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Taking a Canary Islands holiday is something that I suggest you experience at minimum once in your lifetime. It is a highly famous visitor location in Spain because of its good weather all year round, its beaches, its landscapes, and its small villages. And as soon as you gain a little more data about this place, you will understand that there are numerous things to do in the Canary Islands.
When planning my travel to the Canary Islands, I faced numerous inquiries, but the most important was “which are the best destinations to experience in the Canary Islands.” It was quite difficult choosing only one, as no one specified the single best Canary Island to visit. They all have their charms, places worth exploring, and natural splendor. So upon learning it was fully practical to easily commute between the Canary Islands using short ferry rides, I opted to tour multiple islands.
To help in planning your holidays to the Canary Islands, I have put together this guide containing all the information needed before visiting this paradise. However, don`t expect me to say which Canary Island is the loveliest because they are all beautiful, and whichever one is visited will be enjoyed.
In this guide to exploring which Canary Island to visit, you will find:
- Which Canary Island is considered the best to visit
- Top activities to partake in throughout the Canary Islands
- Traveling between the volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean
Table of Contents
Which is the best Canary Island to visit?
The Canary Islands archipelago includes 8 primary islands and numerous smaller islands and islets. It’s quite hard to pick the most stunning Canary Island, because they each have their own uniqueness. However, depending on what you seek, I can recommend which Canary Island to explore. For example, an all-inclusive Canary Islands vacation differs from appreciating the solitude of some of the best beaches the Canary Islands offer.
Planning a family getaway to the Canary Islands? Wanting to flee the overcrowded mass tourism spots? Or looking to hike some beautiful trails in Spain? In any case, I can recommend the best parts of the Canary Islands for your needs, as you`ll discover in the following section .
Tenerife, one of the most popular Canary Islands destinations
Tenerife is one of the prime Canary Islands destinations as it offers nearly every appealing aspect. Moreover, it is the largest of the Canary Islands, hence if you’re uncertain which Canary Island best suits you, Tenerife is a very good selection. There are plentiful ” activities to engage in Tenerife.“
On this tropical island, you can enjoy finely textured white sand beaches along its southern coastline and volcanic, dark sand beaches in the northern region. You can also explore charming villages and population centers containing every convenience imaginable. Furthermore, you will discover many excellent restaurants in Tenerife where you can sample the most authentic regional cuisine, one of the quintessential activities to participate in within the Canary Islands.
However, if many mountaineers and hikers think that Tenerife is the best part of the Canary Islands, it’s because you’ll find the highest elevation point in Spain there, the Teide volcano, a distinctive place to explore in the Canary Islands. Check our guide on how to ascend Mount Teide.
If you want to experience a wide range of landscapes and architecture, Tenerife could potentially be one of the best Canary Islands for you. It is also suitable if it`s your initial trip to the Canary Islands and you don`t have time to visit the other islands or if you are searching for a comprehensive Canary Islands holiday.
However, its attraction means it’s not the best Canary Island if you’re looking for a tranquil atmosphere since many want to visit Tenerife, and the island is frequently crowded with tourists all year round.
If Tenerife is the best Canary Island for you…
You’re in luck as it has two airports. We always find the most reasonably priced flights to Tenerife on this website.
I recommend you spend 4 to 7 days on this beautiful Canary Island.
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The best way to travel around the Canary Islands is by vehicle, and in Tenerife, it will take less than ninety minutes to go from the north to the south. Here are some tips for renting vehicles at low prices. We usually reserve ours here with free cancellation.
Check the best tours accessible to Mount Teide, the highest summit in the Canary Islands.
Reserve lodging at one of the top places to stay in Tenerife. Some of the highest rated all-inclusive resorts in the Canary Islands are located there:
Please refer to our map highlighting popular areas of Tenerife.
Gran Canaria, best Canary Island for families
Gran Canaria is a destination you should consider for your Canary Islands holidays if you are looking for a place that isn’t as busy as Tenerife but still has many tourist attractions.
