cobblestone streets through the island's capital, Las Palmas. There, you can meander past a number of historic buildings and tan on a lively urban beach, Las Canteras.

For star gazing and tranquility: La Palma

La Palma was the world's first destination certified as a Starlight Reserve. The entire island is committed to protecting the quality of its night sky, making it one of the best places in the world to stargaze. You can admire the twinkling lights from anywhere on the island, but there are 16 special spots — miradores astronomicos — that have been designated as the best places for astrotourism.

There's plenty to do in daylight hours, too. UNESCO declared the entire island a World Biosphere Reserve. Make sure to visit the Caldera de Taburiente, a national park formed by volcanic landslides. There, you'll have a chance to soak in the quiet, peaceful atmosphere near waterfalls, streams and hilly pine tree forests. Or, consider exploring the island's hidden black sand beaches like the Playa de Nogales, reachable only after walking down a long staircase built into a cliff.

The less adventurous can take a stroll through the colorful village of Los Llanos de Aridane, where you can shop at the outdoor Sunday market and admire the street murals.

For water adventures and wind-swept sands: Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura is Spanish for 'strong winds.' Unsurprisingly, the island is famous for having some of the world's best kite-surfing and windsurfing.

If you'd prefer to stay on dry land, you can admire the many talented surfers year-round beachside. Avid water sports participants and spectators should plan to go during the Windsurfing & Kiteboarding World Cup. The popular event occurs every summer on Playa Barca, near the island's southern tip.

True beach bums may prefer to relax on mile-long sands like those belonging to Flag Beach near the resort town of Corralejo. For a wild, wind-swept paradise, El Cotillo is a beach on the north end of the island with a cove of crystalline sands surrounded by clear waters, and the exotic golden sands of Cofete, part of the Jandia Natural Park, are near-empty year-round.

Day trips to the tiny volcanic island of Lobos are perfect for those looking to really escape. Snorkelers will spy an abundance of marine life as the whole island is a nature reserve. Also, bird enthusiasts can view many species of sea birds on the island.

For eco-travelers and divers: El Hierro

Sustainable travelers should look no further than the smallest of the seven Canary Islands, El Hierro. You won't find any high-rise beach resorts blocking your sea views. Unlike many of the other Canary Islands, there are regulations that limit construction to just two floors. Besides being a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, El Hierro uses mainly renewable energy (both wind and hydro) for power.

The island's status as a biosphere reserve is designated above and below the water. The sea surrounding El Hierro features almost 50 dive sites. Visibility can be as far as 160 feet on a typical day of Canarian sunshine. You may spot marine life like parrotfish, barracudas, dolphins, manta rays or even whales and sharks.

Photographers – or those simply wanting a unique view – should check out spots like Roques de la Bonanza or Salmor. There you'll find rocks jutting out from the sea formed by underwater landslides and volcanic eruptions.

For hikers and nature buffs: La Gomera

La Gomera is perfect for active travelers who love to be near the ocean and out in nature but get bored just lying on the beach all day.

Whether you prefer intense treks or light walks, the island's 400 miles of trails offer something for every style of hiker. Many of these trails run through the Garajonay National Park, a subtropical forest famous for its laurel trees, that sits at more than 3,200 feet above sea level.

Another impressive outdoor wonder is the Organos Monument. This cliff that resembles a massive pipe organ was formed by columns of basalt dropping down toward the ocean.

Rock climbers should head to the Los Roques area, where giant rock formations jut into the sky. The three most famous are Roque de Agando, Roque de la Zarcita and Roque de Ojila. Although these three are declared national monuments and you can no longer climb them, there are plenty of nearby trails (both climbing and hiking spots) offering magnificent views of the rocks.

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

The best Canary Islands to visit

By Anna Hart

This Spanish archipelago lies off the north-west coast of Morocco , on the exposed tips of a vast volcanic mountain range beneath the Atlantic Ocean. The irresistible combination of Moroccan and Spanish flavours, plus year-round sunshine and a wildly varied topography primed the Canary Islands for over-tourism throughout the 1990s, and they’ve struggled to shake off their bad rep as package-holiday destination ever since. But travellers who look past these dated assumptions are rewarded with an idyllic cluster of wildly diverse islands waiting to be rediscovered.

The varied scenery of the islands is spellbinding: Tenerife , Lanzarote , Gran Canaria and their neighbours have otherworldly volcanic landscapes, lush pine forests, secret rocky coves and swathes of sand dunes. Permanent good weather, historic towns, a calendar of unusual festivals and superlative cuisine and local wine mean there is really no bad time to visit. Travellers can bed down in stylish beach hotels , agriturismo Airbnbs, remote bohemian yurts and cliff-hugging private villas. Whether you’re a dedicated road cyclist keen on discovering remote corners of Gran Canaria, an architecture buff obsessed with César Manrique’s structures across Lanzarote or a nature-lover seeking out new species of wildflowers in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of tiny El Hierro, there is a Canary Island for every traveller.

As the largest and most developed of the islands, Tenerife has sophisticated hotels, brilliant food and a rich cultural offering. But beyond the busy southern hotel complexes, it’s entirely possible to find unspoiled corners, such as cobblestoned Garachico and colourful La Laguna in the rugged and less-developed north, giving travellers the best of both worlds.

Dominating the entire island is snow-capped volcano Pico del Teide, Spain’s tallest peak, criss-crossed with some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the Canary Islands. In Tenerife’s crammed cultural calendar, one highlight is the Carnival of Santa Cruz in February, the biggest parade after Rio de Janeiro. And the Surrealist painter Oscar Domínguez is rightly revered here in his homeland, with a fabulous collection of his canvases displayed at TEA (Tenerife Espacio de las Artes) in Santa Cruz.

We've rounded up the best bits of Tenerife here

FUERTEVENTURA

Just 60 miles off the African coast, Fuerteventura is sun-baked and wind-blasted, with cacti-dotted plains, rolling sand dunes and crashing, emerald-green waves. Its Parque Natural de Corralejo, containing the largest dunes in the Canary Islands, is almost Martian in its otherworldliness. The Atalayita Village Archaeological Interpretation Centre is the island’s most significant historic site, with ancient aboriginal houses built into lava-formed walls. The year-round sunshine and consistent wind make the island a world-class destination for wind-surfers and kite-surfers who flock to Playa de Sotavento, but there are also plenty of sheltered coves for swimming, snorkelling and sun-basking. In a further rebuttal to accusations of over-tourism, goats outnumber people on Fuerteventura, and the prevalence of goat’s cheeses – the most popular being Majorero – on the island’s menus is a constant reminder of their supremacy.

GRAN CANARIA

A multi-faceted favourite with travellers who want to combine some dedicated beach action with mountain hikes and visits to historical towns, the third-largest island in the archipelago is arguably the most diverse of the lot. Nearly half of the Canarian population have made their home here in Gran Canaria, among Las Palmas’s historical highlights including the 15th-century Cathedral of Santa Ana and the 18th-century Casa de Colón, where it is claimed that explorer Christopher Columbus plotted his five-week first voyage to America. The island’s mountainous interior attracts modern explorers, with Artenara perhaps having the most melodramatic views of all.

Read more about Gran Canaria here

Devotees swear this is the most authentic Canarian island, a pint-sized delight with some of the best cuisine in the archipelago dished out of backstreet tavernas, a vibrant craft scene and a lingering local lingo – Silbo Gomero – comprised of whistling sounds that carry messages up to three miles to neighbouring villages. San Sebastián is the island’s capital, where restaurants serve watercress soup and fiery papas arrugadas (potatoes with chilli-pepper sauce), and potters can be seen spinning traditional ceramics in open-air workshops. For an island that measures just 22 miles from east to west, it somehow packs in 400 miles of dedicated trails, and it was awarded World Biosphere Reserve status in 2011.

The least developed, second-smallest and most southwestern of the eight main Canary Islands, El Hierro is beloved by responsibly minded travellers for its small-scale, largely family-run enterprises, undulating hillsides dotted with wildflowers and for being entirely self-sufficient with renewable energy. Criminally overlooked, El Hierro is romantic, remote and a haven for hikers, kayakers, snorkellers and surfers.

As a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, more than half of the island is pristine wilderness, and forward-thinking regulations prohibit the construction of buildings higher than two floors. This untamed, traditional yet ecologically progressive island appeals to intrepid adventurers as well as solitude-seekers, while the 47-room Parador hotel is an oasis of low-key luxury and culinary sophistication among the more homespun guesthouses and restaurants around the island. For flight-minimising travellers who want to mix-and-match their Canary Islands, the ferry from Puerto de la Estaca in the north of the island sails to Tenerife in under three hours.

The greenest island in the archipelago, La Palma is dedicated to nature, its black-sand beaches spared the mass development of the larger islands with their white sands. Canarians call the island ‘La Isla Bonita’ (the Pretty Island), and the capital Santa Cruz de La Palma is an architectural delight, with a 16th-century old town lined with grand, balconied and whitewashed manors and residences.

In 1983 La Palma was the first Canary Island to be designated a Biosphere Reserve, and it remains one of the quietest spots in the Canaries, the choice of travellers who prefer low-key luxury and natural abundance over the glitz and glamour of the island’s big sisters.

The rainforested north is a highlight, where the Enchanted Forest lives up to its name, but the volcanic south, where craters and craggy rock formations mark the landscape, is no less remarkable.

This has always been the Canary Island of choice for those looking for a holiday less ordinary. Geologically extreme and culturally unconventional, Lanzarote has a lunar landscape that is characterised by 300 volcanic cones and faintly apocalyptic blackened lava fields, where volcanic vineyards offer a completely unique experience of wine tourism. The island’s glorious irregularity and bohemian ethos is underpinned by the legacy of 20th-century lanzaroteño artist, architect and visionary César Manrique, whose spectacular constructions are dotted across the land and include a cavernous underground music venue and nightclub, a Bond villain-esque lighthouse and a space-age cactus garden.

Beyond its endlessly fascinating culinary and cultural credentials, Lanzarote is a dream destination for road cyclists due to its network of routes, while surf shacks line the coastline.

Read more about Lanzarote here

LA GRACIOSA

It was only in 2018 that Spain’s General Commission of the Autonomous Communities of the Senate declared this dinky rocky outcrop with no paved roads and just 700 permanent residents the eighth official Canary Island. Reached from Lanzarote by a half-hour ferry, La Graciosa is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, making for uncrowded beaches, a smattering of modest guesthouses and restaurants, and dirt roads that can only be navigated by foot, bike and the occasional four-wheel drive. Accommodation is generally confined to campsites or cute rental cottages, but a number of savvy Airbnb hosts accepts guests on their yachts in the tiny marina.

Like this? Now read:

Here's how to travel to Spain without leaving the house

An unexpected road trip through Lanzarote, the design-led Canary Island

This is what it's like to be in Madrid during lockdown

Which is the Best Canary Island for You? (By a Local!)

• Pinterest 58

Hidden away from the rest of the world off the northwestern coast of Africa, the Canary Islands is a dreamy archipelago made up of eight volcanic islands. With bizarre alien-like landscapes, black sand beaches that stretch on for miles, and enchanting laurisilva forests that promise a world of adventure, the Canary Islands share many similarities.

But each island has its own set of distinctive traits that make it stand out from its neighbors, too. It’s these differences that determine which of the Canary Islands is the best for you.

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly resort brimming with top-class facilities, somewhere rugged with excellent surfing conditions, or centuries-old villages that time seems to have forgotten, the Canary Islands have what you’re looking for.

Here’s a breakdown of what makes each of the eight volcanic sanctuaries unique, so you can decide which is the best Canary Island for you!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Tenerife: The Best Canary Island to Visit for First-Timers

This is where I live, and when it comes to which is the best Canary Island for first-timers, Tenerife is a safe choice. This diverse isle offers the best of all worlds, whatever you’re looking for in your perfect escape. There are purpose-built vacation resort towns home to 5-star hotels, international restaurants, high-end shopping, and world-famous attractions like Siam Park and Loro Parque . 

Plus, the dining scene is second to none, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to guachinches that serve local wine and a handful of unpretentious homemade dishes. If you ever get the chance to visit one, order a jug of blanco afrutado wine and a serving of queso a la plancha con mojo . You can thank me later!

The island boasts world-class golf courses, the gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage city of La Laguna, some of the most astounding cliffs you’ll ever see in your life in Los Gigantes, and El Teide – the highest peak in Spain which you can reach via cable car. 

Gran Canaria: The Best Canary Island to Visit for Families

It’s a tough call to make, but I think Gran Canaria is the best Canary Island for families with children of any age. This gorgeous island boasts all kinds of things to see and do, such as the Poema del Mar Aquarium , the Holiday World Maspalomas fairground, and the Cocodrilo Park rescue center. If you’ve got older kids, they’ll have an amazing time sandboarding in the Maspalomas Dunes Nature Reserve.

Gran Canaria is also the best Canary Island for the LGBTQ+ community. The Yumbo Center in Maspalomas is home to a huge number of LGBTQ+ bars and clubs. These lively nightlife spots host incredible celebrations, from Gay Pride parades and boat cruises to beach parties and drag events.

Fuerteventura: The Best Canary Island to Visit for Watersports

Fuerteventura is undoubtedly the best place to go in the Canary Islands for watersports. Thanks to the constant winds that come from both sea and land, the island enjoys the optimum conditions for kitesurfing and windsurfing. The beaches in Corralejo are superb for these types of sports, while Sotavento is even better and hosts the World Windsurfing & Kiteboarding Championship each year.

Even if you’re not into watersports, I still recommend checking out Fuerteventura for its stunning beaches. The platinum-white sands of El Cotillo, the never-ending stretch of beach in Sotavento, and the blond shore lapped by aquamarine waters in Caleta de Fuste will convince you this is the best place to go in the Canary Islands.

Majorero goats are native to the island and you’ll find loads of products in cafes, restaurants, and stores using their milk. I recommend you try the local Majorero goat cheese. It tastes so good that you don’t need to pair it with anything at all! 

Lanzarote: The Best Canary Island to Visit for Adventure

When it comes to one-of-a-kind experiences, Lanzarote is, without a doubt, one of the best Canary Islands. There are more than 300 volcanic cones scattered across the land, with 25 of the most impressive volcanoes located within the Timanfaya National Park. 

A visit to this important landmark is an absolute must. Here you’ll find El Diablo restaurant, where you can gorge on fresh meats and vegetables cooked on the heat of the surrounding volcanoes! 

That’s not the only unique attraction in Lanzarote. This rugged island is also home to the mirror-like Cueva de los Verdes tunnel complex, which dates back more than 4,000 years. Los Jameos del Agua, created by local artist and sculptor Cesar Manrique, is also worth a visit. 

This enchanting attraction combines nature and art in perfect harmony and is home to 77 endemic species, including fascinating blind white crabs. Add into the mix the bizarre algae-filled green lake found at El Golfo and the question of which is the best Canary Island for unique experiences becomes easy to answer. 

If you’re a fan of wine, I suggest you take a tour of a volcanic vineyard. El Grifo is my favorite. Not only does this stellar spot create fantastic wines that practically dance on the palate, but the grapes are grown in such a particular way that you’ll struggle to believe the setup is real!

La Palma: The Best Canary Island to Visit for Couples

The best Canary Island for couples seeking a romantic retreat, La Palma is brimming with opportunities for unique, intimate experiences. The entire island has been declared a Starlight Reserve, meaning that light pollution is minimal and the stargazing conditions are incredible. 

I suggest you take a trip to the San Borondón viewpoint in the west of the island. From here, you can spot the North Star, as well as the Cepheus and Cassiopeia constellations. La Palma is also one of the best Canary Islands for hikes. There’s a diverse array of paths that take you over barren volcanic terrain, as well as through dense mystical forests. 

My favorite is the Nacientes Marcos y Cordero Trail. This route follows an ancient aqueduct through laurel forests and ravines. It takes about 3 hours to complete, but because the path is mostly flat, it’s pretty easy to do. 

La Palma may fit the bill if you’re looking for the best Canary Island to visit for something unique. In 2021, the Cumbre Vieja volcano erupted, devastating a huge portion of the island. As lava flowed toward the sea, a new mass of land was created. So you could say that La Palma boasts the newest part of the Canary Islands!

El Hierro: The Best Canary Island to Visit for a Sustainable Stay

One of the lesser-visited islands, El Hierro is the best Canary Island to visit for a sustainable vacation you can feel good about taking. This humble, unspoiled place claims to be the first sustainable island on the planet, where trade winds are the primary source of energy. 

All the energy used on this small volcanic retreat is 100% renewable, resulting in the island receiving the UNESCO title of World Biosphere Reserve and Geopark. Just because it doesn’t appear on many people’s radars doesn’t mean it has nothing to offer. 

When it comes to which is the best Canary Island for dramatic landscapes, El Hierro is a solid contender. This natural escape is home to wind-stressed Sabina trees, which look like works of art and are scattered throughout the island. Some of them are more than 26 feet high!

Bananas, tomatoes, and grapes grow readily throughout most of the Canary Islands, but El Hierro is the only island where pineapples thrive. Throughout La Frontera, you’ll spot huge plantations that grow some of the sweetest, juiciest, (and cheapest!) pineapples you’ll ever taste.

La Gomera: The Best Canary Island to Visit for Hiking

Searching for the best Canary Islands for outdoor experiences? La Gomera could be just what you’re looking for. The island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve teeming with dramatic valleys, forests over 66 million years old, and enchanting hiking trails that take you to all kinds of magical viewpoints. 

With more than 403 miles of impressive routes, you’ve got an almost endless number of ways to discover one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

If your plans allow it, I recommend you spend a couple of nights camping at Camping La Vista . This incredible campsite is made up of tiered pitches that tumble into a valley. 

When you wake up, you’ll have a phenomenal view that stretches out to sea, and you may just spot some friendly goats who live in the area! There are loads of fantastic hiking trails in the immediate surroundings, too.

La Graciosa: The Best Canary Island to Visit for Peace

The newest of the Canary Islands, La Graciosa was declared the smallest island in the archipelago in 2018. It’s located just off the northern coast of Lanzarote, and the only way to get there is via a 30-minute boat ride from the neighboring island.

A marvelous place to escape to if you’re seeking a desert island experience, La Graciosa is the best Canary Island for peace, quiet, and simplicity. This hidden gem is home to just 700 people, with a handful more arriving on the shores each morning for a day trip.

What makes La Graciosa so special is that going there feels like stepping back in time. All life is centered around the humble capital, Caleta de Sebo, where you’ll find honey-gold sandy beaches, rustic whitewashed houses, and a harbor dotted with wooden fishing boats.

There you have it! My picks for which is the best Canary Island. Have you been to the Canary Islands? Which is your favorite and why?

Share this on pinterest.

Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

Related Posts

The 9 Best Hot Springs in Iceland Perfect for a Soak!

The 11 Best Hikes in Wales for Outdoor Lovers!

The 15 Best Things to do in Bruges, Belgium

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Best Canary Island: Which one should you visit in 2024?

From La Gomera to Tenerife, check out the best Canary Islands to choose for your next escape

Whether you’re looking to go hiking across volcanic landscapes, cycle the winding mountain roads or kick back in a boutique beachside hotel , there's a perfect Canary Island for you.

Perhaps you’re after some winter sun , looking for a new Spanish holiday destination

to visit or simply want a gorgeous island escape for your next holiday. Well, we’ve brought you the ultimate guide to choosing the right Canary Island for you.

Before you decide on which of the Canaries is best, we’re delving into the details so you’re clued up on these sun-kissed isles before you book…

Where are the Canary Islands?

A sultry Spanish archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, the Canary Islands lie 80 miles off the northwest coast of Africa, and are closer to Morocco than mainland Spain, hence the glorious year-round climate. Spanish is spoken across all islands, while Canarian dishes such as papas arrugadas, salt-wrinkled potatoes served with mojo picón are served alongside typical Spanish tapas in every bar and restaurant.

How many Canary Islands are there?

There are eight islands in the Canaries archipelago: Tenerife , Gran Canaria , Lanzarote , Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and La Graciosa. Each has own culture, vibe and colourful charm, from the lively party resorts of Tenerife, the starry dark skies of La Palma to the volcanic plains of Lanzarote and Gran Canaria, there's a Canary Island suitable for every taste.

How can you reach the Canary Islands?

There are various ways to get to the Canary Islands, the most popular is flying. From the UK, flight times are between four and five hours from London , Manchester , Birmingham and Glasgow airports. You can also reach the islands by ferry, from Cádiz and Huelva on mainland Spain, where crossings take between 30 and 38 hours.

Across the Canaries archipelago, there are 16 ports making it easy to hop between the islands. The main hubs are in Tenerife, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria, where you can board inter-island ferries to the smaller islands of La Gomera, El Hierro and La Graciosa.

If you want to travel in style, there are several cruise lines who have itineraries taking in one or a few of the Canary Islands, including Cunard and P&O cruises which depart from Southampton.

Which is the warmest Canary Island?

All of the Canary Islands enjoy a similar climate with mild winters around 18-22C and summer temperatures reaching the late 20s. Thanks to its close proximity to the Sahara Desert, Lanzarote is considered the hottest of the islands, where the mercury easily reaches 30C and higher in the summer.

W've narrowed down the highlights of each sunny Spanish island so you can find the right one for you this season...

Gran Canaria - travel to Latin America in four hours

From the rugged mountains of north to the volcanic black-sand beaches and desert plains of the south, Gran Canaria's terrain is so diverse it's often called 'a miniature continent'. Moments from the beautiful beaches and lively resorts, you can discover spectacular lava formations, custard-coloured mountain villages and some of the best hiking routes in Spain.

Las Palmas in Gran Canaria is still home to the 15th-century Cathedral of Santa Ana and the house where Christopher Columbus is said to have plotted his voyage to Latin America, so it’s no surprise that the local accent is closer to Latin American Spanish.

Another similarity is the cuisine. One of the tastiest - yet simplest - dishes here is potatoes with mojo sauce (red or green). Potatoes are native to Latin America and were brought over to the Canaries centuries ago. The salted, fluffy jackets served with garlicky, spicy sauce are exquisite and you’ll find them on offer all over the island.

GRAN CANARIA HOLIDAYS

Fuerteventura - where fortune favours the bold

Stark volcanic landscapes, rippling blonde-sand beaches and the perfect conditions for windsurfing, kiteboarding and sailing, a holiday in Fuerteventura manages to combine adventure, culture and relaxation in a seamless fashion.

The second largest of the Canary Islands, adventurers tend to head to the Corralejo Natural Park for exhilarating off-road buggy tours of the sand dunes or to surf off the east coast. Alternatively, you can relax onboard a leisurely dolphin and whale-watching cruise, which launch from Corralejo's pretty waterfront.

Learn more about the fortunate isle in Betancuria, the original capital of the island, a quirky Spanish town famed for its 15th-century Mudejar-style architecture and local art scene. Venture a few miles outside of town and you'll find the Insta-darling Mirador Morro Velosa, which famously has the best panoramic views on the island.

BROWSE HOTELS IN FUERTEVENTURA

FUERTEVENTURA HOLIDAYS

La Gomera - soak up cultural wonders

Food is the star of the show in La Gomera’s capital, San Sebastián, where restaurants serve octopus, papaya, tuna, cuttlefish watercress soup, and golfio con miel (a kind of nougat made with roasted barley and corn, plus sweet honey and figs). Toasted golfio is actually sprinkled into coffee and wine here, too.

There are also plenty of traditional, open-air ceramics workshops on pretty La Gomera, which has a long history of craftsmanship. Look out for the red pots, which take their fiery colour from a natural ochre pigment.

San Sebastián is the place to go for boutiques and markets where you can browse artisanal gifts - like Gomeran castañets called chácaras , wooden cutlery made from Lausilva trees and baskets made from banana stems.

Don’t miss the Feria Insular de Artesanía, also held in the capital, which brings together artisans from all over the island and the rest of the archipelago.

BROWSE HOTELS IN LA GOMERA

LA GOMERA HOLIDAYS

El Hierro - an eco-travel haven

Lesser-known El Hierro is a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, suited to those looking for a quieter, sustainable break. Over 50 per cent of this little island is covered in pristine wilderness and progressive regulations preserve its natural beauty.

For example, the island's energy is completely renewable, powered by waterfalls and the wind, and there are restrictions on building anything taller than two stories, to protect the spectacular views.

And it's not just on ground level that you’ll find wonders on El Hierro. The island has a fantastic underwater volcanic landscape, which can be explored by scuba diving. Look out for turtles, tuna, stingrays, dolphins, barracudas... and the occasional (peaceful) whale shark.

You won’t want to leave without exploring the island’s unique natural swimming pools, created when ancient lava flows cooled and walled in the seawater around the coast.

Arrive in El Hierro by ferry from Tenerife to Puerto de la Estaca in the north of the island in under three hours.

BROWSE HOTELS IN EL HIERRO

EL HIERRO AIRBNBS

Tenerife - active holidays in an exotic paradise

Tenerife is the largest Canary Island, and possibly the most popular, thanks to the stunning El Teide, Spain’s highest peak and a breathtaking UNESCO-protected national park that's perfect for hiking.

It’s also well-known for its gorgeous beaches which, as it’s just off the coast of West Africa, are perfect for swimming - even in November and January.

Other highlights of a visit include the annual Carnival de Santa Cruz, a festival with parades, dancing and colourful costumes which marks the start of Lent - and goes on for a fortnight.

And if you want to keep the party going, choose an all-inclusive resort. Costa Adeje is famous for its nightlife scene, waterparks and stunning beaches, or for somewhere more relaxed, check out Los Gigantes, with scuba diving and serene mountain views, or the West Coast Playa de la Arena, with its quiet hiking trails and sleepy black-sand beaches.

BROWSE HOTELS IN TENERIFE

TENERIFE HOLIDAYS

La Palma - for a romantic stargazing break

La Palma is the world’s steepest island, which naturally means that the views are incredible! For example, a short walk down to the unspoilt Playa de Nogales in the west of the island offers dramatic views of its cliffside Atlantic beach.

La Palma’s wild, solitary beaches are the perfect place to throw your worries to the wind and enjoy time with a loved one.

And there’s more to explore by hiking across the island’s trails in search of secret waterfalls and natural craters. Head into Caldera de Taburiente National Park for some of the best trails, like the 13km hike to Los Colores Waterfall. Visit during rainier seasons to catch the falls in their full vibrancy. You’ll hardly believe it’s all natural.

And it’s not just during the day that you’ll be able to treasure the views. As a Starlight Reserve, La Palma is one of the best places in the world to observe the night skies. Roque de los Muchachos Observatory is located 2,400 metres above sea level and offers crystal-clear views of the stars.

BROWSE HOTELS IN LA PALMA

LA PALMA HOLIDAYS

Lanzarote - out-of-this-world landscapes

Otherworldly Lanzarote was born out of fiery volcanic eruptions, but now it offers plenty of luxury comforts in its charming whitewashed stone villages.

