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The island of Tenerife is one of the most diverse destinations in Europe, home to dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush ancient forests, and some of the best beaches in the Canaries. Whether you’re planning a relaxed winter sun escape or an action-packed road trip, choosing the right base is essential to making the most of the largest island in the Canaries.
Tenerife is broadly divided into two distinct zones, the warm, sun-drenched South, famous for its luxury resorts, golden beaches, and world-class hospitality, and the green, rugged North, known for its authentic Canarian villages, black sand beaches, and incredible hiking trails.
This guide brings together the very best hotels across Tenerife, grouped by region to help you plan the perfect island adventure.
How to Use This Guide
Jump to any section using the Contents table below. Click a heading in the guide to pop back to the contents.
High season runs from November to March for winter sun seekers, and July to August for summer holidays.
Book early for peak weeks (Christmas, Easter, and February Half-Term) as the best boutique hotels sell out fast.
Many resorts in the South offer Half Board and all inclusive options, whereas hotels in the North often focus on Bed & Breakfast to encourage local dining.
If you’re staying more than 5 days, consider splitting your time between the North (for hiking/culture) and the South (for sun/relaxation).
Check for heated pools if you are visiting between December and April, as the evenings can get fresh even in the sunniest areas.
The weather varies significantly. The South (Costa Adeje, Playa de las Américas) is sunnier and drier, making it perfect for beach and pool holidays. The North (Puerto de la Cruz, Anaga) is cooler and greener, ideal for hiking, culture and a more local experience.
Car Hire is Key to truly explore the island, from the moonscapes of Mount Teide to the cliffs of Los Gigantes, we highly recommend hiring a car.
Best for | Luxury travellers, families, beach lovers, and guaranteed sunshine.
Costa Adeje is the most upscale area in Tenerife. It is world renowned for its high end hotels, exclusive beach clubs, and the golden sands of Playa del Duque which is a blue flag beach. If you are looking for five star relaxation, Michelin starred dining, and family friendly activities, this is the place to be.
Hotel Bahia del Duque Location
Location | Costa Adeje
A legendary resort designed like a traditional 19th-century Canarian village. Bahia del Duque sits right on the beach and features expansive tropical gardens, multiple swimming pools, and distinctive pastel coloured architecture. It is perfect for families and couples seeking classic luxury with a lot of character.
Royal Hideaway Corales Beach (Adults Only)
Location | La Caleta
For those seeking modern design and total tranquillity, The Royal Hideaway is ranked in the top 25 hotels in spain. Shaped like a cruise ship, every suite offers ocean views. The rooftop infinity pool and Michelin starred dining make it one of the most exclusive addresses on the island.
GF Victoria
Location | Costa Adeje
This is widely considered the best family hotel in Tenerife without compromising on luxury. With a glass-bottom sky pool, a private water park, and exceptional wellness facilities for parents, it strikes the perfect balance for every member of the family to have a perfect holiday.
Tivoli La Caleta Resort
Location | La Caleta
Nestled in the quiet, upscale fishing village of La Caleta, this resort is surrounded by tropical gardens and dramatic coastline. It is famous for its diverse culinary scene and sits just a short walk from some of the best seafood restaurants in Tenerife.
Best for | Culture, authenticity, lush scenery, and relaxed vibes.
The North offers a completely different experience. Puerto de la Cruz is a historic city with a real local pulse, surrounded by banana plantations and black volcanic beaches. It’s the perfect base for exploring the colonial town of La Orotava or hiking in the Anaga Rural Park.
Villa El Risco
Location | Los Realejos
Part of a magnificent 17th-century Canarian country house, this villa offers an authentic and tranquil escape. It is set on the unspoiled north coast with sweeping views of the sea, mountains, and banana plantations, and is a short walk from the black-sand El Socorro beach.
Villa El Risco was easily our favourite place we stayed in Tenerife; the views from the infinity pool were simply breathtaking, and we caught one of the island's best sunsets from here. We highly recommend this unique collection from Be Tenerife, which offers five different villas or private rooms away from the larger resorts, providing a truly unique and authentic feel.
