canary islands best island to visit

Which of the Canary Islands is best for you?

Sep 2, 2021 • 13 min read

Each of the eight Canary Islands has its own distinct character and appeal for travelers © Andreas Weibel / Getty Images

Eerily beautiful lava-sculpted mountains, rippling sugar-white and bare black-rock beaches, distant villages teetering atop ridges, tumbling pine forests full of churning mists and exhilarating hikes, and plenty of sun-toasted resorts – Spain’s far-flung Canary Islands are deservedly one of Europe’s most popular destinations.

Many travelers become so enamoured with the Canary Islands that they return year after year, often exploring a different island every trip. But where to start? While the eight Canary Islands make up the archipelago west of Morocco’s Atlantic coast, each island has its own distinct charm, character and appeal. No matter your travel style, here’s a guide to finding the Canary Island that's best for you.

Parts of Spain now require a health pass from visitors to enter indoor spaces

Best island for mountains, hiking and food

Beyond the British-geared tourist resorts sprinkled across the island’s south, Spain’s formidable tallest peak – snow-dusted 12,523ft-high El Teide – puts age-old favorite  Tenerife on almost every las Canarias itinerary. Combined with the surreal Unesco-listed 73-sq-mile Parque Nacional del Teide, this impossibly spectacular volcanic moonscape serves up some of the most exciting hiking in all of Spain. Only 200 walkers a day can tackle the five-hour ascent to the summit: book ahead online . Across the island, other jaw-droppingly beautiful walks lead past charismatic villages, through perfumed Canarian pine woods or down plunging valleys such as the 4-mile (6.5km) Barranco del Infierno .    

And then there’s the blossoming, ever-more sophisticated local food scene. Tenerife is the only Canary island blessed with Michelin stars – six at last count, with temples to haute cuisine running from Martín Berasategui’s two-star, Basque-inspired  M.B to the Padrón brothers’ seafood sensation  El Rincón de Juan Carlos .

Where to stay on Tenerife

Finding a room is generally not a problem in Santa Cruz and in the north of the island (apart from at Carnaval time), but the same cannot be said for the southern resorts, particularly around Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas; book in advance when possible. Hotel Alhambra  in La Orotava sleeps guests in an art-packed 18th-century manor. 

Where to eat on Tenerife

Visitors can ditch the resort buffets in favor of more appealing and imaginative dishes, ranging from traditional Canarian cuisine, typified by robust homestyle cooking, right through to the tantalizing haute cuisine of gastro temples, where innovative chefs serve some fabulously novel fusion combinations. Tenerife's capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife hosts an array of outstanding restaurants. Try Guannabi  for creatively executed Mediterranean-fusion dishes in a delightfully converted Canarian house.

How to get to Tenerife

Two airports serve Tenerife: Tenerife Sur Airport handles international flights, while almost all inter-island flights (plus a few international and mainland services) use the older and smaller Tenerife Norte Airport. Ferries also travel to Tenerife from the other Canary islands, but flying is the fastest way to travel between the islands, and prices are very competitive.

Gran Canaria

Best island for mountains, history and food.

The most populous among the islands, often-maligned  Gran Canaria proves as inspiringly diverse as the Canaries’ deliciously varied cuisine. Swirls of mist-cloaked mountains give way to desert-like fields and lush laurel and pine forests (and, yes, a few packed-out tourist resorts), while intriguing pre-Hispanic sights like Gáldar’s  Cueva Pintada conjure a picture of the archipelago’s original inhabitants, the Guanches. Explore further on a twists-and-turns road trip through the island’s high-altitude center, whose beauty and drama peak at top-of-the-world cave-village Artenara, before stocking up on creamy queso de flor (flower cheese) and other local goodies at a farmers’ market. Soak up the distinctive Canarian architecture in soulful capital of  Las Palmas de Gran Canaria , Spain’s ninth-largest city.

Where to stay on Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria arguably has the best range of accommodations in the Canaries, depending on whether you want to wake up to sounds of birdsong, the surf or surrounded by the vigor and excitement of a Spanish-mainland-style city. The bright, colorful and welcoming La Ventana Azul hostel is spectacularly located right on the beachfront and has a rooftop terrace and free snorkel rental.

Where to eat on Gran Canaria

The breathtaking topographic disparities and climatic variations, including contrasting humid trade winds and dry desert-air currents, all help to generate a diverse patchwork of agricultural produce. Along with the aquacultural goods on offer, Gran Canaria's pantry is rich and bountiful. Add to that the farmers' markets and fish markets and you will discover a tempting abundance of food choice. You'll find outstanding "eco-fusion" cuisine at  Llévame al Huerto .

How to get to Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria Airport has direct flights to destinations throughout Europe, as well as all of the Canary Islands. Two passenger harbors on Gran Canaria offer inter-island ferries.

Best island for landscapes, art and architecture

An entrancing world of brooding volcanic cones, glinting black-pebble beaches, thundering Atlantic surf and the odd palm-spangled valley,  Lanzarote feels like a giant color-shifting natural canvas. So it’s no surprise that the island is tightly tied to 20th-century artist and environmental campaigner César Manrique, whose impossible-to-miss influence you’ll uncover around every corner – from the whitewashed, sky-blue-windowed homes of mellow coastal villages like La Caleta de Famara, Arrieta and El Golfo to the inimitable lava-field house at the  Fundación César Manrique . At the heart of it all lies the 20-sq-mile Parque Nacional de Timanfaya. Savor this otherworldly volcanic landscape by scrambling up the sprawling  Caldera Blanca on a 5.5-mile (9km) hike at the park’s edge.

Where to stay on Lanzarote

Much of Lanzarote’s accommodations are in self-catering apartments, private villas and sprawling resorts, which you'll find in Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise and Playa Blanca. That said, there's a growing number of wonderful independent hotels dotted around, especially in the island's wine-growing region and northern reaches – and places like these play a key role in giving travelers an insight into the fascinating Lanzarote that lies beyond its beach resorts. Artfully reimagined bodega  Buenavista Lanzarote offers five eco-conscious "country suites" amid volcanic vineyards.

Where to eat on Lanzarote

Canarian cuisine stands strong on Lanzarote, but with its own delicious twists, including local goat's cheese, roasted meats and three styles of the much-loved mojo  (spicy sauce made from coriander, basil or red chili peppers). There are wonderful restaurants all over the island (both local-style and creatively international), with the best food found well beyond the resorts. Canarian-international  La Cantina is a beloved dining spot in delightful Teguise.

How to get to Lanzarote

Aeropuerto César Manrique–Lanzarote has an array of flights to and from Europe, as well as Gran Canaria, Tenerife and La Palma. Other Canary islands are accessible with stopovers in Gran Canaria and Tenerife. From Arrecife's Puerto de los Mármoles, ferries connect with Gran Canaria and on to Tenerife and La Palma. From Playa Blanca, there are regular ferries to Corralejo on Fuerteventura.

Fuerteventura

Best island for beaches and water sports.

A Unesco Biosphere Reserve since 2009, the second-largest Canary island (after Tenerife) lures visitors with its dazzling beaches, year-round sunny climate and raw lunar-like beauty. Wind-lashed and evocatively arid,  Fuerteventura is graced by the archipelago’s dreamiest sands: the honey-colored dunes of the protected  Parque Natural de Corralejo , surf-mad  El Cotillo (originally a fishing village) and blissfully undeveloped pale-gold  Playa de Cofete on the island’s southern tip. You can go surfing, sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing and diving (even freediving), and venture out on some excellent hikes, including around the Isla de Lobos nature reserve.

Where to stay on Fuerteventura

Corralejo and Morro Jable have the most beds, although casas rurales (village or farmstead accommodations) are increasingly sprouting up in the rural interior. Chic minimalist  Avanti makes a stylish adults-only base in Corralejo.

Where to eat on Fuerteventura

More than any other Canary island, Fuerteventura’s traditional cuisine is simple and essentially the result of poverty, but is today marked by the quality and freshness of its ingredients.  Restaurante Avenida rustles up classic Canarian cuisine.

How to get to Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura airport has direct flights to Gran Canaria and Tenerife, from where you can fly on to the other islands. Ferries depart for Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Tenerife.

Best island for nature and hiking

It’s impossible not to fall for gorgeously green, refreshingly under-touristed  La Palma , with its hushed pine groves, steep rainforested hills and architecturally rich capital  Santa Cruz de la Palma , filled with graceful 16th-century mansions. Around 528 miles (850km) of walking routes meander across the island, the most thrilling of them centered on the unmissable 18-sq-mile Parque Nacional de la Caldera de Taburiente, whose 5-mile-wide depression was created by a volcano collapsing in on itself.  The 7-mile (11.4km) round-trip climb to the 6082ft-high summit of Pico de Bejenado is a view-laden showstopper of scattered pines, sharp ridges and mysterious petroglyphs.

Where to stay on La Palma

La Palma has an appealing choice of accommodations suiting all tastes but without the bloated beach resorts on other islands. If you want to live more like a local or in a rural villa with a swimming pool, choose one of the casas rurales for rent across the island. Beamed ceilings set the boutiquey scene at Santa Cruz’ intimate  Hotel San Telmo .

Where to eat on La Palma

The diverse landscapes of "La Isla Bonita" are set to an equally varied and mouthwatering culinary backdrop. Santa Cruz de la Palma offers a tempting range of international and local cuisine, rounded off by a superb cafe or two. Elsewhere, the island is speckled with culinary choice, from handsomely located tapas restaurants in El Paso to select Canarian in the volcanic south or excellent seafood restaurants overlooking dazzling views of the sapphire sea. Book ahead to sample the fresh-produce cooking at locally loved restaurant  Enriclai .

How to get to La Palma

La Palma’s airport keeps the island well connected to the rest of the archipelago, with several flights daily to Tenerife and Gran Canaria, and occasional direct flights to some of the other islands. There are flights to La Palma from European destinations such as London, Manchester, Frankfurt, Paris, Madrid, Amsterdam, Brussels and Barcelona. Ferries head to Tenerife, La Gomera and Gran Canaria.

Best island for hiking 

Cascading down thickly forested hillsides and precipitous valleys from the wind-battered 4878ft-high Alto de Garajonay, bohemian  La Gomera is a hiker’s dream. The fairytale-like 15-sq-mile Parque Nacional de Garajonay at the heart of the island bursts with trails tracking through misty ancestral laurisilva forest (try the 6.5-mile downhill  Alto–Hermigua hike ), while elsewhere, thrilling paths cling to sheer valley walls or meander along the blackened volcanic coastline. When you’re all hiked out, stroll the pastel-painted streets of sea-hugging capital  San Sebastián de la Gomera and dig into hearty local specialities like potaje de berros (watercress stew), miel de palma  (palm honey) or fresh goat’s cheese.

Where to stay on La Gomera

The island has, so far, kept grand-scale tourism at bay, and most lodging is in small rural hotels, family-run pensiones, refurbished farmhouses and self-catering apartments. There are also plenty of appealing casas rurales , many of which were abandoned by emigrants and have since been refurbished for tourists. La Gomera's top hotel is the  Parador de la Gomera , in the style of a 15th-century Canarian mansion.

Where to eat on La Gomera

La Gomera's cuisine is classic, simple Canarian, starring fresh seafood, meaty mains, hearty stews such as potaje de berros (watercress stew) and, of course, patatas arrugadas (wrinkly potatoes) with lashings of mojo . The island's international community has introduced a few other flavors too, especially in Valle Gran Rey, which hosts some good fusion and vegetarian restaurants alongside its traditional offerings. Don’t miss the outstanding home cooking at much-loved restaurant  Casa Efigenia .

How to get to La Gomera

Aeropuerto de La Gomera has several daily flights to Tenerife. Ferries from Tenerife and La Palma arrive into San Sebastián’s busy port. The vast majority of people arrive here on day trips from Los Cristianos, Tenerife.

Best island for diving, hiking and escaping it all

Those who make it as far as the Canaries’ westernmost island quickly realize they’re onto something special. Ringed by glittering natural pools and impenetrable volcanic cliffs,  El Hierro has been a protected Unesco Geopark since 2014, and plans are under way to transform it into the world’s first energy-self-sufficient island. Here, on what feels like the edge of the earth, quiet hiking trails such as the historic 16-mile (27km)  Camino de la Virgen weave through flower-filled fields and scented pine forests. Other paths, like the spine-tingling 2.7-mile (4.4km)  Camino de Jinama , traverse sheer cliff faces above lava-hewn landscapes. Meanwhile, the warm, glass-clear Atlantic waters off El Hierro’s craggy coastline unveil the finest diving in the Canaries, especially around the tranquil Mar de las Calmas near sunny La Restinga in the south.

Where to stay on El Hierro

El Hierro's accommodation scene isn't the most exciting in the Canary Islands, but you aren't here for flashy resorts. The best places to stay are charming rural hotels and private casas rurales , and there are plenty of budget-friendly self-catering apartments across the island. Stay at boho-rustic converted bodega  El Sitio , which hosts yoga retreats.

Where to eat on El Hierro

Food on El Hierro might be unpretentious, but it's delicious, much of it produced on the island or off its coasts. The lack of tourist traffic ensures restaurants are catering mainly to a local clientele, which means higher standards. Dine at the elegant  Restaurante Mirador de la Peña , designed by César Manrique.

How to get to El Hierro

El Hierro's tiny airport has just a few flights to Tenerife and Gran Canaria, where you can take onward transport to the rest of the archipelago. Naviera Armas has one daily sailing Sunday to Friday between El Hierro's Puerto de la Estaca and Tenerife's Los Cristianos.