Thanks to the rocky terrain, delicious wines are produced in the bodegas of Geria, Lanzarote’s warm wine-growing region. We can’t get enough of the elegant blue bottles at Vega de Yuco, where you can taste wines and tour the bodega.

The island is also known for its award-winning cheeses. Goat and sheep’s cheeses are popular, and naturally smoked with paprika and golfio - that toasted corn flavour we mentioned earlier.

You can’t visit Lanzarote without checking the works of artist César Manrique, a Lanzarote local who magnified the island’s crazy natural wonders with artistic shapes and bold colours. His botanical cactus garden is an absolute delight to visit on a sunny day, and the Cesar Manrique Foundation, set up in a former house of his, shows Manrique’s genius blending of architecture into the volcanic rock, with rooms built into volcanic bubbles and crafty tunnels joining them.

Timanfaya National Park is a wonderland of jagged, ochre landscapes and lava fields that will make you feel you’ve travelled to another planet, despite only being a short flight away from the UK. We love its nickname too: the Fire Mountains.

BROWSE HOTELS IN LANZAROTE

LANZAROTE HOLIDAYS

La Graciosa - get off the beaten track

La Graciosa has been a Canary Island for just a few years, but don’t let its small size put you off. It’s a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, made all the more special by the fact that its beaches are secluded, restaurants feel as if you’re the first to discover them and the roads are all unpaved, making sure you really do take the path less travelled.

Some tourists choose to travel the 'Gracious Island' by bike, to explore its most special and hidden corners. There are three bike routes which cross the island north to south, taking you to the main beaches and points of interest. And don’t worry, the island is mostly flat, so you can simply pedal on and enjoy the views.

Here, you can spend time at the secluded beaches, like Playa de las Conchas, with its warm tidal lagoon, and Playa Francesa, with its sand dunes and turquoise waters. Travelling from beach to beach is the best way to explore, looking out for natural arches, wildflowers and restaurants on your way.

And since it’s a protected marine reserve, wildlife flourishes in the tranquillity of La Graciosa, so remember to look out for rare seabirds and the cute monk seal that calls this island home.

The best way to get there is on a ferry from Lanzarote, which takes half an hour.

BROWSE LA GRACIOSA HOTELS

GRACIOSA AIRBNBS

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Travel

An ultimate guide to Bordeaux river cruises

19 restaurants with rooms for gourmet getaways

The best luxury train holidays

The best hotels in Rhodes

11 of the best mother-daughter holidays for 2024

Greece holiday destinations: Best places for 2024

A look inside Uniworld's opulent suites

Why Uniworld is world's best river cruise line

Best Portugal holiday destinations for 2024

10 travel toiletry bags for your next holiday

The best Italian family holidays

Best Canary Island to Visit on Your Next Trip 🏝️

Home | Travel | Europe | Spain | Canary Islands | Best Canary Island to Visit on Your Next Trip 🏝️

Taking a Canary Islands holiday is something that I recommend you do at least once in your lifetime. It is a very popular tourist destination in Spain thanks to its good weather throughout the year, its beaches, its landscapes, and its small villages. And as soon as you learn a little more about this place, you will realize that there are many things to do in the Canary Islands.

When planning my Canary Islands vacation , I had many questions, but the most important was “which are the best Canary Islands destinations. ” It was very difficult for me to choose just one, and nobody told me which is the best Canary Island. They all have their charms, their places to visit, and their beauty. So when I saw that it was totally feasible to travel between the Canary Islands , since a short ferry ride can take you to any of the islands, I decided to visit several.

To help you plan your holidays to the Canary Islands , I have created this guide, where you will find all the information you need to know before visiting this paradise. However, don’t expect me to tell you which is the prettiest Canary Island because they are all beautiful, and whichever you visit, you will love it.

In this guide to discovering which Canary Island to visit, you will find:

• Gran Canaria
• Fuerteventura
• La Graciosa
• Best things to do in the Canary Islands

Canary Islands Hopping – Traveling between the Canary Islands

Which is the best canary island to visit.

The Canary Islands archipelago is formed of 8 main islands and many other small islands and islets. It’s very difficult to choose the most beautiful Canary Island , because they all have something unique about them. However, depending on what you are looking for, I can recommend which Canary Island to visit . For example, an all-inclusive Canary Islands holiday isn’t the same as enjoying the solitude of some of the best beaches the Canary Islands have to offer.

Are you planning a family holiday to the Canary Islands ? Do you want to flee from the mass tourism of the Canary Islands? Or hike some of the best trails in Spain? In all these cases, I know the best of the Canary Islands for you , and you’ll know too after reading the following section .

Tenerife, one of the most popular Canary Islands destinations

Tenerife is one of the most popular Canary Islands destinations because it has practically everything. In addition, it is the largest of the Canary Islands , so if you don’t know which Canary Island is best for you, Tenerife is a very good option. There are a ton of things to do in Tenerife .

On this island, you can enjoy fine white sand beaches in the south and volcanic, black sand beaches in the north. You can also visit charming towns and cities with everything you’d ever need. Additionally, you will find a lot of great restaurants in Tenerife where you can taste the most authentic Canarian gastronomy, one of the essential things to do in the Canary Islands.

However, if many mountaineers and hikers think that Tenerife is the best of the Canary Islands , it’s because you’ll find the highest peak in Spain there, the Teide volcano, a unique place to visit in the Canary Islands. Check our guide on how to walk up Mount Teide.

Tenerife, one of the most popular Canary Islands destinations – Efrén Yanes

If you want to enjoy a great variety of landscapes and architecture, Tenerife is possibly one of the best Canary Islands for you. It is also ideal if it’s your first time traveling to the Canary Islands and you don’t have time to visit the other islands or if you are looking for an all-inclusive Canary Islands holiday.

However, its popularity means it’s not the best Canary Island if you’re looking for a quiet atmosphere since everyone wants to travel to Tenerife , and the island is usually quite crowded with tourists all year round.

If Tenerife is the best Canary Island for you...

You’re in luck as it has two airports. We always find the cheapest flights to Tenerife  on this website .

I recommend you spend 4 to 7 days on this beautiful Canary Island.

The  best way to get around the Canary Islands  is by car, and in Tenerife, it will take less than an hour and a half to get from north to south. Here are some tips for renting cheap cars. We usually book ours here with free cancellation.

Find out the best things to do in Tenerife:

• What to do in Tenerife North
• What to do in Tenerife South

Check the best tours to Mount Teide, the highest peak in the Canary Islands.

Book a hotel in one of the best places to stay in Tenerife . Some of the best all-inclusive hotels in the Canary Islands are there:

• Iberostar Selection Sábila – Adults Only
• Iberostar Bouganville Playa
• Adrián Hoteles Roca Nivaria

Download our tourist map of Tenerife.

Gran Canaria, best Canary Island for families

Gran Canaria is a destination you should consider for your Canary Islands holidays if you are looking for a place that isn’t as crowded as Tenerife but still has many tourist attractions.

In Gran Canaria, you can enjoy huge white sand beaches and a city, Las Palmas, which has the best nightlife in the Canary Islands. You can also get lost among some fascinating and hidden natural landscapes, like its world-famous Maspalomas dunes, one of the best things to do in Gran Canaria.

This dune system is surrounded by large resorts and is one of the best destinations in the Canary Islands if you want to enjoy an all-inclusive holiday . Many hotels in Gran Canaria offer entertainment options for kids, making it also the best Canary Island for families.

I advise you to choose Gran Canaria if you want to enjoy the beach, the nightlife, and the hidden but beautiful natural landscapes you will find on this charming island. Also, if you are looking for the best resorts in the Canary Islands, where you can relax surrounded by all the comforts you’d ever need. And above all, if you are looking for a quiet but touristy place at the same time, Gran Canarias is your best bet .

If Gran Canaria is the most beautiful Canary Island for you...

It is quite easy to find cheap flights to this island, since it has the largest airport in the Canary Islands. You can find the best offers here.

I recommend you spend 3 to 6 days in Gran Canaria, one of the most beautiful Canary Islands.

Renting a car  is the best way to get around the Canary Islands.  It only takes an hour to go from the north to the south of Gran Canaria.

Check the best things to do in Gran Canaria:

• Visiting the Maspalomas dunes
• Hiking in Roque Nublo

Taking a whale and dolphin watching tour in Gran Canaria  is the best of  the Canary Islands.

Gran Canaria is popular for having some of the best all-inclusive resorts in the Canary Islands:

• Occidental Margaritas
• H10 Playa Meloneras Palace
• Seaside Sandy Beach

La Palma, the most beautiful Canary Island

Many say that La Palma is the most beautiful Canary Island because it is full of green landscapes, flowers, and volcanoes, and I can confirm that it is. In addition, of the eight islands that make up the Canary archipelago, this is one of the smallest and least touristy destinations in the Canary Islands. Therefore, if you’re looking for a place to relax in nature, La Palma could be your best option.

It is an island with breathtaking landscapes. Here, you won’t find big resorts or luxury hotels, but, if you like hiking, the best thing to do in La Palma, there is no better place. Also, you can experience a spectacular night sky because there is so little light pollution there. If you want to photograph the Milky Way , this is without a doubt the best Canary Island to do so.

Definitely, La Palma, the nicest Canary Island , is the best option if you are wondering which Canary Island is best to visit to disconnect from everything and walk among nature. If you are looking for the best beaches in the Canary Islands, this isn’t the island that I recommend you visit, and the same thing applies if you’re interested in Canary Islands nightlife. For those two aspects, there are other better islands in the Canary Islands .

If La Palma is your best Canary Island destination...

La Palma airport is connected to several large cities in Europe. You can find the best flight deals here .

I recommend you spend 3 to 5 days on La Palma, one of the best Canary Islands destinations.

Rent a car with free cancellation to visit La Palma, as it is the best way to get around the Canary Islands.

Check the best things to do in La Palma:

• Roque de Los Muchachos and Caldera de Taburiente
• Ruta de los Volcanes
• Cueva de Las Palomas

Bring your hiking boots to explore some of the  best hiking trails in the Canary Islands.  You will find out exactly why La Palma is known as  the most beautiful Canary Island.

Taking a whale and dolphin watching tour in La Palma is the best of  the Canary Islands.

Learn how to photograph the Milky Way before visiting La Palma, one of the best things to do in the Canary Islands.

La Palma is an ideal place to get cheap hotels like these ones:

• Apartamentos La Caleta
• Apartamentos Oasis San Antonio
• El Hotelito 27

Lanzarote, the nicest Canary Island for weather

To me, Lanzarote is one of the most beautiful Canary Islands because it is made up of beaches and volcanoes.

Most of its beaches are of volcanic origin, so their sand is black, but you’ll also find golden, sandy beaches in some areas. In any case, some of the best beaches in the Canary Islands are here. In addition, on this island, you will find volcanic landscapes that seem like they’re straight out of another world, such as that of the Timanfaya National Park, plus some charming towns. Lanzarote doesn’t have big hotels chains, nor great nightlife or shopping areas, but it does have a wide cultural and artistic offer thanks to the influence of Cesar Manrique , the most popular artist from Lanzarote.

For me, this is the best island in the Canary Islands, and I recommend it to those looking for fascinating landscapes and art, as well as good wine and gastronomy. Bear in mind that, although there are plenty of things to do in Lanzarote , the island is small, and in high season, it can be crowded with tourists. However, most of the time, it’s quite quiet, and it’s one of the Canary Islands that I recommend you visit .

If Lanzarote is the best of the Canary Island for you...

There are a lot of  flights to the Canary Islands that arrive at Lanzarote. We have a guide on how to find cheap flights to Lanzarote , but this is the best site.

I recommend you spend 5 to 7 days touring this beautiful Canary Island.

Renting a car is the best way to move around the Canary Islands.  It only takes an hour to get from the north to the south of Lanzarote.

Do not miss the best things to do in Lanzarote:

• Volcanoes Route
• Cesar Manrique artistic tour

Taking a whale and dolphin watching tour in Lanzarote  is the best of  the Canary Islands.

Visiting La Graciosa Island is one of the best things to do in Lanzarote and it only takes 30 minutes to get there by ferry from Orzola (north of the island).

Book a hotel in one of the best places to stay in Lanzarote . Some of the best all-inclusive hotels of the Canary Islands are here:

• Barceló Teguise Beach – Adults Only
• Boutique Hotel H10 White Suites – Adults Only
• Occidental Lanzarote Mar

Download our tourist map of Lanzarote.

La Gomera, the best Canary Island for relaxing

La Gomera is a small and quiet island west of Tenerife. But don’t be fooled by its size, as its laurel forest, the Garajonay Natural Park, makes it one of the most beautiful Canary Islands. However, it isn’t the most touristy, since, although the last airport built in the Canary Islands is here, flights to La Gomera are not as frequent. In fact, most tourists come to La Gomera by ferry from Tenerife, one of the easiest ways to travel between the Canary Islands.

Except for its capital city, San Sebastián de La Gomera, most of the locals live in small, charming villages. However, many consider this gem one of the best Canary Islands destinations due to its nature and the trails that run through it, as well as its many viewpoints, one of the best things to do in La Gomera.

If you are wondering which is the nicest Canary Island to visit for hiking through the forest, tranquility, incredible views, and old villages that still preserve the essence of the Canary archipelago, La Gomera is for you. But it isn’t the best Canary Island for people looking for big resorts, lots of leisure activities, and nightlife. There aren’t many hotels in La Gomera, so if you plan to visit this island, book well in advance.

If La Gomera is the best Canary Island for you...

It has a small airport that only flies to Tenerife, and, although you can find some good flight deals here , if you are planning to take a 1-day trip from Tenerife, I recommend this option.

You can visit the most important places in La Gomera  in 1 day, although, if you spend 2 or 3 days in La Gomera, you will also find many things to do.

Unless you take this day trip from Tenerife, you will need to rent a car as public transportation is not as good on this island.

La Gomera is one of the most beautiful Canary Islands, and hiking in the Garajonay Natural Park is a must-do. No doubt, this is one of the best things to do in La Gomera.

If you are looking for a  relaxing holiday,  there is no better Canary Island than La Gomera. These beautiful hotels will be your best ally for disconnecting:

• Parador de La Gomera
• Hotel Jardín Tecina
• Apartamentos Los Telares

Fuerteventura, the best Canary Island for beaches

Fuerteventura is the second largest island in the Canaries, so for that reason alone, it deserves to be considered if you are planning your holidays to the Canary Islands.

However, the reasons why many tourists consider it an essential Canary Islands destination are its wild beaches (some of the most beautiful beaches of Spain ) surrounded by nature and its breathtaking Corralejo Sand Dunes, the best places to visit in Fuerteventura . There is no doubt that here you will find not only some of the best beaches in the Canary Islands but also in Spain.

In addition, it is the best Canary Island for kitesurfing or surfing. On this island, you’ll find the best conditions for these water sports all year round. In addition, there are many schools where you can learn these popular activities in the Canary Islands.

Surprisingly, Fuerteventura is not crowded, with neither a large population nor many tourists, which makes it a fairly quiet island in general, especially during the low season. This means that it doesn’t have great nightlife, except for some very specific areas.

It doesn’t stand out for its cultural offer either. However, if you are looking for stunning landscapes, beaches, and water sports, this is the best of the Canary Islands. Look for another option if you want to enjoy an active nightlife and more cultural tourism.

If Fuerteventura is the most beautiful Canary Island for you...

It has an international airport, which is very well connected to large cities in Europe (especially to Germany, the UK, and Spain). You can find the best flight deals here and also in our guide to finding cheap flights to Fuerteventura.

I recommend you spend 3 to 5 days in Fuerteventura, although if you don’t have that much time, I recommend this day trip from Lanzarote.

Rent a car if you want to discover some of the best beaches in the Canary Islands. At most, it will take you two hours to get from the north to the south of the island.

We have written an article with the best things to do in Fuerteventura. Without a doubt, if you want to enjoy wild beaches and huge golden dunes, this is the best Canary Island for you.

Don’t miss the chance to visit Lobos Island, the best island in the Canary Islands . You can get there with a short ferry ride from Corralejo (Northern Fuerteventura).

Taking a whale and dolphin watching tour in Fuerteventura  is the best of  the Canary Islands.

Although it is the  second-largest island in the Canary Islands, it isn’t the most touristy. However, you can find some incredible hotels if you look for where to stay in Fuerteventura:

• Barceló Corralejo Sands
• H10 Playa Esmeralda – Adults Only
• Barceló Castillo Beach Resort

Download the tourist map of Fuerteventura.

El Hierro, the cheapest island in the Canary Islands

El Hierro is the smallest island in the Canary Islands, or at least it was until a few years ago, when La Graciosa, at only 29 km², was named the eighth Canary Island. Didn’t you know how many islands are part of the Canary Islands ? There is a bit of discrepancy in this regard, since many say that the Canary Islands are made up of 8 islands, and many others say that they consist of 9 islands (including Lobos Island, Fuerteventura , another island that I also recommend visiting).

Anyway, El Hierro is a tiny island that has been declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO . Its pure, untouched nature is fascinating, and it is the best Canary Island for relaxing. The island’s rudimentary roads cover less distance than its numerous trails that invite you to explore the island on foot, one of the best things to do in El Hierro.

If you are looking for shopping malls, large resorts, or hotels, there are undoubtedly other Canary Islands that I recommend you visit, but if you fancy a Canary Islands holidays full of relaxation, El Hierro is one of the most beautiful Canary Islands.

As you can see, it isn’t the best Canary Island for everyone, since, unlike the rest, the only thing you can do here is walk among natural landscapes, go scuba diving, and rest. You will probably end up talking with the locals, who will speak to you as if they’ve known you for a long time, so if you want to experience true Canarian culture, this is your best option.

Are you looking for a place to visit in the Canary Islands that’s unlike anything else? Then you will feel at home in El Hierro. But don’t go there if you are looking for many tourist activities. It is also the cheapest Canary Island to travel to , so taking a long-term trip to El Hierro won’t hurt your wallet.

If El Hierro is your best Canary Islands destination...

The easiest way to get there is by taking a day trip from Tenerife. The airport, like the island, is quite small, so although there are flights to El Hierro , they are not very frequent.

I recommend you  spend 1 to 3 days  in El Hierro. It’s an island that at first seems like it has few tourist places to visit, but it is one of the Canary Islands that it’s most worthwhile to visit simply for its culture, landscapes, and cuisine.

If you don’t visit El Hierro with a guided day tour from Tenerife, you will need to rent a car to visit this beautiful Canary Island.

The best things to do in El Hierro are underwater:

• Snorkeling tour
• Scuba diving tour

In addition, El Hierro is the cheapest Canary Island to travel to, and you will find great hotel deals there:

• Balneario Pozo de la Salud
• Parador de El Hierro
• Apartamentos Villa Marina

La Graciosa, the best Canary Island for couples

La Graciosa is the best Canary Island for those seeking paradise and fleeing from crowded tourist attractions. It is the only Canary Island without an airport, so you can only get there by ferry from Lanzarote.

La Graciosa is in the Chinijo archipelago , one of the best places to dive in the world. At a total of 70,700 hectares, the waters surrounding these small islands make up the largest marine protected area in Europe, which is because there are some sea creatures that can only be found here.

However, if I consider La Graciosa the best Canary island for couples it is because of its dreamy sunsets. The island is of volcanic origin, so you will find unique landscapes, remote beaches, breathtaking views and bike trails.

I recommend you include it on your holidays to the Canary Islands if you are looking for relaxation and to quickly capture the essence of the Canary Islands, since you only need a day or two to visit it. It isn’t surprising that, for many, it is the most beautiful Canary Island.

If La Graciosa is the best of the Canary Island for you...

The only way to get there is by ferry from Lanzarote. The ride only takes 30 minutes.

One day is enough to visit the most important places in La Graciosa, although if you are planning a romantic getaway, I recommend spending 2 days on the island.

There is nothing like renting a bicycle to discover all the magical places to visit in La Graciosa.

La Graciosa is in the Chinijo Archipelago, one of the best places to dive in the Canary Islands and in the world. If you want to dive, you can request information here.

There are not many accommodation options on the island, so if you plan to spend one night there, book in advance:

• Evita Beach
• Cuesta del Salado

Download the tourist map of La Graciosa.

Best Things to do in the Canary Islands, Spain

If you still don’t know which is the most beautiful Canary Island, below you will find the main things to do and attractions to visit in the Canary Islands to help you decide where to spend your next vacation.

I will tell you where you can find the best beaches, the best volcanic landscapes, the best hiking trails, etc. to make it a little easier for you to choose which Canary is best for you.

Best beach in the Canary Islands

Spending at least one day sunbathing on a paradisiacal beach is an essential thing to do in the Canary Islands for me. However, you may still be wondering which Canary Island to visit to enjoy the sun and sand, so now I’ll reveal the best beaches in the Canary Islands .

Corralejo, with its turquoise water and gigantic golden sand dunes, is one of my favorite beaches and a great thing to do in Fuerteventura . However, it is just another of the innumerable paradisiacal beaches that you will find on this island. Cofete Beach , wilder and more remote; Sotavento , with its sandbank and its blue lagoons; or El Matorral are some of the other many beaches that make Fuerteventura the best Canary Island for beaches .

La Graciosa is another Canary island to visit if you’re looking for dream beaches. Las Conchas Beach is incredibly beautiful, although if you travel with kids, I recommend La Francesa Beach because its waters are calmer.

Lanzarote also has incredible beaches, especially in the Los Ajaches Natural Reserve, where Papagayo beach stands out. On the north of the island, you will find Famara beach , at the foot of the spectacular Risco de Famara, which is, for me, one of the most beautiful ones. If you want to enjoy beautiful and varied beaches, Lanzarote is definitely one of the best Canary Islands.

Hike up Mt. Teide, the best thing to do in the Canary Islands

Visiting the Teide summit is one of the best things to do in the Canary Islands. This incredible volcano is in Tenerife and is the highest peak in Spain, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007 and one of the places included in the Natura 2000 Network. Although Tenerife has other places of interest, I already consider it one of the best Canary Islands destinations for Teide alone.

The volcano and the park extend to a total of about 19,000 hectares, with very unique volcanic rock landscapes and species that can only be found here. To get to the summit, you can go up by cable car or choose between several trails. We hiked up the Montaña Blanca trail (also called Sendero 7), which is 8 km long and takes around 4 hours. In any case, you must hike the last 200 meters to the peak and will need a special permit to do so .

Enjoying the impressive views from the top of Mount Teide is not only the best thing to do in Tenerife but also one of the most beautiful things to see in the Canary Islands .

Surfing in the Canary Islands, Spain

Fuerteventura is the best Canary Island for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. The El Hierro wave, in the north, next to Majanicho beach, is one of the best waves in the Canary Islands, as it forms excellent tubes and is very well connected. However, to find the best place to surf in the Canary Islands , you must take the ferry to Isla de Lobos . At El Marrajo , there is a world-class wave, the longest wave in the Canary Islands.

Lanzarote is also a frequent answer to the question “ which Canary Island is best for surfing. ” Famara beach is one of the most popular for surfers. However, if you want next-level waves and you already have experience, El Quemao , next to the town of La Santa, offers a greater challenge. From Lanzarote, you can also take a ferry to La Graciosa to surf at some of its beaches.

Other islands with a surfing tradition and good waves are Tenerife and Gran Canaria , although as the most touristy islands in the Canary Islands, they are usually more crowded.

Diving, one of the most popular activities in the Canary Islands

Diving is the best thing to do in the Canary Islands , since the archipelago has incredible seabeds.

If you want to explore them, El Hierro is the best Canary Island to visit . You can find the Mar de Las Calmas Marine Reserve there, which has waters with a lot of visibility, perfect for enjoying underwater beauty. With a little luck, you can see sea turtles, dolphins, groupers, barracudas, and more. In addition, in El Hierro, there are many other great places for this activity, so there is no doubt that it’s the best Canary Islands for diving.

La Graciosa is in the Chinijo Archipelago Marine Reserve, which is the largest protected marine area in Europe. The most spectacular thing is its rocky bottom, with caves, crevices, and tunnels. Also, since the water here has a lower temperature, there are species that cannot be seen on other islands. For this reason, diving is undoubtedly the most popular thing to do in La Graciosa .

Gran Canaria is also one of the best islands for scuba diving, since, on its extensive coast, there is everything from dive sites for beginners to some for more experienced divers. Plus, you can explore sunken ships and snorkel among volcanic landscapes. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful Canary Islands below the waves.

Best volcanic landscapes in the Canary Islands

If I must choose the best Canary Island to visit to enjoy a spectacular volcanic landscape, there is no doubt that it would have to be Tenerife. As I have said before, Teide, in addition to being the highest peak in Spain and a place where you get spectacular views, has landscapes of volcanic cones with shapes and colors that will leave you speechless. Walking through the Roques de García, at the bottom of the volcano, is like discovering a new planet.

However, for me, Lanzarote is the nicest Canary Islands to visit if you want to learn more about volcanoes. On this Canary island is Timanfaya National Park , the most important attraction of Lanzarote , which covers around 5,000 hectares. The volcanic eruptions that took place until 1824 created a spectacular natural and virgin volcanic landscape. Here, you won’t find vegetation, but you will find an incredible array of colors. Also, you can take guided tours with park rangers to learn more about the formation of the island.

La Palma , in addition to being the most beautiful Canary Island, has a fascinating volcanic landscape. It may not be as popular as Teide or Timanfaya National Park because its creation is much more recent. However, the volcanoes of Fuencaliente are a great place to visit in the Canary Islands . In 1971, the last eruption of Teneguía volcano took place, and, since then, the Fuencaliente volcano route has become one of the best hikes in La Palma. On this island, you’ll also find Caldera Taburiente National Park, which was declared a World Biosphere Reserve in 2002. Although its landscape is very different from the rest, since it is full of vegetation, several volcanic eruptions took place here, creating a hilly landscape with up to 2,000 meters of unevenness.

Whale watching tours in the Canary Island

Whale watching is one of the most popular activities in the Canary Islands . Although you can take a tour to watch whales and dolphins from practically any island, one of the best is in Tenerife .

In fact, one of the most popular things to do in Tenerife South is to take a boat that sails Costa Adeje, Guía de Isora, and Santiago del Teide in search of whales and dolphins. The waters of this area are perfect for cetacean watching. In addition, they usually get quite close to the coast, and up to 21 different species have been counted. If you want to enjoy the best of the Canary Islands on your trip, I recommend the tour we did or you can check other options in our guide on whale watching tours in Tenerife.

