DE 
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ES Are you planning an unforgettable family vacation and looking for a child-friendly destination with dreamy beaches and exciting adventures?
Tenerife is the ideal destination for families. The largest of the Canary Islands not only offers stunning beaches but also a wide range of leisure activities, family-friendly accommodations, and pleasant weather all year round.
In this guide, you'll discover why Tenerife is perfect for your family holiday and which highlights you shouldn't miss with your children.
Why Tenerife is the perfect destination for families
Tenerife offers an unbeatable combination of sun, sand, nature, and fun. Thanks to its mild climate, with temperatures ranging between 20 and 28 degrees Celsius, the island is a great destination for families all year round. The beaches are child-friendly, the leisure options are vast, and the locals are warm and welcoming.
Holiday Accommodations in Tenerife
Child-friendly beaches on Tenerife
Tenerife boasts numerous beaches that are particularly well-suited for families. For your children's safety, it is essential to pay attention to lifeguards and understand the different beach flags. A green flag means safe swimming, a yellow flag signals caution, and a red flag indicates that swimming is prohibited. Many beaches have lifeguards on duty, allowing you to relax while your children play in the water. Additionally, amenities such as showers, toilets, changing rooms, and restaurants make these beaches particularly family-friendly.
Playa de las Teresitas (North)
A stunning, family-friendly beach in the northeast of Tenerife, near the capital Santa Cruz. The fine, golden sand and calm waters make it ideal for children. Lifeguards ensure safety, and after a long day at the beach, you can use the available showers and changing rooms before heading to a nearby restaurant to enjoy local delicacies.
Playa de la Arena (Southwest)
This black volcanic sand beach is located in the southwest of the island, near Puerto de Santiago. The unique volcanic sand is particularly fascinating for children, offering a different beach experience. The clear water is perfect for splashing around, while lifeguards ensure safe swimming. Showers, toilets, and changing rooms are available, making for a comfortable beach day. There are also numerous restaurants nearby where you can take a break.
Playa de las Vistas (South)
Situated between Los Cristianos and Las Américas in southern Tenerife, this beach offers a gentle entry into the sea, fine sand, and optimal conditions for a relaxing family beach day. Lifeguards ensure safety, and the beach is equipped with showers and toilets. The nearby restaurants offer a wide variety of dishes, catering to all tastes.
Playa del Duque (South)
Another beautiful beach in the south, specifically in Costa Adeje, is Playa del Duque. The sand here is light, and the water is calm, making it a great spot for families. Lifeguards are present for safety, and the beach features showers, toilets, and changing rooms. A variety of restaurants nearby offer delicious meals for you and your family.
Playa de la Tejita (South)
Located in the south of Tenerife, near El Médano, this beach is particularly popular with families as it is less crowded. The atmosphere is peaceful, and the gentle waves make it especially safe for children. Lifeguards are on duty, and facilities such as showers, toilets, and changing rooms are available. Several nearby restaurants offer a break from the beach fun.
Playa de los Cristianos (South)
Another highly family-friendly beach in the south is Playa de los Cristianos, located in the town of the same name. This beach offers calm waters and excellent infrastructure, including lifeguards, showers, and changing rooms. Numerous restaurants and cafés in the area are particularly child-friendly and provide a relaxed dining experience
Family activities on Tenerife
Tenerife offers a wide variety of exciting activities for all ages. From thrilling water parks and breathtaking natural experiences to impressive animal parks, the island has the perfect adventure for everyone. Whether you're looking for action, relaxation, or educational experiences, here you’ll find plenty of opportunities to create unforgettable moments with your family.
Loro Parque (Puerto de la Cruz)
This world-famous zoo in Puerto de la Cruz amazes visitors with exotic animals, breathtaking shows, and interactive experiences. The orca and dolphin shows are a particular highlight for children. There's also a fantastic playground and an impressive penguin exhibit that delights both young and old.
Siam Park (Costa Adeje)
A huge water park, considered one of the best in the world. Here, you’ll find spectacular water slides, a wave pool, and special children's areas—perfect for an action-packed family day!
Aqualand Costa Adeje (Costa Adeje)
If you're looking for a more family-friendly alternative to Siam Park, Aqualand Costa Adeje is an excellent choice. The park features numerous slides for children of all ages, a large wave pool, and even a dedicated dolphin area where regular shows take place.
Teide National Park (Island Centre)
A trip to Spain’s highest mountain is a must. Take the cable car almost to the summit and enjoy breathtaking views over the island. There are also child-friendly hiking trails, making it an ideal spot for a family adventure.
Las Águilas Jungle Park (Los Cristianos)
This animal park near Los Cristianos offers a fascinating mix of exotic animals and spectacular birds of prey shows. The extensive park is designed like a tropical jungle, with many shaded paths perfect for a relaxed family visit.