In Gran Canaria, you can enjoy expansive white sandy beaches and a city, Las Palmas, which has the best nightlife in the Canary Islands. You can also get lost among some fascinating and hidden natural landscapes, like its world-famous Maspalomas dunes, one of the best things to do in Gran Canaria.
This sand formation is encompassed by expansive resorts and represents one of the finest destinations in the Canary Islands if you want to enjoy an entirely inclusive holiday. Numerous lodgings in Gran Canaria provide entertainment choices for children, rendering it also the optimal Canary Island for families.
I advise choosing Gran Canaria if wanting to enjoy the beach, nightlife, and hidden but beautiful natural landscapes found on this charming island. Also, if searching for the best resorts in the Canary Islands, where relaxation surrounded by all imaginable comforts is possible. And above all, if a quiet but touristy place simultaneously is desired, Gran Canaria is your best option.
If Gran Canaria is the most beautiful Canary Island for you…
It is relatively simple to locate inexpensive flights to this island, since it has the largest airport in the Canary Islands. You can find some of the best values here.
I recommend spending 3 to 6 days in Gran Canaria, one of the most beautiful islands in the Canary Islands archipelago.
Leasing an automobile is the best approach to get around the Canary Islands. It normally takes around one hour to travel from the north to the south of Gran Canaria.
If planning to watch the glimmering Northern Lights in Yellowknife, Canada, there are many sightseeing options available. One highly recommended hotel is the Super 8 by Wyndham Yellowknife, known for its ideal location and competitive rates. Another nice choice is Tiga Bed and Breakfast, which features a terrace with panoramic views of the city, creating a magnificent setting to gaze upon the Dancing Lady.
Taking a whale and dolphin watching tour in Gran Canaria is the best of the Canary Islands.
Gran Canaria is well-known for having some of the top all-inclusive resort options in the Canary Islands:
La Palma, the most beautiful Canary Island
Many assert that La Palma is the most breathtaking Canary Island because it is full of verdant landscapes, flowers, and volcanoes, and I can confirm that it is. In addition, of the eight islands comprising the Canary archipelago, this is one of the smallest and least touristy destinations in the Canary Islands. Therefore, if you’re searching for a place to unwind in nature, La Palma could be your best option.
The island features spectacular landscapes. Large resorts and luxury accommodations are scarce, but for hiking enthusiasts, the best activity in La Palma,nowhere else is more suitable. Additionally, the night skies are breathtaking thanks to minimal light contamination. If astrophotography interests you, capturing the Milky Way makes this undoubtedly the premiere Canary Island for doing so.
Undoubtedly, La Palma, which can be considered the most agreeable of the Canary Islands, is the ideal selection for anyone questioning which of the Canary Islands would be most beneficial to visit for disconnecting from daily life amid lovely natural surroundings. If searching for the finest beaches or most vibrant nightlife scene in the Canarian archipelago, this probably isn`t the island I would suggest, as other islands in the Canary Islands are likely superior options for those two particular pursuits.
If La Palma is your best Canary Island destination…
La Palma airport connects to several large European cities. You can find the best travel deals here.
I recommend dedicating 3 to 5 days exploring La Palma, one of the best Canary Islands destinations.
Check out some top things to do on La Palma here:
Bring hiking footwear to explore some of the best trails on the Canary Islands. You will understand precisely why La Palma has the reputation of being the most beautiful Canary Island.
Taking a whale and dolphin watching tour in La Palma is the best of the Canary Islands.
Gain knowledge of how to photograph the Milky Way before visiting La Palma, one of the top activities to engage in within the Canary Islands.
La Palma is an ideal place to find reasonably priced accommodations like these ones:
Lanzarote, the nicest Canary Island for weather
To me, Lanzarote is one of the most beautiful Canary Islands because it is made up of beaches and volcanoes.