This activity can also be done on La Palma through a tour like this one . Most of the excursions depart from the Tazacorte port, on the west coast, and, according to the islanders, the percentage of success for sightings is around 90%. Remember that they are wild animals that live freely and that their movements and behaviors can be unpredictable. But if the success rate is true, this makes it the best Canary Island for whale watching , especially if you are looking for a place that is not as crowded with tourists as Tenerife. Here is an article with everything you need to know about dolphin and whale-watching in La Palma.

In Gran Canaria, there are also good conditions for whale watching tours, although whales are not as frequent there; what is normally seen are wild dolphins. These small and cute cetaceans usually swim in the southern waters of the island of Gran Canaria, especially in the Puerto Rico area. If, during your holidays in the Canary Islands, you want to enjoy this activity, I recommend this tour or check our guide on the best whale watching tours in Gran Canaria.

Lobos Island is another ideal Canary Islands destination for dolphin watching. You can take a tour to explores its waters in search of these mammals from Lanzarote or from Fuerteventura. For more information, check our guides on dolphin-watching in Lanzarote and dolphin-watching in Fuerteventura.

Laurel forests, which is the best Canary Island

The laurel forest is a type of humid subtropical forest that I highly recommend visiting in the Canary Islands.

To enjoy these beautiful forests, La Gomera is undoubtedly the best island in the Canary Islands. In fact, many of us think that it’s the most beautiful Canary Island, thanks to the laurel forest it has in Garajonay National Park . If you can travel to La Gomera, visiting this park is like entering a magical world where nature has created a space everyone wants to get lost in. Winding trails, incredible views, fairytale landscapes and a beautiful volcanic landscape. This is the Laurisilva forest of La Gomera.

But there is another laurel forest that fascinated me: Anaga Rural Park, in Tenerife. In this park, you will find numerous trails that will take you through a laurel forest that many call the “Enchanted Forest.” Personally, I recommend you hike the Sendero de los Sentidos trail. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Tenerife North . Here, in addition to this beautiful forest, you will enjoy paradisiacal beaches, cliffs, and incredible landscapes. And if you have time, I advise you to spend a night in this hostel to be able to enjoy this place even more.

In short, if you want to get to know laurel forests on your trip to the Canary Islands, I recommend those of La Gomera and Tenerife.

Beautiful villages to visit in the Canary Islands

If you are looking for the best island in the Canary Islands to discover the most traditional culture, the most authentic gastronomy, and stroll through the streets of charming little villages and their surroundings, I know which Canary Island is best for you.

In Gran Canaria, you will find some of the most beautiful villages in the Canary Islands. Like Tejeda , also considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain . If you are a nature enthusiast, it’s one of the towns to visit in the Canary Islands that you cannot miss. Also, different hiking trails start from here. Teror is also in Gran Canaria, where you can get to know the most traditional side of the island, as well as Mogán, where, in addition to enjoying the friendliness of the locals, you can also spend a good day at the beach.

Lanzarote is another place to visit in the Canary Islands if you want to find beautiful villages. For example, one of the most beautiful towns in Spain is there, Yaiza , and you can also visit the charming village of Teguise. Yaiza is great if you’re looking for tradition, architecture, and tranquility. On the other hand, Teguise is considered one of the oldest and most historic villages in the Canary Islands, which is why it has become, over the years, one of the main cultural and tourist centers of Lanzarote.

And finally, I highlight Betancuria, Fuerteventura . It is the oldest town in the Canary Islands and the most picturesque of all. In addition, it is also one of the most beautiful towns in Spain. It is more than 600 years old, and, despite its small size, it has many places of interest to discover. So, if you are looking for the best Canary Island to learn about tradition and culture, keep Fuerteventura in mind.

Best Canary Island for Nightlife

If you are looking for the best Canary Islands for nightlife, I recommend Gran Canaria. Nightlife is concentrated, above all, in the capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, where there are bars and clubs that are open until 6 am; and in the tourist areas of Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, and Puerto Rico. The offer of nightclub venues is so vast that you can find absolutely everything you are looking for. You can even find boats where you can spend a whole day doing activities and, at night, you can party.

Although Gran Canaria is the best island for nightlife, you can also find many things to do at night in Tenerife. Of course, if you are looking for a place to stay in Tenerife to enjoy its nightlife, I recommend the south, specifically Costa Adeje, Playa de las Américas, and Los Cristianos , which is where the best clubs, most exclusive venues, and pubs are concentrated.

If you are looking for a Canary Islands holiday that is full of partying, I totally recommend Gran Canaria or Tenerife , with the former being the best option.

Carnival in the Canary Islands

If you are lucky enough to travel to the Canary Islands during Carnival , you will experience one of the most spectacular, colorful, festive, and musical events in the world. But what is the best Canary Island’s Carnival ?

The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is one of the most important carnivals in the world, behind those of Rio de Janeiro and Venice. It is a party that is already part of the culture and tradition of Tenerife. In fact, it was declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest in 1980, and it’s the only festival in the Canary Islands that has such a distinction. During the days that the Carnival takes place, parades, costumes, comparsas, and musical groups are held. And, most importantly, the election of the Carnival Queen.

In the capital of Gran Canaria , Las Palmas de Gran Canaria , Carnival is also a big thing. There, they have a very special figure, the Drag Queen , which is what sets this Carnival apart from the rest. This figure, which has been part of the celebration for decades, celebrates the LGBTQ community. Although I haven’t visited Gran Canarias during Carnival yet, I know that everything that is done to choose the “Reinona” is spectacular, full of color and music.

And if you still don’t know which Canary island to visit during Carnival, I assure you that whatever island you choose, you will have a great time .

I know that it’s difficult to decide what Canary island is best for tourists, since each one has something that makes it special. It was impossible for me to choose just one, so when I saw that it was easy to travel between the Canary Islands , I decided to visit several of them, and it was the best decision I made.

If you don’t know which island to visit during your trip to the Canary Islands either, no worries. Canary Islands hopping is easy and doesn’t take much time. There are very good connections by ferry or boat, even by plane, and you can visit several island on the same trip. In fact, it takes less than one hour to get from one Canary Island to another. Below, you’ll find ways to get around the Canary Islands so that you can make the most of your trip.

Ferries Canary Islands

There are many ferries between the Canary Islands every day. Fred. Olsen Express and Naviera Armas are the main companies operating these routes, but there are many other smaller companies too.

These are the connections you will find to travel between the Canary Islands by ferry:

• Ferry from Tenerife to: El Hierro, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, La Graciosa, La Gomera, Lanzarote and La Palma.
• Boat from La Palma to: Gran Canaria, La Gomera and Tenerife.
• Ferry from Lanzarote to: Fuerteventura, La Graciosa, Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
• Boat from La Graciosa to: Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Tenerife.
• Ferry from La Gomera to: El Hierro, Gran Canaria, La Palma and Tenerife.
• Boat from Gran Canaria to: Fuerteventura, La Gomera, La Graciosa, Lanzarote, La Palma and Tenerife.
• Ferry from Fuerteventura to: Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Tenerife.
• Boat from El Hierro to: La Gomera and Tenerife.
• Ferry to Isla de Lobos from Fuerteventura.

As you can see, the Canary Islands are very well connected, so you don’t have to worry if you can’t decide which Canary Island to visit. Just go Canary Island Hopping! Also, many boats accept cars, so you can get a cheap rental car and move it between the islands.

Find cheap rental cars in the Canary Islands

Flights between the Canary Islands

There are 8 airports in the Canary Islands that connect the different islands to each other. These airports are in Tenerife South, Tenerife North, Fuerteventura, La Gomera, Gran Canaria, El Hierro, Lanzarote, and La Palma.

In addition, traveling between the Canary Islands by plane is very convenient, since it always take less than an hour and there are flights between the islands every day. So, if you can find cheap flights , don’t hesitate to enjoy visiting several Canary Islands. The main airlines operating in the Canary Islands are Binter and Canaryfly.

Personally, I advise you to always try to take a ferry or boat as your first option because you save on waiting time and airport security. But if you have no other choice, Canary Islands hopping by plane is also a great option.

As you can see, it’s difficult to choose which is the most beautiful Canary Island, but luckily, there are many options for you to move between them during your holiday. If you don’t know which Canary Island to visit, choose the two or three that you like the most and plan your itinerary. And if you have any questions and want us to help you decide which Canary Island is best for you, leave a comment and I’ll be happy to help.

Have a good trip to the Canary Islands!

Ascen Aynat

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

A first-timer’s guide to the best Canary Islands

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

Select Month

• roughguides.com
• a-first-timers-guide-to-the-canary-islands

Plan your tailor-made trip with a local expert

Book securely with money-back guarantee

Travel stress-free with local assistance and 24/7 support

written by Joanne Owen

updated 05.06.2024

The Canary Islands are home to the world’s second largest Carnival and the highest mountain in Spain . It is also home to world-class wines and beaches. Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro - all have a lot to offer travellers. But what is the best Canary Island? Read our guide and choose for yourself.

What is the best Canary Island?

1. tenerife - best for an infinite variety, 2. fuerteventura – best for wind sports and beaches, 3. gran canaria – best for diverse landscapes, 4. lanzarote - best for an elegant ambience, 5. la graciosa - best for secluded getaways, 6. la palma - best for jaw-dropping scenery, 7. la gomera - best for heavenly hiking, 8. el hierro - best for utter escape, how to get to the canary islands:.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Spain , your essential guide for visiting Spain .

Travel ideas for Spain, created by local experts

9 days  / from 2468 USD

Andalucía Explored

Discover the best of Andalucía's breathtaking palaces, churches, museums, vineyards, and more, as you travel through spectacular scenery dotted with pueblos blancos and bordered by rugged mountains and coast en route to Granada, Seville, Ronda and Jerez de la Frontera.

4 days  / from 643 USD

A culinary experience in Seville

Explore the cuisine and surroundings of Seville in Andalucia. From Iberian ham over sherry wines to the production and secrets of olive oil, this tour is an ideal weekend getaway. Decide yourself if you prefer a rental car or a chauffeur-driven car to explore the beauty of Andalucia.

10 days  / from 3791 USD

Spanish Honeymoon

Discover Andalusia, starting with the cultural city of Seville, then on to Córdoba and Granada, home of the stunning Alhambra Palace. Next you'll visit Granada and the Albayzin Arab quarter, then enjoy a stunning hot-air balloon ride, before ending your trip with a luxury boat trip from Marbella!

5 days  / from 1480 USD

Made for Madrid

Take to the Spanish capital for art, culture and a taste of life in the city, Madrileño-style. Explore age-old churches and pretty plazas, stroll through the lovely Buen Retiro Park and visit captivating Toledo. Then, come sundown, discover the city's vibrant barrios and lively nightlife.

4 days  / from 1399 USD

A Madrid getaway

Spend four days discovering the wonders of Spain's capital Madrid: from fascinating museums like El Prado and Reina Sofia over exploring unknown corners with your private guide to a day trip to the surroundings, this itinerary packs the best of Madrid.

18 days  / from 4590 USD

Hidden Spain - From Barcelona to Basque Country

Do you want to explore highlights in Spain while staying in nature at the same time? Look no further. Start your Spanish adventure in Barcelona before heading off to the mountains - drive your rental car to Andorra and further on to Basque Country. Decide between driving yourself or guided tours.

The diversity of landscapes on the Canary Islands really is staggering, spanning dramatic deserts and snow-capped mountains, verdant valleys and towering cliffs. Then there’s the seemingly infinite number of beaches - of both the black and white sand variety - take a look at our guide to finding the best beaches in Gran Canaria as proof.

What’s more, the Canaries are volcanic (hence that black sand), and volcanic islands are never dull. For example, La Palma’s Teneguia erupted as recently as 1971 - if you find that thought exciting take a look at our guide to the top 20 volcanoes around the world .

Given all this diversity, there's no question about which is the best Canary Island - rather, it’s a case of which is best for you. And the good thing is, no matter what your travel style, there’s an island to suit your needs.

If you're planning a trip to Spain, don't miss our Spain itineraries and information on how to get there . 

The caldera of Tenerife's Mount Teide © Shutterstock

The largest of the Canary Islands in size - Tenerife is especially suited to families and couples whose interests diverge. Say one of you is a confirmed beach bum while the other likes to hike.

While Tenerife’s dry southern strip is its tourist epicentre - a string of resorts, restaurants, water parks and bars beloved by Brits - most of the island’s attractions lie beyond this entertainment enclave.

On the north coast, picturesque Puerto de la Cruz has been attracting northern Europeans for over a century, with much of its colonial grandeur remaining intact, despite the commercialisation of its seafront promenade.

Fans of Spanish food and old-time charm would do well to visit La Orotava, an unspoiled town perched on a steep hill above Puerto de la Cruz. Blessed with stately mansions, ancient churches and cobbled streets, it’s also home to an abundance of beautiful local restaurants.

To experience Tenerife’s jaw-dropping crowning glory, head inland through cool pine forests to Teide National Park, home to the eponymous iconic volcano, and Spain’s highest peak. The epic lunar landscape around Mount Teide is best seen from a  cable car in the company of a local guide as part of a wider island tour.

Ready to escape the winter gloom? See our guide to the best places to visit in winter for sun .

Where to stay in Tenerife:

• For La Orotava stays: Hotel Alhambra
• For beach stays: Hotel Cleopatra Palace
• For luxury stays: Hacienda del Conde

Find more accommodation options in Tenerife

View Of Roque Nublo And El Teide, Gran Canaria © StockWithMe/Shutterstock

Next up in our guide to the best Canary Islands is Fuerteventura. The second largest island, Fuerteventura lies less than a hundred kilometres away from the African coast and is one of the least developed islands. Wind-swept, sandy and barren, it boasts the best beaches of the archipelago, most of which are blessed with fine golden sand.

Once a sleepy fishing port, unpretentious Corralejo is now a lively seaside resort town with a mix of Brits, Germans and locals contributing to its vibe. This tapas-bar-rich town is also close to some of the island’s top natural attractions.

The main highlight is Corralejo National Park, a swathe of protected sand dunes best explored on a  buggy or quad bike trip . Alternatively, try a 4x4 fix with a juddering jeep tour which takes in Cofete Natural Park - think cacti and incredible coves.

Fuerteventura windmill against a typical beautiful, blue sky backdrop © Shutterstock

If you’re seeking a beautiful beach experience, look no further than the soft sand of Playa del Moro. Its epic, windy setting gives it an appealing wildness, and it’s also one of the area’s best places to surf.

Lastly, no visit to Fuerteventura would be complete without heading to idyllic Isla de Lobos. Travelling to, and exploring, this largely uninhabited nature reserve is rewarding for nature-lovers and families alike.

Where to stay in Fuerteventura:

• For Corralejo stays: Luxury Cayetana
• For beach stays: Castillo Playa
• For family stays: H10 Tindaya

Find more accommodation options in Fuerteventura

The fine sand and turquoise waters of Fuerteventura's Jandia Beach © Shutterstock

The third largest of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria comes a close second to Tenerife in terms of having all-around appeal - dramatic scenery, perfect beaches, lively resorts, cultural sites aplenty, and restaurants worth writing home about.

Gran Canaria’s dramatic landscape comes courtesy of its classic volcanic cone profile and if you're up for an adventure take a look at our guide to exploring the rugged heart of Gran Canaria on foot . The island's mountainous nature also causes huge climate variations. So you might leave Las Palmas in damp and cloudy conditions and an hour later be enjoying the blazing hot sun on the spectacular Maspalomas Dunes.

As for Las Palmas itself? At once a major commercial hub, historical centre, cosmopolitan resort, and essential seaport, this is arguably the most beguiling of Canarian capitals. Adorned with attractive museums and galleries, it’s a stunning place to amble an afternoon with an informed Canary Islands travel guide taking you on an  Old Town walking tour .

For an easy hike to an epic sight that the entire family can enjoy, head to Roque Nublo. Given that this mighty rock was once worshipped by the island’s indigenous population, this is sure to satisfy culture vultures and outdoorsy types alike.

Where to stay in Gran Canaria:

• For rural stays: El Rinconcito de Tejeda
• For beach stays: Valentina Beach Apartments & Suites
• For family stays: Hotel Cordial Mogán Playa

Find more accommodation options in Gran Canaria

Sunset on Gran Canaria - one of the best Canary Islands © Shutterstock

Related articles from the blog

The youngest of the seven main islands, the stylish Lanzarote is also the most aesthetically pleasing - largely thanks to the work of one man. César Manrique was a visionary architect who stamped his creative architectural style on lots of local projects.

To see the magical side of Manrique’s vision in situ, head to Jameos del Agua. The first visitor attraction Manrique designed, this mood-music accompanied fantasy journey through a gorgeous volcanic grotto and underground lagoon really is out-of-this-world.

Alongside Manrique’s unique architectural vision, Lanzarote is also known for its idiosyncratic viticulture that sees Malvasia wine grapes grown in the island's craters. Seeing as the island’s wine is made distinct by its volcanic terrain, it makes good sense to combine wine-tasting with a visit to the island’s Timanfaya National Park.

For family-friendly resort life, plus golden beaches and a bustling marina that’s perfect for people watching, Playa Blanca comes up trumps. It’s also where you catch the forty-minute ferry to Fuerteventura. Speaking of ferries, for a more remote (and incredibly beautiful) beach experience, head to tiny La Graciosa - a picture-perfect place to get away from it all for the day.

Where to stay in Lanzarote:

• For boutique stays: Hotelito Rural Flor de Timanfaya
• For beach stays: Apartamentos Acuario Sol
• For family stays: Grupotel Cinco Plazas

Find more accommodation options in Lanzarote

Lanzarote's weird and wonderful wine production landscape in La Geria © Shutterstock

At the northern tip of the Lanzarote is the small fishing port of Orzola. This is the embarkation point for a ferry service to the tiny Isla Graciosa, run by Líneas Maritimas Romero. With superb beaches, this is the place to get away from it all for the day and is also a great place for a family holiday .

For an unforgettable view of Isla Graciosa drive up to the Mirador del Río an observation gallery built into the cliffside – yet another of César Manrique’s unmissable creations. This is probably the most spectacular mirador in the Canaries. Great cliffs curve down to the beach, with Graciosa just across the strip of water called simply El Río (The River), and two smaller islands, Montaña Clara and Alegranza, in the background.

Combined with a small section of the northwest coast of Lanzarote, the islands form the Parque Nacional del Archipiélago Chinijo. The only sound here is the wind gently whistling through El Río.

Spain is well known for its amazing wines and this tailor-made trip to The Lands of Wine allows you to explore two famous regions: Ribera del Duero and La Rioja. Four different wineries, from traditional to modern, and many restaurants on the way await your visit.

Where to stay at La Graciosa:

• For couples stays: La Pardela Excellence Apartamentos
• For beach stays: La Graciosa Camelia Beach Vistas Mar
• For family stays: Apartamentos Graciosamar

Find more accommodation options in La Graciosa

La Graciosa © Shutterstock

The entire island of La Palma has been declared a UNESCO biosphere reserve for its remarkable scenery - some parts are dramatically volcanic, and others are lushly forested. It’s no wonder that the most north-westerly of the Canary Islands is known as both La Isla Bonita (The Beautiful Island) and La Isla Verde (The Green Island).

The capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma, is an attractive history-rich town that’s well worth a day (or two) of exploration. Clean and bright with a mix of traditional and modern architecture, back in the day (namely, the Renaissance era), it was the third most important port of the Spanish Empire, after Seville and Antwerp.

A cool way to uncover La Palma’s volcanic origins (in both senses of the word "cool" - these caves are chilly) is to take a guided tour of the unique 500-metre-long, 3-metre-wide lava tunnel .

Moving now from subterranean exploration to peak adventuring, the pinnacle of La Palma’s scenic highlights is the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, where the finest views of the archipelago can be seen from Roque de los Muchachos.

You can drive most of the way up and then ramble around the volcanic mound on foot. Blanketed in dense Canarian pine woods, and zigzagged with deep ravines, the park is a picture-perfect paradise for ramblers.

• For Santa Cruz de la Palma stays: Hotel Emblemático Holiday Time
• For beach stays: Puerto playa
• For country stays: Apartamentos La Caleta

Find more accommodation options in La Palma

The Rough Guides to Spain and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Columbian history, rugged terrain, and honey rum - more on that later - La Gomera is cheese to Tenerife’s chalk. It’s a mountainous island, criss-crossed by long, winding roads, with a coastline dominated by dramatic cliffs - and few beaches. 

But the real jewel in La Gomera’s crown is its interior - lots of vertiginous verdant valleys that are often capped by clouds, with the Parque Nacional de Garajonay at its heart. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park has a well-marked circular trail and contains rare laurel forests, subtropical plant species and archaeological sites - all the while serving up sweeping views.

Though small in size, La Gomera is big on delivering food and drink specialties, such as almogrote, a spicy cheese paste. To wash it down, there’s lots of local wine to choose from, or ronmiel liqueur (literally, rum honey). While Canarian rum is popular on all the islands, this is a La Gomera speciality. As is guarapo - a honey-like syrup made from the heated sap of Canarian palm trees.

Ready to explore the food of Spain? Don't miss our guide to the best Spanish food.

Where to stay in La Gomera:

• For sea views: Apartamentos Tapahuga
• For various activities: Telegraph Hostel
• For town stays: Hotel Torre Del Conde

Find more accommodation options in La Gomera

Local specialities on La Gomera © Shutterstock

Last (but not least) in our guide to the best Canary Islands comes rustic El Hierro - the smallest and most south-westerly island in the archipelago is also the hardest to get to, and the least set-up for tourists.

If you’re looking for bouncing bars in the company of 24-hour party people, this isn’t the island for you. And, as with La Gomera, if you’re looking for picture-perfect beaches, this isn’t your nirvana either. El Hierro is a sanctuary from tourist trappings - a haven for divers, hikers, and get-away-from-it-all-ers.

Valverde, the only Canarian capital located inland is small, with a cluster of friendly bars and restaurants. Other impressive inland sights include the Tubo Volcánico, a 295-foot volcanic cave, and El Sabinal, a forest of juniper trees (sabinosas) that have been twisted, gnarled and bent by the wind. If you’re desperate for a bit of beach time, Playa del Verodal is El Hierro’s best. 

For fine dining and diving, you’ll want to head to La Restinga, a laidback fishing village with a black sand beach, diving centre, and bunch of good fish restaurants. Neighbouring Bahía de Naos is a marine nature reserve.

Where to stay in El Hierro

• For wonderful views: El Laurel
• For coast stays: Salitre
• For beach stays: Lightbooking Varadero La Restinga

Find more accommodation options in El Hierro

El Hierro - a haven for hikers © Shutterstock

There are numerous airline flights from all UK airports to the Canary Islands. Some flights involve a stop-over in Madrid or Barcelona. You can also fly to Gran Canaria or Tenerife and get a connecting flight. Note that many people go to the Canaries on all-in package holidays, which can be the cheapest way to do it.

At present there are several flights to the Canary islands from the US operated by British Airways, Air Europa and Iberia, that usually go via Madrid or via London airports.

You can also travel to the Canary Islands by ship. The most popular operators are:

• The Trasmediterránea ferry company . Runs a weekly service from Cádiz to Arrecife, Las Palmas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Santa Cruz de la Palma.
• The Fred Olsen Shipping Line runs ferries between Gran Canaria and Tenerife and between Tenerife and El Hierro.
• Naviera Armas has services from Gran Canaria to Tenerife, Fuerteventura, La Gomera and Lanzarote, and Tenerife to El Hierro and La Palma.

Do you want to explore the highlights in Spain while staying in nature at the same time? Look no further. Start your tailor-made Spanish adventure in Barcelona before heading off to the mountains - drive your rental car to Andorra and further on to Basque Country. Decide between driving yourself or guided tours.

Ready for a trip to the Canary Islands? Check out The Rough Guide to Spain . If you travel further in Spain , read more about the best time to go , the best places to visit and best things to do in Spain. For inspiration use our Spain itineraries from our local travel experts . A bit more hands on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Spain without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn commission from some of the external websites linked in this article, but this does not influence our editorial standards - we only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

• Walking Hiking Trekking
• Coasts & Islands
• Inspiration
• See & Do
• Where to stay

Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip

Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates

Travel advice for Spain

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Spain

• Culture and Etiquette in Spain
• Eating and drinking in Spain
• Getting around Spain: Transportation Tips
• How to get to Spain
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Spain
• Travel Tips Spain for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Spain

Find even more inspiration for 1 here

Ready to travel and discover spain, get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Itineraries
• Travel advice

©Stian Klo/Lonely Planet

Canary Islands

Scented pine forests, haunting volcanoes, lunar-like landscapes, secret sandy coves, miles of Sahara-style dunes, beach-hugging resorts. This is the unique beauty of the Canary Islands.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Cueva Pintada Museum & Archaeological Park

Gran Canaria

Discovered by a local farmer in the late 19th century, this is one of Gran Canaria's most important pre-Hispanic archaeological sites: a cave adorned with…

Casa-Museo de Colón

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

This fascinating museum documents Columbus’ voyages and features exhibits on the Canary Islands’ historical role as a staging post for transatlantic…

Pico del Teide

The cable car provides the easiest way to get up to the peak of El Teide. The views are great – unless a big cloud is covering the peak, in which case you…

Fundación César Manrique

Upon returning definitively to Lanzarote, César Manrique built his spectacular house and creative centre, Taro de Tahíche, into the lava fields just…

Parque Nacional de Timanfaya

Lanzarote's most spectacular sight, the eerie 51-sq-km Parque Nacional de Timanfaya sprawls around the Montañas del Fuego (Mountains of Fire) formed by…

Santuario de la Virgen de las Nieves

Santa Cruz de la Palma

For splendid views down the valley to Santa Cruz, put aside time to tackle the 4km uphill hike north of town to La Palma’s main object of pilgrimage, the…

Playa de Cofete

This is the main beach in far-flung Cofete, near the southern tip of the island and the main draw on the island for many. It's huge, quite beautiful and…

Villa Winter

This impressive structure, with its castle-like turret, was built by German engineer Gustav Winter in the 1930s. Rumours linking Winter to the Nazi party…

Latest stories from Canary Islands

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Mar 24, 2022 • 2 min read

Just ahead of welcoming visitors flocking to its islands for the Easter break, Spain's Canary Islands are suspending some COVID-19 safety measures.

Feb 18, 2022 • 6 min read

Sep 2, 2021 • 13 min read

Dec 7, 2020 • 2 min read

Aug 7, 2020 • 2 min read

Jun 11, 2020 • 6 min read

May 13, 2020 • 2 min read

Apr 28, 2020 • 2 min read

Jul 29, 2019 • 1 min read

Apr 17, 2019 • 1 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Canary Islands

Canary islands and beyond.

• Privacy & disclosure policy
• Portfolio & Press
• NORWAY ITINERARIES

Which is the best Canary Island to visit?

Psst! Some links in my posts may be affiliate links, which means that I get paid a fee if you chose to purchase something through it. This doesn't cost you anything, but makes a huge difference for me! Thanks for your support!

