The Canary Islands are a paradise for adventure seekers, beach lovers, culture enthusiasts, and food fans. With volcanic landscapes, golden sand beaches, scenic hiking trails, charming old towns, and some of the clearest night skies in the world, the archipelago offers an incredible variety of experiences for every type of traveler.
This guide highlights the best things to do across Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro — including outdoor activities, natural wonders, beaches, culture, adventure, and family-friendly attractions.
For essential travel preparation, also explore: Travel Tips for the Canary Islands.
1. Explore the Volcanic Landscapes
The Canary Islands were formed by volcanic activity, creating some of Europe’s most dramatic scenery. These landscapes offer unique hiking opportunities, geological sites, and breathtaking panoramas.
Mount Teide National Park (Tenerife)
Standing at 3,715 meters, Mount Teide is Spain’s highest peak and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can:
- Take the cable car to 3,555 meters
- Hike to the summit with a special permit
- Explore lunar-like rock formations and lava fields
Timanfaya National Park (Lanzarote)
Known for its red craters and black lava fields, Timanfaya looks like a Martian landscape. Don’t miss the geothermal demonstrations, volcanic BBQ restaurant, and guided tours into protected areas.
Roque Nublo (Gran Canaria)
A massive volcanic monolith offering spectacular island-wide views. The hike is moderate and suitable for families.
2. Relax on Stunning Beaches
With over 1,500 km of coastline, the Canary Islands offer beaches for every taste — from turquoise lagoons to wild black-sand shores.
See our full guide: Best Beaches in the Canary Islands.
- Playa del Duque (Tenerife) – luxury & calm waters
- Maspalomas (Gran Canaria) – dunes & long sandy stretches
- Papagayo (Lanzarote) – turquoise coves
- Corralejo (Fuerteventura) – crystal-clear water
3. Enjoy Water Sports & Ocean Adventures
Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the islands are a top destination for surfing, diving, snorkeling, and sailing.
Surfing & Windsurfing
- Famara (Lanzarote) – ideal surf conditions
- El Médano (Tenerife) – windsurfing hotspot
- Sotavento (Fuerteventura) – shallow lagoons for kitesurfing
Snorkeling & Diving
Clear waters, volcanic reefs, and rich marine life make the Canaries one of Europe’s top diving destinations.
- La Palma – underwater volcano structures
- El Hierro – crystal visibility & deep-sea life
- Gran Canaria – artificial reefs & wrecks
Whale & Dolphin Watching
Between Tenerife and La Gomera lies one of the world's best whale-watching zones, home to pilot whales and dolphins year-round.
4. Explore Charming Towns & Cultural Highlights
Beyond beaches, the Canary Islands offer vibrant cities, historic towns, traditional markets, and cultural festivals.
La Laguna (Tenerife)
A UNESCO-listed colonial town with colorful buildings, lively cafés, and charming streets.
Vegueta (Gran Canaria)
The historic center of Las Palmas is filled with architecture, museums, and a beautiful cathedral.
Arrecife (Lanzarote)
A relaxed coastal city featuring marinas, museums, and César Manrique's artistic influence.
Santa Cruz de La Palma
Beautiful balconies, cobblestone streets, and a peaceful seaside atmosphere.
5. Visit the César Manrique Art & Architecture Sites
Lanzarote’s iconic artist César Manrique blended nature with architecture in incredibly unique ways.
- Jameos del Agua
- Cueva de los Verdes
- Mirador del Río
- César Manrique Foundation
His works appear even in public spaces, beaches, and viewpoints across Lanzarote.
6. Take Scenic Hikes
The Canary Islands have hundreds of hiking trails — volcanic peaks, coastal paths, forests, and high-altitude viewpoints.
Top Hikes
- Masca Gorge (Tenerife) – a legendary trail through dramatic cliffs
- Caldera de Taburiente (La Palma) – one of Europe’s largest volcanic craters
- Garajonay National Park (La Gomera) – ancient forests & misty paths
- Pico de las Nieves (Gran Canaria) – panoramic views
7. Relax in Natural Pools
Volcanic rock formations along the coast create stunning natural pools (charcos) perfect for swimming on calm days.
- Garachico (Tenerife)
- Los Charcones (Lanzarote)
- Charco Azul (La Palma)
8. Experience Local Food & Markets
Canarian cuisine is simple, flavorful, and deeply tied to local products.
Must-Try Dishes
- Papas Arrugadas – salty wrinkled potatoes with mojo sauce
- Fresh seafood – especially in coastal towns
- Gofio – roasted grain flour used in desserts and meals
- Local cheeses – goat cheese specialties
For more dining inspiration: Canary Islands Restaurants.
9. Enjoy Stargazing & Astronomy Experiences
Due to low light pollution, high altitudes, and clear skies, the Canary Islands are one of the world’s top stargazing locations.
- Teide Observatory (Tenerife)
- Roque de los Muchachos Observatory (La Palma)
- Guided night tours and astrophotography experiences
10. Take a Boat Trip or Island-Hopping Tour
With short ferry distances and domestic flights, it’s easy to explore multiple islands in one trip.
- Tenerife → La Gomera (ferry)
- Gran Canaria → Fuerteventura
- Lanzarote → La Graciosa
Where to Go Next
From towering volcanoes to turquoise oceans, ancient forests, and lively cultural towns, the Canary Islands offer endless experiences for every traveler. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or family fun, these islands deliver a perfect blend of nature, culture, and sunshine — every day of the year.
