From spectacular sunsets to hidden local restaurants, discover Ellie’s tips on what to see and do in Tenerife
Volcanic landscapes, hidden beaches and authentic Canarian cuisine: Tenerife has something for every type of traveller. But if you want to experience it like a local and truly see the best it has to offer, it’s worth getting some recommendations from an insider.
That’s why we decided to speak to Eleanor — or Ellie, as everyone knows her — Service Support Rep at TUI, who fell in love with the island and now calls it home.
After working in Tenerife for four seasons between 2018 and 2020, Ellie moved here permanently in 2022. She knows the island like the back of her hand and described to us her passion for the island:
“What I love most about Tenerife is the ‘no pasa nada’ attitude of the locals. It’s as if the world has stopped and everyone is here to enjoy the little things in life, without stressing over everyday problems.”
From spectacular sunsets to hidden local restaurants, here’s her insider guide to Tenerife. You can see a quick summary in the Instagram post below, or read continue reading the article for the full details.
The best things to do in Tenerife
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What to visit in Tenerife
- Teide National Park: A must when visiting the island of eternal spring, this national park is lunar-like and fascinating in every season and at any time of day. Ellie recommends visiting in the evening to witness an unforgettable sunset and then as night falls to admire a star-studded sky. To best explore the island’s otherworldly landscapes, the Teide and Masca Valleys tour will leave you speechless.
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- Mirador de Chipeque: North of Teide National Park, this scenic viewpoint offers a breathtaking view above the clouds with the Teide peak rising from the horizon. It’s accessible by car and perfect for those seeking an experience off the usual tourist track.
- La Laguna: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this charming town is full of artisan shops, colourful houses, cosy cafés and restaurants (vegan options included!). Ideal for a quiet afternoon immersed in architecture and local culture.
- The Ancient Dragon Tree of Icod de los Vinos: If you’re in the north of the island, stop by Icod de los Vinos to admire El Drago, a tree said to be between 500 and 1000 years old. Then stroll through the tree-lined square and enjoy a coffee in one of the many local cafes.
- Dinner in a local Guachinche: Think no frills nor Instagrammable interiors; Guachinches are rustic and authentic little eateries where you can enjoy grilled meat, Canarian potatoes, spicy mojo sauce and local wine… all at very affordable prices.
- Inland villages: The small towns and villages in Tenerife’s interior offer excellent cuisine with Latin American influences and a warm welcome.To discover the authentic side of Tenerife, Ellie recommends joining the Tenerife discovery excursion – culture & flavours tour, for a day exploring traditional villages, aloe vera plantations, hidden gems and, of course, the delicious local cuisine. All far from the crowds, just like a true local.
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The most beautiful beaches in Tenerife
- Playa Abama: Hidden beneath the Ritz-Carlton, this golden beach is open to everyone but little known, making it wonderfully quiet and tranquil. You’ll need a rental car to get there, and it’s best to arrive early to park in the free car park.Ellie recommends renting a sunbed from the Ritz so you can use the lift and avoid the long staircase on the way back from the beach.
- Playa del Duque: This white-sand beach in Costa Adeje is perfect for a relaxing day. Great for swimming, it’s surrounded by elegant restaurants and beach clubs.
- Playa El Camisón:A classic beach in Las Americas, it’s surrounded by palm trees and features a laid-back beach bar. Ideal for those seeking a more lively atmosphere.
- Playa Las Vistas: Between Los Cristianos and Las Americas, it’s one of the most accessible beaches on the island. With wooden walkways, shaded areas and floating chairs operated by lifeguards, it’s perfect for families and people with reduced mobility. Nearby you’ll find cafes, ice cream shops and açaí stands.
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What to eat in Tenerife
Many travellers expect tapas and sangria, but Canarian cuisine is a whole other story. Traditional dishes, local ingredients and Latin influences make it truly unique.
Ellie recommends three authentic restaurants in Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Tío Julio, Zanadu and Restaurante El Cordero.
Here are some of the must-try specialities:
- Carne de cabra (goat stew)
- Papas arrugadas with red and green mojo
- Grilled meats and homemade sides
- Local cheeses and wines
And if you love wine, the Full-day guided tour of La Laguna with lunch and wine-tasting offers an experience that combines cultural visits with local wine tastings at the Casa del Vino and a traditional lunch.
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The best time to visit Tenerife
Tenerife is perfect all year round, with sunshine and mild temperatures even in winter.
According to Ellie, summer (July–September) is livelier, with events, music festivals and DJ sets. But if you prefer peace and quiet, and fewer crowds, winter is ideal—just bring a jumper for the evening.
Unmissable events
The most famous event is without a doubt the Carnival of Tenerife, held between February and March. Spectacular costumes, parades, music and a lively buzz fill the streets. The main celebrations take place in Santa Cruz and are split between official events and spontaneous street festivities.
Throughout the year, every village celebrates its patron saint with traditional parties, live music and processions; it’s an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture.
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Practical tips for your trip to Tenerife
- What to pack? Hat, sunscreen and comfortable shoes. But if you’ve forgotten something, don’t worry! Shops like Primor and Druni sell everything, including loads of sun care products, at relatively low prices.
- How to get around Tenerife? Hiring a car will allow you to explore the island at your own pace. Otherwise, a great alternative is to join one of the many excursions with transfer included.As for public transport, although there is a bus network, it doesn’t run very frequently.
- Is tipping mandatory? No, just like in the rest of Spain, tipping is not obligatory. However, it’s always a welcome gesture, especially in hotels and restaurants.
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A day with Ellie in Tenerife
Ellie’s perfect day in Tenerife starts in Los Cristianos, in the south of the island, with an Italian-style breakfast in one of the many local cafés, followed by a stroll through the shops before heading straight to the beach for a few hours.
To enjoy some traditional Canarian dishes, lunch in a Guachinche is a must, then it’s off to Icod de Los Vinos to visit the centuries-old El Drago tree and enjoy a coffee break in the square.
Next up is a drive towards Teide or Mirador de Chipeque, to admire a stunning sunset above the clouds.
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The best experiences to enjoy in Tenerife
Ready to explore beyond the beaches of Tenerife? According to travellers here are some of the most loved TUI Musement experiences, designed and curated by us:
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