The 12 Prettiest Places in the Canary Islands to Visit

294

The Canary Islands made me question reality. No joke—standing on top of Mount Teide in Tenerife, surrounded by red rocks and clouds below my feet, I felt like I’d landed on Mars. Then I found myself walking through ancient laurel forests in La Gomera that looked straight out of Jurassic Park, complete with mist rolling through the trees.

These are the most beautiful places in the Canary Islands, and they’re absolutely mind-blowing. From watching the sunset turn Timanfaya’s volcanic landscape in Lanzarote into a sea of gold to swimming in the natural pools of El Hierro with the Atlantic crashing around me, here are 12 spots that showed me why these islands are way more than just beach vacations. Trust me, you’ve never seen anything like this.

Best Things to Do in the Canary Islands       

Visiting the Canary Islands? Spend the day exploring the charming town of Teror, marvel at the volcanic landscapes of Timanfaya National Park, or relax on the remote shores of El Cofete Beach. Witness the dramatic coastal cliffs of Los Hervideros, stroll through vibrant markets, or savor fresh seafood by the ocean. Whether you’re into history, outdoor adventures, or breathtaking scenery, the Canary Islands have plenty to offer.

1. Teror

• 📍 Location: Northern Gran Canaria, 20 minutes inland from Las Palmas
• 🏆 Best For: Culture seekers 🏛️, architecture lovers 🏠, food enthusiasts 🍽️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the colonial old town, visiting Basilica del Pino, browsing the Sunday market
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round (Canaries enjoy eternal spring), but September for the Fiesta del Pino celebration 🎭
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Casa Rural Doña Margarita – Creaky wooden floors and morning coffee in a sun-dappled courtyard from another century

Wooden balconies hang over the narrow streets of Teror like colorful guardians of Gran Canaria’s spiritual heart. The magnificent Basilica del Pino commands the town center with its intricate gold altar and quiet dignity. On Sundays, the main street transforms into a bustling market where locals barter over homemade cheeses and honey that captures the essence of island wildflowers.

Duck into any café for “bienmesabe,” an almond dessert that lives up to its name, “tastes good to me.” Pine-scented hiking trails offer welcome shade after exploring the market. I’ve found September’s festival brings the real magic, when candlelit processions and folk music fill the streets. This mountain town perfectly balances authentic tradition with just enough amenities for comfortable exploration.

2. Timanfaya National Park

• 📍 Location: Western Lanzarote, covering nearly a quarter of the island
• 🏆 Best For: Volcano enthusiasts 🌋, photographers 📸, geology lovers 🪨
• 📸 Top Experiences: Taking the guided bus tour, watching geothermal demonstrations, dining at El Diablo restaurant
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds 🌄
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Volcán Lanzarote – Volcanic-stone showers and balconies overlooking moody black beaches make geology part of your stay

Heat radiates through your shoes on Timanfaya‘s rust-colored landscape, a stark reminder that this dormant volcano still simmers with geological rage. Created by 18th-century eruptions that buried entire villages, this Martian terrain maintains temperatures of 600°C just below the surface. Park rangers demonstrate this power by tossing water into shallow holes that instantly explode back as steam geysers.

El Diablo restaurant serves meals cooked using only the natural heat rising from below. The landscape transforms completely with the light, revealing new textures as shadows lengthen across the rippled volcanic fields. Visit at sunrise when the parks open to have some sections entirely to yourself. I’ve never seen another landscape that shifts so dramatically from hellscape to otherworldly beauty in a single day.

3. El Cofete Beach

• 📍 Location: Southwestern Fuerteventura, on the remote Jandía Peninsula
• 🏆 Best For: Beach purists 🏖️, adventurers 🚙, solitude seekers 🧘
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in pristine waters, visiting Villa Winter, enjoying the unspoiled 12km shoreline
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-October for warmest temperatures, but paradise year-round with fewer crowds in winter 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Casa del Mar – Fall asleep counting stars and wake to waves lapping at your doorstep, not another building in sight

Twelve kilometers of untamed golden sand stretch beneath towering mountains at El Cofete, the Canaries’ most dramatically situated beach. Unlike manicured resort beaches, this wild shoreline roars with Atlantic waves that demand respect from swimmers but create paradise for beachcombers. The isolation is complete, with often more seabirds than people sharing the vast expanse.