Wondering which is the best Canary Island to visit for your holiday? Then I wrote this guide for you!

The Canary Islands are a group of Spanish islands located off the coast of Africa and are popular among European tourists for their year-round warm temperatures, stunning beaches, and rich volcanic landscapes.

As I have mentioned in pretty much every single post I have written about the Canary Islands, they are especially popular amongst Scandinavians. In fact, I grew up going on package holidays to Tenerife and Gran Canaria, and have since explored more of the islands.

With eight islands to choose from, deciding which Canary Island to visit can be difficult. Therefore, I’ve put together a guide to help you choose the best island for your next Spanish getaway.

The main five Canary Islands people travel to are Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and La Palma – and these are the ones I will focus on in this guide.

The remaining three; La Gomera, La Graciosa and El Hierro, are popular destinations for day trips from the other islands.

Table of Contents

Why visit the Canary Islands?

The main reason people visit any of the islands is the weather and temperature. While the rest of Europe is layering up in winter, the Canaries are just chilling (or rather, warming) with average temperatures of about 22°C (72°F) in the winter months.

On my most recent winter trip to Tenerife, we had days when it was as hot as 26 degrees Celsius in the sun (79 Fahrenheit)!

So, escaping the cold is easily the main reason people visit the Canary Islands. They are all perfect for this, but when it comes to which is the best Canary Island for you, there are plenty of reasons to visit each one.

By this I mean; if you think the Canary Islands are all the same, think again. Each have their own pros and cons (which is why I’m writing this guide to which one you should visit).

Fancy lounging on a sandy beach? Head to Fuerteventura. More of a nature lover? La Palma, with its lush forests, is calling your name. Want a combo of night life and historic sites? Tenerife’s your ticket. Just want to hit the clubs? Gran Canaria might be your best bet.

9 reasons to visit the Canary Islands

Before we dive into the “island selector”, below are the top reasons people visit the Canary Islands. If any of these are tempting, you have come to the right blog.

• Sunshine Galore: The Canary Islands are like the friend who always brings the sunshine to a party, literally. They boast an average of 300 sunny days per year. So, pack your reef-friendly sunscreen and get ready to soak up the rays!
• Beaches for Days: With a wide variety of beaches, ranging from golden sands to black volcanic shores, you’ll feel like you’re hopping between different planets, not just islands! If this is what will sway your vote, hop over to my guide to the best beaches in the Canary Islands .
• The Food: Paella, anyone? And don’t get me started on the Tapas. The local cuisine here is a mouthwatering fusion of Spanish and African influences. Your taste buds will thank you.
• Local Wine : Obviously this is one of my top reasons to go anywhere, From the vineyards of Tenerife to the hand-selected wine from the other islands – plenty of restaurants serve great Canary wines with their food!
• A Hiker’s Paradise: If you’re a fan of lacing up your boots and hitting the trails, then you’re in luck. The Canaries offer a spectacular topography that’s just begging to be explored.
• Diverse Wildlife: Admire the rare birds, dive alongside colorful fish, or just marvel at the myriad of unique flora. If you’re a nature lover, this is your dream destination.
• The Night Sky: With almost zero light pollution, the Canary Islands offer one of the best stargazing experiences on the planet. It’s like a nightly fireworks show, but without the noise and smoke!
• Friendly Locals: Last, but not least, the warm and welcoming nature of the locals is the cherry on top of this vacation sundae. They’re the type of people who’d give you their last slice of pizza, and that says a lot!
• Great Diving : If you are anything like me, you love to go diving when on holiday. I have found that the Canary Islands have some of the best diving in Europe! Seriously, when I went diving in Fuerteventura I even saw the luminescent bio-plankton for the first time!

So, get ready for an unforgettable trip where you’ll enjoy everything from lounging on the beach to hiking up a volcano, and remember, what happens in the Canary Islands, stays in the Canary Islands (except the tan, that comes back with you!).

Regardless of which one of the Canary Islands you choose, you’ll have a great time. Now, let me help you pick the best Canary Island for your trip!

If you’re considering a visit to Spain and wondering whether to include the Canary Islands in your itinerary, allow me to provide some insight.

The Canary Islands offer more than just sandy beaches and abundant sunshine. Each island possesses its own unique charm, beckoning you with its distinctive allure. It’s akin to a delightful assortment where every island showcases its splendor.

So, prepare your luggage, apply some sunscreen, and get ready to be captivated by the remarkable beauty of each island in this sunny Spanish archipelago.

Below I try to go into a little more detail about each island, to hopefully help you make the choice!

Below that I have answered a few more specific questions, like “which is the best Canary Island for families”, couples etc. Find this in the FAQ section!

Why visit Tenerife?

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is a paradise known for its vibrant nightlife, stunning beaches , and breathtaking volcanic landscapes. This captivating island is home to Spain’s highest mountain peak, Mount Teide, which stands majestically in its national park.

Embark on an unforgettable journey as you explore Tenerife, where you can indulge in a lively holiday experience with an abundance of nightlife options, vibrant bars and restaurants, a vast selection of picturesque beaches, and a plethora of opportunities for an active outdoor lifestyle.

Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or a perfect blend of both, Tenerife offers an enchanting escape that will leave you yearning for more.

Personally, I prefer staying on the north side of the island, where they have beautiful vineyards stretching from the mountainside of Teide down to the ocean (and places to visit for wine tastings). However, lots of people love the south, so figuring out where to stay in Tenerife isn’t always straight forward.

The towns in the north are quieter (I recently stayed in Puerto de la Cruz), but there’s also more winds and changing weather compared to the south of the island.

Need more details? Here you go: Where is Tenerife Island?

Top 5 Activities and Things to do in Tenerife

• Visit Mount Teide at night: This nighttime tour takes you up Mount Teide for an unforgettable startgazing experience!
• Swim in natural pools: A swim in the stunning natural pools of Garachico or Puerto de La Cruz is a must.
• Get high (altitude, people, altitude) : Take a cable car to the peak of Mount Teide. It’s the highest point in Spain – now, that’s what I call a natural high! This is one of the most popular things to do in Tenerife.
• Join the bird gang: Visit the Loro Parque zoo, home to over 300 species of birds. Just don’t start a bird gang war, it’s not West Side Story.
• Go wine tasting: Visit a local winery in the Orotava Valley. This is where you’ll find most Tenerife wineries, and is worth a visit – a tour like this includes 2 wineries and dinner!

Browse some of the highest-rated Tenerife activities here:

Why visit Gran Canaria?

Nestled between Tenerife and Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria is a vibrant and diverse island that offers so much more than meets the eye. It is perhaps the most popular amongst the Canary Islands, in large part because it is the most affordable to visit.

Flights to Gran Canaria are frequent (both chartered and scheduled flights), and there are several tourist-welcoming towns around the island.

With its bustling nightlife, all-inclusive resorts, and stunning beaches, it’s a haven for those seeking a beach-centric vacation. It is also ideal for those that want to go somewhere sunny, but not venture too far from home.

I say this, because in the restaurants in Playa del Ingles you’ll find menus in central European and Scandinavian languages. You’ll also find lots of people from your home country there (if you are from the Nordics, Germany or UK).

The Playa del Ingles/Maspalomas area is the most popular destination on Gran Canaria, with lots of great things to do .

Gran Canaria boasts incredible natural reserves, providing endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. From exhilarating hikes and scenic treks to thrilling mountain biking trails, there’s no shortage of adventure here.

Whether you’re basking in the sun on the golden sands or exploring the rugged beauty of the island’s hinterland, Gran Canaria offers a little bit of everything for every traveler.

Top 5 Activities and Things to do on Gran Canaria

• Sunbathe on Playa de Las Canteras beach: It’s not a successful vacation until you’ve got a sunburn to prove it, right? (Just kidding, folks, don’t forget your sunscreen!)
• Go on a Boat Tour: A morning catamaran cruise is the perfect way to spend a few hours, and includes snorkeling, kayaking and lots of time to relax on the boat.
• Stroll through Vegueta, the old town of Las Palmas: This place is as steeped in history as your average British tea. From the architecture to the landmarks, you’ll find enough Instagrammable spots to last a lifetime.
• Hike in the Tamadaba National Park: There’s nothing like a hike to make you appreciate that double-decker cheeseburger you plan on gobbling down later.
• Dive in El Cabrón Marine Reserve: Explore a whole new world under the sea, and the El Cabrón is one of the best dive spots on the island (read about my experience here !).

Below are a few more popular tours on Gran Canaria:

Why visit Fuerteventura?

With over 150 stunning beaches and a year-round sunny climate, Fuerteventura is the epitome of relaxation. The island not only offers pristine shores but also boasts some of the most breathtaking beaches on the islands. From the powdery white sands to the crystal-clear turquoise waters, every corner of Fuerteventura exudes tranquility and natural beauty.

There is also some great diving to be done there, so those (like me) who love going diving on holiday will be happy.

Additionally, Fuerteventura is less commonly visited than Tenerife and Gran Canaria, so if you prefer a more quiet island with less tourists, this is your best choice.

The island is also a haven for water-sports enthusiasts. With its strong waves and favorable wind conditions, Fuerteventura is a mecca for kite-surfing and wind-surfing. It also offers fantastic opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving, as mentioned above.

Whether you seek serenity on the shores or adventure in the water, Fuerteventura has it all. This captivating island is a treasure trove of natural wonders, inviting you to immerse yourself in its beauty and create unforgettable memories.

Personally, I think Fuerteventura is my favourite of the Canary Islands.

Top 5 Activities and Things to do on Fuerteventura

• Catch a wave: Fuerteventura is a surfer’s paradise, with waves suitable for both beginners to seasoned pros. So, grab a board, slap on some sunscreen, and ride those waves like you’re in a Beach Boys song!
• Climb a Volcano, because why not? If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a character in an adventure movie, then here’s your chance. Hike up to the peak Calderón Hondo, Fuerteventura’s most famous volcano.
• Go diving: With crystal clear waters all around Fuerteventura, snorkeling and scuba diving are must-do activities. As mentioned above, I saw the luminescent plankton when diving here !
• Relax in the Sun at Cofete Beach : This serene, untouched beach is perfect for those who love long, romantic walks. Or for those who just want to laze around while getting a tan.
• Try the Local Food: Fuerteventura has a mouth-watering array of local seafood dishes. Plus, every meal can be paired with the island’s own famous goat cheese. So, put on your stretchy pants and get ready to eat your way across the island!

Why visit Lanzarote?

Lanzarote, a unique and eco-friendly destination, captivates visitors with a rather otherworldly moon-like landscape. The island consists in large part of a contrast of black and golden sandy beaches, creating a picturesque scene that is truly one-of-a-kind.

Not only is Lanzarote a paradise for beach lovers, but it is also a haven for wine enthusiasts (like me). The vineyards in La Geria, nurtured by the volcanic soil, produce some really great wines.

Imagine savoring a glass of exquisite wine while gazing at the breathtaking scenery, truly an experience that indulges the senses.

If you’re seeking a perfect blend of sightseeing, outdoor adventures, and the finer things in life, Lanzarote is the ultimate destination. Like Fuerteventura, it is also slightly quieter than Gran Canaria and Tenerife.

Top 5 Things to do and Activities on Lanzarote

• Chasing Sunsets at Timanfaya National Park : This Martian-like landscape will make you question whether you took a wrong turn and ended up on a space mission. It’s a must-see, just remember to keep your Martian jokes to a minimum; the park rangers have heard them all.
• Paddleboarding in Playa Blanca: Paddleboarding is popular all over the Islands, and Playa Blanca is the perfect place for it.
• Exploring Cueva de los Verdes: One of the longest volcanic tunnels in the world – for all you claustrophobics out there, now’s the time to face your fears! Or have a panic attack. Up to you.
• Go on a Buggy Tour : Explore the bare landscape on an open-air 4×4, perfect for those who like a bit of speed and adrenaline.
• Winery tour at La Geria: Show your classy side! Wine tasting at La Geria is like speed dating, but with wine. Find your perfect match without any awkward small talk, just lots of sipping and spitting.

Why visit La Palma?

La Palma, also known as “La Isla Bonita” (The Beautiful Island), is a hidden gem that captivates nature enthusiasts and avid hikers alike.

The island has beautiful forests with a diverse flora and fauna, winding roads that offer scenic vistas at every turn, and awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes. La Palma truly embodies a natural paradise like no other.

As you explore the island, you’ll encounter the majestic beauty of the largest volcanic crater in the world, a sight that will leave you in awe of Mother Nature’s power and artistry.

Beyond its natural wonders, La Palma beckons those seeking solace and tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of crowded tourist destinations. This is perhaps the best Canary Island to visit if you want less crowds.

Imagine yourself unwinding on pristine beaches, listening to the soothing sounds of crashing waves, and basking in the gentle caress of the island’s warm sun. With its peaceful ambiance and serene setting, La Palma offers a truly rejuvenating escape, allowing you to reconnect with yourself and the natural world around you.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker yearning to conquer challenging trails or a soul in need of serenity, La Palma promises an unforgettable experience that will leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul. Embark on a journey to this enchanting island and immerse yourself in its captivating beauty – a paradise waiting to be discovered.

Top 5 Things to do on La Palma

• Stargazing : Don’t be surprised if you start to feel like an astronaut on your off-duty hours. With some of the clearest skies in the world, stargazing is a must on La Palma!
• Hiking in Caldera de Taburiente National Park : For those who like their walks on the “wild side,” this park offers stunning volcanic landscapes that will have your Instagram followers green with envy!
• Visiting Roque de los Muchachos Observatory : One of the most popular activities on the island, and perfect for science fans.
• Explore the Black Sand Beaches : Pack your sunnies, beach towel, and a good book. Leave the white sand expectations at home and embrace the gothic beach vibes!
• Wine Tasting : What’s a holiday without a little wine ? And by “little,” I mean exploring La Palma’s vineyards until you can tell your Tinto from your Rosado with just a sniff and a squint. Don’t forget to bring a designated driver (mine is usually my friend Ida who doesn’t like wine).

So, which is the best Canary Island?

As you can see, each of the Canary Islands has its unique characteristics and appeals to different types of travelers. Whether you’re looking to party in Tenerife or relax on the serene beaches of Fuerteventura or delve into the culture on Lanzarote, there’s an island for everyone. Choose the canary island that best suits yours needs and start planning your next Spanish adventure.

Canary Islands FAQ

Below are the most frequently asked questions I have gotten about the topic. Of course, if the question you are asking is which of the Canary Islands is the best for you to visit, I recommend scrolling back up and reading the post again.

For families, your best best is the beaten path found on the south of Tenerife or Gran Canaria as a whole. There are plenty of child-friendly hotels on the islands, with kids pools, kids clubs and entertainment aimed at the younger crowd.

For couples, any of the Canary Islands will do, but I recommend Fuerteventura or even Lanzarote. These are a little less busy than the others, and perfect for a romantic getaway!

Gran Canaria is the most visited Canary Island, with 3,8 million yearly visitors.

Fuerteventura is my favourite Canary Island to visit because it is less touristy.

11 Best Beaches in the Canary Islands

Tulum on a budget: complete guide, you may also like, punta cana vs cancun: which destination is best..., the best month to visit punta cana, dominican..., do you need a passport for punta cana, punta cana diving (my experience + helpful tips), the 5 best punta cana excursions, how to be a tourist in norway, 10 ridiculous questions tourists in norway have *actually*..., how to plan a trip to norway [a..., 5 fun things to do in oslo with..., top things to do in oslo, norway [a..., leave a comment.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Hazel's Travels

Travel inspiration for Europe, UK & USA

Which Canary Island is best for your trip? A guide to all 8 Islands in 2024

Last Updated on January 3, 2024 by Hazel M

Wondering which Canary Island is best for your trip? This guide will help you to decide which Canary Island is best for you, based on your vacation style and personal preferences.

I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my affiliate links.

Which Canary Island is best for your trip?

There are four main Canary Islands, followed by four much smaller ones. This list shows the Canary Islands in order of popularity. You will find accommodation suggestions within each section, a map of the islands, ferry booking links and faqs at the bottom of the post.

Note: You may have read elsewhere that there are seven Canary Islands, but I’m here to tell you there are actually eight islands to choose from! There is also a bonus island at the end, which is too small to be called a Canary Island, but still an excellent place to visit.

Before I delve into each island in detail, here are some quick links to take your straight to each section:

• Gran Canaria for sand dunes, landscapes & LGBTQ+ travellers.
• Tenerife for adventures, hikes & the great outdoors.
• Lanzarote for wine, culture, art & cool things to do.
• Fuerteventura for beaches & water sports.
• La Gomera for hiking, nature & wildlife.
• La Palma for stargazing & dramatic landscapes.
• El Hierro and La Graciosa for tranquillity & eco travel.

My most recent visit to the Canary Islands was in December 2022 , but I have visited several times prior to that, and I plan to visit again in 2024 as well. This post has been updated to keep it relevant for 2024.

If you are interested in the Canary Islands, you may also be interested in nearby Madeira island too.

Which Canary Island is best?

1. gran canaria.

Best for: Sand dunes, beautiful landscapes, LGBTQ+ community.

Gran Canaria is the most popular island in the Canary Islands, known for its sandy beaches, lively atmosphere and nature parks. Many people consider Gran Canaria the best Canary Island.

Families will be drawn to the beautiful Maspalomas beach with its long stretch of golden sands, vast sand dunes and restaurants and amenities nearby. Kids will love playing in the dunes whilst parents relax in tranquillity beside a sparkling sea.

There are varying types of nightlife available. Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets in Las Palmas to discover majestic historical buildings amongst the bars and cafes.

For the LGBTQ+ community wondering which Canary Island is best, you will find Gran Canaria a very welcoming place with fun nightlife too.

You can book various Gran Canaria tours and excursions by clicking this link .

Where to Stay in Gran Canaria

For those looking for budget accommodation, Gran Canaria offers a variety of hostels, campsites and apartments. Las Palmas is home to many budget-friendly options such as Jacarandas Beach Hotel in Playa del Inglés and Hotel Avenida de Canarias in Vecindario.

For those seeking something a little more luxurious, Gran Canaria offers many five-star resorts and hotels. The Gloria Palace Royal Hotel & Spa is one of the most popular luxury resorts on the island. This hotel features an outdoor pool, spa, fitness centre and several restaurants. Other popular upscale accommodations on the island include the Club Maspalomas Suites & Spa and the Seaside Palm Beach Hotel.

You can view the best hotel deals in Gran Canaria on Booking.com here .

2. Tenerife

Best for: varied adventures, hikes & the great outdoors.

Tenerife is the largest Canary Island. The island’s capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, offers plenty of entertainment and sightseeing opportunities, while its sunny southern coast boasts some of Europe’s best beaches. At Teide National Park, you can explore the volcanic landscape and take in views of the surrounding islands.

You might have been surprised to see snow in my photo above. Mount Teide is one of Europe’s grandest volcanoes, and although the weather may be hot and sunny at sea level, there is often snow at its peak. You can hike (or take a cable car) almost to the summit without a permit, but you’ll need permission to get to the top. The night sky from here is incredible – you can book a stargazing tour here . Mount Teide is the highest peak in the Canary Islands, at 3715 metres.

You can book various Tenerife excursions (hiking, sailing, food tours) by clicking this link .

Where to stay in Tenerife

The capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife has some great hotels in the city centre, including five-star resorts with stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean. A popular choice is the Gran Hotel Bahia del Duque, which has a range of rooms and suites with balconies for enjoying the views.

For something more budget-friendly, there is the Hotel Vista Bonita , just outside Santa Cruz. This hotel offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices and is also close to cafes, restaurants and attractions.

If you are looking for a more rural experience, the El Médano area on the south coast of Tenerife is a great choice. The village has some beautiful vacation homes that can be rented, and it is also close to some of the best beaches in the island.

You can view the best hotel deals in Tenerife on Booking.com here .

3. Lanzarote

Best for: wine, culture, art & cool things to do.

Lanzarote is renowned for its striking black-sand beaches, which are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. When considering which Canary Island island is best, you might want to consider the cultural attractions to explore in Lanzarote, including incredible caves, artworks by César Manrique , museums and castles. I last visited Lanzarote in December 2022 .

Timanfaya National Park is the star attraction, and I cannot recommend it enough. Read more about it in my post 14 Amazing Things to do in Lanzarote or go ahead and book my favourite Timanfaya tour .

Lanzarote’s capital Arrecife offers plenty of shopping, restaurants and bars while nearby El Golfo beach is a great spot to watch the sunset over an unforgettable landscape. There is also a stunning green lagoon which simply has to be seen to be believed. You can book tickets here .

If you never imagined vines could grow out of volcanic ash (same here) then you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find acres of vineyards and great tasting wines to boot. More details can be found in my Lanzarote post or go ahead and book yourself a Lanzarote wine tour – you won’t regret it.

Where to stay in Lanzarote

For something with a bit of class, there’s Hotel Volcán Lanzarote , a five-star resort located near the Timanfaya National Park. This hotel has an outdoor pool and restaurant, and rooms with terraces for enjoying views of the sea or volcano.

For more affordable accommodation, try Apartamentos Jable Bermudas in Puerto del Carmen, 200 yards from the beachfront. The hotel offers comfortable rooms at reasonable prices and is within walking distance of restaurants, shops and attractions.

If you are looking for a more homely atmosphere, there are plenty of private villas available to rent in the countryside. The village of Los Valles has some great vacation homes with stunning views of the volcano and sea, with many cultural attractions (like the cactus gardens) nearby.

You can view all the best hotel deals in Lanzarote on Booking.com here .

• Related Reading for Lanzarote:
• 14 Amazing Things to do in Lanzarote, Canary Islands
• 20 Dramatic Lanzarote Photos to Inspire Your Wanderlust
• 14 Amazing Works by Cesar Manrique: Lanzarote

4. Fuerteventura

Best for: beautiful beaches, water sports & chilling out.

Fuerteventura is known as one of the quieter Canary Islands but has plenty to offer those looking for some rest and relaxation. As well as its sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, the island is dotted with volcanic craters. The north of the island is home to some of Fuerteventura’s best beaches and resorts, while the south has a more laid-back atmosphere. I last visited Fuerteventura in December 2022 .

Fuerteventura is known as the best Canary Island for beaches. It has some of the wildest beaches you will have ever seen, both black sand and white sand. It also has the amazing Las Dunas Natural Park in Corralejo, where the sand dunes seem to go on and on forever.

The annual Windsurfing & Kiteboarding World Cup is held on the south of the island – always a great spectacle if you are around in the summer. Corralejo in the North is an excellent place to stay with friendly local nightlife and a quick ferry ride to Lanzarote and the other-wordly Lobos Island (see Bonus Island below). Book your Fuerteventura excursions here .

Where to stay in Fuerteventura

For something luxurious, there’s Sheraton Fuerteventura Beach, Golf & Spa Resort , a five star resort on the beachfront. This hotel has a range of rooms and suites with balconies overlooking the ocean, as well as an outdoor pool and spa.

For more budget-friendly accommodation, there is Las Gaviotas Apartments in El Cotillo. The apartments are near the beach and offer comfortable rooms at reasonable prices.

If you are looking for a more homely atmosphere, there are plenty of private villas and vacation homes available to rent. These can be found in country towns like La Oliva , which has some great houses with beautiful gardens and stunning views of the sea.

You can view all the best hotel deals in Fuerteventura here .

• Related Reading for Fuertenvetura:
• 10 Great Things to do in Fuerteventura, Canary Islands
• 14 of the Best Beaches in Fuerteventura
• 10 Best Things to do in Corralejo, Fuerteventura
• Lobos Island Fuerteventura: The Ultimate Guide

5. La Gomera

Best for: unparalleled hiking, nature & wildlife.

La Gomera is a largely undeveloped and unspoilt island, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2012 and popular with eco-tourists. The rugged terrain and lush vegetation make La Gomera perfect for trekking, while its black sand beaches are ideal for sunbathing and swimming.

When considering which Canary Island is best, wildlife lovers may find La Gomera is the favourite. You can find wonderful wildlife watching opportunities here – including whales, dolphins and sea turtles. La Gomera is undeveloped and unspoilt.

For hikers of all levels, the island’s 400 miles of trails provide a delight for any nature-lover. From intense climbs to leisurely strolls, there is something here to suit everyone. You can’t miss Garajonay National Park – an ancient forest teeming with laurel trees at over 3200 feet above sea level, also declared a Unesco World Heritage Site. You can book your La Gomera excursions here .

Also not to be missed, the awe-inspiring Organos Monument is a breathtaking sight to behold. It’s an immense cliff fashioned from columns of basalt cascading down towards the sea.

Where to Stay in La Gomera

There are no 5 star hotels in La Gomera, but for luxury the Hotel Gran Rey is a great option in San Sebastián. This four-star hotel has an outdoor pool and a range of rooms with balconies overlooking the ocean.

For something more affordable, there’s Hotel Jardín Tecina , which offers comfortable rooms at reasonable prices in Valle Gran Rey . It is also close to restaurants, cafes and shops, making it a great option for those looking to explore the island.

If you are looking for a more rural experience, there are plenty of private villas and vacation homes available to rent in La Gomera. These can be found in beautiful towns like Hermigua , which is known for its lush green valleys and stunning views.

You can view all the best hotel deals in La Gomera here .

6. La Palma

Best for: Unbelievable stargazing, black sand & dramatic landscapes.

La Palma is known as the ‘Beautiful Island’ and is renowned for its diverse landscape of lush forests, gorgeous black sand beaches, volcanic craters and dramatic cliffs. Another UNESCO World Biosphere reserve, the island is perfect for those looking to get away from it all – offering a tranquil atmosphere with plenty of walking trails and secluded coves. Don’t miss the caldera at Caldera de Taburiente National Park.

The whole island of La Palma is dedicated to preserving its night sky. There is almost zero light pollution, and consequently this is one of the best places in the world to indulge in a spot of star gazing. There are many astro-tourism tours you can try, or you can just venture out on your own.

I was limiting myself to one photo per island, but I couldn’t not include this photo to show you the night sky at La Palma:

NOTE: Don’t get confused by the name! ‘La Palma’ is a Canary Island, ‘Las Palmas’ is the main city of Gran Canaria, and ‘Palma’ is the capital city of Palma de Mallorca (another Spanish island).

Where to Stay in La Palma

There are no 5 star hotels in La Palma. At the top end, the Hotel Hacienda de Abajo is a blend of classic elegance and chic modernity. This four-star hotel has an outdoor pool and terraces with views of the sea, and boasts a wide array of art objects from the 1st to 20th century.

For more affordable accommodation, there’s Finca Valentin a in Tigalate. The hotel offers comfortable rooms at reasonable prices, with mountain views and free WiFi.

If you are looking for a more rural experience, there are plenty of private villas and vacation homes available to rent in La Palma. These can be found in towns like El Paso , which is known for its lush green valleys and stunning views of the sea.

