Best Areas to Stay in Tenerife Island

Are you planning a trip to the largest of the Canary Islands but unsure about the best areas to stay in Tenerife? This article will explore the various regions of the island and recommend ideal places to find accommodation in Tenerife based on your preferences. We’ll also provide some options for hotels, hostels, and apartments, along with a map highlighting these locations.

To determine the best area to stay in Tenerife, it’s essential to consider what type of traveler you are. Do you seek a relaxing beach getaway, a thrilling adventure exploring the island’s wild side, a cultural experience, or perhaps an urban escape?

→ Check out the best things to see and do in Tenerife

With this in mind, we’ll categorize Tenerife into two main zones: the north and the south.

• The NORTH is the greener and wetter area, featuring natural parks like Anaga Rural Park, wilder beaches, and the island's capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
• The SOUTH is ideal for those seeking a more relaxed, sun-and-beach tourism experience.

There’s truly something for everyone in Tenerife (it is one of the most diverse of the Canary Islands, if not the most), but to fully enjoy the island, it’s advisable to rent a car. This way, you can explore each of its unique corners, and you'll find that prices are generally quite affordable. Check here for options.

Puerto de la Cruz: A Smart Choice for Accommodation in Tenerife

Logistically, Puerto de la Cruz offers a compelling position. Located in the central north of the island, it is perfectly situated between Anaga Rural Park and Teide National Park, making daily excursions convenient without excessive travel time. Additionally, it boasts a wide range of hotels catering to various budgets.

For many, this is undoubtedly the best area to stay in Tenerife.

Recommended hotels:

• Be Live Experience Orotava
• Hotel TRH Taoro Garden
• The Blue Corner Apartments

El Médano: A Paradise for Kiters and More

El Médano was our base for a recent 10-day trip to Tenerife. Its interesting location places it close to the most significant attractions in the south while allowing easy access to the north via the TF-1 highway, making Santa Cruz just a 40-minute drive away. Additionally, it’s right next to Tenerife South Airport.

This charming town has a vibrant local atmosphere; you won’t find massive hotels or sprawling apartment complexes here, giving it a unique character. You'll find numerous restaurants and bars along the promenade, although accommodation options are somewhat limited.

Be aware that El Médano is renowned for its sun and winds. It features expansive beaches ideal for kitesurfing, along with a smaller urban beach that is quite sheltered and peaceful. Nearby, you can hike up Montaña Roja (a fascinating trek), and on the other side lies Playa de la Tejita, often regarded as one of the best beaches in Tenerife.

This area is an excellent choice for a complete stay in Tenerife.

Recommended hotels:

• Edificio Playa Chica
• Residencial Los Martines
• La Perla Medano

Costa Adeje: Ideal for Relaxation and Family Holidays

In the south, Costa Adeje is perfect for those who want to spend hours on calm beaches and enjoy a laid-back vacation. This area is also great for families traveling to Tenerife, as it hosts Siam Park, one of the coolest water parks in Spain.

The nearby Playa de las Américas area, known for its lively nightlife, is recommended only for those seeking a party scene.

Accommodation is abundant in this part of Tenerife, with over 60% of the island's hotel infrastructure concentrated here. Expect to find large international chain hotels, vacation apartment complexes, and more modest accommodations.

Recommended hotels:

• Hotel Tropical Park
• Sunset Bay Club By Diamond Resorts
• Apartahotel Alegria Barranco (Playa de las Américas)

Los Gigantes: A Tranquil Alternative for Relaxation

Located just north of Costa Adeje, Los Gigantes is a small village named after the area's star attraction: the majestic cliffs that rise 800 meters above sea level. This area guarantees good weather and offers a beautiful, relatively peaceful setting with black sand beaches and a fine selection of restaurants.

Although accommodation options may be fewer than in Costa Adeje, if you find a good hotel, don't hesitate to book it!

Recommended hotels:

• Ona Las Rosas
• La Casona del Patio
• Aparthotel Los Dragos del Sur

Puertito de Güimar: A Pleasant Discovery

Located near Candelaria and on the central east coast of Tenerife, Puertito de Güimar is a small village that pleasantly surprised us during our visit. We discovered it through our friend Claudia, and we truly enjoyed our time there!

This area features newly constructed developments while maintaining a hint of local character, with excellent restaurants (we indulged in a fantastic seafood platter) and a spacious, tranquil black sand urban beach.

If you’re seeking a well-located, peaceful spot for a fantastic vacation, Puertito de Güimar should definitely be on your list!

Recommended hotels:

• 115 Puertito de Güimar Stay by Sunkeyrents
• Terraza al Mar
• Home2Book Cozy Apartment

Santa Cruz de Tenerife: Perfect for Urbanites

While it might not be the first area we’d choose for staying in Tenerife, those who are urban dwellers or seeking excellent infrastructure may find sleeping in the capital appealing. Notably, the beautiful Playa de las Teresitas is nearby, and the historic center is quite interesting. If your plan is to explore the rest of the islands, the distances from here are not extreme.

During my work trips, I often stayed here and found it to be a friendly city. So, if you come across an unbeatable offer and don’t mind staying in a city, it might be a good option.

Recommended hotels:

• Silken Atlántida Santa Cruz
• Hotel Taburiente Tenerife
• Urban Anaga Hotel

Best Hostels in Tenerife: For the Alternative Traveler

If you’re looking for the alternative, traveler vibe that hostels offer, you’ll be pleased to know that Tenerife is increasingly home to more accommodations of this style. Here, you can share a room with fellow travelers from around the globe and save some money without compromising on quality. Here are some of the best hostels in Tenerife:

• Wanderlust Hostel
• Tenerife Experience Hostel
• Puerto Nest Hostel
• Endless Summer Hostel

Map of the Best Areas to Stay in Tenerife

To clarify your options, we've prepared a map highlighting the best areas to stay in Tenerife:

We hope our recommendations for the best areas to stay in Tenerife help you find your perfect base for exploration. Enjoy your stay on the island, and don’t forget to toast with a shot of honey rum (it’s a delight, for sure!).

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