Tenerife is one of the best destinations for family vacations all year round. The mild climate, diverse beaches, exciting excursions and numerous attractions such as water parks, zoos, nature reserves, museums, diving and surfing schools and horseback riding ensure that neither children nor adults will be bored. It’s the perfect place for families with children who love active vacations and adventure. I’ve got 37 great places for you.
Loro Parque
Loro Parque (Loro Parque Tenerife) is the most popular attraction in Tenerife. It’s a zoo, circus, and botanical garden all in one. The word “loro” means “parrot.” There are 3,500 parrots of over 340 species and subspecies here. They sit in cages and participate in circus performances, flying over the audience’s heads, doing math, reading, and riding scooters. There are also killer whale and dolphin shows, sea lion performances, gorillas, the world’s largest penguin enclosure, and a mini-aquarium with a 18m glass tunnel. The plant world is represented by a large botanical garden and an orchid greenhouse.
Siam Park
Siam Park is Europe’s best water theme park. Its design is in the Siamese style. The water park has over 20 attractions – from extreme, thrilling rides to relaxing ones for a pleasant time. Everything is done on a grand scale: magnificent palaces, a giant head of a Thai deity, giant dragons, and funnels. The Lost City has been built for young children, with water slides, suspended bridges, and rope ladders. There are private bungalows and houses for families and groups. Five Thai and local restaurants will satisfy the hungry.
Go Whale Watching
Tenerife is conveniently located on the migration routes of cetaceans. The island offers exceptional opportunities for watching whales and dolphins. There are several main departure points (Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje, Los Gigantes, and Puerto Colon) where you can take tours to see these marine creatures in their natural environment.
Cruise on a Viking Longship
Take your kids on an unforgettable adventure Viking Tenerife Ragnarok aboard a Viking longship along the southern coast of Tenerife. The journey starts from the port of Los Cristianos. You’ll have the chance to spot whales and dolphins, enjoy a Viking show, admire scenic views of beaches, cliffs, and Mount Teide, swim in the crystal-clear ocean waters, and maybe even see sea turtles.
Knight Tournament at San Miguel Castle
The Canarians have come up with an interesting attraction – “tournaments of six” at the San Miguel Castle (Castillo de San Miguel) located in the town of Aldea Blanca. It’s a decent show if you don’t take it too seriously or have high expectations. I recommend it for family visits: neither adults nor children will get bored!
Puerto de la Cruz Botanical Garden
Botanical Garden Puerto de la Cruz (Jardín de Aclimatación de la Orotava) was founded in the 18th century by order of Charles III and is the oldest botanical garden on the Canary Islands. On an area of 2 hectares, a remarkable diversity of plants, both local and exotic, are gathered that thrive due to the island’s unique climate. Kids will enjoy a beautiful walk through the Botanical Garden in the shade of lush tropical vegetation with bird songs. Here you will see many species of palms, as well as an almost two-hundred-year-old ficus with unusual air roots, and take wonderful photos.
Butterfly Garden
Drago Butterfly Garden (Mariposario del Drago) in Icod de los Vinos is a fantastic place. Here, more than 800 exotic butterflies from all over the world fly freely at the same time. In addition to adult butterfly forms, you can see other phases of their biological cycle in the garden – eggs, caterpillars, pupae, and even observe their courtship and mating rituals. Don’t miss the unique opportunity to see a new beauty emerge from its pupa, unfold its wings, and take flight. Each year, new individuals of about 150 different species appear in the park. However, they only live for 2-3 weeks.
Jungle Park
Jungle Park is a theme park located near the popular resorts of Los Cristianos, Las Americas, and Costa Adeje. On an area of 75,000 m², artificial jungles have been created where animals live in their natural habitat. The park is well-known for its impressive shows with eagles and other birds of prey, as well as sea lion performances. Between shows, it’s insightful to stroll with kids along the shady paths and suspended bridges, observe the animals, feed the birds, and admire the exotic plants.
Monkey Park
Monkey Park is a small interactive zoo located near the resort of Los Cristianos. It has been operating since 1991. Its main goal is to study the life of primates and preserve their species. At the park, children can get acquainted with various animals, including primates, iguanas, turtles, toucans, parrots, and crocodiles. You can even enter and feed the lemurs and parrots.
ARTlandya Doll Museum
The ARTlandya Doll Museum is a great way to take a break from the ocean and enter the wonderful world of childhood (on Google Maps). ARTlandya was founded in Austria in 1993 and opened in Tenerife in 2012. Here you will learn about the history and process of creating dolls and TEDDY stuffed animals, visit an exhibition of glass products. The museum’s collection features works by more than 50 artists from around the world. There are adult dolls in fashionable outfits, dolls imitating infants, elf toys, doll sculptures, and classic dollies. The museum owners themselves conduct tours, talk about the doll-making process, and show rare exhibits. You can view the exhibition and stroll through a beautiful garden with tropical plants, visit the shop, and cafe.