You can view all the best hotel deals in La Palma her e. Book La Palma excursions (including stargazing) here .

7. El Hierro

Best for: Peaceful tranquillity, unspoilt landscapes & eco-travel

El Hierro is the smallest of the Canary Islands but offers an abundance of unique experiences. The island’s capital Valverde is home to some spectacular colonial architecture and its rugged cliffs are perfect for hiking. On top of that, El Hierro also boasts a number of other attractions – including lagoons, natural hot springs and even its own volcano.

El Hierro is the smallest of the Canary Islands, and the least touristy, with a rugged coastline and lush forests. This island is also perfect for sustainable travel – not only is it a UNESCO World Biosphere site, but a significant amount of its energy comes from its own renewable sources.

Atlantic Divers will also love El Hierro, which is a celebrated diving location with over 50 dive sites and remarkable visibility. Book tickets for hiking, diving and excursions in El Hierro here .

Where to stay on El Hierro

There aren’t many hotels on el Hierro. The top end is the Parador de El Hierro in Las Casas, a secluded spot between a volcanic mountain and the ocean. This four-star hotel has an outdoor pool and a range of rooms with balconies overlooking the sea.

A cheaper option is the Sur Restinga in La Restinga. The hotel offers comfortable rooms at reasonable prices with direct access to the ocean.

If you are looking for a more rural experience, there are plenty of private villas and vacation homes available to rent in El Hierro. These can be found in towns like La Caleta , which is known for its stunning views and incredible hiking trails.

You can view all the best accommodation deals in El Hierro here .

8. La Graciosa

Best for: off the beaten track, remote adventures & tranquillity.

La Graciosa became the eighth official Canary Island in 2018. It is a tiny but beautiful slip of land, accessible from Lanzarote by ferry only (there is no airport). Caleta de Sobo is the main settlement here with a few hundred residents. There are some roads, but very few cars, and it is best to get around by bicycle.

The island offers stunning scenery with its blue-green waters, white sand beaches and volcanic landscapes, like Las Conchas beach and La Francesca beach below. In addition, the calm waters provide excellent opportunities for snorkelling and diving, while the charming villages offer plenty of local culture to explore.

The most sought after adventure on La Graciosa Island is a hike up Montaña Bermeja for its grand views of Las Conchas beach. You can book excursion tickets here .

La Graciosa is a fishing village, so there are plenty of restaurants serving fresh fish dishes. There is also a surprising number of bars and the locals are very welcoming.

Where to stay in La Graciosa

There aren’t really any hotels on La Graciosa. Accommodation options are mainly apartments or villas, and most of them are individual properties managed by private hosts.

I won’t recommend individual properties, since they might be sold out when you try to book. But for managed apartments, a good option is the Evita Beach Suites Exclusiva s in Caleta de Soba. These are stylishly designed apartments with sea or mountain views.

You can view all the private villas and holiday rentals in La Graciosa here . There aren’t many of them, so you’ll need to be quick! Remember you can reserve your place immediately without paying, and cancel for free later on if you need to (the reason I love Booking.com).

Bonus Island: Isla Lobos

Hopefully the above information has helped you decide which Canary Island is best for your trip. Lobos Island is a tiny island off Fuerteventura, and it isn’t officially a ‘Canary Island’ as such. I’m just including it here because I love it and want to tell you about it. It is pretty much uninhabited (ok there are 4 residents) and whilst you cannot actually stay overnight on this island, I certainly recommend a visit.

You can stay in nearby Corralejo (Fuerteventura) and take a 15 minute ferry for a day trip. This island is a sight to behold – honestly not one to be missed! Find out more in my post Lobos Island Fuerteventura: The Ultimate Guide .

Map of the Canary Islands

The map below shows all of the Canary Islands in numbered order, as listed in this post. Click the blue icons to see more information about each place. Click the star to add to your own Google Maps.

Ferry Services Between the islands

Some (but not all) of the islands can be visited by ferry. Most of the ferries take cars as well as foot passengers. Here are some links for you to book your ferry tickets in the Canary Islands.

• Book tickets for Lanzarote to Fuerteventura here .
• Book tickets for Fuerteventura to Lanzarote here .
• Book tickets for Fuerteventura to Lobos Island here .
• Book tickets for Lanzarote to La Graciosa here .
• Book tickets for Tenerife ferries here .
• Book tickets for Gran Canaria ferries her e.
• Sail round 3 islands on one tour here .
• Or Charter a yacht and go where you want.

So, which Canary Island is best for you?

As you have probably realised, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. All eight islands (or nine – but definitely not seven) have something unique and special to offer.

I recommend using Booking.com to book your accommodation in the Canary Islands. You can reserve your room for free, and you can also cancel for free, so there is nothing to lose. These link sbelow will take you straight to Booking.com.

• Book Gran Canaria for sand dunes, landscapes & LGBTQ+.
• Book Tenerife for adventures, hikes & the great outdoors.
• Book Lanzarote for wine, culture, art & cool things to do.
• Book Fuerteventura for beaches & water sports.
• Book La Gomera for hiking, nature & wildlife.
• Book La Palma for stargazing & dramatic landscapes.
• Book El Hierro or La Graciosa for tranquillity & eco travel.

Below is a map of hotels from Booking.com. You can zoom in on the map to see the exact location of each hotel, and you can book the hotels by clicking on the map.

Which Canary Island is best: FAQs

Q: Which Canary Island is best for a beach vacation?

A: Fuerteventura is renowned for its pristine sandy beaches, making it an excellent choice for beach enthusiasts. Gran Canaria also offers a variety of beautiful coastal areas.

Q: Which Canary Island is best for nightlife? 

A: Tenerife, particularly in areas like Playa de las Américas, is known for its vibrant nightlife. Gran Canaria’s Playa del Inglés is another hotspot with numerous bars and clubs.

Q: Which Canary Island is best for natural landscapes and outdoor activities?

A: Lanzarote stands out for its unique volcanic landscapes, while Tenerife offers the stunning Mount Teide. Both islands provide excellent opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Q: Which Canary Island is best for families? 

A: All the islands cater to families. Tenerife and Gran Canaria, in particular, have family-friendly resorts, theme parks, and activities suitable for all ages.

Q: Which Canary Island has the best weather throughout the year?

A: The climate is generally mild across all the islands, but if you seek consistently warm temperatures, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote are often considered sunnier due to their location.

Q: Can I easily explore multiple islands during one trip?

A: Yes, you can island-hop easily with regular ferry services and flights connecting the islands. This allows you to experience the unique offerings of multiple islands in one vacation.

Q: What time of the year is best to visit the Canary Islands?

A: The Canary Islands enjoy a mild climate year-round. Summer is popular for warm temperatures and lively atmosphere, while the shoulder seasons offer a more relaxed experience with fewer tourists.

Q: Are there specific attractions that make one island stand out from the others?

A: Yes, each island has its unique attractions. For example, Tenerife’s Mount Teide, Gran Canaria’s diverse landscapes, Lanzarote’s volcanic scenery , and Fuerteventura’s pristine beaches are some of the standout features.

Q: Which is the least touristy Canary Island?

A: The smallest, least touristy and most undeveloped island is the island of El Hierro .

Q: Which is the warmest Canary Island?

A: It is loosely agreed that Tenerife is the warmest, although some say Gran Canaria. All of the Canary Islands are warm – it comes down to which ones are the least windy. Tenerife’s mountain gets very cold at the top.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit the Canary Islands?

A: The Canary archipelago is at its warmest (with the longest days) from April through to September.

Q: Which Canary Island is best for the LGBTQ+ community?

A: For LGBTQ+ travellers, Gran Canaria and Tenerife are known to be welcoming places to visit. I also found Corralejo in Fuerteventura very welcoming and accepting of different types of people.

Q: Is there a standout Canary Island that is considered the best overall?

A: There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, as each Canary Island has its unique charm. Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura are popular choices, each offering distinct experiences.

Travel Advice For Your Canaries Trip

Climate: The Canary islands have warm temperatures all year round, with hot summers and mild winters. In hot weather, make sure you have got a decent sunscreen , silicone water bottle and sun hat (I like this one ). You may also want a sun umbrella – this is a good one.

Getting Around : For Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, I recommend renting a car (I use Discover Cars – it’s a brilliant rental car comparison site).

Money : The currency in the Canary Islands is the Euro.

Below are some helpful links for your trip:

Related posts: Which Canary Island is best for your trip?

If you are still deciding which Canary Island is best for your trip, you may find the following posts helpful:

Which Canary Island is best? Pin for later

If you have enjoyed reading this post on which Canary Island is best, or you have found it useful, feel free to use the following images to pin the article to your Pinterest boards.

Related Reading for the Canary Islands

• 14 Amazing Things to do in Lanzarote
• 20 Stunning Photos of Lanzarote

Found this post helpful?  Buy Me a Coffee !

You are reading Hazel’s Travels – an online publication and travel blog which aims to provide advice and inspiration for travel in Europe, the UK and USA.

About Hazel M

Hazel is a British travel writer who has travelled solo throughout Europe, the UK and USA. Hazel's favourite destinations include Italy, Cyprus and New York. Hazel writes travel guides providing information and advice for travel planning purposes.

Reader Interactions

Related posts.

20 of the Best Day Trips from Funchal, Madeira

16 Excellent Things to do in Porto Moniz, Madeira

12 Day Madeira Road Trip: Coastal Itinerary

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Which Canary Island Should I Visit?

by Charlotte Walton | Lanzarote , Spain

I’ve been in the Canary Islands for a few months and a question I’ve been asked a lot is “which Canary Island should I visit?”.

So, here goes.

In this blog post you’ll find out what you can expect to find on each one, and from there you can make your own decision on where you want to go. 

I don’t think you can compare one to another & one will be better suited to you based on your own preferences. 

The Canary Islands

The canaries are a Spanish archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, just 100km off the coast of Morocco, Africa. Their location means that the weather is warm all year round, making them the perfect winter escape and a fantastic summer holiday destination. 

Formed of 8 main islands, across a geographical landscape of only 473km, they are so close together, yet they couldn’t be more different. 

Each one has its own unique offering.

From Lanzarote; the island of 1000 volcanoes to La Gomera’s dense rainforests, you will find a diverse mix of landscapes. So, when you ask me, “Which Canary island is your favourite?” or “Which Canary Island should I visit?” – it’s impossible to say.

If you have time, I highly recommend checking them all out!

We’ll Start at the top right of the map and make our way down, so first up is Lanzarote and its neighbouring island of La Graciosa!

Which Canary Island Should I Visit? – Lanzarote & La Graciosa

What can you expect from visiting lanzarote.

Lanzarote is the fourth largest island in the Canaries and is approximately 60km long. You can drive from one end of the island to the other in around 1.5 hours.

Lanzarote is known as the land of 1000 volcanoes. It’s pretty obvious from the name that you will find a very unique landscape here. A lot of the island is a Biosphere Reserve meaning the nature and vast lava fields are untouched and protected. One things that makes Lanzarote unique from the other islands is that all of the buildings are painted white.

This is thanks to the work of local artist, César Manrique, who wanted protect the island’s traditional architectural style. This rule gives the island an elegant and clean feel.

Lanzarote boasts an array of beaches, from volcanic black sand to beautiful soft white sand and incredible natural rock pools for you to swim in. The island is an exceptional place for sport lovers. You can find most sports here, including freediving/diving, tennis, padel, golf, water sports, cycling, you name it. There are also a lot of mountains and volcanoes for you to hike up.

The Ironman event is held here every year with thousands of international participants taking part. The mountainous terrain of the island alongside the strong northern winds and heat seem to be the perfect place to train for most athletes.

The Canarian Championship surf competitions are held on Famara Beach, Lanzarote so if you love to surf, this could be the island for you.

Lanzarote – Where to Stay

The main tourist areas to stay in are Puerto del Carmen (the most vibrant), Costa Teguise (quieter + windier) and Playa Blanca (older tourists). If you like to surf, Famara or La Santa would be your best options.

Things to do in Lanzarote

+ The fire mountains (Montañas de fuego) – Timanfaya National Park + Lava fields + Volcanic Vineyards – Lanzarote is famous around the world for its deliciously unique wine that is grown within the lava fields + The best surf in the canary islands – Canarian championships held on Famara beach + Black sand beaches + White sand beaches + Natural rock pools + Volcano hikes + UNESCO world heritage sites + Underwater museum (diving) – Playa Blanca + Dolphin Safaris + A day on the catamaran + Submarine safaris + Explore hidden caves + Up and coming nomad community + Tourist attractions: Jameos del Agua, Cesar Manrique’s house, Mirador del Rio .

What to expect from visiting La Graciosa

La Graciosa is a tiny island located 2km north of Lanzarote and is definitely worth a visit. It is controlled by the municipality of Teguise in Lanzarote and so some say the 2 islands come as a package deal, others argue it is it’s own paradise.

Either way, you should consider adding it to your list if you fancy a day, or two, in beach heaven.

See here for the perfect 2-day itinerary to La Graciosa . Even if you simply want to go for the day, you can find everything you need to know about this island in my blog.

What can you expect to find in La Graciosa?

Arguably the most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands (Playa de las Conchas & Montaña Amarilla) with crystal clear, turquoise waters. The most laid back of the Canary Islands – you’ll instantly feel relaxed once you step of the boat. You feel like you’ve gone back in time – there are no tarmacked roads, only sand. The perfect place to escape for a few days

Which Canary Island should I visit?

What can you expect from visiting fuerteventura.

Fuerteventura is one of the quieter islands, with a relaxed vibe and beautiful beaches. It was declared a biosphere reserve by UNESCO in May 2009 and boasts large sand dunes.

It attracts a lot of surfers; including wind and kite surfers, as the name ‘fuerte ventura’ means strong winds (also means strong fortune). There is a great digital nomad community living in the beach town of Corralejos so if you’re working online, this could be the place for you.

Fuerteventura is the 2nd largest island and takes around 1.5 hours to drive from one end to the other.

Things to do in Fuerteventura

Beautiful beaches, especially playa del Sotavento Escape to Cofete beach, South Fuerteventura Visit the Sand Dunes in Corralejo Jandia Lagoon Ajuy caves Wind/Kite Surfing Day trip to Isla de los Lobos; an inhabited island just a 15 minute boat ride away Great nomad community in Corralejo Dolphin tours Visit the traditional windmills Volcano hikes Natural rock pools

Where to Stay in Fuerteventura

Corralejo is a small vibrant beach town that has become very popular among digital nomads. If you want to meet some fellow long-term travellers, Corralejo is a great place to stay.

For a quieter stay, more suited to families, consider staying in El Cotillo or Costa Calma.

What to expect from visiting Gran Canaria

Like Tenerife, Gran Canaria is one of the most diverse islands in the Canaries. Due to this, it has some crazy microclimates which you should prepare for. If you plan to go hiking, it’s best to bring layers that you can take on and off as you venture through the diverse climates. The sand dunes of Maspalomas are one of the islands iconic attractions and resemble the dessert, in terms of visuals but also weather conditions. It can be extremely hot during the day, and then temperatures plummet at night time.

Gran Canaria boasts some incredible beaches, especially Playa Las Canteras which is a very popular urban beach on the island. The south end of this beach is ideal for surfing.

What to do in Gran Canaria

Sand Dunes in Maspalomas Hike to Roque Nublo Amadores beach Puerto de Mogan Presa de los Pérez – take a picnic and enjoy the dam Laguna de Valleseco – picnic area in the cider county Beaches Diving/snorkelling Surfing Dolphin tours

Where to stay in Gran Canaria

Playa del Ingles is one of the liveliest places to be in Gran Canaria. It has plenty of bars and restaurants and is also known as a famous destination for gay tourism.

If you are looking for stunning beaches with a mix of culture, history and also shops, the capital Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is one of the best places to stay on the island.  Maspalomas is a great place to stay with plenty of activities and water sports.

What to expect from visiting Tenerife?

Tenerife is the largest canary island and has a great mix of all of the islands in one. From the green forests in the north to the volcanic landscapes in the south, you’re in for a treat. There are plenty of beaches for you to visit, hikes to explore, and activities for you to do.

The south of Tenerife is hotter and tends to attract the most visitors.

Tenerife is great for families as it has a number of theme and water parks scattered around the island. Adrenaline junkies should go to Costa Adeje for boat tours, scuba, snorkeling and jet skiing activities.

There is also a large digital nomad community in Tenerife.

Things to do in Tenerife

Mount Teide; the highest point in Spain Masca Valley, especially for sunset Black sand beaches (Benijo beach) Anaga National Park Kite surfing at El Medano beach Water sports / diving Los Gigantes Santa Cruz de La Palma – great for shopping Volcano hikes Natural rock pools Costa Adeje Theme parks and water parks (Siam Park – the largest water park in Europe) Dolphin and Whale watching

Where to Stay in Tenerife

Playa de las Americas is a vibrant beach town with lots of people aged around 18-35. Here you will meet a lot of other people and it’s a great place to surf and there is an existing night life if you fancy a party. It can be a bit pricier than neighbouring El Medano.

Los Cristianos is one of the main resorts and you can also look at Costa del Silencio and Las Galletas.

What to Expect when visiting La Gomera

La Gomera really took me by surprise. I hadn’t seen many photos on Instagram and so I went without any real idea of what to expect and I fell in love.

It’s important to note that the further west you go in the Canary islands, the more obvious the micro climates are. La Gomera is the 3rd smallest island with only 22,500 inhabitants yet the change in weather is quite dramatic.

If you hang around the coastal areas, you will be blessed with sun for over 300 days of the year. Drive 30 minutes into the centre of the island and you will find yourself inside a dense tropical rain forest wearing a rain coat.

It’s crazy.

I really enjoyed visiting the rainforest in La Gomera as it is very different to the other islands that are typically dry in landscape.

From the sky you can see the constant patch of clouds that cover the centre of the island, keeping the forest moist. You simply need to pack some layers and you’re good to go.

La Gomera attracts a LOT of hikers. The entire area of the Garajonay National Park is a fascinating hiking area. The island has a mix of deep valleys and steep hills. You can hike along coastal paths, in lush green forests, through red rock or banana plantations and across volcanic landscapes.

There is so much to see that you’ll never get bored hiking in La Gomera. I found this lady’s blog post really helpful as she has hiked many routes and written about what to expect on each one.

Things to do in La Gomera

Visit Garajonay National Park – there are 100’s of walks to do within this national park. You could easily spend a few days here. Visit the waterfalls inside the National Park. Hermigua valley Pescante de Hermigua – the man made sea water swimming pool on the coast Roque de Agando Mirador de Abrante – The lookout and the surrounding red rocks! Drive through Vallehermoso Punta de los Organos – you will need to take a boat trip to see these! It’s around 25e each for a 4 hour journey. Valle Gran Rey + Playa del Ingles – the drive down to this valley is more beautiful than the town itself. Playa Santiago (close to the airport) San Sebastian de La Gomera – the capital city. There are very colourful houses and nice outdoor terraces to enjoy. Definitely worth a short visit.

Where to Stay in La Gomera

Most of the attractions worth seeing in La Gomera are scattered around the island and so you will need to hire a car. I recommend staying central, making it easy to reach all of the locations mentioned above.

We stayed in Hermigua, which is a beautiful and quiet valley located next to Garajonay National Park. This was the perfect spot for us as we wanted to explore most of the day.

Lots of people opt for Valle Gran Rey, a coastal town on the West of La Gomera. I personally didn’t like the town and don’t understand the hype but each to their own 🙂

Another option is to stay in San Sebastian de La Gomera; a very cute town (the capital of La Gomera) with a vibrant atmosphere.

What to expect from visiting La Palma

So, La Palma made its way up to the top of my list when it comes to choosing an island to visit. I was really taken back by its beauty. La Palma is one of the best places in the world to see the stars, so if you’re like me and love stargazing you’re in for a treat.

The island has probably one of the craziest micro climates of them all. They even have a tunnel that runs from the West side of the island to the East and is it called ‘the weather tunnel’ or ‘el tunel del tiempo’ in Spanish. It is the CRAZIEST thing I’ve seen, both driving through it and from above at one of the nearby viewpoints. Essentially, it’s sunny on the West side and as you drive through this tunnel, that takes no longer than 30 seconds, you arrive at the East side, completely covered by clouds.

This happens practically every time.

From the viewpoint, you can clearly see the sea of clouds rolling over the top of the tunnel. Nature is a bloody fascinating phenomenon and witnessing this was one of my favourite things to do in La Palma.

Having said that, the constant change in weather temperature is exhausting. I got tired of it pretty quickly. We mistakenly stayed on the East side as it was close to the capital Santa Cruz de La Palma. Our ferry arrived into this port, and the airport was only a 10 minute drive away so it seemed ideal.

However, this side is more prone to be cloudy, so I recommend staying on the west side for guaranteed sun.

Things to do in La Palma

Mirador Astronomico del llano del Jable Playa de Nogales – the most incredible black beach surrounded by green cliffs! Bosque de los tilos – waterfall Roque de los Muchachos – go on an organised tour with Isla Bonita Tours – They are AWESOME! Here you will see the sea of clouds from above Cascada de los colores Poris de la Candelaria – A cave with around 15 houses inside! Playa de Tazacorte Pico Birigoyo – my all time favourite viewpoint to see the clouds! Parque Nacional de la Caldera de Taburiente Mirador de la Cumbrecita Parque natural de Cumbre Vieja

What to expect from visiting El Hierro

The smallest island in the Canary islands (if we don’t count La Graciosa!). El Hierro is often forgotten about and sits in the shadows of the bigger islands. If you have time, you could pay a short visit to this island too.

I try not to compare any of the islands with one another because they are all so different, hence why I am trying to answer this question “which Canary Island should I visit?” in a detailed blog post. However, I’ll be honest, El Hierro wasn’t my favourite.

I made a real effort to find out all the local spots and secrets and to fully emerge myself into what it is that the locals love about their island.

There were some really cool things to see, including a visit to my first ever RED beach whaaaaat. I would only recommend going for 3-4 days as there isn’t that much to see.

Things to do in El Hierro

Playa el Verodal – the red beach. You should aim to go around golden hour / sunset and see the cliffs and sand light up red! It’s MAGICAL. See here for more information about this beach. Pozo de las Calcosas – a man made sea water pool on the coast Hike in Pico Malpazo El Sabinar – the trees that grow sideways as a result of the strong winds Faro de Orchilla – this lighthouse has featured on many National Geographic magazines, especially photos taken here at sunset. La Restringa – great for fresh fish (try Casa Juan!) Mirador de Isora Villa de Valverde (capital) Natural rock pools; Playa de Tacoron, Charco Los Sargos, Charco manzo Mirador de la Peña El charco azul “The smallest hotel in the world”

Where to stay in El Hierro

The best places to stay are Valverde (the capital city as there is always something open), Las Puntas or La Frontera.

So, there you have it. This took me a bloody long time to create so I really hope you find it valuable and it helps answer your question “Which Canary Island should I visit?”.

I’m sure you can understand now after reading through this blog why I think it’s impossible to answer the question. They are so close together, yet SO different. My favourite island may not be your favourite, and so I hope that with this information you can choose the one that you think will be right for you. If you head to the Canarias and use any tips from this blog, I’d love to know! You can connect with me on Instagram or leave a comment below. Happy travels! 🙂

Love this comprehensive post! To be honest, visiting the Canary Islands wasn’t even on my radar, but after reading about what each of the islands has to offer, I think you’ve convinced me to add this to our bucket list! Thanks for all the info! Xx Sara

Thank you so much for leaving this comment – it means the world to me! I’m so glad you have taken something positive away from this post and hopefully you make it over to the islands for a visit! I’m sure you will love them as much as I do! Let me know if you need any more help by sending me a DM on Instagram 🙂

20 Top Attractions & Places to Visit in the Canary Islands

Written by Michael Law , Lana Law , and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated May 13, 2023

Authors Michael and Lana Law spent a month touring the Canary Islands in the fall of 2022.

Golden-sand beaches that run for as far as the eye can see, craggy volcanic peaks piercing the sky, jungles full of rare trees, and a collection of vibrant towns with countless things to see and do, you'll find all of this and more on the Canary Islands.

Just off the coast of northwestern Africa, these sun-kissed islands have been drawing visitors to their shores since the 1970s. Lie on the beach and soak up the sun, splash in the waves, climb to an ancient volcanic spire, run up and down massive sand dunes, or explore the narrow streets of the Old Towns. No matter what you choose, it's all here for you.

Getting here is easy. Charter flights from Europe depart almost hourly. But leaving these beautiful islands is the hard part!

Plan the best places to visit on your vacation with our list of the top attractions in the Canary Islands.

1. Teide National Park, Tenerife

2. timanfaya national park, lanzarote, 3. beaches of gran canaria, 4. the beaches of tenerife, 5. the beaches of fuerteventura, 6. admire the works of cesar manrique on lanzarote, 7. go dolphin & whale watching in tenerife, 8. santa cruz de tenerife, 9. las palmas de gran canaria, 10. meet animals at loro park, tenerife, 11. san cristóbal de la laguna, tenerife, 12. la orotava, tenerife, 13. explore cueva de los verdes, lanzarote, 14. puerto del carmen, lanzarote, 15. santa cruz de la palma, 16. hike to roque nublo, gran canaria, 17. join the fun at the carnival of santa cruz de tenerife, 18. parque nacional de garajonay, la gomera, 19. go stargazing on mt. tiede, tenerife, 20. caldera de taburiente national park, la palma, map of attractions & places to visit in the canary islands, what are the canary islands like, when is the best time to visit the canary islands.

The third highest volcano in the world at 3,718 meters in altitude, Teide towers above the small island of Tenerife , the best known of the Canary Islands. Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , includes the entire mountain, and a trip inside the immense crater is a highlight of a trip to the Canary Islands.

Inside the crater's rim is a caldera - the crater floor - 19 kilometers in diameter, and a drive across this barren moonscape is like driving into the center of the earth. This crater is actually what's left of a much larger mountain that blew its top about three million years ago, collapsing into itself. In places, it left walls that rise 457 meters above the crater floor.

El Portillo Visitor Center is a good place to visit first, where an excellent little museum has interactive exhibits showing how volcanoes form and exploring the environment of the crater. Outside, a path leads through a botanic garden, where labels help visitors recognize and identify native plants they will see in the park.

To see the crater from above, and for wide-ranging views, ride the Teleférico cable car up Teide's cone, a newer volcanic peak that formed above the giant crater after the original top of the mountain slid off.

Although the view from the cable car is outstanding, it can't match the experience of crossing the crater floor to see the varied remnants of the volcanic action: lava fields; jumbles of jagged, black lava boulders; dunes of lava pebbles; and outcrops of red, blue, yellow, and black volcanic stone. Stopping points at various features have signs in English describing the flora and fauna and explaining the landscape, and walking trails lead to the highlights.

