I’ve written a post about things to do in Tenerife two years and as the summer holidays are almost around the corner, I thought I’d share some things to do in Tenerife with kids.
The island is incredibly family friendly and there are plenty of family holidays from Holiday Gems if you’re interested in booking a holiday to biggest of the Canary Islands but before you rush off, check out what Tenerife has to offer for families.
Tenerife for aspiring birdwatchers and zoologists – Loro Parque
Probably the number one attraction for families in Tenerife is the island’s 33-acre Loro Parque – a zoo just on the outskirts of Puerto de la Cruz but known far beyond Europe’s borders. What started out as a tropical bird sanctuary, now houses over 400 different species of animals and is known worldwide for its conservation work.
Home to Europe’s biggest dolphin show, the longest shark tunnel in Europe and the world’s biggest indoor penguin exhibition, the park has a lot to offer but the fun comes with a hefty price tag. At 23€ for kids and 34€ for adults, entry to Loro Parque isn’t cheap. You will, however, easily spend an entire day at the park and make memories that will last forever.
Things to do in Tenerife with kids – Siam Park
Siam Park, located in Adaje, 60 km southwest of the island capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife, has been voted the best waterpark in the world for the fourth year running. So if your kids love water slides, lazy rivers, tubing and more, this is probably one of the coolest places you can visit in Tenerife with kids.
Set against a Thai-themed backdrop, this extravagant waterpark offers something for the entire family. Sunbathe on the white sands, catch the surf at the Wave Palace or defy gravity on The Dragon. Our personal highlight, however, is the Tower of Power – a 28m water slide that allows you to reach a speed of 80km/h before sending you through a gigantic aquarium full of sharks and rays.
Whale watching in Tenerife with kids
If you want to see the giants of the ocean in their natural habitat, head to the south west of the island and go on a whale and dolphin watching trip.
In the waters between Tenerife and La Gomera, you can spot up to 21 different species such as bottlenose whales, sperm whales or orcas, so consider this when booking your trip. Also, make sure to book with companies affiliated with Tenerife’s Quality Tourism Services as they follow recognised whale and dolphin watching guidelines, e.g. noise levels, closeness to animals, the speed of boat and time spent near animals). Most tours last 2 to 3h and include drinks.
Stargaze at the top of Mount Teide
No visit to Tenerife is complete without taking a trip to Mount Teide, the 3,718-metre high and active volcano in the heart of Tenerife. It’s not only Spain’s highest summit but also the world’s third highest active volcano and at the heart of Europe’s most popular National Park.
As with all mountains, it is always important to wear appropriate footwear and do your research before you head up to the top. The terrain around Mount Teide is incredibly rocky and not suitable for very young children. You can, however, take a cable car to the top and enjoy the view without breaking a sweat. If your kids are 12 or older, you can experience Teide By Night, a sunset and stargazing excursion that allows you to experience a dinner at the top of the volcano and a guided tour with an astronomer.
Tenerife for kids and budding scientists
If stargazing has inspired your kids to have a closer look at space and the world around them, the Museum of Science and the Cosmos is a great place for all the family.
Located in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, the museum has over 70 interactive experiences to enjoy. Lift a car with one finger, get lost in the mirror maze or discover the solar system through one of the best telescopes of the world. Friday and Saturday afternoons are free but at around £5 for adults, the museum is a great day out if you’ve already spent most of your holiday budget.
If you’ve been to Tenerife with kids, what are your top tips for things to do and see?
Some imagery thanks to Turismo de Tenerife.
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