Banana Museum
The Banana Museum (Casa del Plátano) occupies a beautiful colonial-style building, adjacent to a banana plantation. In the museum’s first hall, in addition to entrance tickets, they sell banana marmalade, banana sauces, banana liqueur, and other banana-based products. After visiting the museum and watching a film, kids will learn about the island’s history and the development of the plantation, find out how bananas grow, and what they mean for the Canary Islands. Then everyone will be given a sweet banana and taken on a tour of the banana plantation.
Ride Camels at Camel Park
Camel Park is a unique place on the island where you and your children can take an unforgettable 20-minute walk on friendly camels surrounded by beautiful landscapes (on Google Maps). It is a family zoo, home to more than 60 animals – camels, donkeys, goats, ducks, and parrots. The park offers convenient online booking, transfer and various service packages.
Ride the Cable Car to Teide
Teide National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a unique natural reserve where the majestic dormant volcano rises amidst captivating “lunar” landscapes with bizarre rock formations, rare endemic plants and diverse fauna. Climbing Teide will be an exciting adventure for kids (from 6 years old). The cable car will take you from an altitude of 2000m to 3555m. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the National Park. I recommend booking a tour with hotel transfer, a guide and included cable car tickets.
Aqualand Costa Adeje Water Park
Aqualand Costa Adeje Water Park is a must-visit for an unforgettable holiday in Tenerife with kids (on Google Maps). Here you’ll find thrilling water slides, dolphin shows, relaxation zones and attractions for the whole family. This impressive park spanning over 75,000 m² offers a wide range of water fun: thrill-seekers will enjoy the 25-meter “Tornado” slide, while a Mini Park is set up for little ones.
Canary Islands Military History Museum
If your kids are interested in the history of weapons, take them to the Canary Islands Military History Museum (Museo Histórico Militar de Canarias) (on Google Maps). It’s an interesting museum with free admission, free parking and a restaurant overlooking the harbor. It’s located in an old fort built in 1884. The extensive collection includes weapons, flags, uniforms, military awards, models of old warships and various types of ammunition, as well as military equipment, including tanks and helicopters in the inner courtyard. The exhibition covers a wide range of topics, including the Canary Islands’ connection with North and South America, as well as the arrival of the British under Nelson on Tenerife in 1797.
Swim in the Martianes Pools
The Martianes Pools (Lago Martiánez) are an outdoor pool complex for relaxed family fun, located in Puerto de la Cruz. Since the north of Tenerife has constant waves, such a complex is not only fitting but necessary. All 7 pools, from deep to a children’s “froggy pool”, are filled with ocean water and get nicely heated by the sun throughout the day. The landscape is designed in the style of a Japanese garden and traditional Canarian motifs. Bushes and palm trees grow between the pools, with lawns and massive boulders scattered around.
See the Palms at Palmetum
The Palmetum (Palmetum de Santa Cruz de Tenerife) is a 12-hectare palm park and botanical garden in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, located by the ocean on an artificial 50m tall hill. Its construction began in 1995 on the site of a former city dump. Today, the park is home to around 600 species of palms from all over the world, the largest collection in the European Union. Manicured lawns with flowers and various shrubs, artificial waterfalls, streams, and lakes delight the eye. There is also a museum dedicated to palms. Various birds live among the greenery. Viewpoints offer vistas of the city and ocean. Take your child on one of the marked walking trails.
Stroll through Parque Taoro
Taoro Park (Parque de Taoro) is a beautiful park in Puerto de la Cruz spanning around 100,000 m² (on Google Maps). It’s pleasant to stroll along the picturesque trails amidst lush greenery, admire panoramic views of the city, waterfalls, fountains, and streams, as well as visit the charming Risco Bello water garden. The park features a children’s playground, outdoor fitness equipment, a cafe with a terrace, and historical landmarks – the former Gran Hotel Taoro and an Anglican church. It’s an ideal place for relaxing and leisurely walks in an idyllic setting.
Go swimming at Camisón Beach
Camisón Beach (Playa del Camisón) is a great beach for families with children. It’s located in the resort of Playa de las Américas (on Google Maps). The area is well-maintained with soft light sand and a gently sloping, convenient entry into the water. The beach is surrounded by breakwaters on both sides, so there are no strong waves.