Lanzarote has a much more recent volcanic history than Tenerife - the cataclysmic eruptions that covered most of the island in molten lava and volcanic ash took place between 1730 and 1736. The seven-year series of eruptions buried 11 villages and drove the population from the island, which had previously been the garden of the Canaries.

After the eruptions stopped, the farmers returned and found innovative ways to cultivate parts of their ash-covered land. The most dramatic of the volcanic landscapes, including a still-active volcano, are now protected as the UNESCO-listed Timanfaya National Park.

You literally have to see it to believe it: huge areas of unearthly terrain covered in swirls of solidified lava, cracked into crevices by more molten lava still moving beneath it. To see the entire park, go to Islote de Hilario , at the top of a volcanic cone, where park rangers demonstrate the tremendous heat just beneath your feet. Dry brush thrown into a depression bursts into flame, and water poured down a pipe erupts back out in a boiling geyser.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do on Lanzarote

The far south coast of Gran Canaria has a succession of beautiful golden sand beaches. Between Playa de San Agustin on the west and Puerto de Mogán to the east, sunseekers will find no less than six major beach resort areas.

The largest is Maspalomas , with a protected reserve of huge sand dunes in behind stretching in layers to the sea. Mountains of wind-riffled sand undulate above beaches, where dunes as high as 12 meters are constantly carved and shifted by sea and wind. You can wander for hours on foot, marveling at their desolate beauty, but it's more exotic to climb on a dromedary for a lurching camel ride through this spectacular dunescape.

Just around the point to the east is another of the island's best beaches, Playa del Inglés. Similar to Maspalomas, but easier to access, this beach is painted with bright umbrellas and backed by a promenade and a line of restaurants, cafés, shops, and amusements. It's one of the island's liveliest beach scenes at any time of day or night.

Because of the clear, warm water, diving is popular here and an underwater park has been designated at Arinaga, north of Playa de San Agustin. There are diving schools at Maspalomas, Playa Ingles, and several other points, and you'll find facilities for all manner of other water sports here, including sailing and windsurfing.

The capital city of Las Palmas has several excellent beaches, including Playa Las Canteras, with a wide, sandy shore and gentle waters thanks to a natural breakwater formed by volcanic rock. This coast sees large waves from the Atlantic Ocean; the western end of the beach is one of the best places on Gran Canaria for surfing .

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do on Gran Canaria

Like those of Gran Canaria, the fabled beaches of Tenerife lie along its sunny south coast. Among the most developed, with plenty of holiday homes, hotels, restaurants, and sports options, are the golden sands of family-oriented Playa de Las Vistas and the upscale enclaves around Playa del Duque , on the Costa Adeje to the west. At the latter, you'll find shopping, luxury spas, golf, windsurfing, jet skiing, and other activities.

Smaller natural beaches with darker sand dot the entire shore east of Los Cristianos as far as El Medano , a fun and funky place where you'll find a world-class kiteboarding and windsurfing destination. If you crave a bit of solitude, head a bit south of El Medano and check out the golden sands of spectacular Playa de la Tejita, Tenerife's largest natural beach, which is frequently featured on social media postings.

Perhaps the best beach for families is Playa de las Teresitas , just outside the capital of Santa Cruz. Its gently sloping, golden sands (imported from North Africa) are protected by artificial barrier reefs that make it perfect for children and swimmers, without the heavy surf of some other beaches.

Miles of beaches on the island of Fuerteventura are almost empty, and even most of those with well-developed tourist infrastructure, are uncrowded. The soft sands of Africa's deserts are blown across the 100 kilometers of open ocean to find their way to Fuerteventura's west coast and between your toes.

Along Fuerteventura's shorelines, these same sands are washed by the clear, clean waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The 16 kilometers of beaches around Corralejo are some of the best on the island. Here, you'll find ever-shifting sand dunes running right down to the water's edge.

Laze on the sand here and take a dip, or for the more sporty types, sign up for a surfing lesson. If the winds are up, be sure to swing by Flag Beach, also known as Playa Medano, and watch the kiteboarders race across the waves under their colorful kites.

Farther south is Playa Sotavento (leeward beach), which has earned Fuerteventura its reputation as a haven for beach lovers. This unique beach is a massive sand flat where the tides come up slowly, creating warm, shallow pools in behind the shore break.

At the far end of the Jandia Penisula, you'll find more amazing beaches. Playa Jandia and Playa Matorral are massive stretches of golden sand with a lively townsite packed with restaurants and shops behind. These beaches are favored by the beach-walking crowd for their flat and hard sands and wonderful views.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do on Fuerteventura

The artist Cesar Manrique is remembered not only for his works of art and architecture but for the inspiration and dedication that saved the character of his native island of Lanzarote. After a successful art career in New York and on the continent, he returned to Lanzarote in 1968, where he began a campaign to save Lanzarote from the unbridled tourist development that had ruined so many other holiday destinations.

He set the island on a new environmentally and culturally sustainable path by designing and building a series of tourist attractions that used and celebrated the nature of the island - its volcanic landscapes, ragged lava flows, and soaring cliffs.

These include his own dramatic home, Taro de Tahiche , built into a series of subterranean bubbles caused by lava flows; Jameos del Agua , an auditorium, swimming pool, and restaurant built inside a huge volcanic bubble; Monumento al Campesino , with a monumental modern sculpture and handcraft gallery; Mirador del Rio, a scenic overlook high above the sea on the north coast; Jardin de Cactus , a stunning cactus garden built into a former quarry.

He also repurposed a disused fort into the Museo Internacional del Arte Contemporáneo in Arrecife, designed the beautiful Salinas Hotel in Costa Teguise, designed signs for several other attractions, and created huge wind toys - mobile sculptures at road intersections throughout the island. But most of all, he imbued the islanders with a pride in their unique landscape and traditions, and a determination to protect its integrity.

Several of these attractions have gift shops filled with quality local crafts and art, excellent places for souvenir shopping .

The Atlantic Sea off Tenerife is known for its whales and dolphins, and a whale watching cruise is one of the island's favorite things to do for families. You can spot whales and watch pods of dolphins cavort – as many as five different species – on boat excursions from various harbors. Many cruises include a stop at a secluded bay for swimming or snorkeling.

A variety of crafts are available, from sleek sailboats and catamarans to luxury yachts. You'll be accompanied by trained crew members who will help you spot and identify the marine life you see. You'll also get different views of Mt Tiede and the coastline. For those who like their wildlife experiences to be closer to the water — or in it — there are tours for kayakers and divers, as well.

The capital of Tenerife is a lively and attractive city, marked by some outstanding architectural attractions. Foremost of these is the magnificent Auditorio de Tenerife , an opera house and concert hall overlooking the sea, designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. The concert hall hosts world-class performers, conductors, and orchestras.

Santa Cruz has other cultural highlights, including the excellent collections of the Museum of Fine Arts , where you'll find works by Spanish, Flemish, and Canarian painters.

At the fascinating Museum of Nature and Man , you can learn more about Tenerife's native people, before the arrival of European settlers, and about the volcanic history of the island. Close to the museum, the lively Mercado de Nuestra Señora de Africa is a good place to find local crafts. Santa Cruz is where you'll find the best shopping on Tenerife.

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is a sun-drenched seaside town with an interesting historic legacy from its Spanish colonial past, dating from the 15th century. The city was founded in 1478, Spain's first colonial foothold in its westward expansion toward the New World.

The impressive 16th-century Cathedral of Santa Ana has a Gothic interior, with unusual palm-shaped columns, and in the south wing is the Diocesan Museum, with a rich collection of religious art and gold and silver work. The interesting archaeological and ethnographic collections at the Museum of the Canary Islands reveal the prehispanic culture of the island.

The 15th-century Casa de Colon was the home of the first governor, where Columbus stayed en route to the New World. Exhibits in the museum detail his explorations. The house is a beautiful example of Canarian architecture, with delicate wooden balconies, lovely patios, and a monumental doorway.

The Néstor Museum exhibits the artwork of Néstor Martín-Fernández de la Torre, one of the most renowned Spanish Symbolist painters. The museum displays his paintings, including portraits and landscapes, as well as his drawings, sketches, and craftwork. The Néstor Museum is part of the Pueblo Canario (Canaries Village) built in an idealized "neo-Canarian" style. Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo , seven kilometers from Las Palmas, is a spectacular botanical garden filled with native Canarian plant species and set in a beautiful valley.

One of the most popular tourist attractions for families in the Canary Islands is Loro Park just outside of Puerto de la Cruz. Combining high standards of conservation with good entertainment, the park has one of the world's largest collections of parrots, a large dolphinarium, and an immense aquarium with an underwater tunnel where you can walk as sharks and other sea creatures swim overhead.

A bat cave; a gorilla jungle; a huge penguin habitat; and various exotic animals, including tigers and crocodiles, fill the large park.

Address: Calle San Felipe, Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife

This charming colonial city is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its exceptional cultural heritage. San Cristobal de la Laguna, locally known simply as La Laguna, is the former capital of all the Canary Islands. The lovely historic town has many architectural gems, such as its elaborate cathedral, Renaissance and Neoclassical churches, and impressive mansions built by wealthy families in the 17th and 18th centuries.

The town's parish church, the Iglesia de Nuestra La Concepción , was built 1496 and modified in the 16th and 18th centuries. The sanctuary is simply adorned and has Mudéjar coffering. Another important church is the 17th-century Iglesia de Santo Domingo de Guzmán , with Plateresque details on the facade and an ornately designed Mudejar ceiling. Paintings by the Canary Island artist Cristóbal Hernández de Quintana decorate the interior.

For a historical overview of the region, head to the History and Anthropology Museum , housed in the lovely Casa de Lecaro, which dates from 1593.

In a beautiful valley of banana plantations, this colonial town has been designated as a National Historic-Artistic Site . The historic quarter is filled with gracious old homes, many with ornately carved wooden balconies.

The most outstanding of these architectural gems is the Casas de los Balcones , built in the 1630s as a home to a wealthy colonial family. Today, it's a museum and gallery of traditional Canarian crafts and needlework. To admire the interior balconies, step inside the plant-filled patio. The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción , a 16th-century Baroque church, has two remarkable bell towers.

The beautifully landscaped Hijuela del Botánico is filled with more than 3,000 colorful tropical flowers and rare plants, set in lawns with decorative pools. An even larger botanical garden is in nearby Puerto de la Cruz, which was once part of La Orotava, a port known for its fishing (its boats still bring in the daily catch to its restaurants). Cesar Manrique, the artist, sculptor, and architect from the neighboring island of Lanzarote, designed its Jardin Beach among volcanic rocks.

One of the most popular things to do on Lanzarote is to explore the seven-kilometer-long volcanic tube that extends from La Coruna mountain to the sea. These tubes were formed when the surface of a lava flow cooled and hardened while the molten river of lava still flowed beneath it. When the subterranean lava emptied into the ocean, it left the hollow tube deep underground.

The two-kilometer section that you can tour inside the cave is in its original state - the only things that have been added are lights and walkways for safety. You enter the caves through a jameo — a hole created by the collapse of a thin place in the roof of the lava tube. Some of the larger chambers are as high as nine to 12 meters. The stone of the walls is red, orange, and black, formed by compounds such as iron oxide and calcium carbonate in the stone.

The biggest tourist town on Lanzarote is lively Puerto del Carmen, surrounded by more than six kilometers of sandy beaches with calm waters. The old fishing village has been transformed into a bustling vacation destination with a wide selection of hotels and restaurants, but for all its tourist amenities, it has not lost the feel of a real Canarian town.

Those visiting during the first two weeks of August will be delighted by the Fiesta de la Virgen del Carmen . This religious festival honors the patron saint of the fishing village, which is decked out with colorful bunting for the occasion. The village celebrates with a traditional procession of decorated boats. One of the boats holds the statue of the Virgen del Carmen, while other fishing boats follow in a twilight maritime parade.

Read More: Best Beaches on Lanzarote

This pleasant seaside town has the most unspoiled seafront of any in the Canaries and still reflects the favored position it held in the 1500s, when it was one of only three Spanish ports allowed to trade with the New World. Stroll along the cobbled Calle O'Daley to see the handsome homes of wealthy merchants and appreciate the prosperity this town enjoyed in the 17th and 18th centuries.

The 16th-century Iglesia del Salvador has a beautiful mudejar ceiling and a painted altarpiece. The Ayuntamiento (town hall) was once the cardinal's palace, built in 1569, and has a magnificently carved ceiling and Renaissance arcade. Every five years, the island celebrates its patron saint, the Virgin of Las Nieves, with Quinquennial Fiestas , following the same traditions the townspeople have enjoyed since 1680.

The symbol of Gran Canaria, this 220-foot pillar of stone is one of the world's largest natural crags.

The views from the base of the rock are stupendous. You are standing close to the center of the island, which stretches before you in all directions, layer after layer of ragged volcanic peaks. If the weather is clear, you can see the cone of Mount Tiede on Tenerife, the highest peak in Spain.

Be prepared for both wind and sun, and wear sturdy shoes; the trail is rocky and no place for sandals. The trail is only three kilometers long but is more challenging than many sightseers expect. It's uphill all the way, with no level sections, and some of it is very uneven and over rocks. Be prepared for a bit of a workout, especially on some of the steeper sections. Count on at least 1.5 hours of total hiking time there and back.

On weekends and holidays, it's a good idea to arrive early in the morning because parking is limited at la Goleta.

Each year, Tenerife's capital city goes wild for three days of carnival parades, parties, concerts, and general merrymaking. This is normally in February, before the start of Lent.

Carnival actually lasts for three weeks , but the first two are less colorful, given mostly to selecting the various queens who will participate in the grand finale, which is on the last three days. That's the time to be there, to witness the parades and join the open-air parties that continue day and night.

As many as 400,000 people fill the streets, music is everywhere, and the costumes are lavish confections of feathers and glitter that often overshadow the beautiful girls wearing them. The parade floats are even more elaborate and imaginative than the costumes.

The Carnival of Santa Cruz is second only to Rio de Janeiro's in popularity and worldwide recognition. Some tips: reserve lodgings early (a year in advance is not too soon), don't even think of bringing a car into Santa Cruz, arrive early to stake out a good viewing point for the parades, and wear a costume – however simple – so you can take part in the fun.

La Gomera rises so steeply from the Atlantic that it is impractical to build a road around its coast. Crowning the top half of the island is the world's largest pre-glacial forest, protected as Garajonay National Park, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Seventy percent of the 9,325-acre park is covered by a dense laurel forest, similar to those covering Europe in the Tertiary Period.

These beautiful, green forests are home to many plants and animals that are indigenous only to this island, and the island's streams and springs are fed by clouds and mists that hover on the peaks in the park. The terrain is steep, and paths through the misty moss-draped forests open to breathtaking, if often vertigo-inspiring, views. The island capital of San Sebastián was where Christopher Columbus outfitted his ships before crossing the Atlantic in 1492.

While the volcano and its giant caldera are the island's top tourist attraction during the day, Tiede National Park offers another appeal after dark. It has been certified as a " Starlight Destination " by the Starlight Foundation, for the exceptional quality of stargazing.

This is due to a low level of light pollution, the trade winds, and its location close to the equator, which allows you to see all the constellations of the Northern Hemisphere and most of the Southern Hemisphere's. Of the 88 officially recognized constellations, 83 are seen from Tiede. This makes stargazing one of the favorite things to do at night on Tenerife.

Some of the most spectacular stellar events are meteor showers , the best known of which are the Perseids in August and the Quadrantids in January, although smaller ones occur throughout the year. A good way to see the stars, planets, and other celestial phenomena is with a Night Sky Star Safari Teide National Park Tenerife tour , where you can stargaze through a professional telescope with the help of an expert guide to explain the wonders of the night sky.

Known as the Isla Bonita (Beautiful Island), La Palma is the greenest of the Canary Islands. Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve , La Palma's landscape varies from pristine forests to sheer cliffs and black-sand beaches. Among its many protected environments is the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, where volcanic peaks rise to 2,400 meters, and lava flows descend to the sea.

For those in search of idyllic surroundings, the park has wooded areas with streams and waterfalls. Along the rocky coastline, picturesque little bays are hidden away in between steep hillsides.

Although part of Spain, the Canary Islands are much closer to Africa than they are to Europe. Fuerteventura is only 160 kilometers from the northwest coast of Morocco, close enough for its beaches to be made of blowing Sahara sand.

Spanish is the local language, but tourists may be surprised to find a distinctly Canarian character and culture that is quite different from mainland Spain.

In other words, don't expect bullfights or flamenco. Expect to find plenty of other tourists, especially on the islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, most of whom have come for the fabled beaches.

The Canaries have long been popular with British and northern European sunseekers, so you'll find English spoken in most restaurants, hotels, and shops. You'll also find a surprising variety of things to do on these seven islands, from water sports and hiking trails to modern art and sightseeing in charming colonial towns.

Although each island is different, they have in common their volcanic origins, which have led to some of their most distinctive natural attractions. The four largest islands, Tenerife, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and Gran Canaria, all have fascinating volcanic features, two of which are national parks. The islands have three UNESCO World Heritage sites .

There's no wrong season to visit the islands, as their placement where the tropical climatic zone joins the subtropical zone gives them an almost ideal climate of perpetual springtime, with average temperatures varying only 14 degrees throughout the year.

More on Spain

WHICH ONE IS THE BEST CANARY ISLANDS TO VISIT?

Which Islands to Choose in the Canary?

The Canary Islands are exceptional islands with unique landscapes located near the Moroccan coast. So which is the best Canary Islands to visit?

There are seven islands in the Canaries: Tenerife , Gran Canaria , Lanzarote , Fuerteventura , La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro. They all have something very special to offer.

Thanks to its eternal mild climate, these islands can be visited all year round. When it’s snowing in the rest of Europe, you can be swimming in one the amazing beaches in the Canary Islands .

Key Takeaways

1. Tenerife: Offers a diverse landscape including Spain’s tallest peak, Mount Teide, and vibrant nightlife. 2. Gran Canaria: Known for its stunning beaches, sand dunes at Maspalomas, and a mix of urban and natural attractions. 3. Lanzarote: Distinct for its volcanic landscapes, innovative vineyards, and the artistic influence of César Manrique. 4. Fuerteventura: Boasts the best beaches in the archipelago, ideal for water sports like surfing and windsurfing. 5. La Palma: Offers lush greenery, stunning star-gazing opportunities, and is dubbed ‘La Isla Bonita’ for its natural beauty. 6. La Gomera: Renowned for its ancient laurel forests, hiking trails, and the unique Silbo Gomero whistling language. 7. El Hierro: The smallest and most remote, known for its sustainable practices, diving spots, and tranquil ambiance.

We spent almost 3 months exploring the Canary Islands. Follow our guide to find out which Canary Island you should travel next.

1. IS LANZAROTE THE BEST CANARY ISLAND TO VISIT?

When you discover Lanzarote for the first time, you may feel that you landed on the Moon or on Mars. The landscapes in Lanzarote are incomparable to any other places we visited in the world.

A black and red arid land covered with dried lava flows dotted with volcanoes where nothing grows except cacti… a real lunar landscape. You can get closer to the volcanoes by visiting the Timanfaya National Park . This is one of the main attractions on the island, not to be missed!

Lanzarote is less touristy than Gran Canaria or Tenerife. The island has kept all its authenticity with its harmonious and charming villages all with white houses. Teguise , the ancient capital of Lanzarote is a good example that represents the architecture of Lanzarote.

Lanzarote is also the island where you can discover the work of César Manrique , a famous architect native of the island, who left his mark on all the architecture in Lanzarote. César Manrique was a real genius. We wrote a full post about his heritage here . Make sure to visit his main works at Mirador del Rio, Jameos del Agua , Jardin de Cactus or one of his houses transformed into a museum at Casa Museo César Manrique.

In Lanzarote you can also visit the stunning and famous Papagayo Beach , the best beach on the island.

OUR OPINION ABOUT LANZAROTE

Lanzarote is one of the most surprising island in the Canaries and probably the most unique one. It is often ranked one of the best places to visit in Europe. Without a doubt, Lanzarote is one of the best islands to visit in the Canaries. At least make sure to visit this place once in your life!

We absolutely fell in love with this magical island. We would even consider moving there some days. Why not?! It’s warm all year round, we can surf, do plenty of yoga, go hiking. It’s perfect for our lifestyle. If you are still not convinced, you can click  here  to check the 10 best reasons why you should visit Lanzarote at least once in your life!

If you are traveling to Lanzarote for the first time, we recommend at least 1 week. There are so much to see, that it’s really hard to squeeze everything in just a few days…

Lanzarote is undeniably one of the best Canary Islands to visit!

RELATED POSTS ABOUT LANZAROTE

• AWESOME THINGS TO SEE IN LANZAROTE
• VISIT TIMANFAYA NATIONAL PARK IN LANZAROTE
• DISCOVER PLAYA BLANCA IN LANZAROTE
• GUIDE FOR PAPAGAYO BEACH IN LANZAROTE
• BEST THINGS TO SEE IN TEGUISE
• LEARN ABOUT CÉSAR MANRIQUE’S HERITAGE IN THE CANARY ISLANDS
• VISIT THE CACTUS GARDEN IN LANZAROTE
• FAMARA, A CHARMING VILLAGE AND SURF PARADISE
• BEST PLACES TO STAY IN LANZAROTE
• BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO VISIT LANZAROTE
• JAMEOS DEL AGUA, ONE OF OUR FAVORITE PLACES IN LANZAROTE

2. IS FUERTEVENTURA THE BEST CANARY ISLAND TO VISIT?

Fuerteventura is the second of the Canary Islands which we visited. From Lanzarote you can simply take a 30-minute ferry ride. Note that the islands in the Canaries are all connected with ferries. During our 3 months in the Canary Islands we never had to take a single flight. It was perfect! We booked our ferry rides via Direct Ferry, it was super smooth. You can check it out here .

By the way, we recommend Skyscanner to book your flights at the cheapest price. Check it out here .

Fuerteventura is the closest island to the African coast, a hundred kilometers from Morocco. Fuerteventura will certainly impress you with its incredible beaches . Most tourists come to Fuerteventura to enjoy its immense beaches with white sand and turquoise waters. We couldn’t believe our eyes when we visited these magnificent beaches ( top beaches in Fuerteventura here ).

Fuerteventura is also famous for the practice of water spots. You will find many spots where you can surf, windsurf, kitesurf etc; the conditions there are often very favorable because the wind blows almost constantly on the island.

Make sure to also visit Corralejo Natural Park , the most beautiful natural site on the island with its dunes and beaches, hike the volcano Calderón Hondo , check the most amazing beaches at Cofete , admire the rugged coastline in El Cotillo and visit the cute fishing village of Puertito de los Molinos.

For more information on Fuerteventura, read the 25 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN FUERTEVENTURA .

OUR OPINION ABOUT FUERTEVENTURA

Fuerteventura is the best island in the Canary if you enjoy water sports, beaches and wild places in nature.

Fuerteventura is considered one of the best places to surf in Europe during the winter. It is even nicknamed the Hawaii of Europe and for good reasons!

So if you are the adventurous type, or if you want to enjoy amazing and wild beaches all by yourself, then consider Fuerteventura as your next destination.

Perhaps the only thing you need to consider before going to Fuerteventura is the strong wind.

Still, Fuerteventura remains one of the best Canary Islands to visit!

RELATED POSTS ABOUT FUERTEVENTURA

• 25 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN FUERTEVENTURA
• 10 BEST BEACHES IN FUERTEVENTURA
• FULL GUIDE TO CORRALEJO DUNES NATURAL PARK
• BEST HIKES IN FUERTEVENTURA
• VISIT EL COTILLO A COASTAL VILLAGE IN FUERTEVENTURA
• COFETE, the best beach in Fuerteventura
• HIKING CALDERON HONDO in Fuerteventura
• BEST PLACES to stay in Fuerteventura
• 8 BEST THINGS TO DO IN CORRALEJO, Fuerteventura
• OASIS PARK in Fuerteventura
• 8 BEST ACTIVITES in Fuerteventura
• BEST TIME TO TRAVEL TO FUERTEVENTURA
• 10 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT FUERTEVENTURA

3. IS GRAN CANARIA THE BEST CANARY ISLAND TO VISIT?

Gran Canaria is certainly the most diverse island in the Canaries. There you will find a desert, mountains, canyon, tropical forest, beaches, huge cliffs, amazing beaches and interesting cultural sights in Las Palmas its capital. No wonder why people say Gran Canaria is a continent in itself.

We spent nearly 1 month in Gran Canaria . We enjoyed the capital Las Palmas as it has one of the best surf spots on the island in Las Canteras Beach. They also have many yoga studios. In recent years Las Palmas started to attract many digital nomads (Read: 15 best cities for Digital Nomads ). From Las Palmas, it is easy to explore the rest of the island with a rental car.

READ: BEST SURF SPOTS IN THE CANARY ISLANDS

Make sure to visit the dunes of Maspalomas , undeniably the highlight of Gran Canaria . We also enjoyed visiting Puerto de Mogán , a charming village often called the “little Venice” of Europe due to its water canal. Finally make sure to check Tejeda , a traditional village nestled in the mountains.

There is so much to do in Gran Canaria , you will never feel bored. This makes this place one of the best Canary Islands to visit!

Read the 20 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN GRAN CANARIA .

OUR OPINION ABOUT GRAN CANARIA

Gran Canaria is perhaps the most complete destination, as the island is so diverse. Whether you like beaches, adventure, hiking, or the mountains, there is something for everyone.

If you like partying and you are more into the nightlife, then head to Playa del Inglés. It is one of the hot spots to party in Europe!

If you want to visit Gran Canaria with kids, you can choose one of the many resorts which offer full amenities. More info here on the best places to stay in Gran Canaria .

RELATED POSTS ABOUT GRAN CANARIA

• BEST THINGS TO DO IN GRAN CANARIA
• WHAT TO SEE AT LAS PALMAS
• EXPLORE MASPALOMAS. IN GRAN CANARIA
• VISIT TEROR, A CHARMING VILLAGE IN GRAN CANARIA
• BEST PLACES TO STAY IN GRAN CANARIA
• VISIT THE HISTORICAL TOWN OF AGÜIMES
• TEJEDA, A TOWN NESTLED IN THE MOUNTAINS
• 8 REASONS TO VISIT GRAN CANARIA
• BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO VISIT GRAN CANARIA
• BEST BEACHES IN GRAN CANARIA

4. IS TENERIFE THE BEST CANARY ISLAND TO VISIT?

Tenerife is the largest island of the Canaries and probably the most visited. Its main attraction is Mount Teide reaching over 3700 meters high. It is also the highest peak in Spain! Its ascent can be done on foot for hikers or by cable car to enjoy exceptional views ( full guide here ).