Many of its beaches originate from volcanic activity, so their sand is black, but you’ll also find golden, sandy beaches in some locales. In any case, some of the finest beaches in the Canary Islands are found here. Additionally, on this island, you will discover volcanic landscapes that seem like they’re directly from an alien world, such as that of the Timanfaya National Park, plus some charming towns. Lanzarote doesn’t have large hotel chains, nor great nightlife or shopping areas, but it does have a wide cultural and artistic offering thanks to the influence of Cesar Manrique, the most prominent artist from Lanzarote.
For me, this volcanic island provides the best experience in the Canary Islands, and I suggest it to those seeking fascinating landscapes, art, fine wine, and gastronomy. Note that while there are plenty of activities in Lanzarote, the island has a small land area, and during high season, it can become crowded with visitors. However, for most of the time, it remains fairly tranquil, rendering it one of the Canary Islands I advise you to explore.
If Lanzarote is the best of the Canary Island for you…
There are plenty of flights to the Canary Islands that arrive at Lanzarote. We have a guide on how to find inexpensive flights to Lanzarote, but this is the best site.
I recommend you spend 5 to 7 days touring this beautiful Canary Island.
Hiring a vehicle is the best way to get around the Canary Islands. It only requires an hour to travel from the north to the south of Lanzarote.
Taking a whale and dolphin watching excursion in Lanzarote is the best of the Canary Islands.
Visiting La Graciosa Island provides some of the best opportunities for experiencing Lanzarote and only takes 30 minutes to reach by ferry from the town of Orzola (located in the north of the island).
Reserve lodging at one of the top places to reside in Lanzarote. Some of the premiere all-inclusive hotels of the Canary Islands are located here:
Download our tourist map of Lanzarote island.
La Gomera, the best Canary Island for relaxing
La Gomera is a small and quiet island located west of Tenerife. However, its size should not mislead you, as the laurel forest within the Garajonay Natural Park renders it one of the most beautifully scenic of the Canary Islands. It is not as heavily visited by tourists though, since even if the last airport constructed in the Canary Islands is situated here, flights to La Gomera do not occur with the same regularity as other locations. Actually, most visitors arrive at La Gomera by ferry from Tenerife, certainly one of the most convenient means of transit among the Canary Islands.
With the exception of its capital city, San Sebastián de La Gomera, most locals reside in small, charming villages. However, many consider this gem one of the finest Canary Islands destinations because of its nature and the trails winding through it, as well as its scenic viewpoints, one of the greatest activities to engage in La Gomera.
If you are questioning which of the Canary Islands is best for hiking through forests, peace and quiet, magnificent views, and historic towns that still hold onto the essence of the archipelago, La Gomera is for you. However, it isn`t the top choice for individuals searching for massive resorts, many entertainment choices, and nightlife. There aren’t a lot of lodging in La Gomera, so if you plan to tour this island, reserve well in advance.
If La Gomera is the best Canary Island for you…
It has a small airport that exclusively flies to Tenerife, and, although you may discover some suitable travel deals here, if planning a single-day excursion from Tenerife, I suggest this option.
You can experience the most notable places in La Gomera within one day, although spending two or three days in La Gomera will also present many additional activities.
Unless you undertake this day trip from Tenerife, you will need to hire a vehicle as public transportation is not as accessible on this island.
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One of the most beautiful islands within the Canary Islands is La Gomera, and exploring the natural scenery contained within the Garajonay National Park through hiking is undoubtedly a recommended activity. No doubt, this is among the best things to visit in La Gomera.
If tranquility on your escape is what you seek, nowhere in the Canary Islands is better than La Gomera. The hotels below will ensure complete disconnection:
Fuerteventura, the best Canary Island for beaches
Fuerteventura is the second largest island in the Canaries, so for that reason alone, it deserves to be considered if you are planning your vacations to the Canary Islands.
However, some of the core reasons many visitors consider it an essential Canary Islands destination are its wild coastlines (certainly among the most stunning beaches of Spain) surrounded by nature and its breathtaking Corralejo Sand Dunes, the premier places to explore in Fuerteventura. There is no doubt that here you will find not only some of the finest beaches in the Canary Islands but also in Spain.
