Tenerife for Families: Kid-Friendly Beaches and Activities

Planning Tenerife holidays with the family? This sun-drenched Canary Island is a treasure trove of excitement for all ages. Picture this: soft, golden sands, shallow turquoise waters, and a stunning coastline brimming with beaches made for family fun. Tenerife’s kid-friendly beaches, like Playa de las Teresitas, offer the perfect setting for building sandcastles and splashing in the sea. Playa Jardin, with its black volcanic sand, adds a touch of adventure to a day out, while El Médano is ideal for little surfers.

But it’s not just about the beaches! Families will find plenty of thrilling activities to fill the days. How about a visit to Siam Park, one of the best waterparks in the world? Or explore Loro Parque, home to an amazing array of animals and interactive experiences that will keep children captivated. For families who love nature, Mount Teide National Park offers easy hikes with jaw-dropping views, making it an unforgettable outing.

Whether it's relaxing on the shore or exploring Tenerife's vibrant attractions, this island promises a holiday packed with adventure and family-friendly memories. So, pack your sun hats, grab the sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable escape that guarantees fun for the whole family.

Best Family-Friendly Beaches in Tenerife

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is a dream destination for families seeking sun, sand, and sea. It's warm year-round climate and diverse landscapes make it ideal for families looking to explore. Whether you're planning a relaxed beach day or an action-packed holiday, the island offers an array of family-friendly beaches that are perfect for little ones. Here are some of the top beaches you can visit during your Tenerife holidays.

1. Playa de las Teresitas

Located just a short drive from the capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Playa de las Teresitas is one of the island's most iconic beaches. This stunning stretch of golden sand is perfect for families, thanks to its calm, shallow waters. The beach is protected by a breakwater, ensuring the waves are gentle, making it safe for children to swim and play. Facilities include showers, beachside cafés, and plenty of shaded areas under palm trees. Parents can relax while the kids build sandcastles or paddle in the warm, crystal-clear waters.

2. Playa Jardin

For families seeking a unique experience, Playa Jardin offers a striking setting with its black volcanic sand. Situated in Puerto de la Cruz, this beach is surrounded by beautiful gardens designed by renowned Canarian artist Cesar Manrique. The beach is well-equipped with amenities such as showers, lifeguards, and nearby restaurants, making it a convenient spot for families. While the waves here can be stronger, there are designated swimming areas that are safe for children, and the nearby playground offers additional entertainment.

3. El Medano

El Medano, located on the southern coast of Tenerife, is known for its windsurfing and kite surfing. However, it also has a laid-back, family-friendly vibe with shallow waters and soft sand, making it ideal for young children. The beach is long and wide, providing ample space for kids to run around and play. The small waves are gentle enough for beginners to try water sports, and the promenade offers plenty of options for a snack or a refreshing drink. Families can also explore the nearby natural reserve, Montaña Roja, for a scenic hike.

4. Playa del Duque

Situated in Costa Adeje, Playa del Duque is one of the most upmarket beaches in Tenerife, offering pristine sand, clear blue waters, and a relaxing atmosphere. The beach is clean and well-maintained, with luxurious sun loungers and parasols available for hire. Families will appreciate the calm waters, ideal for children to swim in, and the availability of lifeguards ensures an added layer of safety. Nearby, you’ll find a range of family-friendly restaurants, ice cream parlours, and shops to complete your beach day.

5. Playa de Los Cristianos

Playa de Los Cristianos is another fantastic option for families, located in the heart of a bustling resort town. This beach features soft, golden sand and gentle waves, making it perfect for toddlers and young children. The beach promenade is packed with family-friendly restaurants, ice cream stands, and shops, ensuring that all your needs are catered for. There’s also a nearby harbour where families can book boat trips for dolphin and whale watching.

6. Playa Fanabe

Also located in Costa Adeje, Playa Fanabe is a Blue Flag beach, known for its excellent facilities and clean environment. It offers calm, shallow waters ideal for small children, as well as a range of water sports for older kids and teens. The beachfront promenade is lined with restaurants and shops, providing plenty of options for family dining. Families can also enjoy pedal boats, inflatable water slides, and other fun activities, making it an exciting choice for a day out.