The mysterious Villa Winter stands against the mountains, sparking conversations with locals about its rumored Nazi connections. Come prepared with everything you need. There’s nowhere to buy water and no shade from the sun. The reward? Standing in foaming surf as mountains turn purple at sunset, feeling like you’ve discovered a secret edge of Europe that mass tourism forgot.

• Read Next: Best Things to Do in Spain

4. Los Hervideros

• 📍 Location: Southwestern Lanzarote, near the village of El Golfo
• 🏆 Best For: Nature enthusiasts 🌊, photographers 📸, geology buffs 🪨
• 📸 Top Experiences: Watching the sea caves “boil,” walking the cliff paths, capturing sunset over the volcanic coast
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Winter and spring for spectacular wave action, high tide for maximum impact 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lava Beach Hotel – The rhythmic crash of waves becomes your alarm clock, with breakfast views of the same ocean forces that created this volcanic coastline

Atlantic swells surge into volcanic caves with explosive force at Los Hervideros, creating natural geysers that shoot skyward with each incoming wave. Well-designed viewing platforms put you safely close to the action, while the contrast between glossy wet rock and rugged dry stone creates a photographer’s dream landscape. Each wave has a different water spectacle, making this natural performance worth at least an hour of your time.

Nearby, El Golfo’s green lagoon glows like an alien eye set in black volcanic sand. Time your visit with high tide when the water performance reaches peak drama. The coastal drive connecting these sites reveals Lanzarote’s unique character at every turn. I recommend late afternoon, when slanting light brings out the texture in the rock and fewer tour buses crowd the parking areas.

5. El Hierro

• 📍 Location: The westernmost and smallest Canary Island, accessible by ferry or flight from Tenerife
• 🏆 Best For: Eco-travelers 🌱, divers 🤿, hikers 🥾, tranquility seekers 🧘
• 📸 Top Experiences: Diving in La Restinga Marine Reserve, hiking through ancient laurisilva forests, relaxing in natural pools
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September-November for perfect temperatures and crystal-clear diving conditions 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Puntagrande – A room surrounded by ocean on three sides with stars so bright they reflect on the water below your window

Wind turbines and hydroelectric plants power almost everything on El Hierro, Spain’s most sustainable island and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The island offers astonishing diversity within its small footprint. Misty prehistoric forests in the morning lead to sunbaked volcanic beaches by afternoon. La Restinga Marine Reserve offers visibility so clear that diving feels more like flying among curious groupers and graceful rays.

Cool off at El Charco Azul, a perfect natural pool protected from crashing waves by volcanic rock formations. The night skies reveal stars forgotten by city dwellers, creating a ceiling of light unmatched elsewhere in Europe. This island changes visitors. I left with a profound sense of calm that urban life had stripped away. Rent a car to maximize your exploration of this compact natural wonderland.

6. La Laguna

• 📍 Location: Northern Tenerife, 15 minutes from Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🏛️, architecture lovers 🏠, culture enthusiasts 🎭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Wandering the UNESCO-listed old town, visiting the Cathedral, exploring the History and Anthropology Museum
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but February-March for the famous Carnival celebrations 🎭
• 🏨 Where to Stay: La Laguna Gran Hotel – Morning coffee on your balcony overlooks terracotta rooftops while church bells echo across the UNESCO-listed old town

Cobblestone streets lead past pastel-colored mansions with ornate wooden balconies in La Laguna, a UNESCO site refreshingly free of tourist crowds. Open doorways reveal hidden courtyards bursting with tropical flowers, while the sweet smell of guava and coffee drifts from family-run cafés. The cathedral surprises with its unexpected light and colorful iconography against whitewashed walls.