Stroll through García Sanabria Park
García Sanabria Park (Parque García Sanabria) was opened in Santa Cruz de Tenerife in 1926 on the initiative of García Sanabria, the former mayor. The park was named after him, and a monument to the “father of the city” was erected in gratitude. Parque García Sanabria is the largest park in the Canary Islands (on Google Maps). While strolling through it, you’ll see plants not only from all over Spain but also some exotic specimens. The park’s landscape harmoniously incorporates fountains, avenues, gazebos, monuments, the Flower Clock with a Swiss mechanism, and 13 sculptures created for the First International Exhibition of Outdoor Sculpture in 1973.
See how Aloe Vera is grown
Finca Canarias Aloe Vera Arona is a small family business that has been growing aloe vera in Tenerife for two generations (on Google Maps). The farm is located near Arona and spans an impressive 100,000 m². They produce 100% organic aloe-based products. During a tour of the farm, children will find it interesting to learn about the process of growing and processing this amazing plant, see what’s inside an aloe leaf, and even taste it. Parents can purchase high-quality products at the farm shop. A passion for excellence, care for the environment, and a commitment to local agriculture are the cornerstones of Finca Canarias’ success.
See the Dragon Tree
Drago Park (Parque del Drago) is a unique place where one of the oldest plants on Earth grows – the Dragon Tree (Dracaena draco), which has become a symbol of the island. Take the kids to Icod de los Vinos to see this impressive specimen, around 300 years old, 20 meters tall, and 9 meters in circumference. The Dragon Tree is known for its red, medicinal sap, slow growth, and the formation of a dense, umbrella-shaped crown. The whimsical intertwining of its branches is a captivating sight, especially against the majestic backdrop of Mount Teide.
Go horseback riding
During this guided horseback ride, you’ll discover the stunning nature of the Corona Forestal Natural Park (Parque Natural de la Corona Forestal). The route is calm and safe, perfect for beginners and inexperienced riders. However, it’s not suitable for children under 5 years old or adults weighing more than 85 kg. Family members who don’t want to ride can join the walk.
Take a tuk-tuk tour of the south
A tour on a three-wheeled electric tuk-tuk with a large open carriage is fun and interesting. During the ride, you’ll get acquainted with the south of Tenerife. Experienced guides will take you through the most picturesque villages, beaches, and attractions, including the luxurious Plaza del Duque, the ancient Church of San Sebastian, the black sandy beach of Playa Enramada, and the charming fishing village of La Caleta.
Forestal Park Tenerife Rope Park
Forestal Park Tenerife is a great place to spend a couple of hours with kids among the trees and get an adrenaline rush. It’s located at an altitude of 1400 m above sea level in the Monté de la Esperanza pine forest (on Google Maps). Huge Canary pines, silence, fresh air! The park has trails of varying difficulty, consisting of several stages, climbs, and descents. So there will be something to do regardless of your fitness level. The most challenging trail runs at a height of 20 m and requires quite an effort to complete. The trails are well-designed, and the safety measures are top-notch. Before starting, you’ll receive instructions.
Ride the Yellow Submarine
See the Big Trees El Pino Gordo
Which little traveler would refuse to swim on a real submarine in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean? Such an underwater safari is arranged in the San Miguel yacht port (on Google Maps). The spacious saloon of the Submarines Safari submarine can accommodate 48 people. Inside, a comfortable air pressure, temperature, and humidity are maintained. In the underwater part of the boat, near each seat, there is a large porthole, and two larger ones – in the bow and stern. Screens are installed near the seats, displaying images from the boat’s external video cameras and gauges showing the depth and water temperature outside. The diving depth is about 30 m. You’ll be able to explore sunken ships, observe the mysterious inhabitants of the sea depths and divers swimming in the company of large rays. And posters in the saloon will help identify representatives of the underwater world.
Fishing Museum in Puerto de Santiago
The Fisherman’s Museum (Museo del Pescador) in Puerto de Santiago is a small museum, but with an interesting exhibition (on Google Maps). Admission is free. Here, in collaboration with the University of La Laguna, an impressive collection of old photographs, boat models, marine animals, nets, and objects of maritime culture has been assembled. The facade of the museum was worked on by the French artist Bernard Romain. He transformed it into an extraordinary three-dimensional plastic canvas with amazing sculptures reflecting the life of the sea and the connection between the Canary Islands.
Light Park in Adeje
In the fairytale world of the Light Park Tenerife, you’ll see over 800 themed light installations and silk lanterns that will come to life before your eyes. Stroll with your children among stunning exhibits such as a 40-meter dragon, flamingo gardens, and an underwater world, and get acquainted with the ancient Chinese tradition embodied in modern technologies.
Horse Show
At the horse show with an additional dinner at the amusement park, feel like a Roman sitting in an amphitheater and witness thrilling gladiator battles on horseback. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Ancient Rome, enjoy live music and karaoke, and on Saturdays, you can also savor exquisite dishes of Canarian cuisine + unlimited drinks.