La Graciosa

Best island for beaches and going back to basics.

Named the eighth Canary Island in 2018, serene sand-swept La Graciosa lies just a half-hour boat ride north of Lanzarote. On this low-lying beauty of an island, wild honey-gold beaches wrap around scorched volcanic cones, and the only way to explore is on foot, by bicycle or by rented jeep. Most visitors arrive on day trips from Órzola on Lanzarote, but if you stay a few nights on La Graciosa, you’ll feel worlds away from the Canary Islands’ buzz. Hike or bike over to remote  Playa de las Conchas or secluded  Playa Francesa  before settling in for a seafood feast in low-key "capital" Caleta de Sebo.

Where to stay on Isla Graciosa

Accommodations on Isla Graciosa are mostly in simple, comfortable pensiones or private apartments.  Pensión Enriqueta has great-value, no-fuss rooms and a lively restaurant in Caleta de Sebo.

Where to eat on Isla Graciosa

You'll enjoy excellent fresh seafood at most of Caleta de Sebo's mellow restaurants, including  Casa Margucha and  El Veril .

How to get to Isla Graciosa

Biosfera Express and Líneas Romero run ferries between Órzola and Caleta de Sebo.

Best time to visit the Canary Islands

High season: december to april and july to august.

• Coincides with Christmas, Carnaval season and Easter.
• Accommodation prices are highest in January and February.
• Midsummer, especially August, is vacation time on the Spanish mainland, so expect more visitors.
• July and August are the hottest months of the year, but temperatures rarely climb higher than 100°F (38°C).
• Rain is possible from January to March, especially in the mountains.

Shoulder Season: May to June and September to November

• Temperatures average around 82°F (28°C), and nights are cooler.
• Fewer tourists visit in the fall overall.
• Higher altitudes, particularly in Gran Canaria, Tenerife and El Hierro, can be far cooler with some fog.

This article was originally published in August 2019.

You might also like: Hidden Tenerife: best places to avoid the crowd Hiking in Gran Canaria: the island’s best walks The unsung Canary Island: exploring La Gomera

This article was first published Aug 21, 2019 and updated Sep 2, 2021.

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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.

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

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?

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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.

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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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 11.07.2023

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

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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.

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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.

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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!

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.

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

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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

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

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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

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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

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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.

Where to stay in La Palma:

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

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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.

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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.

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Which is the best Canary Island?

Tenerife, lanzarote and gran canaria battle it out as we weigh up the hotels, beaches, bars and more on each of these great all-rounders.

I t’s easy to see why 15 million visitors each year are tempted by Spain’s sun-baked Canary Islands. Surrounded by the cobalt-blue Atlantic, around 600 miles southwest of mainland Spain, the eight wonderfully diverse Canaries often feel like their own spectacular, lava-formed world. Each of the three main all-rounder islands — Tenerife, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria — makes a richly rewarding destination in its own right. So which should you pick?

With endless activities and well-established accommodation, both Tenerife and Gran Canaria are fabulous for families travelling with kids; whether you fancy kayaking, hiking, whale-watching, waterpark adventures or lazing on volcanic-sand beaches, the two grandes dames of Canarian tourism have it covered. But they also provide plenty of fun for a trip with, say, a partner or a gang of friends, or even as a solo traveller, with both islands emerging as popular digital-nomad hubs over the last few years. Lanzarote, meanwhile, pulls in active types for cycling, hiking and surfing, along with a growing number of design-savvy independent travellers drawn to its boutique hotels, local fashion scene and the on-show legacy of the 20th-century local artist César Manrique.

Main photo: the Tenerife town of La Orotava (Getty Images)

Winner Lanzarote

Any time of year is perfect for lazing on the beach in the Canaries . On all three of these islands, the southern coasts have the best sunny weather (coastal temperatures rarely dip below 15C), while the north brings a wilder, less touristy feel.

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Both Tenerife and Gran Canaria have their own share of knockout-pretty beaches, from volcanic-sand coves to blonde sand strands and glassy Atlantic sea pools. In Tenerife , surfy El Medano, golden Playa de las Teresitas near San Andres and Garachico’s natural pools are favourites, along with the family-friendly sands in the south around Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos. Gran Canaria has the urban beauty of the kilometre-long Playa de las Canteras in Las Palmas, the vast Sahara-like dunes of Maspalomas and more.

• Best beaches in Tenerife

But if fabulous beaches are your Canaries must-have, Lanzarote steals the spotlight. One of the loveliest places in the entire archipelago is Lanzarote’s protected Punta del Papagayo promontory, just east of Playa Blanca on the south coast. Here, a string of powdery, pale-gold beaches sits between rugged cliffs that plunge into the turquoise Atlantic, with just a laid-back chiringuito (beach restaurant) and a few dusty hiking trails for company. Then there’s fabled Famara, a dream of a boho-cool surf beach beneath spine-tingling cliffs on the north coast. Or hike out to remote Playa del Risco (reached by one-hour trail from Ye), have a dip in Punta Mujeres’ natural sea pools, paddle in the family-friendly Caletones coves near Órzola or take a day trip over to undeveloped Isla Graciosa and its blissful back-to-nature strands.

• Best beaches in Lanzarote

Restaurants

Winner Tenerife

Canarian gastronomy has put itself firmly on the map over the past decade, with ambitious chefs celebrating both wonderfully creative recipes and traditional local flavours across the archipelago. Wherever you go, rustic fish-and-seafood restaurants overlooking the waves are a local staple.

If you’re picking just one foodie destination, make it boundary-pushing Tenerife, which now hosts five of the Canaries’ nine Michelin-starred restaurants. Leading the charge are the Tenerife-born Padrón brothers Juan Carlos and Jonathan, the duo behind two-Michelin-star El Rincón de Juan Carlos in Costa Adeje (as well as Michelin-starred Poemas in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria). Tasting menus aside, the island delights diners with its Atlantic-side seafood restaurants, innovative tapas bars, Japanese-fusion kitchens, brunchy coffee spots and much more. Don’t miss the mid-20th-century Mercado de Nuestra Señora de Africa in Tenerife’s dynamic capital Santa Cruz, with its overflowing fresh-produce stalls and low-key bar-restaurants. And for a taste of classic Tenerife cuisine, hunt down one of the famous local guachinches — frills-free, budget-friendly restaurants serving home-style meals, mostly in the northern part of the island.

Hot on Tenerife’s heels, Gran Canaria is home to its own line-up of cutting-edge restaurants, such as chef Abraham Ortega’s Tabaiba in Las Palmas, which won its first Michelin star in 2022. Tapas bar-hopping around the narrow streets of Triana and Vegueta in the capital is a joy, too. Caldera-strewn Lanzarote also has a crop of fired-up kitchens reimagining Canarian food with fresh flair, while the island’s simple, down-to-earth teleclubs (social centres with restaurants and bars) work up typical dishes such as grilled goat’s cheese and wrinkly potatoes with mojo picon.

Winner It’s a tie: Lanzarote for boutique hotels, Tenerife and Gran Canaria for five-star resorts

Each of these islands is crammed with heavenly hotels , so it’s a matter of which kind of base matches your needs. For boutique bolt holes, there’s no beating Lanzarote. A fresh wave of creative, independent retreats is now celebrating the island’s arty spirit and volcanic landscapes while also reviving intriguing historic buildings — Alava Suites in Costa Teguise, La Casa de los Naranjos in Haria and Buenavista Lanzarote among La Geria’s lava fields are among the best.

• Best hotels in Lanzarote

Intimate boutique escapes have arrived in Gran Canaria’s capital Las Palmas, too, including Veintiuno (a chicly reimagined 18th-century mansion) and La Colonial Suites (a stylish twist on an early 20th-century casa de indianos), both in the Vegueta neighbourhood. But the third-largest Canary Island remains most loved for its top-end, facility-laden resorts, which cluster around Maspalomas, Puerto de Mogan, Meloneras and Playa del Ingles in the south. Retro-feel, Miami-inspired Seaside Palm Beach is a well-established Maspalomas favourite.

• Best hotels in Gran Canaria

Over in Tenerife, five-star wonders are a signature, particularly on the southwest coast where seductive addresses such as Bahia del Duque (one of the Canaries’ original luxury escapes) and The Ritz-Carlton, Abama (a citadel-like hideaway with a clutch of hot restaurants) lure back regulars. You can also retreat to the wild north coast, whose blossoming accommodation ventures include Hacienda Cuatro Ventanas, a 17th-century palm-filled estate reborn as design-led villas.

• Best hotels in Tenerife

Things to do

The queen of the Canaries outshines its siblings in sheer, thrilling variety — you could spend weeks in Tenerife without even thinking about flopping on the beach. Where else offers the chance to hike up Spain’s tallest peak — the 3,715m (12,200ft) El Teide — then go whale-watching in Europe’s first whale heritage site? Hiking is a key draw all over Tenerife, from cliff-hugging paths in the remote Anaga mountains to solitary volcanoscape trails through the Parque Nacional del Teide and spine-tingling gorge routes such as the book-ahead Barranco de Masca.

Vineyard visits tap into Tenerife’s burgeoning wine scene; surf sessions follow morning yoga in El Medano; kayaking trips venture out to the unbelievably beautiful Los Gigantes cliffs; and day trips to neighbouring La Gomera unveil the Canaries’ go-slow side. Then there’s uniquely Canarian architecture to explore in centuries-old towns such as La Laguna and La Orotava, plus the unmissable galleries of the capital Santa Cruz (start with the design-forward TEA (Tenerife Espacio de las Artes), which also hosts one of Spain’s greatest carnaval celebrations.

• Best things to do in Tenerife

Gran Canaria has a similarly tempting adventure-activity calendar, along with excursions into the lush mountainous heart of the island around Artenara and the cultural joys of the dynamic capital Las Palmas (particularly its historic Vegueta and Triana neighbourhoods). It’s a similar scene in Lanzarote, where the great César Manrique’s “interventions” add an arts-focused edge to any itinerary, including an otherworldly house-studio built into the lava fields in the 1960s and now converted into the Fundacion César Manrique.

• Best things to do in Gran Canaria • Best things to do in Lanzarote

Winner Gran Canaria

The archipelago’s go-to party island is Gran Canaria, where dance-until-dawn clubs mingle with craft-cocktail bars, music festivals and vibey chiringuitos perfect for savouring the sunset over freshly mixed piña coladas with El Hierro-grown pineapple. Much of the action centres on hugely popular Maspalomas and its lively year-round LGBT scene, which draws travellers from all over Europe and is known for its activity-packed Pride celebrations each May. For a more local atmosphere, hit the town in Gran Canaria’s buzzing capital Las Palmas, whose rooftop cocktail dens (try La Azotea de Benito) and trendy multi-concept haunts (like Talleres Palermo) feel more like Spanish city-break territory than the distant Canaries.

Tenerife has its own stash of swish roof-terrace cocktails bars, laid-back chiringuitos with live music and all-night clubs, especially around Los Cristianos and more upmarket Costa Adeje. Then there’s studenty nightlife in La Laguna, and plenty going on in the capital Santa Cruz; La Noria in Santa Cruz’s historic centre is a popular hangout with tables spilling out onto the street. Lanzarote has a more relaxed bar scene, though you’ll still find plenty of tempting spots for a crisp Canarian wine at sunset (tiny El Golfo village on the southwest coast serves up dazzling sunsets). Many of Lanzarote’s on-the-up wineries have wine-tasting terraces, and craft-beer bars are blossoming here too. But in general, some of the islands’ best bars are the completely unpretentious ones you stumble across on small village squares.

• Best villas in the Canary Islands

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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!

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A COMPLETE TRAVEL GUIDE TO THE CANARY ISLANDS

Are you visiting the Canary Islands soon? You need some help to plan your trip? We spent 3 months traveling through the Canary Islands and we prepared this comprehensive travel guide for you!

With its stunning beaches , incredible landscapes, fantastic traditions and delicious food, the Canary Islands is a dream destination in Europe. In this post we will share useful tips for traveling to the Canary Islands.

The Canary Islands are composed of 7 unique islands . The best known and most visited are Lanzarote (our favorite one…) and Tenerife . However each island has something special to offer. To know more about each island you can read this post .

1. Why traveling to the the Canary Islands?

When we started our trip to the Canary Islands , we didn’t know what to expect. However, during our journey we were amazed by the beauty and diversity of landscapes in the Canary Islands.

Just to give you some examples, you can see a desert in Maspalomas in Gran Canaria , you can reach the highest mountain in Spain at Mount Teide , Tenerife . You can also visit amazing beaches which will make you feel at the end of the world such as Cofete in Fuerteventura . And of course Lanzarote will make feel that you landed on the moon . Make sure to visit Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote , one of the most incredible things to see in the Canary Islands!

The Canary Islands is a destination for everyone. So if you are more of a night owl, there is a vibrant nightlife in the Canary Islands! The best places to party are Playa del Inglés in Gran Canaria , or Corralejo in Fuerteventura .

• 10 BEST REASONS TO VISIT LANZAROTE
• 10 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT FUERTEVENTURA
• TOP 8 REASONS TO VISIT GRAN CANARIA
• WHY VISITING TENERIFE?

2. Which island to visit in the Canary Islands?

Whether you want to enjoy the beach, or need some adventures, or want some great food there is something for everyone in the Canary Islands.

If you like to party , prioritise Gran Canaria . On top of having a great nightlife , Gran Canaria is also one of the most diverse islands in the Canary. Hence, you will be able to combine excursion during the day and partying at night! Here are the 20 best things to visit in Gran Canaria.