Lago Martiánez (Puerto de la Cruz)
This artificial pool complex in Puerto de la Cruz is a great alternative to the beach. Here, you and your children can swim in large saltwater pools and relax. The complex also features restaurants and green spaces, making it ideal for a laid-back family day out.
Forestal Park Tenerife (La Esperanza)
If your family loves outdoor adventures, the Forestal Park near La Esperanza is the perfect choice. Exciting treetop climbing courses and various zip lines await you. There are routes suitable for different age groups, ensuring that even young children can participate safely.
Whale and Dolphin Watching (Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje, Puerto Colón)
Off the coast of Tenerife, you can take boat tours to observe whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. Popular departure points for these excursions include Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje, and Puerto Colón. A truly unforgettable experience for the whole family!
Family-friendly accommodation on Tenerife
In addition to large resorts, Tenerife offers many family-friendly alternatives that not only provide more space but are often more affordable. Popular choices include country houses, holiday apartments, holiday homes, and villas with private pools. These types of accommodation allow you and your family to enjoy a more flexible holiday without fixed meal times or loud hotel entertainment.
Country Houses
Country houses are a wonderful way to experience the authentic side of Tenerife. Especially in the island’s interior or more remote areas, you can find traditional Canarian fincas surrounded by lush nature. These accommodations provide plenty of space for the whole family and often include large gardens where children can play safely. The biggest advantage of staying in a country house is the tranquillity away from mass tourism, allowing you and your family to fully relax. Many country houses also have fully equipped kitchens, giving you the flexibility to prepare your own meals.
Holiday Apartments
Holiday apartments are an excellent option for families who want self-catering accommodation while staying in central locations near beaches or tourist hotspots. An apartment gives you the freedom to plan your days without being tied to hotel schedules. Many holiday apartments come with balconies or terraces, offering beautiful sea or mountain views. They are also often more budget-friendly than hotels while still providing great comfort for families.
Holiday Homes and Villas with pool
For even more comfort, holiday homes or villas with a private pool are a fantastic choice. You can enjoy a private setting with your family without having to follow hotel rules. These accommodations are particularly cost-effective for larger families or groups compared to booking multiple hotel rooms. When choosing a villa or holiday home, make sure it is child-friendly—pools should be fenced or equipped with safety measures to prevent children from entering the water unsupervised. This way, you can enjoy a worry-free holiday.
Our tip: Book early to secure the best selection! During peak holiday seasons, popular accommodations tend to get booked quickly. To ensure your family holiday is exactly how you envision it, it’s worth planning and booking early. This way, you’ll have the best selection and can secure the perfect place to stay.
Discover holiday accommodations on Tenerife
Tips for child-friendly food on Tenerife
Tenerife has a lot to offer when it comes to food! Some of the most popular dishes among children include:
Papas arrugadas with mojo – Small wrinkled potatoes served with a mild or spicy sauce, a favourite among kids.
Arepas – Corn cakes filled with cheese or meat, a satisfying and easy meal.
Fresh fruits – Tenerife is famous for its bananas, mangos, and avocados—healthy snacks for in-between meals.
Churros con chocolate – A sweet treat for children—fried dough sticks served with chocolate sauce.
Fish dishes – Many restaurants offer mild, grilled fish fillets that are great for kids.
Our tip: Try tapas-style dining! In many restaurants, it’s common to share multiple small dishes (tapas style), allowing children to sample a variety of foods and discover new favourites.
Practical tips for your family holiday on Tenerife
Best time to visit: Tenerife is a great destination all year round. Spring and autumn are particularly recommended. For more details, check out our article on the Best time to visit Tenerife.
Car rental: A car is highly recommended as many attractions and beaches are easily accessible, giving you the flexibility to explore. However, during peak holiday seasons, it’s best to book your rental car in advance, as demand is high.
Sun protection: The sun in the Canary Islands can be strong, so don't forget to pack sunscreen, hats, and UV protective clothing. Book early: Family-friendly accommodations tend to get booked quickly, so be sure to book early to secure the best options.
Conclusion: Tenerife is the perfect family destination
Whether you’re looking for a beach holiday, exciting excursions, or nature adventures, Tenerife offers everything a family could desire. Plan your next holiday on this beautiful island and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones!
Our dedicated team offers personalized advice and customised offers that are perfectly suited to your family’s needs. As experts of Tenerife, we work directly with property owners to ensure that we can accommodate your preferences and provide the best recommendations. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly holiday house, a spacious villa, or a cozy apartment on Tenerife, we are here to help you find the perfect place for your family vacation.
Contact us today and benefit from our expertise to make your family holiday on Tenerife truly unforgettable!
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