Legends of Teide Exhibition
Would you like to know an amazing story about the Teide Volcano? Come with your children to the “Science and Legend” exhibition at the Teide Cable Car Visitor Center. There you’ll meet the heroes of ancient legends – gods and Guanches, as well as Guayota, the demon of Mount Teide, who will tell his version of the volcano eruption a thousand years ago. Admission is free for children under 13! At the end, stop by the highest restaurant in Spain and, admiring the extraordinary view of the National Park, sample the dishes of Canarian cuisine.
Pirate’s Den
The Pirate’s Den (La Guarida del Pirata) is an adventure for the bravest souls, a must-visit place with little pirates! The children’s playground is located in the picturesque rural area of Los Realejos (on Google Maps). Here, exciting games, quests, and puzzles await children and adults: the “Pirate Map”, a pirate-themed role-playing game for kids aged 8 to 14, an outdoor family quest room, and two parts of a night quest for participants over 14 years old.
Recently, the park opened a new attraction called Falcon Experience, recreating the interior of the famous Millennium Falcon spaceship from the Star Wars universe. La Guarida del Pirata is the perfect place for children’s birthday parties, bachelor parties, corporate events, and friendly gatherings in an atmosphere of pirate adventures and fun.
Museum of Science and Cosmos
The Museum of Science and Cosmos (El Museo de las Ciencias y el Cosmos) in San Cristóbal de La Laguna is an interactive space that invites adults and children to immerse themselves in the exciting world of experiments and discoveries (on Google Maps). Here you’ll find a planetarium, engaging puzzles, optical illusions, and even the opportunity to touch a real meteorite. Every corner of the museum offers the chance to learn through play and experiments. The museum’s permanent exhibition is divided into several zones dedicated to the Sun, Earth, the human body, the Universe, and other areas of science.
Museum of Nature and Archaeology
The Museum of Nature and Archaeology (Museo de la Naturaleza y la Arqueología) in Santa Cruz de Tenerife will introduce you to the natural wealth of the Canary Islands and the culture of the ancient Guanche inhabitants. The museum’s exhibition includes geological, archaeological, and anthropological finds, as well as stuffed animals and birds that inhabited the islands.
Of particular interest are the mummies of the Guanches – the indigenous inhabitants of Tenerife, and the fossils of prehistoric animals that lived on the Canary Islands – a giant lizard, a giant rat, and a giant tortoise. Multimedia screens show how the Canary Islands were formed as a result of volcanic eruptions. The modern design of the exhibitions and interactive elements attract children to this museum.
Walk to the Lunar Landscape
The Lunar Landscape (Paisaje Lunar) is an unusual mountain formation on the southern slope of the ridge encircling the Teide caldera. The landscape is surreal: whimsical stone waves and polished cones literally glow against the backdrop of dark volcanic slopes, picturesque wastelands, and blue sky. Take a journey to the Moon with your children, even if a small one. In this article, I’ve explored 3 hiking options. Choose one.
Walk to Hell’s Gorge
Tired of lying on the beaches of Tenerife? Then I suggest taking a walk through the picturesque nature reserve with the intimidating name – Hell’s Gorge. The Barranco del Infierno (Hell’s Gorge) Nature Park is a scenic ravine in the south of Tenerife. A relatively easy hiking trail of about 6 km passes through diverse climatic zones, past abandoned aqueducts and caves where the Guanches once lived. At the end of the trail is the only waterfall on Tenerife (a source of drinking water), particularly full in winter. The park is home to many species of birds and endemic plants. The gorge tour must be booked in advance. Take your kids over 5 years old and head out on a hike to Hell’s Gorge.
Wind Cave
The Wind Cave (Cueva del Viento), or more precisely – a volcanic tube, was formed 27,000 years ago as a result of an eruption of the Pico Viejo volcano (on Google Maps). It is the largest volcanic tube in the European Union and the fifth longest in the world. It extends for more than 17 km. The cave consists of three levels with a variety of geomorphological features. Inside, mummies of the Guanches and remains of extinct animals were discovered. This amazing place can be visited on an organized tour.
Guimar Pyramids
The Pyramids of Guimar Park (Pirámides de Güímar) is a mysterious place where you can see six ancient pyramids similar to the famous Egyptian ones. At one time there were nine, but three were dismantled by residents for building materials as early as the 19th century. The park offers: educational exhibits, walks through a garden of poisonous plants, a film about Thor Heyerdahl’s expeditions and replicas of his wooden raft Kon-Tiki, papyrus boats Ra and Ra II, and the reed boat Tigris. It’s a great place to spend a whole day with a child, unraveling the mysteries and riddles of ancient civilizations.