If you like hiking , then without a doubt Tenerife will be the best island to visit. Indeed, Tenerife is home to mount Teide the highest mountain in Spain! It is one of the most visited natural park in the whole of Europe! Full guide here to climb to the summit (it’s not as hard as you would imagine…)

If you want a complete change of landscape, then Lanzarote is the one! Lanzarote is a perfect place to feel the volcanic power of the Canary Islands, some places will make you feel on the moon.

For those you like water-sports such as surfing or kitesurfing , then the best island for that would be Fuerteventura! Here we listed the best outdoor activities in Fuerteventura and here the best spots for surfing in the Canary Islands .

If you want something more calm and off the beaten track, head to La Gomera, La Palma or El Hierro. Those 3 islands are the wildest amongst all of the Canary Islands .

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

3. When is the best time to visit the Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands benefit from a very unique climate which makes some say that is an eternal spring . Indeed the climate is good all year round and doesn’t change much throughout the year.

However some months are a bit more rainy than others… To visit the Canary Islands in the most optimal conditions, it is generally preferable to travel during the months of May to November . Most likely you will never have to deal with rain…

In the middle of winter, the Canary Islands will be a popular refuge for Europeans escaping cold temperature in the mainland. During this period, some rainfall can be observed, but the temperature rarely drops below 20°C. In terms of crowds, the most popular periods are therefore the months of July and August, but also the winter months and January in particular.

• WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT THE CANARY ISLANDS?
• BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO VISIT LANZAROTE
• BEST MONTHS TO VISIT FUERTEVENTURA
• WHEN VISITING TENERIFE
• BEST TIME TO VISIT GRAN CANARIA

4. What budget should you plan to visit the Canary Islands?

To visit the Canary Islands without too much compromise, it is important to talk about the budget. This essential point of travel guides is always a sensitive aspect due to the volatility of prices and the countless parameters that influence them.

With regard to the Canary Islands, you must first know that the notions of high, low and medium season are essential. If you are traveling during the Christmas holidays or the months of July and August, expect to see prices skyrocket . So book well in advance!

You should also know that at the same time, the islands of El Hierro or La Gomera are much cheaper than Tenerife and Gran Canaria, for example.

In terms of accommodation and in general, you can find everything. From the small youth hostel at 20 euros per night to the most luxury hotels at 200 euros per night. What we found very expensive is eating in restaurants . A paella for 2 with 2 glasses of Sangria, would easily cost us 50 EUR… As we were traveling for 3 months, we decided to eat most of the time in our apartment. This helped our budget considerably!

Also remember to include car rental, which will amount to around 30 or 40 euros per day with decreasing rates if you opt for longer rental periods and of course depending on the type of car you rent. As for us we always rented a Fiat 500, which is generally the cheapest model. We loved it, except in Fuerteventura where the roads can be very bumpy. More on that here .

5. How to get to the Canary Islands from the rest of Europe?

By plane is obviously the fastest and cheapest way to get to the Canary Islands. There are many connections from the major cities in Europe. The best company to get to the Canary Islands , is Easy Jet. Remember that the earlier you book, the better fares you will get, which is absolutely essential if you choose to travel during the busy periods mentioned above.

However, there is a more adventurous way to get to the Canary Islands if you have sufficient time. You can take your car and drive down to the south of Spain. The cities of Cadiz or Huelva allow you to reach the islands of Las Palmas or Gran Canaria by ferry ! The crossing lasts between 30 and 40 hours depending on the weather conditions.

We didn’t know about it, until we saw cars with Swiss plates or German plates driving in the Canary Islands. We fell that this was a fantastic way to travel to the Canary Islands. And all islands are connected by ferry which makes it super easy to travel with your own car. Awesome, isn’t it?

If that’s an option for you, check out Direct Ferries to book your ride.

6. How to get around the Canary Islands?

Once you reach the Canary Islands, it is highly recommended to rent a car . To get the cheaper rate we used Rentalcars.com . Check it out here for the best deals.

Taking a taxi is also possible, however you will have less freedom to travel or take your time to visit certain sights. Especially for those who want to go hiking… There are also bus lines, but they will be relatively limited once you get off the beaten track. Finally, cycling can also be a good way to discover the Canary Islands .

If you want to visit multiple islands while you are in the Canaries, which we recommend, then using the ferry would be the best way . You can book all your ferry rides here .

7. Best traditional dishes in the Canary Islands?

Visiting the Canary Islands without eating a potato dish is practically impossible! Since its introduction by the Spaniards, potato has been integrated into many typical dishes. Try the Ropa Vieja , a kind of stew made with chickpeas and strips of beef and chicken or Pucherio Canario a stew with chorizo, bacon, cabbage, courgettes or pumpkin. Also taste the Papas Arrugadas , a delicacy of potatoes boiled in salted water and always accompanied by their Mojo sauce, often very spicy and extremely tasty.

The Gofio is a flour of wheat, or corn previously roasted, and which is used with all the sauces in the islands. This traditional food can be used to thicken soups, but can also be eaten with milk or even in the form of ice cream.

Meat lovers will appreciate the Canary Islands for the diversity of their dishes, which include pork and rabbit as well as chicken and goat. Seafood lovers will be served with cod, bass, sardines and of course octopus.

As for desserts, we particularly recommend the Leche Asada , a cinnamon cream caramelized with palm honey.

Finally, to drink, you can try delicious local wines and don’t forget the Barraquito, a multi-layered coffee consisting of an  espresso, condensed milk and a touch of Licor 43  which is Spain’s number 1 liqueur. Really delicious!

8. What are the best things to do in the Canary Islands?

If we were to list all the great things to do in the Canary Island, the list would be way too long! We probably have over a 100 recommendations.

So we to make it simple, we prepared some of the highlights on each island such as below.

What to see in Lanzarote ?

• TIMANFAYA NATIONAL PARK , the unmissable thing to see in Lanzarote:  here
• PAPAGAYO BEACH , the most beautiful beach in Lanzarote:  here
• FAMARA , a charming village and surf paradise:  here
• JAMEOS DEL AGUA , our favorite sight in Lanzarote:  here
• CACTUS GARDEN  in Lanzarote:  here

What to see in Tenerife ?

• PUERTO DE LA CRUZ, one of the best town in Tenerife:  here
• MASCA,  the most remote village in Tenerife:  here
• MOUNT TEIDE , the highest peak in Spain:  here
• SAN CRISTÓBAL DE LA LAGUNA , the ancient capital of Tenerife:  here
• LOS GIGANTES , most impressive cliffs in Tenerife:  here
• GARACHICO , one of the prettiest towns in Tenerife:  here

What to see in Gran Canaria?

• VISITING LAS PALMAS,  the capital of Gran Canaria: here
• TEROR , one of the most charming towns in Gran Canaria:  here
• MASPALOMAS  a desert in Gran Canaria:  here
• PUERTO DE MOGÁN , our favorite place in Gran Canaria:  here
• AGÜIMES , a fantastic historical town in Gran Canaria:  here
• TEJEDA , visit one of the prettiest village in Gran Canaria:  here

What to see in Fuerteventura?

• CORRALEJO DUNES NATURAL PARK , full guide:  here
• EL COTILLO,  a charming village near Corralejo in Fuerteventura:  here
• COFETE , the best beach in Fuerteventura:  here
• HIKING CALDERON HONDO  in Fuerteventura:  here
• OASIS PARK  in Fuerteventura:  here

9. Useful information

Money : the Canary Islands belong to Spain, so the currency is the euro.

Passport : Spain belongs to the Schengen Convention area, you do not need a passport to go there.

Vaccines : no particular vaccine is necessary.

Language : the official language is Spanish, but all seasonal workers speak English and sometimes even French.

Tipping : It is appreciated if customers leave a tip in taxis, hotels or restaurants to approximately 5 to 10% of the price.

Safety : the Canary Islands are safe but, as with any tourist destination, be careful with your belongings and do not leave anything in sight.

READ: 10 BEST REASONS TO VISIT THE CANARY ISLANDS

10. CONCLUSION

The Canary Islands are a real gems with full of surprise. During our 3 months traveling through the Islands, we realized how beautiful but more importantly how diverse each island is. There are so many things to do and see in the Canary islands. Even during our 3 months we couldn’t see it all. Each island has its own treasures!

READ: 10 BEST BEACHES IN THE CANARY ISLANDS

So what are you waiting for? Did you book your flight yet? Book here for the best prices .

We hope that this post was useful to prepare for your visit to the Canary Islands. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below.

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.

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A holiday guide to the Canary Islands

The Canaries are Spain’s most accessible destination under current UK travel rules – and home to historical towns, dramatic coastlines, wild walks and excellent seafood

A way from their pockets of mass-tourism development, Spain’s Canaries are an archipelago of endlessly varied landscapes, slow-going villages, lively towns, gastronomic delights and a thriving local culture that is at once firmly Spanish and distinctively Canarian. With two Unesco geoparks and four national parks, these eight sun-baked islands are home to a growing lineup of sustainable tourism initiatives – and you’re never far from a dip in the Atlantic.

This week, Spain opened its borders to British tourists , allowing them to enter without a Covid test or proof of vaccination. The change prompted UK tour operators to resume holidays to the Canary Islands – the only part of Spain exempt from the Foreign Office’s non-essential travel warning . That doesn’t mean that going on holiday to the Canaries is completely straightforward – along with the rest of Spain the islands are on the amber list , meaning visitors returning to the UK are required to self-isolate for 10 days and take a Covid test before landing, and two more on days two and eight. In addition, a negative PCR test is required prior to arrival if staying in an official tourism establishment. After a flurry of contradictory comments by ministers last week, Boris Johnson said no one should be going on holiday to amber-list destinations, though that hasn’t stopped airlines increasing the number of flights to them , encouraged by consumer demand. As travel expert Paul Charles put it: “Consumers are voting with their feet and booking trips to Spain; they know the rules, they know it’s not illegal and they know they have to self-isolate when they get home.”

Beyond its resort towns, Lanzarote means wild coasts, white-walled villages, rust-red volcanic cones, swirling bougainvillaea and buzzy farmers’ markets. It also has lively arts and gastronomy scenes. The entire island is a Unesco geopark .

What to do Base yourself in the rugged north, where low-key fishing villages – Arrieta, Punta Mujeres, La Santa, Órzola – and major works by the Lanzarote-born artist César Manrique await, including the Casa-Museo César Manrique (in leafy, historical Haría) and the Jameos del Agua .

Inland, Teguise was Lanzarote’s capital until 1852; its protected historical core is packed with ancient mansions, fanning out from a restored 15th-century church. The nearby village of Teseguite has classic Canarian architecture, a 17th-century chapel and a couple of wonderful pottery workshops.

Lanzarote’s increasingly lauded wine region, known for its volcanic malvasia grape, is best savoured with local experts Wine Tours Lanzarote , who visit independent wineries as well as La Geria’s big-name bodegas. For the lunar-like Parque Nacional de Timanfaya , sidestep the crowds by hiking the coastal Ruta del Litoral path, or hop over into the Parque Natural de los Volcanes .

Surf-friendly Famara beach in the north is one of the Canaries’ most beautiful, and you can do day trips to the dazzling beaches at Punta del Papagayo in the south. Don’t miss the natural pools in Punta Mujeres and, time permitting, all-natural Playa del Risco (accessible by a one-hour hike), or Los Caletones coves near Órzola.

Where to stay With its island-inspired boutique design, circular pool and divine breakfasts, Álava Suites (doubles from €110) in Costa Teguise is a great place to tap into the local creative scene. Lanzarote Retreats (doubles/rentals from €115/95) has stylish yurts, stone-built cottages and a solar-warmed pool at its eco-finca in Arrieta.

Eat and drink People travel from all over Lanzarote for fresh grilled fish, seafood paella and other local delights at Casa de la Playa, overlooking Arrieta’s beach (mains €10-€15). Bar La Piscina , by the Punta Mujeres pools, is a go-to for typical tapas (chunky tortilla, seafood salpicón ) at around €3-€10. La Santa’s Alma Tapas & + is a favourite for its creative, market-based small plates (€8-€15), which might include ossobuco cannelloni.

Isla Graciosa

Off northern Lanzarote and reachable only by ferry from Órzola, sand-dusted Graciosa is a go-slow, back-to-nature escape (no paved roads here). It became the official eighth Canary Island in 2018.

What to do Cycle to Caribbean-worthy Playa de las Conchas, hike up Las Agujas Grandes or Montaña Amarilla volcanoes, swim at golden Playa Francesa and wander the “capital”, Caleta de Sebo , with its views of Lanzarote’s Famara cliffs. La Graciosa sits within the Parque Natural del Archipiélago Chinijo , which protects various uninhabited surrounding islets known for their rich birdlife; explore them with conservation-focused Eco-Insider .

Where to stay Family-owned Pensión Enriqueta (+34 928 842 051, doubles €35) is one of La Graciosa’s tourism pioneers, with cheery, rustic rooms in Caleta de Sebo.

Eat and drink El Marinero, opposite Caleta de Sebo’s 20th-century church, is a locally loved tapas haunt serving home-cooked tortilla and seafood rice dishes (up to €10). Or try a platter of Lanzarote goat’s cheese at beachside Casa Margucha/Restaurante Girasol (tapas €10-€20).

Fuerteventura

With its salty breezes, renowned surf, volcanic landscapes and honey-gold coastline, Fuerteventura is the Canaries’ destination for beach bliss.. What to do Stay in northern Fuerteventura to soak up the surf vibe in El Cotillo, Corralejo and Lajares, hike to tiny, beach-side Majanicho, take a day trip to the near-deserted Isla de Lobos (for snorkelling, paddleboarding and more) and get away from it all in the dune-lined Parque Natural de Corralejo . Around 15km south of Corralejo, La Oliva is known for its historical architecture and the Centro de Arte Canario Casa Mané, devoted to Canarian greats.