Additionally, it is the optimal Canary Island for kite sailing or surfing. On this island, you’ll find the best circumstances for these water sports year-round. In addition, there are many schools where you can learn these well-liked activities in the Canary Islands.
Surprisingly, Fuerteventura does not see large populations or many visitors, giving it a generally tranquil atmosphere, particularly in the low season. As such, nightlife options remain limited, except in select locales.
It doesn’t stand out for its cultural offerings either. However, if you are searching for spectacular landscapes, beaches, and water sports, this is the finest of the Canary Islands. Look elsewhere if you want to enjoy an lively nightlife and more cultural tourism.
If Fuerteventura is the most beautiful Canary Island for you…
Nearby Chelsea Market, one can find the High Line, an elevated park situated on old railway tracks. It extends around a mile to the Meatpacking District and offers pleasant perspectives. Visitors can follow it to theVessel and The EDGE, two of the top observation decks in NYC.
I suggest spending from 3-5 days in Fuerteventura, although if you don’t have that much time available, I recommend this daytrip out of Lanzarote.
Rent a vehicle if you want to explore some of the finest seaside locations in the Canary Islands. At most, it will require two hours to travel from the northern to the southern part of the island.
We have created an article covering the prime activities to engage in on Fuerteventura.Without any doubt, if you wish to enjoy wild beaches and enormous golden sand dunes, this is the best island in the Canary Islands for your needs.
Do not overlook the chance to go to Lobos Island, the best island in the Canary Islands. You can reach it with a short ferry ride from Corralejo (Northern Fuerteventura).
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While it is the second largest island of the Canary Islands, it isn’t the most visited by tourists. However, you can find some incredible lodging options if you search for where to stay in Fuerteventura:
Download the tourist map of Fuerteventura.
El Hierro, the cheapest island in the Canary Islands
El Hierro is the area`s tinier island, or no more so until a handful of years ago, when La Graciosa, at exclusively 29 sq km, was called the eighth Canary Island. Didn’t you be aware what number of islands construct up the Canary Islands? There is a touch of difference of opinion in this regard, since many state that the Canary Islands comprise 8 islands, and many others say that they involve 9 islands (counting Lobos Island, Fuerteventura, an extra island that I as well recommend visiting).
Anyway, El Hierro is a tiny island that has been designated a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. Its pristine, untouched natural environment is fascinating, and it represents the optimal Canary Island for relaxation. The island’s basic road system spans a shorter distance than its many trails that invite you to explore the landscape on foot, one of the top activities in El Hierro.
If you are searching for large shopping complexes, expansive resort destinations, or accommodations services, there are without a doubt other Canary Islands regions I suggest exploring, but if you fancy a relaxing vacation on the Canary Islands,El Hierro is among the most lovely Canary Islands.
As can be seen, it may not be the best Canary Island for everyone, since unlike the rest, the only activities possible here involve hiking through natural landscapes, scuba diving, and relaxation. You will likely end up conversing with locals, who will speak to you as if they`ve known you for years, so if experiencing true Canarian culture is important, this is your best choice.
Are you searching for a place to visit in the Canary Islands that’s unlike anywhere else? Then you will feel comfortable in El Hierro. But don’t go there if you are seeking many tourist activities. It is also the Canary Island with the most affordable travel costs, so taking an extended trip to El Hierro won’t strain your budget.
If El Hierro is your best Canary Islands destination…
One straightforward way to travel there is by taking a day trip from the island of Tenerife. Both the airport and island itself are modest in size. As such, while there are flights to El Hierro, they do not run very frequently.
I recommend spending 1 to 3 days in El Hierro. Initially it seems with few places for visitors, but it is one of the Canary Islands most worthwhile simply for its culture, scenery, and cuisine.
When arriving in the region, you can explore the Jandía Natural Park Interpretation Center, which features informative displays regarding the Fuerteventura coastline, its underwater terrain, and the cetaceans residing in the surrounding waters. That said, we enjoy visiting this location because it has ideal circumstances for capturing photos of the Milky Way. If you have a passion for photography, I suggest checking out the lighthouse at night and photographing the dark Majorero skies.