BOOK | VILLA EL RISCO
Hotel Botánico & The Oriental Spa Garden
Location | Puerto de la Cruz
A true classic and often voted one of the best hotels in Europe. Hotel Botánico is an oasis of calm, famous for its award winning Oriental Spa and lush subtropical gardens. It has an old world charm that appeals to couples looking for a peaceful, regenerative retreat.
Atlantic Mirage Suites & SPA (Adults Only)
Location | Puerto de la Cruz
Perched on a cliff with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, this modern hotel offers a fresh, contemporary vibe. The rooftop bar is one of the best spots in the north to watch the sunset over the ocean.
Hotel Tigaiga
Location | Puerto de la Cruz
Set within the beautiful Taoro Park, Hotel Tigaiga is family run and known for its personal service and spectacular views of Mount Teide. It’s a quiet, comfortable base for nature lovers who want to be close to the city centre but away from the noise.
Best for | Dramatic views, sunsets, and a slower pace.
The West coast enjoys the best weather on the island alongside the South but feels much quieter. It is dominated by the majestic Acantilados de Los Gigantes (Cliffs of the Giants), which rise 600 metres from the sea.
RedLevel at Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora
Location | Alcalá
Located in a quiet coastal village, this hotel boasts the longest saltwater infinity pool in Europe. The "RedLevel" is an exclusive adults only sanctuary within the wider resort, offering butler service and private lounge access. The sunsets here, with views of La Gomera island, are unforgettable.
Royal Sun Resort
Location | Los Gigantes
Perched high on the cliffs, the Royal Sun Resort offers arguably the best views in Tenerife. The large apartments come with huge terraces overlooking the cliffs and the marina below. It’s an ideal choice for independent travellers who want self catering facilities with hotel luxury.
Best for | History buffs, city breakers, and serious hikers.
For a unique trip, split your stay with a few nights in the capital, Santa Cruz, or the UNESCO World Heritage city of La Laguna. Alternatively, stay up in the national park itself for unrivalled stargazing.
Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey
Location | Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The most iconic hotel in the capital, the Grand Mencey is a colonial style landmark. With a beautiful courtyard, a fantastic spa, and elegant rooms, it’s the perfect urban base for exploring the museums, markets, and shopping of Santa Cruz.
La Laguna Gran Hotel
Location | San Cristóbal de La Laguna
Located in the heart of the pedestrianised historic centre, this boutique hotel blends a restored 18th-century building with modern design. You are steps away from the best tapas bars and history in Tenerife.
Parador de Las Cañadas del Teide
Location | Teide National Park
The only hotel located inside the National Park at 2,000 metres above sea level. While the rooms are traditional lodge style, the location is unbeatable. By day, you are at the foot of the volcano and by night, you have the best stargazing in Europe right outside your window.
BOOK | PARADOR DE LAS CAÑADAS DEL TEIDE
If you are looking for something different, then use our interactive map to find your perfect place to stay.
What is the best time to visit Tenerife?
Every month! Tenerife is a year-round destination, but November to March is considered peak season for escaping the European winter cold.
Does the island have good weather year-round?
Yes, but it varies. The South (Costa Adeje) is guaranteed to be dry and sunny, while the North (Puerto de la Cruz) is cooler, lusher, and often cloudier.
Is hiring a car essential in Tenerife?
Highly recommended. While the South is walkable, a car is the best way to explore Mount Teide, the dramatic western cliffs, and the authentic northern villages.
Are the beaches in Tenerife black sand?
Both. The popular beaches in the South (like Playa del Duque) have imported golden sand, while the North retains the natural, striking black volcanic sand.
What is the local language?
Spanish. However, due to the high volume of tourism, English and German are widely understood in all major resorts, shops, and restaurants.
Is Tenerife an expensive destination?
It offers excellent value. You can find everything from high-end luxury resorts to budget-friendly apartments, making it generally cheaper than the European mainland.
Can I visit the summit of Mount Teide?
You can take the cable car most of the way up. To reach the actual summit, you need a permit that must be booked well in advance from the National Parks office.
Where is the best place for nightlife?
The area of Playa de las Américas, specifically the Veronicas and Patch zones, is the main hub for clubs, bars, and late-night entertainment.
Watch our Canary Island playlist
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