In the lusher interior, explore gentle-paced villages such as Betancuria (Fuerteventura’s oldest settlement, surrounded by a mountainous natural park), pint-sized Casillas del Ángel and Pájara (home to a 17th-century Aztec-style church). Then drop down to Ajuy, where a black sand beach hosts fresh-as-it-gets fish restaurants. On the east coast, Pozo Negro is another fishing hamlet popular for its seafood restaurants.

On the unmissable southern Península de Jandía (it’s worth tacking on a couple of days here), you’ll uncover dreamy, protected beaches (including Playa de la Barca, Playa del Matorral and Cofete), surfy La Pared village and the lonely Punta de Jandía lighthouse.

Where to stay A 200-year-old volcanic-stone home just north-east of La Oliva has been sensitively restored as the Hotel Rural Mahoh (doubles from €60 B&B), with nine rustic rooms, a pool and a superb Canarian restaurant. The Avanti Lifestyle Hotel (doubles from €120) sits right on the coast in Corralejo, and if that’s too far to walk there’s a rooftop Jacuzzi from which to take in the sea view.

Eat and drink In Fuerteventura’s often overlooked capital, Puerto del Rosario, La Jaira de Demián is an island highlight for creative dishes, such as entrecot “tacos” with listán negro sauce (€8-€15). The delightful terrace at El Cotillo’s nautical La Vaca Azul overlooks a volcanic cove; try the fresh fish with papas arrugadas (mains €15). Another seafood favourite is La Lonja in Corralejo’s port (dishes €10-€20).

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria might be famous for its southern resorts, but it’s also a superbly scenic land of forested hills, plunging valleys, intriguing historical sights and seafood restaurants .

What to do Stay in Gran Canaria’s leafy north, where you’ll find the lively capital, Las Palmas, Spain’s ninth-largest city – and with a standout beach. The lofty, mountainous interior unfolds in a series of dramatically located villages, exhilarating hiking trails, volcanic calderas and distant peaks.

Las Palmas’ historical Vegueta neighbourhood has a magnificent cathedral (dating back to the 15th century), the Columbus-themed Casa-Museo de Colón , the Centro Atlántico de Arte Moderno and other worthwhile sights. Nearby, Gáldar has some of Gran Canaria’s major pre-Hispanic archaeological remains (the Cueva Pintada ); Arucas is filled with colonial-era architecture and a dazzling neo-gothic church; and the lush Barranco de Guayadeque makes a popular excursion (hike out beyond the crowds). For beaches, try north-west coast villages such as Sardina del Norte and Puerto de las Nieves.

In the rugged, elevated heart of the island, explore Teror (with its 18th-century church and weekly local market) and Artenara, the highest village (known for its cave houses ). And go walking around pretty Tejeda, the much-photographed Roque Nublo and Gran Canaria’s tallest peak, Pico de las Nieves (1,949m). If time allows, squeeze in Agüimes, Temisas, Fataga and San Bartolomé de Tirajana, or head further south to mellow Mogán and, beyond, to the protected Maspalomas dunes .

Where to stay Hotel Fonda de la Tea has rustic rooms, apartments and independent homes in Tejeda (all from €105). In Las Palmas, Bed and Chic (doubles from €52) makes a boutique splash across two tile-floored 20th-century buildings, or stay at the beautifully revamped, 19th-century landmark hotel Santa Catalina (doubles from €110).

Eat and drink In Las Palmas, Deliciosamarta (dishes from €15) serves innovative seasonal menus powered by (mostly) Canarian produce – tuna tartare, truffled gnocchi, Lanzarote’s Uga salmon. Tejeda’s creative Restaurante Texeda (dishes from €5) focuses on homegrown farm ingredients and its own craft beers; the rice dishes are a signature.

Dominated by the snow-dusted Pico del Teide, Tenerife is the most-visited Canary Island – a mix of lively towns, twinkling beaches, remote mountains, cultural delights, evocative villages, and a lava-sculpted, Unesco-listed national park .

What to do Home to laid-back villages, rugged mountains and some of the island’s outstanding architecture, northern Tenerife offers a refreshing contrast to the developed south. There’s no better introduction than the capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, where you can explore Santiago Calatrava’s performing arts centre the Auditorio de Tenerife Adán Martín , the contemporary design TEA gallery and other cultural highlights, before diving into the shopping, dining and drinking scenes.

Just inland, pastel-painted La Laguna is Tenerife’s prettiest town; its centre bursts with historical, Canarian-style mansions. There’s more classic architecture over in La Orotava (also known for its crafts), near the attractive beach resort of Puerto de la Cruz while further along the northern coastline you’ll reach peaceful, historic Garachico, with its attractive sea pools. Spain’s highest peak, El Teide (3,715m), headlines any Tenerife itinerary, but it doesn’t take long to slip away from the crowds along the hiking trails of the lunar Parque Nacional del Teide . Stretching across the island’s north-eastern tip, the ancient Anaga Mountains are another walkers’ highlight; drop into San Andrés village for beachfront seafood restaurants, as well as surfy north-coast Roque de las Bodegas.

Where to stay La Laguna Gran Hotel (doubles from €94) in San Cristobal de la Laguna is a stylishly reimagined 18th-century manor with a rooftop pool. An impressive 17th-century mansion on Garachico’s palm-dotted plaza, La Quinta Roja (doubles from €114) has smart, wood-beamed rooms around a leafy courtyard.

Eat and drink In Santa Cruz, Guannabi (mains €15-€25) fuses Canarian, Peruvian and Mexican flavours in glorious rice dishes and other market-fresh bites. La Laguna’s Tasca 61 specialises in organic seasonal cooking (up to €10) such as curried vegetable salad and artisan cheeses, as well as Tenerife-brewed craft beers. For super-fresh fish (€10-€20) served alongside papas arrugadas , salad and mojos , try the harbour-side La Cofradía in Puerto de la Cruz.

Distant El Hierro, the Canaries’ westernmost island, is an off-the-beaten-track adventure, with thrilling footpaths, sweeping viewpoints, glinting Atlantic pools and misty forests. A Unesco-listed geopark since 2014, it’s on its way to becoming the first island in the world to run on exclusively renewable energy.

What to do El Hierro’s most spectacular base is El Golfo, where the volcanic coastline sits at the foot of an amphitheatre-like, 1,000m-high natural wall. The two main towns here, Tigaday and La Frontera, blend together, with restaurants, a food-and-crafts market and a 19th-century church. The popular (and challenging) Camino de Jinama hike begins (or ends) in La Frontera.

Explore some of the up-and-coming wineries ( Bodega Elysar , Bodegas Uwe Urbach), the bottle-green El Pinar forest and the laurisilva (laurel forest) at the heart of the island. Then venture out to El Hierro’s far western tip, where you’ll find wind-twisted juniper trees, the 18th-century chapel of Ermita de Nuestra Señora de los Reyes and the isolated Orchilla lighthouse. In the low-key capital, Valverde, the 18th-century church and down-to-earth tascas are worth a visit. At the La Peña viewpoint, the Mirador de la Peña restaurant , designed by César Manrique, has views across El Golfo.

Divers will want to plunge into the tranquil waters off La Restinga, which is also renowned for its seafood restaurants. Another El Hierro speciality are its sparkling natural pools; jump in at El Golfo’s La Maceta, Los Sargos or Charco Azul, at Cala de Tacorón near La Restinga or at Tamaduste in the north-east.

Where to stay La Frontera’s boho-feel El Sitio (doubles from €50) occupies a thoughtfully converted, sustainably run bodega with seven lava-stone casitas and views across El Golfo. Or stay at the east-coast Parador de El Hierro (doubles from €97), which has an elegant historical look, a pool with a view of the Atlantic and a smart restaurant.

Eat and drink Opposite La Frontera’s pretty plaza, Joapira specialises in Venezuelan-influenced herreño cooking (mains €10), including stuffed cachapas and peppers filled with local goat’s cheese. In La Restinga, Casa Juan offers creative island produce, with seafood rice dishes among its signature dishes (€10-€15).

From its desert-like southern expanses, dotted with volcanoes, to the pine-forested north, “La Isla Bonita” – protected as a Unesco biosphere reserve since 2002 – is a place for escaping into the wild.

What to do Arguably the most beautiful of the Canaries’ capitals, Santa Cruz de la Palma has a 16th-century core filled with traditional balconied homes, renaissance architecture and the glittering Iglesia del Salvador. With a volcanic beach, it makes a characterful, convenient base.

Most visits to La Palma start with the 47 sq km Parque Nacional de la Caldera de Taburiente , whose scented pine forests sprawl around the Caldera de Taburiente depression (accessed from El Paso or Los Llanos). Hiking here is a Canary Islands highlight, especially around the Barranco de las Angustias, the Roque de los Muchachos and the 1,854m-high Pico Bejenado. There’s more walking among the Los Tilos laurel forests in north-east La Palma. Take a dip in the saltwater pools in nearby San Andrés, with its 16th-century church.

In the far south, Fuencaliente’s bare, volcano-studded landscape produces distinctive malvasia vines; visit wineries such as Bodegas Teneguía , and drive to the wonderfully scenic salt flats, beach and lighthouse on the island’s southernmost tip.

Where to stay Hotel San Telmo (doubles from €69) in Santa Cruz has eight boutique-inspired rooms strung around a flower-filled patio in a mango-yellow 17th-century house. Hacienda San Jorge (doubles from €64) looks out on to the black sand beach in Los Cancajos, and has a lagoon-style pool and subtropical gardens.

Eat and drink In Santa Cruz, book one of the handful of tables at Enriclai for home-style Canarian cooking (mains €10-€15), and stock up on island produce at the municipal market. El Paso’s Tapas & Trekking does excellent Canaries-inspired tapas – cheese boards , squid-ink caldoso rice, all with local wines (up to €10).

Walkers travel to lush La Gomera for its outstanding mountain trails, but there’s much more to this bohemian island, where cliff-edged coastlines give way to palm-filled valleys, ancient subtropical forests and eerie volcanic rock formations.

What to do Combine a stay in La Gomera’s pastel-hued seaside capital San Sebastián with delightful agricultural Hermigua in the less touristy north (near lovely volcanic Playa de la Caleta). San Sebastián’s historic centre features laurel-shaded plazas, ancient mansions and the 15th-century church where Columbus is said to have prayed before setting off for the Americas.

However, La Gomera’s hands-down highlight is the magical, misty Parque Nacional de Garajonay , whose elevated, Unesco-protected laurisilva forests conceal some of the Canaries’ most rewarding walking paths. A fabulous route through the 40 sq km park meanders down the Hermigua valley from the Alto de Garajonay (1,484m).

Elsewhere, drop into northern villages such as 17th-century Agulo or Vallehermoso and Alojera, both with black sand beaches. Peaceful El Cercado, just south-west of the national park, is home to La Gomera’s last remaining traditional ceramicists, whose workshops you can visit.

Where to stay Looking out on Hermigua’s banana-palm valley, Los Telares offers smartly rustic studio apartments (from €47) with balconies and a pool. The Parador de la Gomera (doubles from €97), designed to resemble a 15th-century mansion, sits above San Sebastián, surrounded by Canarian gardens and an Atlantic-facing pool.

Eat and drink In Las Hayas, on the western edge of Garajonay, Casa Efigenia is a classic for traditional, all-vegetarian La Gomera cuisine (menus €10). Hermigua’s El Faro does excellent seafood paella, goat’s cheese salads and fresh fish (mains €10-15), while San Sebastián’s market is great for local produce, including gomero cheese.

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Which is the Best Canary Island to Visit on Your Next Holiday?

• Updated On March 16, 2024

There’s no simple, one-size-fits-all answer to the question of which is the nicest Canary Island. While all seven are breathtakingly beautiful, the best for winter sun, sports, nightlife and exploring on foot do vary. Thus it’s really a question of which is the best of the Canary Islands you want to discover next.

The Canary Islands – or Canaries as they are informally known – is an archipelago off the coast of North Africa. Morocco is around 60 miles (or 100 kilometres) away. Their position means year-round sunshine, and warmer temperatures than mainland Spain or Europe. There are seven main islands to visit.

Though geographically near Africa, the islands are under Spanish rule and as such belong to the European Union (EU). The Canaries offer an incredible amount of natural beauty and diversity. As such they are a firm favourite among European holidaymakers, especially during winter. 

On the volcanic Canary Islands you’ll find black and golden sandy beaches, isolated deserts, rocky shorelines, vast pine forests, fertile valleys, snow-capped mountains shaped by lava, charming villages, sporting opportunities and of course a great selection of sun-drenched resorts.

The seven islands are Tenerife, La Palma, Lanzarote , La Gomera, Gran Canaria, El Hierro and Fuerteventura . Each has so much to offer, and the individual character of each will be outlined in this guide. Continue reading to discover which Canary Island to visit next.

Best Canary Island for Families

The Canaries are deservedly popular among those taking a break as a family. After visiting all the islands ourselves with kids in tow, we recommend Tenerife, Gran Canaria or Lanzarote for a family holiday. Here’s a little on which Canary Island to choose.

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria offers almost 45 miles (70 kilometres) of beaches, so it’s a real contender as the best Canary Island for a family holiday. Add to that the magnificent mountain peaks found inland, the desolate Maspalomas Dunes nature reserve and you have the recipe for as relaxing or active a family holiday as you please.