Siam Park: A Splashing Good Time

Siam Park, often hailed as the world’s best waterpark, is a must-visit attraction for families enjoying Tenerife holidays. Located in Costa Adeje, this Thai-themed waterpark offers an unforgettable experience, catering to all ages with a wide range of rides and attractions.

For thrill-seekers, The Tower of Power is a must-try. This 28-metre-high slide will have older kids and brave adults zooming through an exhilarating vertical drop that ends in a tunnel through an aquarium of sharks and rays. Dragon is another heart-pounding ride, where you’ll feel the sensation of zero gravity.

For families with younger children, Sawasdee is a mini waterpark within Siam Park, featuring child-friendly slides and splash zones. The lazy Mai Thai River offers a more relaxing adventure, where families can float gently past waterfalls and lush tropical landscapes. The Lost City is perfect for toddlers, with shallow pools and small slides designed for safe play.

To make the most of your visit, plan to arrive early to avoid long queues and secure sun loungers in the park’s shaded areas. Purchasing the park’s Fast Pass is highly recommended for skipping lines on popular attractions. Pack plenty of sunscreen and swimwear, and don’t miss the artificial Wave Palace, where you can ride Europe’s largest man-made wave, or simply relax on the sandy beach. Siam Park promises an unforgettable day of fun and adventure for every family member.

Explore Tenerife’s Natural Wonders with Kids

Tenerife’s diverse landscape offers an abundance of family-friendly outdoor activities, from easy hiking trails to breathtaking wildlife tours. Whether your family loves exploring nature or spotting marine life, Tenerife has something for everyone on your Tenerife holidays.

Start with Mount Teide National Park, home to Spain’s highest peak. For families with young children, the Roques de García trail is perfect, offering an easy, 2-hour circular walk through the park’s otherworldly rock formations. The panoramic views of Mount Teide and the lunar-like landscape are sure to captivate both kids and adults. You can also take the Teide Cable Car to near the summit for incredible views without the strenuous hike.

For families who love the sea, a whale watching tour is an unforgettable experience. Tenerife is one of the best places in the world to see pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, with several boat trips departing from Los Cristianos and Puerto Colón. The calm waters around the island ensure a smooth ride, making it suitable for all ages.

As the sun sets, another magical adventure awaits - stargazing. Thanks to Tenerife’s clear skies and low light pollution, it’s a top spot for astronomy enthusiasts. Family-friendly stargazing tours often include telescopes and guides who bring the night sky to life, pointing out planets, constellations, and even the Milky Way. With such a variety of outdoor adventures, Tenerife guarantees memorable experiences for every family.

Tenerife’s Wildlife and Zoos: Loro Parque and Beyond

Loro Parque, located in Puerto de la Cruz, is one of Tenerife’s top attractions for families, offering an exciting and educational day out. Originally established as a parrot sanctuary, it has since evolved into a world-class zoo, known for its commitment to conservation and animal welfare. Families can explore a diverse range of species, from playful sea lions and majestic orcas to adorable red pandas and awe-inspiring gorillas.

One of the park's highlights is the Orca Ocean show, where these magnificent creatures perform breathtaking displays. The Penguinarium is another must-see, housing the largest artificial iceberg in the world, where kids can watch penguins swim and waddle through a realistic Antarctic environment. Katandra Treetops offers a walk-through aviary experience where children can feed exotic birds and learn about their habitats.

For hands-on, educational experiences, Loro Parque’s Discovery Tour provides behind-the-scenes access, teaching children about animal care and the importance of conservation.

Beyond Loro Parque, Tenerife also offers other wildlife parks worth exploring. Jungle Park is a great option for families, with exciting bird of prey shows and interactive areas where kids can get up close to lemurs and monkeys.

At Monkey Park, children can feed small primates and learn about the different species, making it both an educational and fun experience. These wildlife parks offer families a blend of entertainment and education, allowing children to connect with nature and discover the importance of wildlife preservation while having fun.

Family Adventure Days: Theme Parks and Water Sports

Tenerife offers families more than just beaches and sunshine—there’s a wealth of thrilling activities that cater to kids of all ages, ensuring fun-filled Tenerife holidays. From karting to mini-golf and adventure parks, there’s something to excite every young adventurer.