The best activities to engage in El Hierro are underwater:
Moreover, El Hierro is the most affordable Canary Island to travel to, and you will discover great lodging deals there:
La Graciosa, the best Canary Island for couples
La Graciosa is the ideal Canary Island for those seeking paradise and escaping from crowded tourist spots. It is the lone Canary Island without an airport, so you can only arrive there by ferry from Lanzarote.
La Graciosa is located in the Chinijo archipelago, one of the best areas in the world for scuba diving. Covering a total of 70,700 hectares, the waters surrounding these small islands form the largest protected marine region in Europe, which is because some sea creatures that can only be found here inhabit these waters.
However, considering La Graciosa to be the best Canary island for couples is justified because of its dream-inspiring sunsets. The island has a volcanic origin, so visitors will discover distinctive landscapes, remote beaches, breathtaking scenery and bicycle paths.
I recommend adding a visit during holidays spent in the Canary Islands if seeking relaxation and a quick way to experience the essence of the archipelago, as only a day or two is necessary to tour it. It is unsurprising that for many, it represents the most beautiful of the Canary Islands.
If La Graciosa is the best of the Canary Island for you…
Access to the island of La Graciosa is only possible via a ferry from Lanzarote, with a trip time of thirty minutes.
A day suffices to visit the most important places in La Graciosa, although if romantic seclusion is planned, I recommend spending two days on the island.
Nothing compares to renting bicycles to discover all the magical places to visit in La Graciosa.
La Graciosa is within the Chinijo Archipelago, one of the top places globally for diving and in the Canary Islands specifically. Those wanting to scuba can request information here.
Lodging choices on the island are scarce, so reserving accommodations well in advance is important if wanting to spend just one night there:
Access the travel map of La Graciosa.
Best Things to do in the Canary Islands, Spain
If you`re still unsure of which is the most beautiful Canary Island, below you`ll find key details about activities and attractions to explore throughout the archipelago to aid your next vacation planning.
I will provide information on where you can find the finest beaches, the most impressive volcanic landscapes, the best hiking trails, etc. to make selecting which Canary is best for you a bit simpler.
Best beach in the Canary Islands
Spending at minimum one full day basking in the sun on a heavenly beachscape is an essential thing to experience in the Canary Islands in my view. However, you may still be pondering which particular Canary Island you should travel to in order to enjoy the sun and sand, so now I`ll disclose the highest quality beaches located in the Canary Islands.
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La Graciosa is another Canary island worth exploring if you’re seeking dream beaches. Las Conchas Beach is exceptionally beautiful, although if you travel with kids, I recommend La Francesa Beach because its waters are calmer.
Lanzarote additionally boasts incredible beaches, especially within the Los Ajaches Natural Reserve, where Papagayo beach is noteworthy. On the northern section of the island, you will find Famara beach, at the base of the spectacular Risco de Famara, which is, in my view, one of the most beautiful. If desiring to savor wonderful and diverse beaches, Lanzarote undoubtedly ranks amongst the finest of the Canary Islands.
Hike up Mt. Teide, the best thing to do in the Canary Islands
Visiting the Teide summit is one of the best things travelers can do in the Canary Islands. This incredible volcanic mountain is situated in Tenerife and is the highest peak in Spain, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007 and one of the locations incorporated into the Natura 2000 Network. While Tenerife has other places worth seeing, I already consider it one of the best Canary Islands destinations due to Teide alone.
The volcano and the surrounding areas occupy an area covering approximately 19,000 hectares, containing singular volcanic rock landscapes and species exclusively found in this locale. You can reach the summit either through cable cars or by different trails. We hiked up the Montaña Blanca trail (also called Sendero 7), which spans 8 km and takes around 4 hours to traverse. In any circumstance, hiking the final 200 meters to the peak demands a special permit.
Experiencing the splendid panoramas from the summit of Mount Teide is not merely the finest activity in Tenerife but also one of the most beautiful sights in the Canary Islands.