The biggest Canary Island is ideal for all age groups. There is plenty of awesome things to do . Children adore the theme parks and beaches found mostly in the southern resorts. Tenerife also offers a great range of accommodation, and the island is easy to get around. In the north, you can enjoy hiking while exploring the lush valleys and mountainous terrain.

Lanzarote is perfect for active families. Surf schools are dotted along the western coast, while cyclists truly appreciate the island’s slick roads, coastal paths and thrilling descents. Much of Lanzarote is a protected biosphere, so it’s also ideal for walkers. There are few high rise buildings blotting the natural landscape, yet there’s Aquapark and plenty of golden sands for kids to enjoy.

Best Canary Island for Couples

When there’s just the two of you, which of the Canary Islands is the best? We reckon couples should head to Lanzarote, Tenerife, Gran Canaria or Fuerteventura.

Lanzarote is often seen as the best Canary Island for couples on honeymoon. The relaxed atmosphere and serene beauty make for a romantic setting. You can do so much here – or very little if you prefer. Sample some water sports, visit a modern art gallery, enjoy dinner with a sea view, laze on the beaches or dance the night away.

Tenerife offers both lively nightlife and secluded spots for couples to choose from. There are local and international restaurants and resorts, vibrant bars and clubs and both low cost and luxurious accommodation options. Teide National Park also provides the perfect setting for daytime hikes or evening stargazing .

Gran Canaria is in some ways the party island, as it hosts a multitude of festivals throughout the year. Southern resorts like Playa del Ingles and Maspalomas are busier, while heading to the north of the island makes it easy to escape the masses and discover the local lifestyle.

Fuerteventura

For beaches, Fuerteventura is unbeatable and is the perfect romantic destination for those who love coastal life.

Best Canary Island for Beaches

Though Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote do have some breathtaking coastal spots, the best Canary Island for beaches is definitely Fuerteventura.

The Canaries’ finest beaches can be found in Fuerteventura, and there are many to pick from all over the island. Surfers should head to El Cotillo, while walkers can explore the Isla de Lobos nature reserve. From sampling sailing, windsurfing, diving, kitesurfing or snorkelling to gazing in awe at Parque Natural de Corralejo’s windswept dunes, Fuerteventura is the top pick when it comes to beach life.

Best Canary Island for Winter Sun

The general rule, when it comes to Canarian winter sunshine, is to head for the southern parts of each island. Tenerife and Gran Canaria and Tenerife are top of the list when it comes to dry, balmy weather.

Europeans flock to Gran Canaria during winter – especially those from northern parts like Scandinavia. It’s around 20ºC in the southern part of the island, so spending time on the sandy beaches is realistic.

The biggest and busiest Canary Island keeps visitors coming all year round. Winter flights also tend to be cheaper. You can enjoy the lovely beaches even during December, January and February , or hike in the interior while the fresh breeze keeps sweat at bay.

Best Canary Island for Nightlife

The top Canary Islands for nightlife are Tenerife and Gran Canaria.

Tenerife’s nightlife is the most legendary. Playa de las Americas has brash, all-night drinking and dancing venues, while Costa Adeje is ideal for quieter, more laid-back nightlife.

Las Palmas is at the heart of the action here. The presence of a university and port means the stylish bars are thronged with youthful Spaniards. Or for clubbing, go to Playa Del Ingles.

Best Canary Island for Hiking

The best Canary Islands for hiking are La Gomera, Lanzarote and La Palma. A great year-round climate means you can go walking during any month.

Lanzarote’s landscape really stands out.  There are hundreds of miles of hiking routes here, some of which follow the shoreline or take you into the countryside. The Natural Park of Los Volcanes, meanwhile, is an otherworldly landscape dotted with craters.

Lesser-known, unspoiled La Palma has some of the best National Parks in the Canaries, and is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. You can gaze at clear night skies here, discover lush forests or stumble upon a black sand beach that will take your breath away.

La Gomera has a truly untouched feel, awash with This fairy-tale island has earned its title ‘the island lost in time’. With its enigmatic landscapes, beguiling forests and dramatic ravines, La Gomera offers walkers a real sense of discovery. 

Best Canary Island for Surfing

Surfers tend to flock to Tenerife or Fuerteventura during every season.

The north shore of Fuerteventura has been compared with Oahu’s laid-back north shore in Hawaii, and not without reason. There are spots for beginners as well as more experienced wave riders looking to improve. La Caleta is the best-known place, but there are many more.

Tenerife is also ideal for beginners and seasoned surfers. The island is also popular with bodyboarders. Puerto de la Cruz is great for rookies, while Playa de las Americas is home to the legendary Las Palmeras break.

Best Canary Island for Cycling

If you love to explore on two wheels, head to La Palma, Gran Canaria, Tenerife or Lanzarote.

La Palma offers some truly authentic ride experience, though some roads aren’t in peak condition. En route you can pass fragrant pine or laurel forests, deserted volcanic plains or by the stunning Atlantic coastline. The island is ideal for descents and mountain biking in particular. For more challenging terrain, head to the north.

Lanzarote is a favourite among athletes, and resorts like Club La Santa have sprung up to serve this market. Here you can tackle ascents through unspoiled rural or barren landscapes via smooth tarmac, with few high rises interrupting the view.

Mount Teide attracts cyclists to Tenerife, and there’s a variety of other landscapes to pedal through on this large island. You’ll need to be able to tackle steep ascents here, as flat roads are few and far between.

Gran Canaria is used as a training zone for professional cycling teams. The roads here are relatively traffic-free, and generally more pleasant to ride on. Again there’s a lot of climbing to be done. The island also boasts some of the Canaries’ white sand beaches, so it’s ideal for combining an active break with down-time.

Best Canary Island for Diving

The best time to dive is between April and October. El Hierro comes into its own here, and Lanzarote also offers some ideal underwater spots.

The little Canarian island of El Hierro is known for La Restinga marine reserve. There’s an abundance of ocean flora and fauna to discover, and divers can also plunge in from several hundred metres above sea level. You can also see underwater caverns, cliffs and craters here.

Lanzarote has numerous marine parks, and the yearly Open Fotosub Lanzarote Mar de Lava showcases images of the unique ocean topography and huge biodiversity beneath the surface of the sea. Key dive sites can be found close to Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen , the Chinijo Archipelago and the northeastern coast.

Which Canary Island Should You Go to on Holiday?

Here’s a general outline of what each unique Canary Island has to offer the holidaymaker.

Tenerife is the biggest of the Canary Islands. This one’s well suited to those who want to try it all, so it’s ideal for first-time visitors. It’s the most-visited island in the archipelago, and is also popular for winter sun breaks. 

Tenerife boasts a couple of UNESCO World Heritage Sites plus over 40 miles (70 kilometres) of black or golden sand beaches . On this island you can see fertile forests, lofty mountain peaks, stark desert landscapes and of course a spectacular coastline.

The south and north can be very different. Most tourists spend more time in the southern beach resorts, and the colonial-style capital Puerto de la Cruz in the north is also a favourite destination. The second-biggest carnival on the planet is held here during late February to early March . 

During a holiday in Tenerife you can swim, play golf, hike the trails, go whale watching, discover secluded villages, visit a water park, or party until dawn. You can also sample plenty of authentic Canarian and Spanish cuisine here, or dine at one of several Michelin starred restaurants.

If you feel like taking a break somewhere a little more peaceful, then consider Gran Canaria. There is lots to do here, but it’s generally less crowded. Attractions include broad sweeps of sandy beach, vibrant nightlife and the famous Maspalomas sand dunes.

Gran Canaria is the third-largest island but is second only to Tenerife in terms of appealing to all interests and age groups. Gorgeous scenery, lovely beaches, great food, excellent hiking and a wealth of cultural experiences and historic sites make this a top choice.

Include a visit to the capital Las Palmas if you can, where the welcoming locals are always ready to party.

For fans of archeology, architecture, art and even wine, Lanzarote is a must. The volcanic terrain and lunar landscapes are perhaps surprisingly appealing and give the island a unique feel. Vibrant resorts, grapevines grown within calderas and the ever-present coastline also provide a pleasing contrast.

Highlights include volcanic Timanfaya National Park, La Geria vineyard and the César Manrique Museum of Contemporary Art. For good wine, fine food and a thriving arts and cultural scene, relatively undeveloped Lanzarote is a treat.

This island is also popular with families, although it can be busy during peak season. Few kids will be able to resist a day at Ranchos Texas Park, the largest theme park on the island.

If you’re into lazing about on the beach or trying out new water sports, Fuerteventura is the best of the bunch. This is the second biggest island, yet has far fewer visitors than Tenerife or Gran Canaria. There are over 150 beaches here, and what’s more is that most have soft, golden sands rather than the black volcanic sort.

Fuerteventura and its waves hold particular appeal for surfers, kitesurfers or windsurfers, and conditions are good all year long. It’s not really the place to go if you’re seeking lively nightlife, hiking or a major cultural scene, though there are a handful of fun after-dark spots, trails and historic sites to be found. 

Windswept Playa del Moro is popular with surfers, while El Burro, Playa del Moro or Glass Beach is ideal for both kitesurfing and the more traditional sort. You can also go dolphin-spotting or snorkelling in Fuerteventura, or visit the nature reserve at Isla de Lobos.

La Palma is a top pick among hikers and nature lovers. It’s the most fertile of the Canary Islands, and largely removed from the mass tourism and partying that characterise some Canarian resorts. Many locals refer to it as ‘La Isla Bonita’ – the beautiful island.

La Palma became the Canaries’ first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1983, and the capital Santa Cruz de La Palma is rich in history and magnificent architecture. Buildings here were constructed between the 16th century and modern times.

About 530 miles (850 km) of hiking trails criss-cross the island, and take in highlights like Parque Nacional de la Caldera de Taburiente or the peak of Pico de Bejenado. The night skies as seen from La Palma are also incredible.

La Gomera is also popular with hikers, though this small island can be more difficult to reach than others. Most visitors travel via Tenerife to arrive by ferry, and then explore the landscape on foot. The large laurel and subtropical forest of Garajonay National Park is a joy to explore.

La Gomera is not a bucket-and-spade or package holiday kind of place. Its charms can be uncovered in a couple of days, so it’s perfect for taking a break from a neighbouring island. Don’t miss out on trying a Canarian meal at one of San Sebastián’s fine restaurants during your visit.

La Gomera has lots to offer foodies, adventurers and walkers alike. There aren’t too many hotels here, so book ahead if you do want to visit. 

For the truest sense of escapism, volcanoes or great diving, head to El Hierro. It has an

end of the world kind of feel, and indeed was seen as this for many hundreds of years. The second smallest is the most peaceful and least developed Canary Island of all, with no structures more than two storeys high. 

On El Hierro you can really connect with nature and the local people. Many businesses are family-run, and the island aims to soon be solely powered by renewable energy. For untouched wildflower-clad hillsides plus outstanding hiking, snorkelling and kayaking, this is the island to visit. It also offers great value for money.

El Hierro has been a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve since 2014. Among this unspoiled landscape you can walk along peaceful hiking trails via fragrant pine forests, dramatic cliff sides and wildflower meadows. For scuba diving, head to La Restinga in the south, or explore the Canaries’ only inland capital of Valverde, which is compact and friendly.

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

Best Time to Visit the Canary Islands: Weather by Month

Tenerife Shopping Guide: The Best Shopping Centres + Tips

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Where to Stay in the Canary Islands: Which Island is Best for You

If you’re planning to visit this archipielago it’s important to know where to stay in the Canary Islands. The fabulous Canaries Archipelago comprises eight main atolls and each offer different advantages for tourists.

Known as the Islands of eternal springtime , if you’ve never visited them before, all appear very similar at first glance. But similar doesn’t mean the same-as. 

Laying in the Atlantic Ocean off the west coast of Africa, between them, they attract over 16 million visitors a year. They all enjoy warm year-round sunshine, minimum rainfall, fantastic beaches, volcanic interiors , fabulous cuisine and friendly locals.

There though, is where similarities end. Each magnificent island has its own appeal, its own charm and its own character. This blog highlights each of the eight main islands and offers s uggestions on which one might be the best option for your holiday requirements.

Table of Contents

Where to Stay in the Canary Islands: Best Island for You

1. Tenerife, the most popular destination where to stay in the Canary Islands

The largest of the Canary Islands and most popular by visitor numbers , Tenerife has something for everyone.

If your prime concern is sun, sand and sea, the south coast of Tenerife is the place to head for, especially through the winter months of October through March.

Accommodation is plentiful and well spread throughout the island . Whether a backpacking hostel, self-catering apartment, or a sumptuous 5-star, all-inclusive seaside villa, you’ll find it in Tenerife. 

Families are particularly well catered for with family-friendly hotels and aparthotels, many with daily kids clubs.

The Brits are the biggest visitors to Tenerife by numbers, so if your full-English breakfast and Sunday roast are a big part of your holiday must-haves, you will find plenty of hotels, expat bars and restaurants where you can indulge your passions.

For those who prefer to live like a local, Spanish café/bars and restaurants offer the best of Canarian and international cuisine . Tenerife boasted six Michelin starred restaurants at the last count, so this time, do things a little differently and start your day with a Spanish coffee and croissant or bocadillo (filled baguette).

For those days away from the beach with the kids, you have Siam Park in Adeje , one of Europe’s largest waterparks. Loro Parque in Puerto de la Cruz , with its dolphin shows and penguins, aquariums, tropical birds and animals.