Tenerife is a paradise for hikers who can also walk on the many trails in the various national parks on the island. People also come to the island to relax on its beautiful sandy beaches in the seaside resorts or enjoy the small coves and wild beaches.

For the cultural aspect head to La Laguna , the ancient capital of Tenerife . There you can admire the traditional Canarian architectures as well as visit museums and a cathedral.

Other great places to visit in Tenerife are the charming coastal town of Puerto de La Cruz and the beautiful village of Garachico .

For more information about Tenerife, we invite you to read the 25 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN TENERIFE .

OUR OPINION ABOUT TENERIFE

For us, Tenerife is a very special place, where we could come back again and again. The surf culture is everywhere in the south of the island, which gives it a great atmosphere and immediately makes you feel on vacation.

There are so many ways to experience this island. You can explore the north through many hikes, visit the impressive   Mount Teide   with its snowy peak during winter. On the west, there are many beautiful places to visit such as   Garachico   or   Puerto de la Cruz . Tenerife is also a great place to go diving or snorkeling.

We definitely got a crush on Tenerife .

Tenerife is a great destination to travel to. No wonder, why it is one of the most popular islands in the Canary!

RELATED POSTS ABOUT TENERIFE

• 25 BEST THINGS TO SEE IN TENERIFE
• AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN PUERTO DE LA CRUZ, TENERIFE
• DISCOVER MASCA, THE MOST REMOTE VILLAGE IN TENERIFE
• FULL GUIDE TO HIKE AT MOUNT TEIDE
• EXPLORE SAN CRISTÓBAL DE LA LAGUNA IN TENERIFE
• COSTA ADEJE, ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO STAY IN TENERIFE
• VISIT THE IMPRESSIVE LANDSCAPE AT LOS GIGANTES IN TENERIFE
• 10 BEST BEACHES IN TENERIFE
• GARACHICO, ONE OF THE PRETTIEST TOWNS IN TENERIFE
• TOP 8 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT TENERIFE
• BEST PLACES TO STAY IN TENERIFE

5. ARE EL HIERR O, LA GOMER A OR LA PALMA THE BEST CANARY ISLANDS TO VISIT?

Without hesitation the wildest of the archipelago, El Hierro is a 100% volcanic island . No sandy beach, to the great despair of some! This is what explains the lack of tourist enthusiasm for this small plot of land that looks like the end of the world… Instead, fields of volcanic lava, which contrast with the laurel forests.

In the same day, you can walk in the high forests of the pine forest of El Pinar and snorkel in the calm waters of La Restinga. If you want to visit something off the beaten track in the Canary Islands , then El Hierro is for you!

What to do in the Canary Islands if you love nature? Visit La Gomera of course! La Gomera is one of the smallest, but also one of the best preserved islands of the Canaries. The richness of its national park makes it a paradise for hikers and nature lovers in general.

Preserved from mass tourism, the island remained wild: it is a real pleasure to walk in the shade of the luxuriant vegetation, or to rest on its calm beaches. You can also visit during a day trip from Tenerife ( more info here ).

Its heart shape is already a good sign to visit La Palma. Its vegetation reminded us a bit of Madeira , while its volcanic sites are ideal for a few hikes. Stop at random authentic villages to get a taste of local life and enjoy a glass of local wine.

CONCLUSION: WHICH ONE IS THE BEST CANARY ISLAND TO VISIT?

We hope that we have succeeded in showing you that the Canary Islands are really unique. Visiting the Canary Islands goes far beyond its seaside resorts. On the contrary, the archipelago is full of small paradises that will fill your head with wonderful memories.

When it comes to choosing which of the Canary Islands is best or better than the other, it is however very hard to decide. Each of them has something incredible to offer.

But if we were to choose only 1, then our heart will go to Lanzarote. First of all we’ve never seen such landscapes anywhere else in the world, and we travel extensively. Besides the moon-like terrain, Lanzarote also offers beautiful beaches such as Papagayo. Finally, Cesar Manrique, the famous artist native of Lanzarote, ensured that the island remains protected from huge resorts built without respecting the nature and its surrounded. As a results the entire island feels harmonious and pleasant to visit wherever you go.

You can also check the top 10 reasons why you should visit the Canary Islands here .

We hope that this post was useful to help you choose which island to visit in the Canaries. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below.

You can also check our full guide for visiting the Canary Islands: here

We are Hammer and Guillaume, a fun couple traveling the world. We will take you to some of the most amazing places on earth. Hammer is a yoga instructor and Guillaume a true water baby, enjoying all kinds of water sports. Follow-us to get the latest update about our travels.

Similar Posts

GUIDE TO VISITING DELOS FROM MYKONOS [GREECE]

Discover the amazing island of Delos in Greece, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in ancient ruins and mythology. FULL GUIDE!

WHY VISIT TENERIFE? TOP 8 REASONS!

Are you thinking about visiting Tenerife, but you are not sure if it is worth it? Here are the top 8 reasons why you should!

GUIDE TO THE CASTLE OF SÃO JORGE IN LISBON

Saint George’s Castle (or Castelo São Jorge in Portuguese) is one of the best things to see in Lisbon. You can’t miss it if you visit Lisbon!

10 MOST AMAZING BEACHES IN LANZAROTE

​​Lanzarote is one of the most beautiful islands in Spain. Lanzarote also features spectacular beaches. Here is out top 10 beaches.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT TENERIFE?

When is the best time to visit Tenerife in the Canary Islands? Is Winter a good month to visit Tenerife? Here is a full guide for Tenerife

HOW TO GET FROM ATHENS TO MYKONOS BY FERRY?

The essential guide to traveling from Athens to Mykonos by ferry. Learn about ports, ferry types, booking tips, onboard experience etc.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Skip to main navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer

LOCAL GUIDE GRAN CANARIA

Everything about Gran Canaria / Everything about Gran Canaria

Best island in the Canary Islands, which Canary island to visit?

05/09/2023 - Ruth González

What is the best island in the Canary Islands ? Possibly the most difficult question we have to answer on this blog. Maybe we have to put the question in another way, that is, which canary island to visit . The best island in the Canary Islands It depends on what for, since they are all different and each one has its attractions. Us We are lucky to have visited them all. . So, below we are going to give you a brief summary about the Islands so that you can choose yourself. which Canary Island to visit .

Canary Islands what to see

First of all, before deciding which Canary Islands to visit , you should know that the canary archipelago is made up of eight islands: La Palma, El Hierro, La Gomera, Tenerife, Gran Canaria , Fuerteventura, Lanzarote and La Graciosa . There are also several islets such as Lobos (visitable), Alegranza, Montaña Clara and several smaller rocks. The Canary Islands have belonged to Spain since the 15th century, the date on which the crown of Castile conquered the Canarian aborigines. But, Where are the canary islands? Geographically they are located in the Atlantic Ocean , a few kilometers from the coasts of West Africa, facing Morocco and the Sahara. That is, about a 2 and a half hour flight from the Peninsula.

El Climate in the Canary Islands is subtropical with temperate temperatures all year round. It doesn't usually rain much and, luckily, there are no tornadoes or earthquakes here. Still, you should know that islands are small miniature continents. That is, in mountainous areas there can be temperatures below zero (only in winter) and, at the same time, on the southern beaches it can be more than 20 degrees. In any case, We believe that the best months to visit them are from October to May, since it is still cold in Europe and the entire northern hemisphere.

Discover which is the best Canary Island for you

If what you are looking for is sun and beach, you will find it in all of them. However, you should know that the eastern islands are sandier (playones) . On the other hand, the western islands are more rocky (cliffs) . In Gran Canaria you can find both types of landscapes. In any case, in the next lines we detail the essential places and outstanding activities on each island so that you decide yourself which is the best canary island for you.

1. Gran Canaria: beach, mountains, wide gastronomic and cultural offer

• Your capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Is the most populated city in the Canary Islands with a wide cultural offer. Discover here what to see in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria .
• Sacred Mountains of Gran Canaria and Risco Caído, World Heritage Site by UNESCO
• dunes of Maspalomas and its kilometer-long beach
• Nublo Rural Park and Natural Monument of Roque Nublo , symbol of the island
• Playa de Las Canteras , One best urban beaches in the world
• Beaches and bathing areas of different types : golden sand, black sand, stones, puddles and pools of sea water
• Wide nightlife offer
• large network of trails in Gran Canaria and MTB routes
• Good rums and wines with wineries to visit.
• Wide gastronomic offer, includes three Michelin Star restaurants
• World award-winning cheeses (mixture, sheep, goat and cow), highlights the flower cheese with vegetable rennet.
• Good offer of leisure for families : Poem of the Sea Aquarium and Holiday World Maspalomas
• It has overcrowded tourist areas: mainly Playa del Inglés y Puerto Rico
• It is the second most populated Canary Island
• It has an international airport

You already know that we have a blog about the island of Gran Canaria because we live here, If you would like more information about the places we like the most on the island , you can take a quick look at the following article.

2. Tenerife: beach, mountains, wide gastronomic and cultural offer

• Teide National Park . Mount Teide is the highest peak in Spain with 3.718m of altitude.
• City of La Laguna , Heritage of humanity by unesco
• Sighting of cetaceans : whales and dolphins all year
• Anaga Rural Park
• Tourism astronomical
• large network of trails and MTB routes
• good wines and wineries to visit
• Network of guachinches , places with homemade Canarian food at a good price
• Wide gastronomic offer, includes four Michelin Star restaurants
• Good offer of leisure for families : Loro Parque and Siam Park water park
• It has crowded tourist areas : mainly Las Américas beach and Puerto de La Cruz
• It is the most populated Canary Island
• It has two airports : one in the south mainly for international flights and another in the north for national and island flights

We have a super article with recommendations of places to visit in Tenerife to discover its most authentic side, with recommendations for restaurants, hotels and advice . It is the Canary Island that we have visited the most due to its proximity to Gran Canaria and, at the same time, being one of the most complete.

3. Lanzarote, best Canary Island for beach holidays

• Paradise beaches and coves of white sand , golden and crystal clear waters, being one of the favorite islands to travel by sailboat
• Timanfaya National Park
• Air shipments are the most efficient if you need your cargo or documents to arrive quickly and securely. Jameos del Agua
• Beaches of Parrot
• green lagoon (or Click Pond)
• César Manrique Foundation
• Good wines and wineries to visit
• Good gastronomic offer
• It has overcrowded tourist areas: mainly Puerto del Carmen (and Costa Teguise)
• Practically flat island with unattractive for mountain sports
• Less than an hour by boat from La Graciosa (recommended day trip if you visit this island)

4. La Graciosa, beaches and disconnection from civilization

• Paradise beaches and coves with golden sand and crystal clear waters
• Is the Smallest island of the archipelago , so it is sparsely populated.
• It has a limited leisure offer , ideal to disconnect
• streets and sand roads There are hardly any cars
• Preserve 100% authenticity throughout the territory, that is, without overcrowding. However, the months from July to September its population triples with local tourism. with what It is not the best Canary Island to spend the summer . If you can, visit it from October to June and avoid Easter
• Without an airport, you can only get there by ferry to La Graciosa from Lanzarote or by private boat

5. Fuerteventura, best Canary Island for beach holidays

• Kilometer-long beaches and paradises of white, golden sand and crystal clear waters
• Jandía Natural Park, highlighting the beaches of Jandía and Cofete
• Dunes of Corralejo
• Paradise for water sports, mainly windsurfing and surfing (Sotavento beach).
• Known for its award-winning goat cheeses
• Possibility of visiting the Lobos islet in one boat excursion , since it is less than an hour away (you cannot stay overnight)
• Practically flat and desert island with unattractive for mountain sports

6. La Gomera, best island in the Canary Islands to disconnect

• Garajonay National Park
• Good network of trails and MTB routes
• This is where the origin comes from canarian almogrote
• Acantilado The organs
• Beaches of stones and black sand . It also has puddles and some seawater pools.
• Sparsely populated island with limited leisure options, ideal to disconnect . In fact, it has locations to carry out retreats, yoga and meditation
• Preserve 100% authenticity throughout the territory, without overcrowding
• The airport is small and only for flights from Tenerife or Gran Canaria . You can also arrive by boat from other Canary Islands (the closest ones)

You can get more information about this destination at our complete guide on La Gomera with 10 incredible places to visit, restaurants and tips to organize your trip. We spent the summer on this island and my mother and grandparents are from here , so we have a lot of information to share.

7. El Hierro, best Canary Island for diving

• La Restinga-Mar de las Calmas Marine Reserve, ideal for diving
• La Sabina of El Hierro
• Beaches of stones and black sand . It also has natural puddles and seawater pools.
• Good gastronomic offer , mainly fish and seafood
• Isla sparsely populated and with little leisure offer, ideal for disconnecting
• Preserve 100% authenticity throughout the territory , without massifying
• Good network trails and MTB routes
• Ancient meridian 0

We invite you to learn better El Hierro in our specific article about this destination with more information about the places to visit, where to eat, where to stay , etc. We've been four times now!

8. La Palma, hiking paradise

• Volcano tourism, mainly due to the erosion of the La Palma Cumbre Vieja volcano last 2021
• Good network of trails and MTB routes, it is the greenest Canary Island
• Caldera de Taburiente National Park
• Astronomical tourism, Roque de Los Muchachos
• Stone and black sand beaches. It also has some seawater pools.
• It preserves 100% of its authenticity throughout the territory, without overcrowding
• International Airport

Which island is the best in the Canary Islands?

In short, as you may have seen, it is impossible to choose the best Canary Island for holidays , since not all of us like the same thing. However, we hope that after highlighting the main characteristics of each island you can decide which canary island to visit . In any case, we believe that, if you have the opportunity, you should consider which Canary Islands to visit (plural), some are perfectly combinable due to proximity or directly visit them all little by little.

Possibly, if you are looking to be away from the masses, the best Canary Island to go to in summer be one of the least touristy. These are El Hierro, La Gomera and La Palma. On the other hand, if you want to know what the best Canary Island to go in October , any one is fine depending on your tastes. The climate is quite similar in all of them and in October the temperatures are great.

What is the cheapest island in the Canary Islands?

Finally, another question that usually comes up in all the forums is what is the cheapest island in the Canary Islands . In principle they are all similar, but The most populated ones have a greater range of accommodation and restaurants , so there is more competitiveness in prices.

In addition, they are better connected, so you can save a lot on flights. In any case, being more populated they have a greater range of leisure and activities, so spending at destination can be higher . The same goes for the question of which is the cheapest canary island to live Sure, rental housing will be cheaper on the less populated islands, but here you also have fewer leisure options. So you have to choose once again based on your tastes.

Video: which Canary island is better?

In this video of On our YouTube channel we review the places to visit in the Canary Islands, highlighting the charms and peculiarities of each one. . This way, you can choose which Canary Island to visit more easily. You can subscribe here and leave us any questions in the comments.

Podcast: which Canary island to visit?

In the next episode of our podcast about Gran Canaria we dedicate a specific chapter to explaining which Canary island to visit based on your tastes. It is the same audio as the previous video, but we leave it in podcast format so you can listen to us while you are doing something else. We are waiting for you on Spotify and iTunes with more episodes!

Finally, If you choose to travel to Gran Canaria, we invite you to take a look at our digital guides to get to know the most authentic side of the island on your own without wasting time organizing your itinerary.

Hello! I am Ruth, Canarian with a traveling soul. With training and experience in the tourism and digital marketing sector. In this blog I tell you all the tips you need to get to know the most authentic side of Gran Canaria on your own. I also share my travel guides to all the places in the world that I am visiting so that you can discover the destinations like a local and save time planning. In addition to traveling, I love gastronomy and sports. I run and hike in the mountains with my “dog-children” (Silver and Plata). In all these adventures my partner accompanies me, Jorge, which you will also see a lot on this blog.

interactions with readers

I want to travel to the Canary Islands in July and I want to know which of the islands I should visit?

Hello María Leonor! In this article we briefly explain what each island offers so that you can choose based on your tastes and preferences. The climate is similar in all of them.

Hello. It seems that you are from Gran Canaria, and therefore very unbiased with your comments. The Carnival of Tenerife is the authentic and most touristy one (the one in Gran Canaria is a cheap copy of the one in Tenerife, no offense intended...), Furthermore, Tenerife has more than 10 essential sites that you have not included. You should be more impartial in your comments…

Hello Roberto! Thank you very much for your comment.

In this article we have tried to be as impartial as possible. I don't know what you're basing yourself on to say that... and nowhere is it talked about carnivals...

On the other hand, the list highlights the most characteristic places of each island. We cannot mention them all, otherwise this will become the encyclopedia of the Canary Islands.

If we have missed any essential places in Tenerife and we must replace them with others, that's what comments are for, to contribute and enrich the article 🙂 so when you want to comment again providing the places you indicate, we will be happy to read you here 🙂

All the best

Leave your comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked with *

 I want to receive the Local Guide Gran Canaria newsletter

The most read in Gran Canaria:

• Things to see and do in Gran Canaria
• Things to do in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
• Things to do in Gran Canaria for families
• Best hiking trails in Gran Canaria
• Best beaches in Gran Canaria

Legal Notice:

• Privacy Policy
• Cookies policy

Most read for foodies:

• Best restaurants in Gran Canaria
• Best restaurants in Maspalomas
• Best restaurants in Las Palmas
• Best restaurants in Las Canteras
• Breakfast in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Telegram Newsletter:

Accommodation in gran canaria:.

• Where to stay in Gran Canaria
• Family hotels in Gran Canaria
• Hotels in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
• Rural hotels in Gran Canaria
• Adults-only hotels in Gran Canaria

Subscribe to our epic newsletter:

We don't send spam! Visit our privacy policy.

Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription to our newsletter so you can start receiving our news about Gran Canaria :)

• Privacy summary
• Strictly necessary cookies
• Third Party Cookies
• Additional cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can offer you the best possible user experience. The information of the cookies is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognizing you when you return to our website or helping our team understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

The strictly necessary cookies must always be activated so that we can save your cookie settings preferences.

If you deactivate this cookie we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will have to activate or deactivate cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, or the most popular pages.

Leaving this cookie active allows us to improve our website.

Please activate the strictly necessary cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

This website uses the following additional cookies:

(List here the cookies you are using on the website.)

More information about our Cookies policy

• Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit the Canary Islands: Weather by Month

• Updated On December 7, 2022

The best time to travel to the Canary Islands, weather-wise, does vary by destination, but the subtropical climate tends to mean year-round sunshine, especially in the southern beach resorts. 

If you’re wondering when is the best time to go to the Canary Islands, it would be easy to assume there will be sunny skies during any month of the year. However, in the Canary Islands, the weather by month – and indeed by island – varies more than you might expect. 

This article is here to help you pick the best time for the visit according to your needs. Whether you want to know which is the hottest Canary Island in December for a Christmas break or are wondering when to go hiking , for a beach break or with a young family, this month-by-month guide will help you decide when to enjoy the subtropical climate. 

Typical weather during the high and shoulder seasons is also covered, which may be useful when you want to work out the cheapest time to go to the Canary Islands. One thing to know from the outset is that the weather can vary tremendously from one island to the next – and indeed from one end of an island to the other. Especially during winter.

In general, it’s worth knowing that the southern end of each island tends to be warmer and drier than the north: Tenerife is a typical example in this sense. You can also expect windy weather on all of the islands at times, especially during spring and autumn. 

Read on so you can plan your seasonal stay in this beautiful Spanish archipelago.   

Table of Contents

High Season Weather

July & august or december to april.

When deciding the best time of year to visit the Canary Islands, it’s worth taking the high season into account. These months include Christmas and Easter as well as the carnival season and summer. 

Accommodation tends to be most expensive in the Canaries during January and February, as it’s a popular winter sun destination for Europeans. The Spanish tend to visit during midsummer, so you can also expect more holidaymakers then, particularly in August. 

If you want sunshine and the hottest weather, the best month to visit the Canary Islands is July or August: maximum highs tend to be around 38°C. For walking or hiking, though, it’s best to visit outside these months when the weather will be a little cooler. 

January , February and March are wetter, especially at higher altitudes. In January, visitors to Tenerife may experience maximums of about 21°C, even though this is the coldest month.

Shoulder Season Weather

May & june or september to november.

Autumn and late spring tend to be quieter in the Canaries. Typical daytime highs are around 28°C, though in mountainous regions and at night it can be a lot cooler. Long, late summers and mild winter weather are the norm for the archipelago located off the coast of north west Africa. 

Extreme hot temperatures are fairly rare, due to the cooling winds of the North Atlantic ocean, though wind (and sand) from the Sahara can occasionally cause higher temperatures and dust.

For many people, the best time to visit the Canaries is during spring or autumn. The weather overall is still consistently warm and dry, and affordable accommodation is easier to find. In June you can expect around 10 hours of sunshine per day. 

North, South, East and West

You can expect higher levels of rainfall and humidity if you visit the more westerly islands of La Palma, El Hierro or La Gomera, as they have a subtropical humid climate. In general, though, the weather is sunny and warm and cloudy skies aren’t common. In fact this clarity makes the islands one of the best places on earth to observe space and the night stars. 

The northern parts of each Canary Island tend to be wetter and colder than the south, due to northeast trade winds. During winter this is more noticeable, and there may be some storms.  While you may need to wear a jumper in northern Tenerife during winter, for example, visitors to the south could be experiencing perfect beach weather.

Calima is a Spanish word to describe the dust that comes from the Sahara desert to the Canary Islands a couple of times per year and makes the air quality really bad. Very small particles of dust and sand form a thick yellow haze which can be harmful to people with respiratory problems.

You can spot it by looking at the ocean. If you can’t see a horizon or an island that you saw yesterday, or they are blurry, that’s probably calima. Its intensity can differ. Sometimes calima is mild and nobody pays attention. But if it’s more severe, you will see locals wearing masks for protection. On such days it’s a good idea to close the windows in the place you are staying and spend less time outside.

This interesting phenomenon doesn’t have any special season so it can happen at any time of the year. Calima also brings hot weather with it.

Canary Islands Weather – Month by Month

For many, the best time of year to go to the Canary Islands is January because of the winter sun. Though mountains like El Teide in Tenerife may still be topped with snow and inland or northern areas may be wetter, southern regions are warmer and drier than, for example, mainland Spain. Do expect a few showers, though. 

Events taking place in January include Día de los Reyes Magos on 6th January, when children receive gifts from the three kings and there are celebratory feasts and parades. The Canary Islands International Music Festival also begins in January and continues into February.

The best Canary Island in February can be Tenerife, as the carnival here is second only to Rio’s famous celebration. Weather-wise, you can expect lots of sunshine, but also the odd short shower or cooler spell. Do pack a waterproof jacket and lightweight layers for evenings. 

Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas in Gran Canaria are the best places to party – for up to 15 days – at carnival time. The almond blossom festival is also held in various villages at the start of the year, usually during February.

For hiking or pretty floral displays, March can be the best time to travel to the Canary Islands. This is particularly true of Gran Canaria, La Palma, El Hierro and La Gomera. From March onwards, visitors can start to enjoy pastimes like going to water parks, surfing or seeing the sunset, and there are fewer crowds.  

Though the weather is generally mild and dry, you may still require an extra warm or rainproof layer at times. Daytime highs are around 21°C and the water temperature is about 18°C. Easter visitors may see religious parades taking place in towns and villages – or this may fall in April . 

Gran Canaria is the best Canary Island in March for opera fans, as the peak of the annual season occurs then.

Good walking conditions, less tourists and sunny beaches make April a great month to visit. Expect the occasional shower and cooler evenings, though. 

For fans of cheese, the best Canary island in April is Gran Canaria, as the annual Fiesta del Queso de Guía festival normally takes place then. 

For beaches that aren’t crowded and warmer evenings, May is a good bet . Summer highs are yet to come, but you can expect bright, sunny and dry weather and ideal sea swimming conditions.  

Canary Islands Day is also held on 30th May, and is celebrated on all of the islands. You can experience local and traditional culture, dance, cuisine, arts and crafts during this day, in both rural and urban areas alike. Gay Pride also takes place in Maspalomas during mid-May, so the best Canary Island in May for those who enjoy a carnival may be Gran Canaria. 

Days with 10 hours of sunshine and a relative lack of tourists makes June an idyllic month to visit. The weather is very warm by now, yet slightly cooler than during the next two months. It’s a great time to explore the islands while enjoying a Canarian summer. 

The hottest Canary Island in June is Lanzarote , followed by Fuerteventura , Gran Canaria and Tenerife. During June you can expect little to no rain, especially in the southern coastal resorts.

By July temperatures are heading towards their peak and average daily temperatures in the south hover around the low 30s. Prices and visitor numbers shoot up during this popular summer period. 

The Canary Islands are ideal for summer beach holidays, as the ocean breezes tend to stop temperatures from rising too high. A dip in the sea or one of the natural pools can also help to keep you cool. The July trade winds also provide ideal conditions for water sports like sailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing.

The best Canary Island in July for local celebrations is Gran Canaria, as the International Jazz and Theatre, Music & Dance festivals take place then. 

August is peak season both in terms of temperature and visitor numbers. The warmest Canary Island in August is Tenerife, but really there’s a minimal difference between the islands in summer. 

You can expect around a dozen daily hours of sunlight and an absence of rain during August. If you want to hike, heading out in the early morning, before temperatures rise, is recommended.

Celebrations to observe or take part in during August include Gran Canaria’s daytime and after-dark Rain Dance Festival. Lanzarote is otherwise the best Canary Island in August, as it offers both a Saint’s Day and the Wine Festival.

September is cooler for hiking, yet still hot enough for sunbathing by day. The crowds have now begun to disperse, so it’s more peaceful than the preceding months. Daytime temperatures are around the mid-20s, and on average there will be just one or two rainy days during the entire month. 

The best Canary Island in September for a party is La Gomera, where there’s a week of celebrations held in San Sebastián to honour the achievements of Christopher Columbus.

By October, daytime temperatures have fallen to the low 20s and you can expect cooler evenings. The ocean, however, is actually at its warmest during this time, and the weather is still good for beach life as well as hiking.

More rain can be expected from October onwards, so head to the south of the islands if you want to experience drier days.

November days bring temperatures of around 20°C and around 9 hours of sunshine, along with cooler evenings. The winter sun crowds haven’t yet descended, so it’s a relaxing time to visit. It’s still warm enough for surfing or spending time on the beach. 

From late autumn there will be more rain in northern, mountainous and inland parts of Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Lanzarote and La Palma, though the southern beaches will remain pretty dry. 

Beach days are still a reality during December, which is why many northern Europeans now arrive seeking warmer weather. Average temperatures are now around the mid-teens in coastal regions, with more rain and humidity in the north or at higher altitudes.

Do pack a light warm and a waterproof layer or two for a Christmas visit, especially for evenings. There are only around 3 to 4 rainy days in the Canarian resorts during December. 