University students bring youthful energy to ancient streets, creating a perfect blend of history and vibrant present. Impromptu folk music performances often fill tiny plazas with authentic Canarian culture. Skip the resort towns for this genuine city where real island life continues around visitors rather than for them. Its location just 15 minutes from Tenerife’s capital makes it an ideal base for exploring both coastal attractions and the ancient laurel forests of nearby Anaga Rural Park.

7. Anaga Mountains

• 📍 Location: Northeastern Tenerife, 30 minutes from Santa Cruz de Tenerife
• 🏆 Best For: Hikers 🥾, nature lovers 🌿, photographers 📸
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking the ancient laurel forests, visiting remote villages, capturing stunning coastal views
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round (temperatures remain mild at 60-70°F), though spring brings vibrant wildflowers 🌸
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey – A 1950s-era gem in Tenerife blending colonial charm with modern luxury, featuring lush gardens, a serene spa, and easy access to Santa Cruz’s vibrant center

Step back in time within the ancient laurel forests of the Anaga Mountains, among Europe’s oldest geological formations. Misty trails wind through prehistoric-looking landscapes with moss-covered trees creating an otherworldly atmosphere. Hikers can choose between the gentle Sendero de los Sentidos or challenge themselves on paths leading to Chinamada with its fascinating cave houses. The Mirador Cruz del Carmen has spectacular viewpoints stretching to Gran Canaria on clear days.

These mountains create their own microclimate, so I always pack layers when visiting. From the rugged peaks, numerous trails lead to secluded black sand beaches accessible only by foot. The dramatic terrain meets the Atlantic in stunning fashion, creating photo opportunities at every turn. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve stands in stark contrast to Tenerife’s beach resorts, offering authentic natural wonders within easy day-trip distance from the capital.

• Read Next: Top Activities in the Canary Islands

8. La Orotava

• 📍 Location: Northern Tenerife, nestled in the Orotava Valley 25 minutes from Puerto de la Cruz
• 🏆 Best For: History enthusiasts 🏛️, architecture lovers 🏠, culture seekers 🎭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Wandering the colonial old town, visiting historic mansions with traditional wooden balconies, exploring the botanic gardens
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-June for the Corpus Christi flower carpets, year-round for pleasant temperatures 🌺
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Rural Orotava – Restored 17th-century manor house with period furnishings and lush garden courtyard

Colonial splendor fills every corner of La Orotava, home to the highest concentration of protected buildings in the Canary Islands. Wooden balconies hang above narrow cobblestone streets, creating a living museum of traditional architecture. The magnificent Casa de los Balcones showcases centuries-old woodworking techniques alongside the island’s finest embroidery. Nearby, the Church of La Concepción impresses with its ornate ceiling and religious artifacts.

During Corpus Christi in June, locals transform streets with intricate flower carpets worth timing your visit around. The peaceful Jardín Victoria offers perfect views across the valley to the Atlantic after exploring the bustling historic center. You’ll find some of Tenerife’s best traditional restaurants here serving authentic Canarian cuisine. This perfectly preserved town offers a complete cultural experience within walking distance, making it easy to spend hours exploring its architectural treasures.

9. Teide National Park

• 📍 Location: Central Tenerife, 1 hour from both the northern and southern coasts
• 🏆 Best For: Stargazers ✨, hikers 🥾, volcano enthusiasts 🌋
• 📸 Top Experiences: Taking the cable car near the summit, hiking through the otherworldly landscape, stargazing in one of the world’s clearest night skies
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring for wildflowers, winter for possible snow on the peak, night visits year-round for stars 🌠
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Parador de Cañadas del Teide – The only hotel within the national park, offering unparalleled access to dawn and dusk views

Mars-like landscapes stretch across Teide National Park, where Spain’s highest peak dominates the horizon at 12,198 feet. This UNESCO site showcases nature’s volcanic artistry through bizarre rock formations in colors ranging from jet black to bright ochre. The cable car offers visitors near the summit of Mount Teide, revealing panoramic views sometimes stretching to Africa. Geological wonders dot the park, including the striking Roques de García and the vast Llano de Ucanca crater floor.