Just on the edge of Los Cristianos, you will find Monkey Park , with its collection of small primates, birds and other fauna, or, a little further out, Park Las Aquilas Jungle Park in Arona.

If you enjoy a little people watching, head for Playa Del Duque . A beautiful beach fronted by 5-star hotels and upmarket bars and restaurants. Strut your stuff down the promenade, where you might just bump into a premier league footballer or YouTube fashion influencer.

If your preference is walking, hiking and natural history, add a visit to Teide National Park and El Teide, Spain’s highest mountain . 

Explore the pine-clad hillsides, geological formations and the many walking trails . In the north of the island, Sendero El Bosque Encantado in Santa Cruz , with its ancient forests, is also very popular with nature lovers.

We could also include Tenerife as one of the best places to stay in the Canary Islands for nightlife, along with Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, who all have their buzzing night-time scenes.

The Tenerife season is split broadly in two, with the 18 – 30s and families with school-age children visiting through the summer months. And older families and couples arriving through the winter months.

Puerto de la Cruz on the west coast is a popular destination with German visitors, while in the north, the island’s capital, Santa Cruz and its large port are filled with day-trippers. 

Although you can seek out the odd expat bar in both these areas, most evening entertainment consists of friendly Spanish bars and restaurants.

For the younger set and party animals, the place to head for nightlife is Playa de Las Americas on the southwest coast, with its long strip of Spanish and English bars and clubs. Most establishments here stay open until 4am, with others closing at 6am.

For more family orientated hostelries and restaurants that still bump until the early hours, look around Costa Adeje, San Eugenio or Los Cristianos.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE CANARY ISLANDS IN TENERIFE

• ($$$) Royal River & Spa, Luxury Hotel
• ($$) Hotel Tigaiga
• ($) Route Active Hotel

READ MORE TENERIFE TRAVEL TIPS

• Where to stay in Tenerife
• Best hotels in Tenerife
• Best things to do in Tenerife
• Best beaches in Tenerife
• Best things to do in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• Best things to do in La Laguna
• Best things to do in Icod de los Vinos

2. Gran Canaria, our choice of the best place to stay in the Canary Islands for nightlife.

Sitting in the centre of the island group, Gran Canaria is the third largest of the islands and the third most popular by visitor numbers . Particularly favoured by the Germans , it also attracts many tourists from the UK, Italy, France and Scandinavia.

Said to be the warmest of all the islands, it’s little wonder that its magnificent beaches are a big draw . Around the southern coast, the most popular visitor area, you will find kilometers of golden sand beaches with sunbeds, parasols and water sports to suit all tastes. 

Along the beach fronts are plenty of bars, restaurants and shops for all your sunbathing needs, as well as beachside villas and hotels.

The island’s north coast is more rugged, with wild, volcanic sand beaches and rocky coves , popular with those who prefer quiet, away from the more crowded beach areas.

If you prefer to alternate your holidays between days on the beach and exploring your surroundings, Gran Canaria’s interior is the ideal place to do it. 

Much of the island away from the coast is a dedicated biosphere of craters and calderas, mountains, valleys and pine forests , interspersed with sleepy Canarian villages that time seems to have forgotten.

The east of the island is Gran Canaria’s main agricultural area. The fertile soil in an area known as ‘La Vega Mayor’ provides the ideal conditions to raise bananas, oranges, tomatoes and peppers, cucumbers, sugar cane and ornamental plants and flowers.

With plenty of hiking and biking trails , it is popular with photographers and nature lovers, trying to catch a glimpse of the elusive Gran Canaria Blue Chaffinch, found nowhere else except in the island’s Inagua Pine Forest Reserve.

As previously mentioned, there are excellent and varied night-time scenes for visitors on all the four largest islands. However, Gran Canaria has been specifically chosen for its variety and diversity.

There’s no need to rush back from the beach to get dressed for dinner. While most hotels have fixed dining hours out of necessity, you’ll find plenty of restaurants in the main tourist areas open until midnight, often offering entertainment while you dine.

If you want to party the night away, these are the areas to head for.

• Playa del Ingles: With around a dozen main nightlife centres, this bustling south coast resort is also the main area for Gran Canaria’s gay community. Visit over 200 bars and clubs at the Yumbo Centre for drag queens, fetish bars and clubs, and various Gay Pride events held throughout the year.
• Las Palmas: Capital city of the island offers a good selection of everything. From quiet, laidback family bars, cocktail bars and karaoke bars, to music and dance clubs where you can party ‘til dawn. Head for Plaza de España in Mesa y Lopéz.
• Puerto Rico: On the southwest coast, the places to head for are the Europa Centre for quieter, family evenings out, and the main avenue, where the party people will find plenty of bars and clubs to keep them entertained into the early hours.

Accommodation across the island is varied and plentiful , from privately let fincas in the country, to hostels, self-catering apartments, all levels of hotel accommodation and sumptuous villas.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE CANARY ISLANDS IN GRAN CANARIA

• ($$$) Seaside Grand Hotel Residencia – Gran Lujo
• ($$) Hotel Parque Tropical
• ($) TC Hotel Doña Luisa

READ MORE GRAN CANARIA TRAVEL TIPS

• Where to stay in Gran Canaria
• Best things to do in Gran Canaria
• Best hotels in Gran Canaria
• Best beaches in Gran Canaria

3. Lanzarote, where to stay in the Canary Islands for couples

Whether looking for somewhere to celebrate that special occasion, or just wanting to chill out and recharge the batteries, there’s a lot to be said for choosing Lanzarote.

Just over 97 km off the coast of Africa and close to the island of Fuerteventura, Lanzarote is the fourth largest Canary Island , around half the size of its bigger sisters.

Lanzarote has learnt from the mistakes of the past. As a result, you won’t find high-rise hotels here. Instead, accommodation and visitor attractions have been constructed to blend in with the island’s natural scenery and contours.

As expected on these islands , beaches play a big part in visitor itineraries, but there is also plenty to see and do away from the coastal areas.

The port city of Arrecife in the centre-east of the island is the island’s capital. Not a tourist resort but the cultural and commercial hub of the island, its port sees ferries leaving for the other Canary Islands, Europe and West Africa.

It is also close to the local airport and a popular base with those visitors preferring to holiday away from busy tourist areas, liking instead to explore the less commercialised parts of the island by hire car or organised trips.

For beach lovers, the south and east coast are the places to head for those long stretches of golden sand. 

The north of the island is renowned for some of the best views, and beaches in the main here are also golden sand, with smaller, quieter coves of rugged rocks and volcanic sand.

Although sheltered areas exist, the island’s west side has a constant onshore breeze that some may find a little off-putting. However, the wind also makes the west coast very popular with wind and kite-surfers.

One of Lanzarote’s most famous artists, Cesar Manrique , was a big advocate of sustainable tourism, and examples of his artistic architecture can be seen around the island today. His principal residence was converted to a museum after his untimely death, and a number of his works are displayed here.

The interior of Lanzarote around Timanfaya National Park has been likened to a moonscape, or Mars, or a lunar landscape, all with good reason. 

The last volcanic eruption in the 19th century added even more to the volcanos, lava fields and rust-red and black hues of the volcanic rocks and substrate.

Nonetheless, the inhabitants developed some highly fertile soils, where various fruits and crops can be cultivated, including grapes. 

Now Lanzarote produces s ome of the Canary Islands best wines, which are exported around the world. Organised trips are available to a number of these wineries.

Other areas are more like black sand deserts, with cacti and scrub sprouting from the barren soil.

If you prefer your evenings to be more drinking and dining, rather than singing and dancing, Lanzarote has many excellent restaurants where delicious local cuisine is served. 

Try a selection of roast meats topped with goats cheese and mojo sauce . All washed down with one of Lanzarote’s excellent wines or a local beer.

Much of Lanzarote’s accommodation comprises self-catering complexes from studios to large apartments that sleep six or eight. In addition, a limited number of hostels are available, as are private villas and tour operator hotels.

The most popular resorts with all amenities are Puerto del Carmen, Costa Teguise and Playa Blanca . However, private boutique hotels and tastefully furnished apartments and cabins can be found beyond the busy resort areas if you prefer to be off the beaten track.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE CANARY ISLANDS IN LANZAROTE

• ($$$) Hotel Fariones
• ($$) Seaside Los Jameos
• ($) Club del Carmen By Diamond Resorts

READ MORE LANZAROTE TRAVEL TIPS

• Where to stay in Lanzarote
• Best things to do in Lanzarote
• Best hotels in Lanzarote
• Best beaches in Lanzarote

4. Fuerteventura, where to stay in the Canary Islands for amazing beaches and surf

The second-largest of the Canary Islands , and a declared UNESCO biosphere reserve, Fuerteventura has something to appeal to all adults and children. And particularly those who enjoy active water sports holidays.

Although something of a late developer in the tourism sector, Fuerteventura fast started catching up when the visitor euros began trickling into the coffers. 

With over 150km of natural sandy beaches and delightful hidden coves blessing her coastlines, it wasn’t long before marinas, water parks and golf courses began to appear. 

With, of course, the required infrastructure of apartment blocks, shops, hotels, bars, restaurants and an expanding road network.

If your preference when choosing where to stay in the Canary Islands is a lazy-hazy laid-back beach holiday , nowadays you have a plethora of options in Fuerteventura. 

If your first consideration is riding the waves , Fuerteventura is great for that too, and we have listed a few of the island’s most popular surfers base camps.

• El Cotillo , on the northwest coast and a surfers paradise
• Puerto del Rosario, on the eastern coast and the island’s capital
• Costa Calma, on the south-east coast and a popular surfing base
• Costa de Antigua , ten minutes from the airport on the east coast
• La Oliva, just inland from Corralejo in the north
• Lajares, slightly inland and popular with backpackers and surfers

With high Atlantic swells and an almost constant breeze around most of the coastline, Fuerteventura has several excellent surf schools, attracting new and experienced surfers, windsurfers and kite surfers from across Europe and beyond, and the island regularly hosts international surfing events.

Almost every water activity you can think of is available in Fuerteventura, including sailing, snorkelling, scuba diving, whale and dolphin trips, and big game fishing .

If you prefer to get out and about inland, you can explor e the sand dunes at Corralejo National Park , the Oasis Animal Park and the old island capital of Betancuria, dating back to 1404.

Visit the food and craft markets at La Oliva and the nearby Aloe Vera farm. Then, call into Antigua, home of Fuerteventura’s windmills. 

Next, stop off at La Alcogida Eco-Museum with its 19th-century village, and Poblado de la Atalayita , an original Mahos aborigines settlement. Or spend a day with the kids at Acua Water Park , Corralejo.

All the larger resorts on Fuerteventura have enough nightlife to suit most visitors. You will find fast food outlets to serve the kids, and family restaurants, seafood restaurants and international restaurants, where you can dine Asian, Italian or Mexican.

For those after-dinner drinks, there are expat bars, friendly Spanish café/bars and cocktail bars. Many of which offer entertainment such as live music, karaoke or DJs.

Booking accommodation in Fuerteventura shouldn’t prove a problem, with plenty of self-catering apartments, hotels and villas available in the main surfing areas and other large resorts.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE CANARY ISLANDS IN FUERTEVENTURA

• ($$$) Iberostar Selection Fuerteventura Palace
• ($$) Barceló Corralejo Sands
• ($) La Fresa Hostel

READ MORE FUERTEVENTURA TRAVEL TIPS

• Where to stay in Fuerteventura
• Best things to do in Fuerteventura
• Best beaches in Fuerteventura
• The Best hotels in Fuerteventura

5. La Palma, where to stay in the Canary Islands for natural beauty and hiking

La Palma, Isla Bonita . In English, Beautiful Island. The ideal place where romantic couples, young and old, can leave the maddening crowds far behind . 

The fifth-largest (or third smallest) of the Canary Islands, at just 70km long and 30km wide, it is a province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Yet it remains an island virtually untouched by the rampant growth of commercial tourism.

Not only is it a favourite destination for those seeking a week or two just for themselves, but it is a popular draw with divers, nature lovers, walkers and hikers, who like nothing better than filling a backpack and spending their days close to nature.

The whole island is a designated UNESCO Biosphere site. Although born millions of years ago from the same volcanic eruptions as its bigger sisters, it is the greenest of the Canary Islands, with much of its flora found only on La Palma.

The island has five National Parks , Caldera de Taburiente National Park, El Cubo de La Galga, Laguna Barlovento Park, Las Nieves Natural Park and Cascada de Los Colores.

La Palma’s interior rises steeply, and at sea level you will find plant species that love the intense sunshine and salty air, such as Limoniumpectinatum and Astydamia latifolia.

From 100 to 400 metres high, you will find Euphorbia canariensis and Euphorbia balsamifera. While at 350 to 700 metres, the first trees begin to appear, typified by the Mount Atlas Mastic Tree, the Dragon Tree and the Canary Palm.

At around 700 metres the first Laurels are becoming evident, nurtured by the high moisture levels of the north and northeast Trade Winds, and higher up the ubiquitous Canary Pine takes over.

All are mixed with lava fields and their hues of black, red and ochre, volcanic cones and multi-coloured rocks and boulders.

For those days away from hiking, the island’s capital and main cruise port is Santa Cruz de La Palma, on the island’s east coast. It is a beautifully picturesque old Spanish town , with cobbled streets, tightly packed, pastel-coloured terraced properties, and colourful blooms cascading from balconies and plant pots.

Aside from the above, other popular places to stay to retain that romantic vibe include the pretty town of Llanos de Aridane, tucked in the valleys of central La Palma. 