Surfing in the Canary Islands, Spain
The island of Fuerteventura is best suited for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing within the Canary Islands. The El Hierro wave, located in the north near Majanicho beach, is one of the premier breaks in the Canary Islands, as it forms exceptional tubes and connects very well. However, to identify the prime place to surf in the Canary Islands, you must take the ferry to Isla de Lobos. At El Marrajo, there is a world-class wave, the lengthiest break in the Canary Islands.
Lanzarote represents a frequent solution to the inquiry “ which Canary Island is most suited for surfing.” Famara beach stands as one of the most popular destinations for surfers. However, if you seek waves of a higher caliber and have prior experience, El Quemao, near the town of La Santa, offers a greater test. From Lanzarote, you can also take a ferry to La Graciosa to surf at some of its shorelines.
Other islands with a longstanding surfing culture and good waves include Tenerife and Gran Canaria, although as two of the Canary Islands` most popular tourist destinations, they typically see larger crowds.
Diving, one of the most popular activities in the Canary Islands
Immersing is the best thing to do in the Canary Islands, since the archipelago has unbelievable seabeds.
If exploring underwater wonders piques your interest, El Hierro offers the ideal Canary Island destination. Found there is the Mar de Las Calmas Marine Reserve, blessed with transparent waters optimal for taking in below-sea marvels. With some good fortune, sightings of sea turtles, dolphins, groupers, barracudas, and more can occur. Additionally, El Hierro presents numerous other superb spots for this activity, leaving no uncertainty that it represents the finest of the Canary Islands for scuba diving.
La Graciosa is in the Chinijo Archipelago Marine Reserve, which is the largest protected marine region in Europe. The most spectacular thing is its rocky bottom, with caves, crevices, and tunnels. Also, since the water here has a lower temperature, there are species that cannot be seen on other islands. For this reason, diving is undoubtedly the most popular thing to do in La Graciosa.
Gran Canaria is also among the best islands for scuba diving, since its extensive coast provides everything from entry-level dive sites to some meant for more experienced divers. Additionally, you can explore sunken ships and snorkel among volcanic landscapes. It undeniably stands out as one of the most beautifully impressive Canary Islands beneath the waves.
Best volcanic landscapes in the Canary Islands
If I had to pick the best Canary Island to go to to enjoy a spectacular volcanic landscape, there is no uncertainty that it would have to be Tenerife. As I`ve mentioned previously, Teide, in addition to being the highest peak in Spain and a place where you get astonishing views, has landscapes of volcanic cones with shapes and colors that will leave you speechless. Walking through the Roques de García, at the bottom of the volcano, is like finding a new planet.
However, for myself, Lanzarote is the Canary Island that appeals most to visitors who wish to learn more about volcanoes. On this island lies Timanfaya National Park, the main attraction of Lanzarote, covering around 5,000 hectares. The volcanic eruptions until 1824 created a spectacular natural and pristine volcanic landscape. Here, you won’t find greenery, but you will see an amazing variety of hues. Moreover, guided tours are offered with park rangers to teach about the island`s formation.
La Palma, besides being the most beautiful Canary Island, has a fascinating volcanic landscape. It may not be as renowned as Teide or Timanfaya National Park because its development is much more recent. However, the volcanoes of Fuencaliente are a great place to explore in the Canary Islands. In 1971, the last eruption of Teneguía volcano occurred, and, since then, the Fuencaliente volcano route has become one of the finest treks in La Palma. On this island, you’ll also find Caldera Taburiente National Park, which was declared a World Biosphere Reserve in 2002. Even though its landscape is very unlike the rest, since it is full of greenery, several volcanic eruptions took place here, crafting a hilly landscape with up to 2,000 meters of unevenness.
Whale watching tours in the Canary Island
Observing whales is among the most widely appreciated activities in the Canary Islands. While tours providing the opportunity to watch whales and dolphins can be taken from nearly every island, one of the ideal locations is in Tenerife.