After sunset, the astronomical show begins with some of Earth’s clearest night skies. Stars appear so numerous they seem artificial to first-time visitors. The organized night tours let me spot distant galaxies through professional telescopes, an unforgettable experience. Pack warm clothing regardless of season, as temperatures plummet after dark at this elevation. The stark contrast between this volcanic wonderland and Tenerife’s lush coasts makes this national park an essential visit.

• Read Next: Beautiful Places to Visit in Spain

10. Icod de los Vinos

• 📍 Location: Northwestern Tenerife, 40 minutes from Puerto de la Cruz
• 🏆 Best For: Wine enthusiasts 🍷, botany lovers 🌳, culture seekers 🏛️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the ancient Dragon Tree, touring local wineries, exploring lava tube caves
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: September for the wine harvest festivities, spring for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds 🍇
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Emblemático San Marcos – Restored Canarian mansion with wooden balconies overlooking the historic plaza

The legendary Dragon Tree lords over Icod de los Vinos, a botanical wonder estimated between 800-3,000 years old. This botanical patriarch stands as a living symbol of the island’s unique natural heritage with its distinctive umbrella-shaped crown. Surrounding vineyards produce exceptional wines from volcanic soil, with local bodegas offering tastings of varieties found nowhere else. The unusual “cordón trenzado” growing technique creates uniquely resilient vines adapted to local conditions.

Underground adventures await at Cueva del Viento, one of Europe’s largest volcanic tube systems. Guided tours reveal how ancient lava flows created this subterranean labyrinth. Back above ground, the historic center features the beautiful Church of San Marcos alongside traditional Canarian architecture. This compact town packs remarkable diversity into a small area, allowing visitors to experience natural wonders, winemaking traditions, and cultural heritage without changing locations.

11. Gui Gui Beach

• 📍 Location: Southwestern Gran Canaria (neighboring island to Tenerife), accessible only by boat or a challenging 3-hour hike
• 🏆 Best For: Adventure seekers 🧗‍♀️, beach lovers 🏖️, solitude enthusiasts 🧘
• 📸 Top Experiences: Swimming in pristine waters, hiking the dramatic coastal trail, camping under star-filled skies
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-October for warm swimming conditions; avoid winter when seas can be rough 🌊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Puerto de Las Nieves – This tranquil 4-star retreat in Agaete blends nautical charm with modern comforts, offering a rejuvenating spa, indoor pool, and steps from the Atlantic’s natural pools and ferry to Tenerife

Paradise demands effort at Gui Gui Beach, one of the Canary Islands’ last truly wild coastal retreats. This hidden black sand cove remains pristine thanks to its challenging access, requiring either a boat trip or an adventurous hike from Tasartico through dramatic ravines. The journey itself becomes part of the experience, with breathtaking Atlantic vistas accompanying every step along the trail.

The secluded crescent of volcanic sand rewards persistent travelers with crystal-clear waters and towering cliffs, creating a natural amphitheater. Swimmers should watch for occasional strong currents while enjoying this untouched shoreline. Securing a camping permit allows overnight stays beneath extraordinary starry skies untainted by artificial light. Come fully prepared, as no facilities exist here, creating a genuine disconnection from modern life that increasingly draws adventure seekers looking for authentic natural experiences.

12. The West Coast Road

• 📍 Location: Western Tenerife, running from Santiago del Teide to Buenavista del Norte
• 🏆 Best For: Road trippers 🚗, photographers 📸, geology enthusiasts 🌋
• 📸 Top Experiences: Driving cliff-hugging roads with panoramic ocean views, stopping at scenic lookouts, exploring remote coastal villages
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though avoid foggy days for the best visibility and views 🌤️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Rural El Patio – Historic family-run finca in Garachico with tropical gardens and volcanic stone architecture

Hairpin turns hug sheer cliffs along Tenerife’s spectacular West Coast Road, offering non-stop drama where mountains meet ocean. This engineering marvel starts in volcanic Santiago del Teide before climbing into rapidly changing landscapes. The mountain village of Masca appears like a mirage perched impossibly between deep ravines, accessed via thrilling switchbacks that showcase driver and engineering skill alike.