The small coastal village of Tazacorte, where you can enjoy a little time on the volcanic sand beach, and in the north of the island, Barlovento, with its rugged volcanic coastline.

Puntagorda in the northwest of La Palma is famous for its fine-dining and fresh seafood restaurants. While staying at Breña Baja, you are close to the island’s international airport, meaning less travelling time.

La Palma also has plenty to keep those with an interest in Canarian history, architecture and culture busy.

All over the island, and especially in the towns and cities, you will find copious examples of churches dating back to the 13th century , such as the Gothic church of Sant Jaume in the centre of Santa Cruz de La Palma.

Fine examples of traditional rural architecture can be found at Puntagorda, Villa de Garafía and Tijarafe, while museums highlighting the island’s architectural heritage can be found at Los Llanos (Benahoarita Archaeological Museum), La Zarza (Cultural Park), Villa de Garafia (Zarxita) and Villa de Mazo (Belmaco Archaeological Park).

For nightlife , an evening out on the Island of La Palma will be a decidedly low key affair , compared to some of the larger islands. Nonetheless, low key doesn’t mean any less enjoyable. In fact many would say just the opposite.

Whether you choose to stay in one of the smaller villages, towns or larger cities, you can expect to dine in friendly local restaurants serving the best of Canarian cuisine using fresh ingredients throughout.

Consider succulent grilled meat dishes served with fresh salad or vegetables and Canarian potatoes, or grilled tuna, swordfish, sea bass or parrot fish . 

If you’re not sure, ask for a selection of tapas. Small tasting plates that help you find what really makes your taste buds tingle.

If you’re staying in Santa Cruz de La Palma, you can push the boat out for that special occasion in the Michelin starred restaurants of Casa Osmunda, or the El Rincon de Moraga.

For those romantic after-dinner drinks, wherever you stay in La Palma, there will be a bar you fall in love with. A bar where you can sip a long cocktail or glass of sparkling La Palma wine. And gaze up at the stars through the clear Canary Island sky.

Although organised trips and tours are available to help you visit the places you want to see on La Palma, a hire car is highly recommended, to be able to make the most of your time on the island.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE CANARY ISLANDS IN LA PALMA

• ($$) Parador de La Palma
• ($$) Ferien Haus La Palma
• ($) Hacienda San Jorge

READ MORE LA PALMA TRAVEL TIPS

• Where to stay in La Palma

6. La Gomera, one of the nicest places to stay in the Canary Islands for nature lovers

Almost circular in shape, little La Gomera lies to the west of Tenerife. At just 20km long and roughly the same wide, with high craggy cliffs and rocky black-sand coves all around the coast, you can always find somewhere to lay your towel. 

Beaches though, are not why most people visit this exquisite island. 

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 2012, the majority arrive to enjoy the hiking and biking trails , the plethora of endemic plant life, the different local fauna, and the traditional Spanish coastal towns and inland villages that make this island what it is.

Although tourism is helping improve the economy, the majority of its 20,000 population still make a living from fishing and agriculture , with bananas, dates, grapes, figs, cereals and tomatoes being the main crops.

The jewel in La Gomera’s crown is Garajonay National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage National Park since 1986, Alto de Garajonay is the highest point at 1457 metres above sea level, and the views are superb.

High humidity and mild temperatures provide a micro-climate that sustains species of plants not found elsewhere. Laurel forests, fir trees and pinewoods, heathers and succulents; all vie for nutrients in the valleys, the hills and mountain sides.

There are 18 well-marked trails to get you around the park and its different forests and rock formations, with free guided tours available on Fridays; and Wednesdays during the summer.

Around the island, you will find the picturesque Valle Gran Rey on the west coast. A popular visitor stop-over with a backdrop of rugged cliffs, water hewn barrancas and palm trees.

Alojera , a little further up on the northwest coast, is also popular with visitors preferring to stay around the coastal areas.

Around the northern curve of the island, you will find lush green valleys and net-covered banana plantations, old townhouses, a former convent and several churches on your walks. 

Take in Agulo, with its twisting lanes and old colonial buildings, the traditional village of Hermigua and the Vallehermosa area, with its 400-metre high volcanic vent called Roque Cano.

On the island’s west coast lies San Sebastian de La Gomera , the island’s capital and main port. From here, there are daily ferries to Tenerife and the other Canary Islands.

Dating back to the 15th century , the town established itself as the island’s primary commercial port, and remains that way to this day. 

Its range of boutique hotels and private lets, makes it a favourite area with visitors looking for where to stay in the Canary Islands after arriving by ferry from Tenerife.

Like the other Canary Islands, La Gomera has a balmy, spring-like climate year-round. So if sunshine plays a big part in your holiday plans, choose the south of La Gomera when deciding where to stay in the Canary Islands.

Dryer than the north, the arid soil is more suited to cacti, succulents, and splurge, with its greyish-green foliage and yellow bracts, that sprout on the plains and low hillsides.

The local airport is also found here, just 34km from San Sebastián de la Gomera; it provides air transport between the islands and a limited number of flights to European destinations.

You will also find the scenic fishing village of Playa de Santiago , with its traditional fishermen’s cottages and boats bobbing in the harbour.

At 800 metres high, you can also explore the small Canarian town o f Alajero , with its surrounding fields lying fallow, waiting for the winter months to bring moisture in the fogs that sweep in from the sea.

Accommodation on La Gomera is limited to privately let studios and farmhouses, small apartments and a few boutique hotels.

Nightlife on La Gomera is relaxed and laid-back . Local café/bars and restaurants will offer a choice of tapas, and serve the best of Canarian stews, meat dishes, seafood and sweets. 

All can be washed down with some of the best wines you will taste anywhere or a local beer like Dorada or Estrella.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE CANARY ISLANDS IN LA GOMERA

• ($$) Hotel Playa Calera
• ($$) Parador de La Gomera
• ($) Hotel Torre Del Conde

7. El Hierro, great place to stay in the Canary Islands for eco-tourism

The second smallest and most westerly of the Canary Islands, El Hierro is both a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and Geopark. 

At just over 270 square km in area and virtually untouched by international tourism, it is a popular destination with eco-tourists and the many scuba divers who arrive to explore the pristine turquoise waters and aquatic species in the various Marine Reserve areas.

It is also the first Canary Island to attain 1 00% self-sufficiency in renewable energy, using hydroelectric and wind power.

The island’s geography was formed over a million years ago and is one of sheer rugged cliffs, volcanic cones, plunging ravines and black/red topsoil. 

The flora of this ancient landscape includes plant species in every hue of green, interspersed with amber, yellow and orange shrubs, juniper groves and succulents.

Areas of wild scrub and sectors of cultivated crops and flower meadows can be found in the valleys, on terraces, and around small traditional whitewashed cottages and villages. In contrast, woods and forests of pine and laurel stretch up the hillsides.

Whether you decide to stay a week or two weeks, you certainly won’t be short of things to do on El Hierro. A hire car will undoubtedly be an advantage to get around the island, but if not, you can do it on public transport, taxis or organised trips.

Visit San Andrés and the Garoé Visitors Centre , and learn the history of the lifesaving, water producing properties of the Garoé, or Sacred Tree.

Choose a day at the La Hoya del Morcillo recreational forest , close to the town of El Pinar. It is the only forest on the island with a campsite and picnic area.

Pencil in a visit to the Frontera Rural Park , including the Mencáfete Nature Reserve . Over 12,000 hectares of extraordinary nature reserve, with many hiking and biking trails are waiting in the island’s southwestern half.

The coastal areas shouldn’t be forgotten either during your exploration. Visit the Reserva Marina del Mar de Las Calmas, the Natural Beach Monument made up of volcanic landslides stretching over 9kms and 1,000m high, and the Roque de La Bonanza at Las Playas.

For those who prefer to enjoy their downtime sunbathing and swimming, El Hierro can provide the beaches. 

Although not the large stretches of golden sand you enjoy on the larger islands, the natural high cliffs, large boulders, volcanic sand and crystalline waters of the almost deserted coastline make up for it.

Check out the following beaches dotted around the island: La Restinga, Cala de Tacorón, Charco Azul, La Maceta, Charco de los Sargos, Cala de Timijiraque, Charco Manso, Tamaduste, El Verodal and Arenas Blancas.

If you enjoy basic during your time in the Canary Islands, on El Hierro, you’ve got it. There are no high-rise hotels or apartment complexes, no lifts, and only a couple of main roads.

That said, there are several small, pleasant boutique hotels , bed and breakfast establishments, guest houses, private apartments, fincas and country cottages available around the island. 

You can even choose a spa hotel in the north of the island. Or a forest campsite at Morcillo.

The island can be reached either by ferry from Los Cristianos, Tenerife , or by daily flights from Gran Canaria or Tenerife.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE CANARY ISLANDS IN EL HIERRO

• ($$) Parador de El Hierro
• ($) Balneario Pozo de la Salud
• ($) Hotel Ida Inés

8. La Graciosa, warm sunshine, crystal clear waters, golden sand beaches and total relax

You could be forgiven for having a quick glance at the top of the page, to check we’re still discussing the best places to stay in the Canary Islands.

A few years ago, La Graciosa was just another islet laying 6km off the coast of Lanzarote and unknown by the vast majority of visitors who arrived every year to stay in the Canary Islands.

In 2018, all that changed when Spain’s General Commission of the Autonomous of the Senate decreed it could become the 8th Canary Island. Now, La Graciosa is a fully-fledged island, and a part of the Lanzarote Marine Nature reserve.

A favourite dive site with snorkelers and scuba divers. It is also very popular with bird watchers who arrive to catalogue the many seabirds, falcons, kestrels, ospreys and other birds of prey that nest and hunt from the surrounding cliffs.

Just 29 square km in area, with no road infrastructure, two small villages and around 600 residents , it cries out to be explored. 

Unfortunately, the only way you can get here is via a 30-minute ferry crossing from Lanzarote , with the last boat of the day leaving for Lanzarote at 19.00hrs.

Away from the pristine beaches, La Graciosa’s interior is arid and barren, with little in the way of vegetation. What there is, is protected. Created 3000 to 5000 years ago, the island was formed by four volcanoes, with falling ash and sand filling the plains.

Trails are marked out to the north and south to visit the volcano of Montaña Bermeja in the north and Montaña Amarilla in the south. You can also explore Montaña Pedro Barba and its twin peaks. All offer spectacular views across the island, Lanzarote and out to sea.

For the hikers and bikers, trails to all inland areas are carefully laid out, and detouring from them will be frowned on by any rangers in the area. 

Without any roadways, mountain bikes are the favourite mode of two-wheeled transport, and if you don’t have your own, they can be hired at Caleta de Sebo.

The two villages are Casas de Pedro Barba by the harbour, and Caleta del Sebo . Both have a limited number of private lodgings available, which are best booked online prior to your visit if you want to be sure of a roof. 

A basic campsite is located at Playa de El Salado , and can be booked on your arrival.

With a small supermarket and a couple of local bars and restaurants, you should be able to pick up all you need for a day on the beach, enjoy a pleasant lunch, and buy a couple of souvenirs of your time on La Graciosa.

If you have any special needs, essential medication or dietary requirements, take them with you.

When you arrive at the harbour, you will see several old Land Rovers lined up that double as taxis, to ferry you to any of the island’s glorious beaches. 

These taxis also offer round the island tours , and are a great way to get a better perspective of the island while maximising your beach time. Be sure to take plenty of sunblock, sun hats and shades.

It is some years now since La Graciosa attained the dizzy heights of a fully-fledged island, and it remains virtually unknown save by those who regularly visit Lanzarote.

If you would like to visit this little Canarian gem while it remains just as nature intended, booking sooner rather than later is recommended.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE CANARY ISLANDS IN LA GRACIOSA

• ($$) Evita Beach Apartamentos
• ($) Apartamentos Graciosamar
• ($) Apartamentos El Marinero – Avenida

Photos: Shutterstock

2 thoughts on “Where to Stay in the Canary Islands: Which Island is Best for You”

Thank you for the information. Still unsure where to go. We love evening walks with harbours and atmosphere, any help woul be great. Thank you

Very well laid out and informative article, thank you.

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Canary Islands   Travel Guide

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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."

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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."

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• The Caribbean

9 Best Islands in the Caribbean to Retire

Beautiful weather, an affordable cost of living, and a relaxed vibe await retirees on these Caribbean islands.

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When retirement approaches , many begin to consider where they want to spend their golden years. While some retirees are most comfortable in the familiar surroundings of their hometowns, others envision themselves in an idyllic location — one that might offer beaches, sunshine, delicious food, palm trees, and a laid-back atmosphere. Perhaps they fell in love with a place they visited, and, for many, that place might be one of the islands in the Caribbean .

For some retirees, the goal is to reduce their living expenses and live comfortably on a limited fixed income. Others, meanwhile, prioritize luxury and amenities, ideal weather, and beautiful scenery. Living costs, ease of obtaining residency, tax benefits, financial requirements, expat communities, residential developments, and lifestyles vary among the islands, so a solid amount of research should go into making this important decision.

So, before you go out and buy your “I Live Where You Vacation” T-shirt, an extended visit with input from locals and expats is highly recommended. The U.S. State Department also offers advice about what to consider before retiring abroad. With insight from experts on the subject, we’ve selected some of the best Caribbean islands for retirement.

Puerto Rico

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As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico offers many advantages for retirees seeking a tropical climate without relocating abroad.

Health care is widely available, and Medicare is accepted. Retirees can own property in Puerto Rico , too, with no restrictions or visas. For qualified retirees, the Individual Investors Act waives island and federal income taxes on dividends, interest, and capital gains for residents who live in Puerto Rico for at least half the year.