Indeed, one of the most prevalent activities to engage in while in South Tenerife is boarding a vessel that sails the waters of Costa Adeje, Guía de Isora, and Santiago del Teide searching for whales and dolphins. The marine environment of this area is ideal for observing sea creatures. Additionally, they frequently come quite near to shore, with twenty-one diverse species recorded. If you want to fully experience the finest aspects of the Canary Islands during your trip, I suggest the excursion we undertook or you can check other alternatives outlined in our guide on whale viewing excursions in Tenerife.
This activity can also be carried out on La Palma through an experience similar to this one. Most of the excursions depart from the Tazacorte port, on the west coast, and, in accordance with the island locals, the probability of sightings is about 90%. Remember that they are wild animals that live freely and that their actions and behaviors can be unpredictable. However, if the success rate is accurate, this makes it the best Canary Island for whale watching, particularly if you are searching for a place that is not as crowded with tourists as Tenerife. Here is an article containing all the information required about dolphin and whale-watching in La Palma.
On the island of Gran Canaria, whale watching tours also provide good opportunities to see wildlife, even though whales are less frequent; dolphins are generally spotted instead. These small and adorable cetaceans usually swim in the southern waters of Gran Canaria, particularly in the Puerto Rico area. If, during your holidays in the Canary Islands, wanting to enjoy this activity, I recommend this tour or checking our guide on the best whale watching tours in Gran Canaria.
Lobos Island is another ideal location within the Canary Islands for observing dolphins. You can join tours to explore its waters searching for these marine mammals from Lanzarote or from Fuerteventura. For additional information, check our guides on observing dolphins in Lanzaroteand dolphin-watching in Fuerteventura.
Laurel forests, which is the best Canary Island
The laurel forest is a type of humid subtropical woodland that I strongly suggest exploring in the Canary Islands.
To enjoy these magnificent woodlands, La Gomera is undoubtedly the finest island in the Canary Islands. Truly, many consider it to be the most beautiful Canary Island, thanks to the laurel forest it has in Garajonay National Park. If you can travel to La Gomera, visiting this park is comparable to stepping into a magical realm where nature has fashioned a space everyone wants to immerse themselves in. Winding trails, incredible vistas, fairytale landscapes and a beautiful volcanic terrain. This is the Laurisilva woodland of La Gomera.
Another forest that intrigued me was Anaga Rural Park in Tenerife. Numerous trails carry visitors through what locals call the `Enchanted Forest` of laurel trees. I especially recommend the Sendero de los Sentidos path, ranked among the top areas to explore in North Tenerife. Beyond this picturesque woodland, hikers can enjoy beaches, cliffs, and breathtaking vistas. With extra time, consider an overnight at this hostel to fully take in the surroundings.
In short, if you want to become familiar with laurel forests during your trip to the Canary Islands, I recommend those of La Gomera and Tenerife.
Beautiful villages to visit in the Canary Islands
If you are searching for the most excellent island in the Canary Islands to uncover the most traditional culture, the authentic gastronomy, and stroll through the streets of charming little villages and their surroundings, I am aware of which Canary Island is best for you.
In Gran Canaria, you will discover some of the most scenic villages in the Canary Islands. Such as Tejeda, also deemed one of the most picturesque villages in Spain. If you take pleasure in nature, it’s one of the towns to visit in the Canary Islands that you cannot pass up. Moreover, different hiking paths begin here. Teror is also in Gran Canaria, where you can become familiar with the most traditional side of the island, as well as Mogán, where, in addition to savoring the friendliness of the locals, you can also spend a nice day at the beach.
Lanzarote is another potential destination in the Canary Islands if exploring charming villages appeals. For instance, one of Spain`s most scenic towns is located there, Yaiza, and the quaint hamlet of Teguise can also be visited. Yaiza is ideal for those seeking tradition, architecture, and serenity. Meanwhile, Teguise is considered one of the oldest and most historically significant villages in the Canary Islands, contributing to it becoming, over the years, one of the main cultural and tourist centers of Lanzarote.