Continuing north reveals the mighty Los Gigantes cliffs towering 2,000 feet above the Atlantic’s deep blue. The journey culminates in Garachico, where a 1706 volcanic eruption created natural swimming pools now enjoyed by visitors. Afternoon light transforms the coastline, turning rocky outcrops golden against the ocean backdrop. Plan for frequent stops at viewpoints to fully appreciate this spectacular route. The combination of natural beauty, charming villages, and geological wonders makes this drive unmissable for any Tenerife visitor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in the Canary Islands                   

Looking to expand your knowledge about the most scenic spots in the Canary Islands? Here are some common questions I get a lot about the best Canary Islands attractions.

Which of the Canary Islands is the most beautiful?

Determining the “most beautiful” Canary Island is subjective, as each island has its unique charm and appeal:

• Tenerife – Known for its diverse landscapes, from stunning beaches to Teide National Park.
• Gran Canaria – Offers a mix of beaches, cultural sites, and dramatic inland landscapes.
• Lanzarote – Famous for its striking volcanic landscapes and unique architecture.
• Fuerteventura – Boasts beautiful beaches and a serene, desert-like interior.
• La Palma – Ideal for nature lovers, with lush forests and astronomical observatories.
• La Gomera – A hiker’s paradise with ancient forests.
• El Hierro – The smallest island, known for its pristine, natural beauty.

Each island caters to different preferences, making them all uniquely beautiful.

Where is the nicest place in the Canary Islands?

The “nicest” place in the Canary Islands can vary based on interests, but here are some top contenders:

• Teide National Park, Tenerife – For breathtaking volcanic landscapes.
• Maspalomas Dunes, Gran Canaria – Known for its stunning sand dunes.
• Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote – Offers unique volcanic scenery.
• Garajonay National Park, La Gomera – A UNESCO World Heritage site with lush forests.
• El Golfo, Lanzarote – Famous for its green lagoon.
• Betancuria, Fuerteventura – A historic town with charming architecture.

Each location offers a unique experience, making them some of the nicest places in the Canary Islands.

Which Canary Island is the most touristy?

The most touristy Canary Island is Tenerife. It’s known for its vibrant resorts, diverse attractions, and the famous Teide National Park. Popular areas like Playa de Las Americas and Los Cristianos attract many visitors for their beaches, nightlife, and entertainment options. Tenerife’s blend of natural beauty and tourist amenities makes it a top choice for travelers.

Which of the Canary Islands is the best non-touristy?

El Hierro is considered the best non-touristy Canary Island. It’s the smallest and least visited, offering a tranquil and authentic experience. Known for its unspoiled natural landscapes, El Hierro is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat away from crowded tourist spots. It’s a haven for nature lovers, hikers, and scuba divers.

Which Canary Island is most affordable?

Gran Canaria and Tenerife are generally considered the most affordable Canary Islands. They offer a wide range of accommodations and activities suited to budget travelers. Their popularity also means more competitive prices for flights, dining, and entertainment. However, prices can vary depending on the season and specific locations within the islands.

Are the Canary Islands cheap to visit?

Visiting the Canary Islands can be relatively affordable compared to other European destinations. Factors that influence cost include:

• Travel Season: Prices are higher during peak tourist seasons.
• Accommodation Choices: Options range from budget hostels to luxury resorts.
• Dining: Local eateries offer good value compared to tourist-focused restaurants.
• Transportation: Public transport is cost-effective; car rentals add expense.
• Activities: Many natural attractions are free or low-cost.

Overall, with careful planning and budget-friendly choices, a trip to the Canary Islands can be quite affordable.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in the Canary Islands

As our exploration of the Canary Islands concludes, it’s clear that these islands are a mosaic of diverse, breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences. From the serene beaches of Fuerteventura to the volcanic wonders of Lanzarote, each island offers its unique charm and beauty.

Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, the Canary Islands provide an unforgettable experience for every traveler. So, pack your bags and set sail for this Atlantic paradise – a journey that promises to be as enriching as it is enchanting.