For adrenaline-seeking families, Karting Club Tenerife is the perfect spot for a friendly race. With different tracks suitable for all ages, even younger children can get behind the wheel of mini karts, while older kids and adults race on the full-speed circuit. The excitement of speeding through the curves and straights makes for an unforgettable day out.

If you’re after something more relaxed but equally fun, Mini-Golf in Costa Adeje offers a colourful, pirate-themed course that will entertain the whole family. With its creative obstacles and vibrant scenery, mini-golf is an enjoyable way for children to challenge their skills while having fun in the sun.

For water-loving families, Tenerife’s southern coast is packed with opportunities for water sports. Kids can enjoy safe and exciting activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing under the supervision of professionals, ensuring a fun but safe experience.

For those who love nature and adventure, Forestal Park is an outdoor paradise. This adventure park offers treetop challenges, zip lines, and rope courses for children and adults. With varying difficulty levels, the park provides a fantastic opportunity for families to bond while testing their courage and agility. With these exciting options, Tenerife promises endless adventure and fun for families.

Cultural Experiences for Little Explorers

Tenerife offers a rich cultural experience that is perfect for families wanting to combine fun with learning during their Tenerife holidays. From museums to ancient pyramids, the island provides interactive and engaging ways to introduce children to its history and heritage.

One of the most intriguing sites is the Pyramids of Guimar, a mysterious archaeological park that captivates children’s imaginations. Believed to be built by ancient civilisations, these step pyramids offer a fascinating glimpse into Tenerife’s past. The on-site Ethnographic Park also features educational exhibits, nature trails, and a poison garden, where kids can learn about plants from around the world in an engaging way.

For museum enthusiasts, Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre in Santa Cruz de Tenerife is an excellent place to start. The museum showcases Tenerife’s natural history, with exhibits on everything from the island’s volcanic origins to its rich biodiversity. The interactive displays, particularly about the Guanches (Tenerife's indigenous people), are ideal for keeping young minds engaged.

Exploring Tenerife’s local markets is another fun way to introduce children to the island’s culture. At Mercado de Nuestra Senora de Africa, kids can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as they sample local produce, learn about traditional Canarian foods, and interact with friendly stallholders.

These cultural experiences provide families with a deeper understanding of Tenerife while keeping children entertained through interactive learning. Whether exploring pyramids, museums, or bustling markets, the island’s cultural gems are sure to create lasting memories for young explorers.

Practical Tips for Stress-Free Tenerife Holidays

Planning the perfect family holiday to Tenerife involves more than just beaches and attractions. From finding the right accommodation to choosing child-friendly dining options, there’s a lot to consider keeping kids happy and entertained. Here’s some essential advice to ensure your Tenerife holidays go smoothly.

Accommodation

Look for family-friendly hotels or resorts that cater to children’s needs. Areas like Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos offer a range of family resorts with kid’s clubs, pools, and entertainment. Many resorts provide babysitting services and children’s menus, allowing parents some relaxation time. If you prefer self-catering, consider renting an apartment or villa, which gives more flexibility for families with younger kids who need their routines.

Transport

Tenerife’s public transport system is well-developed and affordable. TITSA buses connect major towns and attractions, making it easy to get around without a car. However, for families who prefer flexibility, renting a car might be the best option. Tenerife’s roads are generally in good condition, and car hire provides convenience for visiting remote beaches or exploring Mount Teide at your own pace. Be sure to request a child seat in advance if needed.

Family-Friendly Restaurants

Tenerife is packed with family-friendly restaurants offering local and international cuisine. Look for places with children’s menus and casual, relaxed atmospheres. Hard Rock Cafe in Playa de las Américas and La Rambla in Santa Cruz are popular choices for families, offering familiar foods and lively settings. Don’t miss trying local favourites like papas arrugadas (Canarian potatoes) and mojo sauces.

Itinerary Planning

Plan a mix of activities to keep kids entertained, from fun beach days to exploring Siam Park and Loro Parque. Balance active outings with downtime to avoid overtiring younger children. Always pack essentials like snacks, water, and sunscreen, especially for long days out. Having a flexible itinerary allows room for impromptu discoveries, ensuring both kids and parents enjoy the holiday at their own pace.