Apart from Christmas festivities, Immaculate Conception Day on 8th December in El Hierro is worth witnessing, when the streets of Valverde become party central. 

When to Go Hiking

While walking is possible in the Canaries all year round, some routes may be rendered impassable when the weather’s wet. April to September are the best months to visit if you want to hike the trails. The peak of El Teide in Tenerife or La Palma’s Roque de los Muchachos can even be snowy in winter, and trails in those areas may close for safety reasons. 

Hiking in the south is generally warmer, while inland trails are more likely to be affected by wet or colder weather. If you do head into the mountains, bear in mind that conditions can change very rapidly indeed at higher altitudes, and pack accordingly. 

Spring is the ideal season for hiking, as it’s cooler than summer and the landscape is more lush and often filled with flowers. There’s decent walking to be had all over the Canary Islands, but La Gomera and La Palma are good if you want to get off the beaten tourist path. 

When to Visit With Kids

Spanish families flock to the Canaries in July and August, so it can be difficult and expensive to book good accommodation. The Easter holidays can also be very busy. Early spring in general is good, though, as water and theme parks are less packed and it’s warm enough to spend your days at the beach in March, April and May. 

September, October and November are also great for families, as they’re not too crowded and the weather is warm to hot and dry overall. 

When to Head to the Beach

Anytime between March to November offers long, sunny days that are ideal for swimming and sunbathing. December and January are the wettest months, while the July and August summer holiday peak often means packed beaches and resorts.  

In fact the Canaries between them offer more than 500 beaches in all. These range from long, pristine white stretches to small bays with black volcanic sand or pebbles. Some are immaculate, unspoiled coves, while others offer every family amenity or nightlife venue you could wish for. 

The beaches of the Canary Islands can be enjoyed all year long, but for dry and warm weather it’s best to visit between early spring and late autumn. 

Meet Jovita, co-founder of Enjoy Canary Islands. The archipelago is her favorite place on Earth. She visited all the islands multiple times and lived in Tenerife for a year. She is here to help you plan the best trip of your life.

For Further Reading

Which is the Best Canary Island to Visit on Your Next Holiday?

Tenerife Shopping Guide: The Best Shopping Centres + Tips

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Name  *

Email  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

• Gran Canaria
• Fuerteventura
• Tenerife - Best Places to stay
• Gran Canaria - Top Places to stay
• Lanzarote - Best Accommodation
• Fuerteventura - Best Places to Stay
• La Gomera - Where to stay
• La Palma - Best Accommodation
• El Hierro - Best Areas To Stay
• Tenerife weather
• Gran Canaria weather
• Lanzarote weather
• Fuerteventura weather
• La Palma weather
• La Gomera weather
• Tenerife Events
• Gran Canaria Events
• Lanzarote Events
• Fuerteventura Events
• La Palma Events
• La Gomera Events
• El Hierro Events
• Tenerife Attractions
• Gran Canaria Attractions
• Lanzarote Attractions
• Fuerteventura Attractions
• Tenerife Tours
• Gran Canaria Tours
• Lanzarote Tours
• Fuerteventura Tours

Best Time To Go To The Canary Islands - When To Visit

The Canary Islands are a popular holiday destination, especially for Brits and Europeans in general, who are looking for a sunny place where they can escape the cold weather back home in winter.

Due to their position, the Canary Islands have a privileged climate, with very few differences in temperature from one season to another, which makes them a popular choice during the colder months.

When is the best time to go to the Canary Islands

Very simply put, we would say that ANYTIME is great for a visit to the Canary Islands .

The islands have a subtropical climate, which means moderately warm winters and an extended summer that lasts up until October.

Of course there are differences in between the island, especially due to their exact position and geography, so you will find more detailed articles in our dedicated section for weather in the Canary Islands .

See also: Hottest Canary Island in Winter

In winter you can expect temperatures of up to 23°C on most sunny days, while at night the temperatures drop to around 16 - 17°C.

That is in places which are usually located in the south of the islands, because on some islands, like Tenerife and Gran Canaria, the weather in winter can be very different between North and South.

La Palma and La Gomera have a slightly different type of climate , known as subtropical humid, where it tends to rain more than in other parts of the Canaries. The subtropical humid climate is also found in Tenerife in the North, where it is essential for the developmentof the laurisilva forest, one of the most magical places that you can visit in Tenerife.

Spring and Autumn are usually considered the best seasons for hiking in the Canary Islands , since it tends to rain less than in winter, but it's also not as hot as in summer. Best places for hiking in the Canary Islands are La Palma, La Gomera and the north of Tenerife. The landscape is breathtaking, you see a lot of greenery and different types of vegetation, while enjoying gorgeous views of the coast.

In summer, the climate is greatly influenced by the trade winds, which are most predominant between June and August.

July and August are the hottest months in the Canaries , which means that they are also very popular times to visit for family holidays. In summer you will see many Spanish families coming over from the continent, in order to enjoy the sun and the lovely beaches as well.

Best months for swimming in the Canary Islands are from August until October , when the water really warms up (as much as it can warm up, considering the fact that the islands are surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean). It is true that in summer the water will never be as hot as in the Mediterranean Sea for example, but it's also true that in the Canaries you can swim even in January or February, while that is not possible anywhere else in Europe at that time of year.

Winter is a wildly popular time to visit the Canary Islands, because when other places already experience their first snow, the Canaries stay mostly warm and sunny, with temperatures still in their 20s°C. In winter we personally prefer Tenerife and Gran Canaria and we always look to stay in the south of the islands.

High season in the Canary Islands: Winter and Summer

Unlike most travel destinations, the Canaries have 2 high seasons: winter and summer.

While in summer you will see many families from mainland Spain and families with school aged children in general, in winter it is mostly the opposite. Many pensioners and retired persons are coming to the Canaries in winter looking to stay here for a few months, until the weather back home starts to warm up.

This means that if you are planning a sunny winter escape and you're looking to come to the Canaries, you should book well ahead of time in order to get a good deal on accommodation.

People coming over to stay over winter usually book a year in advance or even more, in order to get a good deal on price and to find something that suit their needs and is located in the right place.

Families who depend on school holidays usually come over to the Canaries in summer, when their children are on summer break.

This means that the prices for package deals will be higher in summer and winter, as opposed to spring and autumn. If you usually book your holiday on your own (like we always do), then you should know that prices for flights go up in summer and usually during school holidays, so we advise to book them ahead of time. Last minute affordable accommodation is a bit easier to find, especially if you are not picky.

Autumn and spring are not however considered low season in the Canary Islands, as the archipelago is a year round holiday destination. They are just not as wildly popular, but still attract a fair amount of visitors.

So, when is the best time to travel to the Canary Islands?

• Best time to go for hiking and active holidays: March - May & October - November
• Best time to go for sunbathing *: all year round
• Best time to go for swimming : August - October. October usually has the highest water temperatures.
• Best time to go to escape the cold : December - April
• Best time for surfing in Fuerteventura and Lanzarote : for beginners from July until November; for advanced from October until December
• Best time for surfing in Tenerife and Gran Canaria : all year round; but for advanced surfers the best months are from October until March

* Although sunbathing is technically possible all year round in the Canaries, no one can predict the weather exactly and so it can happen that you get a few overcast days even in the middle of summer. But remember that, even if you think it's cloudy and you don't see the sun, you can still burn your skin, so you should still use sunblock.

We have had sunbathing weather on all our visits to the Canaries, even in January, February or March. In February and March 2019 we were even able to swim on Playa Las Teresitas (located near Santa Cruz de Tenerife), a beach where you wouldn't normally expect to get such a great weather in winter. But that's not always the case, as in 2018 we weren't that lucky with the weather in the North, although it was still great in the South.

For a first time visitor to the Canary Islands we would recommend either to visit in September if you want to have the best beach experience, or come in December, in order to spend a different kind of Christmas, with sand castles instead of snowmen.

If you already know which Canary Island you would like to visit, you can read our more detailed dedicated guides

• Best time to visit Tenerife
• Best time to visit Gran Canaria
• Best time to visit Fuerteventura
• Best time to visit Lanzarote

10 Warmest Places in Europe in Winter - December, January & February

15 Best things to do and places to visit in the Canary Islands

Warmest Canary Island in Winter - December, January & February

Hottest Canary Island in Summer - Where to go for a beach holiday?

Best Canary Island to visit - Which one to choose?

Best Time to Visit Tenerife - When to go for a sunny holiday

Canary Islands   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Westend61 | Getty Images

8 Best Things To Do in Canary Islands

Updated May. 8, 2023

One of the best things to do on the Canary Islands is relax on the beach. Some of the most popular places to do so are Gran Canaria's Playa de las Canteras and Playa de Maspalomas , and Tenerife's Playa de Las Teresitas. But there's more

• All Things To Do

Las Palmas (Gran Canaria) Las Palmas (Gran Canaria) free

Las Palmas is a popular place to base a Canary Islands vacation. Not only is it the Canaries' largest city, it's also got a number of world-class attractions. Its beach — the 2½-mile Playa de las Canteras — is an attractive urban shoreline. Guarded by a barrier reef, the waters are gentle and suitable for travelers of all ages. And the promenade that backs the beach is a spectacular place for a sunset stroll.

When it comes to shopping, you'll want to wander down Calle Triana as well as the streets right around it. Along with well-known fashion brands like Zara and H&M, there are Spanish chains and local boutiques. Meanwhile, recent visitors say that come evening, the atmosphere is like no other, as the street comes to life with people. You'll find this street about 3 miles south of Playa de las Canteras.

Playa de Maspalomas (Gran Canaria) Playa de Maspalomas (Gran Canaria) free

Playa de Maspalomas is one of Gran Canaria's most popular beaches. It's especially known for its impressive sand dunes and its old lighthouse, which first shined in 1890. The beach is also backed by a host of hotels and restaurants, and many find the area a good place to base a Canary Island vacation.  

One TripAdvisor user, who called the Playa de Maspalomas "fabulous," also offered a word of warning: "If you don't like nudity, […] don't walk too far along the beach." There is indeed a clothing-free section of shoreline, between beach bars 3 and 4 from the lighthouse, as well as beach bars 5 and 6 from Playa del Inglés.

Parque Nacional del Teide (Tenerife) Parque Nacional del Teide (Tenerife) free

The Parque Nacional del Teide covers nearly 75 square miles in central Tenerife. This national park contains the towering Teide volcano, which is currently dormant. Rising 12,198 feet into the sky, Tiede constitutes Spain's tallest peak; it's also the world's third-largest volcano. The rest of the park is not to be missed either. Many visitors describe it as having an "otherworldly" or "lunar" landscape, with its weird-looking rock formations and multicolored lava deposits. The best way to see these volcanic remains is by walking, and there are more than 20 trails you can choose from.

One TripAdvisor user highly recommends bringing your own vehicle, saying: "Without your own transport […] it will be difficult to enjoy most of the wonderful lunar scenery of the park."

Popular Tours

Whale and Dolphin Watching Catamaran with Transfer and Buffet

(1970 reviews)

from $ 64.57

Jet Ski Excursion (1H or 2H) in South Tenerife

(361 reviews)

from $ 49.24

Teide National Park Sunset & Stargazing with Dinner (Star Safari)

(1560 reviews)

from $ 84.82

Roque Nublo (Gran Canaria) Roque Nublo (Gran Canaria) free

Roque Nublo, which is translated as "Clouded Rock," is a rock formation rising more than 250 feet into the sky on Gran Canaria. The rocks are popular among tourists because they're easily traversed — a short hike (roughly an hour) from La Goleta car park will get you to the top. Also, the views from Roque Nublo are spectacular: On a clear day, you can see across the horizon to Tenerife's Mount Teide .

Recent visitors recommend getting to Roque Nublo early to ensure you get a parking spot: The area gets crowded, especially on nice days. 

Caldera de Taburiente National Park (La Palma) Caldera de Taburiente National Park (La Palma) free

The Caldera de Taburiente National Park is a huge crater surrounded by volcanic peaks lined with streams and waterfalls and peppered with pine groves. One of the most popular ways to experience the park is to hike one of its many trails, though you can also just drive up one its peaks like El Roque de los Muchachos. Either way, you should make a stop at the El Paso Visitors Center to plan out your trip.

One TripAdvisor user was adamant in her recommendation of this national park: "The scenery is awe-inspiring, nature at its finest. Words cannot do it justice, pictures cannot do it justice. You have to see it for yourself."

Timanfaya National Park (Lanzarote) Timanfaya National Park (Lanzarote)

Located on the western coast of Lanzarote, Timanfaya National Park looks like the cratered surface of the moon, leading many visitors to describe it as "extraterrestrial." Visitors will also be impressed by the talent shows that the geothermal environment provides. Just a few meters below the earth's surface, the temperatures of the sizzling ground range from 750 to 1,112 degrees Fahrenheit. To display the earth's great heat, park guides will throw water down holes into the ground to create a violent steam geyser. When they toss dry brush, they immediately flame with fire. Because of this volatile environment, you won't be able to traverse the park on your own. The park offers two walking tours, a coach tour and even a camel tour. And many visitors opt to participate in an independent bus tour of the park.

One TripAdvisor user recommends touring the park via coach, saying: "You get a complete tour through the park that you would miss by car, as they are not allowed to travel through the park."

Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Tenerife) Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Tenerife) free

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is not a tourist town — citizens live and work here, and it may be a bit harder to find English speakers here than in the island's southwest resorts. That said, a visit to Santa Cruz de Tenerife a great way to experience authentic island life. And there are some interesting things to do as well.

Head to the Canaries' biggest public square — Plaza de España — to people-watch, view the enormous artificial lake and see the sailboat design of the Auditorio de Tenerife. (By the way, this auditorium is a great place to view an opera, concert or other performance.) For a culture fix, travelers can also check out some of the museums, including the contemporary art housed in the Tenerife Espacio de las Artes. The gallery is located in downtown Santa Cruz on Avenue de San Sebastian.

Valle Gran Rey (La Gomera) Valle Gran Rey (La Gomera) free

Valle Gran Rey (Great King Valley) is a valley located on La Gomera's southwest coast. Exploring on foot is one of the main things to do here, and there are scenic paths that crisscross the valley's small villages and banana plantations. As travelers journey eastward toward the coast, they'll find the port beach, which features calm, safe waters for swimming. More experienced swimmers can head to La Playa's pebble beach, just north of the port beach. La Playa also contains beachfront hotels, a small promenade and a handful of terrace cafes.

One TripAdvisor user said Valle Gran Rey feels like it's almost untouched by tourism, recommending visitors "hang out at the plaza at night with the hippies, enjoy the music and fire shows, and just chill and enjoy the simple pleasures in life."

Kayaking with Dolphins and Turtles and Snorkelling in Tenerife

(784 reviews)

from $ 38.31

Tenerife Los Cristianos: Whale and Dolphin Eco-Yacht and Swim Stop

(630 reviews)

from $ 21.89

Tour to Timanfaya, Jameos del Agua, Cueva de los Verdes and viewpoint from the cliff

(768 reviews)

from $ 94.12

Explore More of Canary Islands

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

Your input is valuable to us!

Discover La Orotava, a historic town at the foot of a volcano on the island of Tenerife

Colourful and picturesque, the town of La Orotava on Tenerife is one of the pearls of the Canary Islands. Its historic buildings and breathtaking views make it one of the most beautiful towns to visit on the island of Tenerife.

Want to discover Tenerife? Read some articles to help you plan out your trip :

• Tenerife: 4 spectacular places to see on the island
• Tenerife: The 4 most beautiful beaches to soak up the sun on the island
• Tenerife: The 5 most beautiful villages to visit on the Canary Island

La Orotava, a historic town at the foot of the Teide volcano

With the Teide volcano in the background and its majestic buildings, La Orotava is a town positively bursting with charm. Sprawling in a valley formed by the volcano’s ancient lava flows, the steep and sometimes hilly streets take you to the heart of this historic location. Among the city’s many emblematic buildings, the Nuestra Señora de la Concepción church and the Plaza de la Constitución are key sites.

Known for its beautiful balconies, palm trees and typical architecture, the old town of La Orotava has been a national heritage site since 1976.

When strolling around La Orotava, you will find yourself inexorably drawn to the large houses bearing witness to the town’s more recent era of prosperity (generally referred to as the modern era, it lasted from 1492 to 1789). The most striking of these is the Casa de los Balcones.

Built in 1632, it is one of the city’s most impressive buildings, and a favourite with tourists and locals alike. The chief reason for this is its impressive interior patio and remarkable wooden balconies.

La Orotava, with a rich natural environment and wild landscapes

The history of this town is evident in its streets, gardens and restaurants. But this heritage is not limited to its city centre. To truly witness it, you will need to step away from the colourful houses and get close to nature. The island of Tenerife is known for its wild and rich landscapes, often much appreciated by hiking enthusiasts.

There are many sites in the surrounding area which we recommend you see if you want to learn more about the local flora and fauna. To get your fill of culture, why not make your first stop at Teide National Park . This park revolves around a memorable peak which rises to an altitude of 3,718m, overlooking the city and the entire region. Apart from its sheer grandeur, the volcano is also home to an impressive ecosystem and astonishing plant-life, which has adapted over time to this type of geological formation.

Then, if you want to see more, head to the Pinoleris Nature Reserve, the Costa de Acentejo coastal area or the Forest Crown Nature Park for an immersion in the beautiful nature of the Canary Islands.

4 places you need to see in La Orotava

If you’re planning to visit the island of Tenerife, and more specifically La Orotava, we’ve put together a list of 4 places you absolutely want to see:

Victoria Gardens

Gorgeous and overflowing with flowers in springtime, these gardens offer a gorgeous decor sure to delight you.

Hijuela del Botánico

This botanical garden lets you explore and discover the region’s various plant species. Perfect for young and old alike!

Playa Los Patos

This beach nestling between cliffs is a paradise on earth with black sand. It is also a premier surfing spot . Because of its impressive waves, this unspoilt beach is accessible via a steep path and a rocky slope.

Mirador de Mataznos

This incredible viewpoint is ideal for observing the green countryside and looking out over the blue sea stretching out beyond the horizon.

Discover Spain

Book a flight

Share this article

Corsica: 6 places you absolutely need to see on the Isle of Beauty

Andalusia: 5 incredible sites you absolutely must visit in Granada

The most beautiful hotels to book on the Costa Brava

This beautiful town on the Costa Brava, which Salvador Dalí fell in love with, is a must visit on the Catalan coast

Costa Brava: The 5 most beautiful villages on the Catalan coast

Costa Brava’s most beautiful seaside resorts

Central America: The most beautiful national parks to get lost in nature and history

The most popular (and delicious) dishes around the world

• Weird But True
• Sex & Relationships
• Viral Trends
• Human Interest
• Fashion & Beauty
• Food & Drink

trending now in Lifestyle

Flight delayed after child refuses to buckle seat belt...

‘New Nostradamus’ isn't backing down — still predicts World...

You can burn more calories while walking just by making this...

I'm a hot virgin at 33 — I have 12 rules for a guy before I'll...

I paid for my ungrateful parents' vacation — they keep texting...

High-end Hamptons hotspot fires back with bribery claims after...

Bride and groom blasted for 15 outrageous wedding-day rules for...

This superfood can help with weight loss and prevent heart disease

I traveled 1,700 miles for a destination wedding — but i was a year too soon.

• View Author Archive
• Follow on X
• Get author RSS feed

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

She was destined for a vacation.

Llarissa Pye, 29, revealed her unfortunate travel mistake when flying 1,700 miles from the Canary Islands to England for her dad’s upcoming wedding.

“I was about to take off and I saw all the messages,” Pye told SWNS. “I called my dad and he said ‘Llarissa, the wedding isn’t until next year.'”

Last December, Pye, 29, received news that her father, 53, got engaged to his partner of three years, which she was ecstatic about.

However, her excitement may have gotten the best of her when he called to give her the wedding details.

“My dad must have said, ‘It’s on my birthday next year,'” which is June 2, she added. “But I heard ‘we’re sorry it’s short notice, we understand if you can’t make it.””

Pye assumed the wedding was happening soon and rushed to get her travel arrangements in place to leave on May 31.

“I had to ask a girl to change shifts last minute,” she confessed. “I’d sent my flights through but [he] hadn’t seen it said 2024.”

She booked her $255 one-way flight, found a coworker to cover her shift and was ready to witness her father and soon-to-be stepmom’s union.

“On Friday morning, I text them to say, ‘I’m at the airport; see you in a few hours’,” Pye said.

As she settled on the plane, she turned her phone into sleep mode, unaware of the surge of calls and texts she was about to receive from her dad.

Coincidentally, Pye looked at her phone and saw the notification. Then, she called her dad to find out what had happened, only to find out that she had booked her flight a year before the wedding celebration.

“We were just laughing down the phone,” Pye chuckled. “I’ve never been a year early.”

Despite arriving a year too soon to the wedding destination, which is also her hometown in Cheshire, England, she was able to try on bridesmaid dresses and catch up with her friends and family.

The 29-year-old returned to the Canary Islands on June 4.

“They are still laughing about it now,” she said. “Most people have said, ‘how did you manage that?'”

Pye found the situation hilarious, especially since she has communicated with her father throughout the process and considers herself “fairly organized.”

“I guess a year is short notice for my dad,” she laughed. “It’s all fun. I’ve got time to fix my tan lines now.”

Share this article:

Advertisement

Planning summer on the Canary Islands? The pollution crisis hits Spanish beaches: 48 black-flagged spots

J ust before the start of the summer season, worrying news about the state of Spanish beaches circulated in the media. Many of them do not meet safety standards, and sewage, along with various pollutants, including chemical waste, flows into the water at coastal resorts. Environmentalists have published a list of places with black flags.

Spanish resorts, both on the mainland and on the islands, have no reason to be content. Experts are sounding the alarm about which places have serious environmental issues.

48 beaches in Spain with black flags

Ecologists in Action has been presenting a report every year since 2005, highlighting the most significant cases of pollution and poor environmental management along Spain's coast.

This year, a total of 48 black flags were awarded. Particular focus was placed on the social and environmental problems caused by tourism and coastal urbanization, especially in the Canary Islands, which have been in the spotlight recently due to mass protests by residents against excessive tourism.

- One of the biggest issues is tourism and the urbanization of our coastline, which particularly affects the Canary Islands - said a spokesperson for Ecologists in Action.

Members of the initiative accuse the authorities of boasting about tourism records while the local population suffers from issues like unemployment. It was pointed out that the ecological footprint left by the Canary Islands corresponds to that of a territory 27 times larger.

"In Tenerife, 15 million gallons of sewage are discharged directly into the sea daily, equivalent to 17 Olympic-sized swimming pools of polluted water," environmentalists state in the report. "Over 90 percent of sewage from urban, industrial, and agricultural centers enters the sea almost untreated."

However, the list includes beaches in the Canary Islands, those in the Balearics, and the mainland.

For example, El Amerador Beach in El Campello, north of Alicante, received one of the 48 black flags due to a nearby treatment plant that pumps part of the sewage straight into the sea.

Talamanca Beach in Ibiza was included in the list by environmentalists due to the catastrophic damage caused to underwater vegetation by boats illegally anchoring offshore.

The full list of beaches can be found on www.ecologistasenaccion.org .

Italian resort town Riccione bans smoking on beaches to curb pollution

The only place like that in the world. It looks unreal

Barcelona's beach crisis: Disappearing sand threatens tourist hotspots

Migrants Dying in Unprecedented Numbers on Canary Islands Route, NGO Says

FILE PHOTO: Rescuers disembark a migrant in critical condition from a Spanish coast guard vessel at the port of Arguineguin, on the island of Gran Canaria, Spain, March 20, 2024. REUTERS/Borja Suarez/File Photo

(Refiles with new media identifier, no change to content of story)

By Borja Suarez

ARGUINEGUIN, Spain (Reuters) -An unprecedented nearly 5,000 migrants have died at sea in the first five months of 2024 trying to reach the Spanish Canary Islands, according to a report released by migration rights group Walking Borders on Wednesday.

Between Jan. 1 and May 31, 4,808 people died on the Atlantic voyage to the Canaries after departing from Morocco, Mauritania, Senegal and Gambia, making it the deadliest route between Africa and Spain, with 95% of migrant deaths, according to the group.

Arrivals to the archipelago in that period soared five times to over 16,500 from a year ago, Interior Ministry data showed.

The Mediterranean route was the second deadliest, with 175 deaths on the crossing from Algeria to Spain's southeastern shores. Another 71 people died on the Strait of Gibraltar and Alboran Sea that separate Spain from Morocco, bringing the total of victims on routes to Spain to 5,054 - an average of 33 per day.

"We cannot normalise these figures. We must demand that the various countries put the protocols of duty of care at sea and the defence of the right to life above migration control measures," said the NGO's coordinator, Helena Maleno.

The victims came from 17 different countries, mostly from the African mainland but also the Comoros Islands in the Indian Ocean, as well as Pakistan. They included 154 women and 50 children, the report said.

The head of the Red Cross in the Canary Islands, Jose Antonio Rodriguez Verona, said the Atlantic route was the most dangerous as the ocean's rough weather conditions could easily cause the precarious vessels used by most migrants to capsize.

Migration expert and journalist Txema Santana said there were the political and economic ingredients of a "perfect storm" in West Africa that would likely see more mass arrivals to the Canaries in the upcoming summer and autumn seasons.

Last year, a record 39,910 migrants reached the Canary Islands and over 6,000 people died while attempting the perilous crossing. Rights groups expect that figure to be surpassed this year.

(Reporting by Borja Suarez; Writing by David Latona; Editing by Andrei Khalip and Ros Russell)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

Photos You Should See - June 2024

Join the Conversation

Tags: Senegal , Pakistan , Mauritania , Africa , India , Gambia , Europe , Morocco , Spain

America 2024

Healthiest Communities

Your trusted source for in-depth analysis on the issues impacting your community’s well-being delivered right to your inbox.

Sign in to manage your newsletters »

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

You May Also Like

The 10 worst presidents.

U.S. News Staff Feb. 23, 2024

The Best Cartoons on Donald Trump

June 14, 2024, at 4:08 p.m.

Joe Biden Behind The Scenes

June 7, 2024

SCOTUS Nixes Bump Stock Ban

Laura Mannweiler June 14, 2024

Key Takeaways: Pope's Visit to the G7

Cecelia Smith-Schoenwalder June 14, 2024

High Prices Weaken Consumer Sentiment

Tim Smart June 14, 2024

What Americans Actually Think of IVF

Cecelia Smith-Schoenwalder June 13, 2024

How Biden Made Putin Buy Ukraine Weapons

Aneeta Mathur-Ashton June 13, 2024

Key Supreme Court Rulings to Watch For

Laura Mannweiler June 13, 2024

GOP Embraces Trump on Capitol Hill

Tim Smart June 13, 2024