The cost of living is around 11 percent lower than on the mainland, and rents are about 53 percent less. In the major cities, like San Juan and Ponce, English is widely spoken, but it’s helpful to know at least some Spanish. The weather is warm , although humid at times, and hurricane season comes each year from June through November, peaking in August and September.

A number of established retiree communities, as well as assisted living facilities, are available. “Retirees will have no trouble settling into life in Puerto Rico,” according to an article by U.S. News & World Report . “The island is a retirement haven, home to big, active, and well-established retiree communities from the U.S. mainland. Most retirees settle around San Juan and the beach neighborhoods east of the city, though pockets of expats can be found around the island.”

Isla Mujeres, Mexico

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Located in the Caribbean about eight miles from the coast of Cancun, Isla Mujeres was once a fishing village. The atmosphere is still laid-back, and the cost of living is affordable. The small island offers beaches, clear and warm waters for snorkeling and diving, delicious restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. Apartments, condos, and hotels are available, and rents and overall cost of living are relatively low. Most residents get around on motor bikes or golf carts, saving the expense of an automobile.

Retirees can apply for a temporary residency visa or permanent visa (after four years) at their local Mexican consulate, with financial qualifications. Those with legal residency can enroll in public health insurance for a small premium. Many purchase private insurance to cover medical expenses or pay out of pocket. Medicare is not accepted, though it is advisable for U.S. citizens to maintain coverage in the event they need to return to the U.S. for treatment.

U.S. Virgin Islands

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The main islands of St. Thomas , St. Croix , and St. John are attractive places to retire for those seeking mild weather, beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and access to restaurants and nightlife. As a U.S. territory, the U.S. Virgin Islands require no visas or passports for relocating. Medicare is accepted, and medical facilities are available on all the islands. The U.S. dollar is the currency, there’s no sales tax, and English is widely spoken.

The overall cost of living is higher than in the U.S., and rents are about six percent higher. A look at recent listings showed a wide range of rental costs, and like in most places, location, views, and amenities make a difference. Purchasing real estate on the islands works similarly to the mainland U.S., with attorneys representing both the buyer and seller. Travel + Leisure A-List advisor Margie Hand said, “When I was in the U.S. Virgin Islands this past June, I was shocked at all the people I met who had retired there. Some were working at stores in town, and one was an artist who sold pieces to local stores.”

Turks and Caicos

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Turks and Caicos is a British overseas territory consisting of eight main islands and more than 300 small ones. Average temperatures range from a high of 88 degrees Fahrenheit in July to 81 degrees Fahrenheit in January, and the climate is relatively dry . English is the official language, and the currency is the U.S. dollar. “These islands are some of my favorites in the Caribbean,” Hand told T+L. “However the cost of living may be high for some retirees.” In Providenciales, the most populous island that's also home to the international airport, monthly rents range from abut $1,500 to $3,660 in the city center. Condos, town houses, residences, and vacant land are available to purchase at a range of prices, plus there are no restrictions on property ownership by foreigners.

The government grants temporary residency permits with annual applications and offers investors permanent residency if they purchase property to use as a home. The investment must be $300,000 or $1 million, depending on the island, and the funds can be used for new construction or renovation of an older property. There are no taxes on real estate, income, inheritance, or estates. And the new Health City Medical Centre on Grand Cayman provides a range of high-quality, affordable health care,

On Anguilla , the northernmost of the Leeward Islands, the lifestyle is casual, and fishing, snorkeling, golf, tennis, and sailing are popular activities for visitors and residents. The cost of living here is on the high side, but apartments are available starting between $1,000 and $2,000 monthly. However, there are no income taxes, VAT taxes, or taxes on capital gains or inheritance.

Steve Haines, a longtime resident of Anguilla and a real estate broker at Trophy Properties , represents Four Seasons Anguilla Residences. He told T+L, “Some of the greatest things about the island are the wonderful people, perfect weather, and unbelievable food.” He added, “I’m seeing retirees who buy residences for year-round [living], as well as others who spend half the year here. It’s a combination of both.” Haines also noted that the island’s new airport — in progress — will make it easier to reach the destination in the future — perfect for visitors and residents.

Retirees are able to purchase property with an Alien Landholders license and additional fees. Those who own property are able to obtain permanent residency. With one hospital on the island, residents may need to travel to nearby St. Maarten for medical care or to one of the other islands — something to consider when retirement planning. Private insurance that includes transportation to the U.S. or a nearby large city is advisable.

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Dominica , nicknamed the “Nature Island,” is considered one of the most affordable Caribbean islands for retirees. There's an income tax based on residency status and income sources, but the destination offers tax incentives for retirees, including a reduced rate for those over age 65. “Navigating the landscape of Dominica taxes can be a crucial factor for individuals and businesses considering the island nation as a destination for investment and residency,” according to a recent article by Rihab Saad , managing director at Next Generation Equity.

For retirees who decide to make Dominica their permanent home, the Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program enables foreigners to establish permanent residency by making an investment of at least $100,000 in a government fund or real estate.

Both public and private health care services are available, and private insurance is recommended. Haines, who often spends time with friends who live in Dominica, said, “The island reminds me of Hawaii — very lush with fruit trees and gorgeous scenery. [It's a] beautiful place to live.”

Dominican Republic

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Located on the island of Hispaniola (along with Haiti), the Dominican Republic is one of the most affordable islands in the Caribbean for retirement. The cost of living here is about 47 percent lower than in the U.S., and rents are about 75 percent lower. The tropical climate, convenient location (it's about two hours from Miami), outdoor activities, and entertainment at resorts and hotels also make the destination an attractive option for retirees. Most expats and retirees live in Santo Domingo, Santiago, or Punta Cana.

The Dominican Republic offers a retirement visa for long-term residency with modest financial requirements, and those who decide to spend their golden years here can start with a standard tourist visa while the retirement visa is in process. Social security and pension benefits are not taxable, but all residents must pay taxes on income from financial investments such as stocks and bonds, certificates of deposit, and more.

According to a September 2023 article by Ashley Kilroy, an investment and insurance expert at SmartAsset, “Expats will need to purchase private health care insurance. Although this is an additional expense, it costs less to see a doctor and receive treatment in a private hospital in the Dominican Republic than in the U.S. International health insurance may cost up to $200 per month, and it covers most procedures and emergencies, and even some prescriptions.”

This small island in the southern Caribbean offers a stable political climate, warm weather, and a location outside the hurricane belt. Resorts, museums, shops, and towns provide plenty of activities and entertainment. While the overall cost of living in Aruba is slightly higher than in the U.S., rents are about 57 percent lower. There's an income tax, and retirees are eligible for exemptions on foreign pensions and annuities.

Quality health care — both public and private — is available, too. Foreign tourists can stay in Aruba for up to 90 days (180 days for citizens of the U.S. and the Netherlands). To stay longer, an application must be made to the Department of Immigration and Naturalization Services for a residence permit. A guaranteed annual income of at least $50,000 may qualify applicants age 55 and over for the status of “retired with guaranteed income.” According to luxury Caribbean property specialist 7th Heaven Properties , “The Government of Aruba welcomes foreign investment and there are no restrictions on foreign buyers buying property on the island with a view to moving to Aruba.”

Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, Belize

Located on Central America’s northeastern coast, just south of Mexico, Belize (formerly called British Honduras) consists of a mainland area and about 450 islands. Two of the islands (called cays) are popular retirement destinations: Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. Both are a short flight or boat trip from the mainland. On a trip to Ambergris Caye a few years ago, I met retirees from the U.S. and Europe, happily adapting to the slower pace of life, living without cars (just about everyone drives a golf cart), and spending less than they did at home.

Belize correspondent for International Living, Shane Kenny, who moved his family to the country in 2019, noted in a recent article , “With Ambergris Caye being such a hot tourist destination, it’s also one of the more expensive places to live in Belize.” Of Caye Caulker , about a 30-minute ferry ride from Ambergris Caye, Kenny said, “Many consider Caye Caulker to be the laid-back, smaller version of Ambergris Caye. Be prepared to walk everywhere, as the streets are unpaved and there are no cars on the island — just a few golf carts.”

The government of Belize explains how to acquire residency or retirement status through the Visitor's Permit Extension, Qualified Retired Person Program, and permanent residency. Also making Belize an attractive retirement spot, the official language is English and the currency is U.S. dollars along with Belizean dollars.

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I've been to 20 Caribbean islands — these are the 5 I'd return to and the 2 I'd skip despite having great experiences.

• After visiting 20 islands in the Caribbean , I have lots of favorites and a few I wouldn't return to.
• St. Lucia offers wellness activities, fun nightlife, and great food.
• Although I enjoyed my time on Grand Bahama, this island left me wanting more.

There's a misconception that all Caribbean islands are the same. However, as someone who's been traveling to the Caribbean for almost two decades, I've found that each island has its own distinct food, festivals, and cultural traditions.

After visiting 20 Caribbean islands, I can see why the area is such a hot spot for tourism. In fact, travel to the Caribbean is already off to a strong start this year, with many destinations seeing an uptick in visitors compared to 2023 .

As someone who's spent a lot of time in the Caribbean, these are the five islands I'd love to return to and the two I'd skip.

St. Lucia offers wellness activities and great food.

Though St. Lucia is typically billed as a romantic destination , I visited on a solo trip and had a blast exploring the island.

Some of my favorite activities included a mud bath in Sulphur Springs, a rum and chocolate tour, and an afternoon boat ride past The Pitons.

St. Lucians also have some great street food and love to have a good time. During my stay, I headed to the lively Friday night Gros Islet street party for grilled conch and fried fish straight off the boat.

Dominica is great for hiking and natural attractions.

Nicknamed " the nature island ," Dominica is one of the Caribbean's best-kept secrets.

One of my favorite excursions was a hike to Trafalgar Falls, a pair of stunning waterfalls about a 20-minute drive from the island's capital city, Roseau.

I also rode horseback on the island's black-sand beaches and floated on an inner tube through Titou Gorge, a cave with a hidden waterfall and swimming hole.

St. John has gorgeous beaches.

I spent my 15th wedding anniversary on St. John, the smallest of the three main US Virgin Islands. One of the highlights of my stay was a beach day at Trunk Bay.

The beach is located inside Virgin Islands National Park on St. John, and though there's a small entry fee, it's worth every penny. The beach is framed by lush mountains, and towering palm trees dot the wide, sandy shore. In short, it's paradise.

St. John isn't a hub for partying or late-night entertainment, but the island's gorgeous sunsets and natural setting are ideal for honeymoons and special anniversary trips.

Grenada is a snorkeling hot spot with a unique national park.

During my stay on Grenada, I encountered lots of warm and inviting locals, who would strike up conversations and ask how I was enjoying my visit.

Besides enjoying the popular Grand Anse Beach, I booked a day tour to Grand Etang National Park to check out Grand Etang Lake, a freshwater lake surrounded by a lush rainforest.

I ended my stay on Grenada with a snorkeling trip to Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park to see the submerged sculptures.

Turks and Caicos are great for decompressing on the beach.

There's a reason Turks and Caicos are a magnet for celebrities and socialites, but you don't have to be an A-lister to enjoy the islands.

Providenciales is the most populated island in Turks and Caicos. Provo, as some locals call it, offers a laid-back, tranquil beach vacation. Most hotels on Provo are located along Grace Bay, a picture-perfect stretch of pearly white sand and turquoise water.

Water sports like jet skiing, snorkeling, and clear-bottom kayaking are popular, but I was content to spend most of my days alternating between reading on the beach and cooling off in the pool.

However, Grand Cayman was one of the priciest islands I’ve visited.

Grand Cayman has a lot going for it: beautiful resorts, delicious food, and a flight from Miami that's under two hours.

The soft white sand and sparkling turquoise water of Seven Mile Beach have also helped make Grand Cayman a popular vacation spot .

But when I visited, I experienced a bit of sticker shock since US currency doesn't go as far as it does on other islands. The Caymanian dollar has a fixed exchange rate, and one Caymanian dollar is worth $1.21 USD.

I've visited more affordable islands with equally stunning beaches like Klein Curaçao Beach in Curaçao, Crane Beach in Barbados, and Palm Beach in Aruba.

Grand Bahama left me wanting more.

One of my first trips to the Caribbean was to Grand Bahama via a ferry from Fort Lauderdale . My husband and I stayed on the island for about a week, filling up on fresh conch and visiting the Port Lucaya marketplace.

While I enjoyed the laid-back stay, I've found that other Bahamian islands have more to see and do.

If you want to be closer to the action, skip Grand Bahama for New Providence, which is home to top-notch restaurants and hotels, historic landmarks like Queen's Staircase, and the annual Junkanoo parade.

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Man in serious condition after crashing into a wall in Costa Calma, Fuerteventura

On Saturday, at around 5:45 p.m., an accident occurred in the municipality of Pájara. This incident took place on FV-2 towards Costa Calma, where a driver collided with a wall.

Emergency services reported that "a 44-year-old man, who initially presented with multiple contusions and severe chest trauma, was evacuated by a medicalized ambulance from the SUC to the General Hospital of Fuerteventura."

At the reported time, the Emergency and Security Coordinating Center (CECOES) 1-1-2 of the Government of the Canary Islands received a call alerting them to the car's collision with the wall on the specified road.

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Lajares Artisan Market - Shop for handmade souvenirs from Fuerteventura

Over 82% hotel occupancy rate in Fuerteventura during Holy Week

RIU to resort to “all legal means” to avoid demolition of Oliva Beach hotel in Fuerteventura