And finally, I highlight Betancuria, Fuerteventura. It is the oldest town in the Canary Islands and the most picturesque of all. Additionally, it is among the most beautiful towns in Spain. It is over 600 years old, and, despite its small size, it has many places of interest to discover. So, if you are seeking the best Canary Island to learn regarding tradition and culture, maintain Fuerteventura in mind.
Best Canary Island for Nightlife
If you are seeking the best Canary Islands for nightlife, I propose Gran Canaria. Evening recreation is focused, above all, in the funds, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, where there are bars and nightclubs that are launch until 6 am; and in the vacation regions of Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, and Puerto Rico. The presentation of nightclub scenes is so huge that you can find precisely everything you are searching for. You can even find vessels where you can expend a whole day doing tasks and, at nighttime, you can social gathering.
Although Gran Canaria is the best island for nightlife activities, you can also find many things to do at night in Tenerife. Of course, if you are looking for a place to spend your nights in Tenerife to enjoy its entertainment options, I suggest focusing on the south, specifically Costa Adeje, Playa de las Américas, and Los Cristianos, where you`ll find the top bars, most exclusive venues, and pubs clustered.
If exploring the Canary Islands with a focus on festivities, I wholly recommend Gran Canaria or Tenerife, with the former as the premier choice.
Carnival in the Canary Islands
If fortunate enough to travel to the Canary Islands during Carnival celebrations, you will witness one of the most spectacular, colorful, festive, and musical global events. But which Canary Islands` Carnival is considered the best?
The Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is one of the most notable carnivals globally, following only those in Rio de Janeiro and Venice. It is a celebration that is now ingrained in the culture and traditions of Tenerife. In fact, it was declared an International Tourist Festival of Interest in 1980, and it’s the only festival on the Canary Islands with such a distinction. During the days when the Carnival occurs, processions, costumes, comparsas, and musical groups take place. And most significantly, the coronation of the Carnival Queen.
In the capital city of Gran Canaria,Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Carnival is also a significant event. Within this area, they have a very unique figure, the Drag Queen, which distinguishes this Carnival from others. This persona, which has been an integral part of the festivities for decades, celebrates the LGBTQ community. While I have yet to visit Gran Canarias throughout Carnival up to this point, I understand that everything done to choose the “Reinona” is spectacular, vibrant and melodic.
And if you still do not have knowledge of which Canary islands to visit during Carnival, I guarantee that whichever island you choose, you will have an excellent time .
Canary Islands Hopping – Traveling between the Canary Islands
I know that deciding on the most suitable Canary island for visitors can be complicated, since each location has unique attributes that make it outstanding. For me, selecting just one was impossible, so when I found out how straightforward traveling between the various islands was, I chose to explore several of them, which turned out to be the best choice I made.
If you are unsure of which island to visit during your trip to the Canary Islands, there is no need to worry. Canary Islands hopping is simple and does not take much time. There are very good ferry or boat connections, even by plane, allowing one to visit several island on the same trip. In fact, it takes less than one hour to travel from one Canary Island to another. Below, you will find ways to get around the Canary Islands so that you can make the most of your trip.
Ferries Canary Islands
There are many ferries operating between the Canary Islands daily. Fred. Olsen Express and Naviera Armas are the primary companies running these routes, but there are also many smaller companies.
These are the travel connections between the Canary Islands by ferry:
- Transportation between Tenerife and: El Hierro, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, La Graciosa, La Gomera, Lanzarote and La Palma.
- Vessel from La Palma to: Gran Canaria, La Gomera and Tenerife.
- Ferries travel between Lanzarote to: Fuerteventura, La Graciosa, Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
- Boat from La Graciosa to: Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Tenerife.
- Ferry transportation from La Gomera to: El Hierro, Gran Canaria, La Palma and Tenerife.
- Boat from Gran Canaria to: Fuerteventura, La Gomera, La Graciosa, Lanzarote, La Palma and Tenerife.
- Ferries connecting Fuerteventura with: Lanzarote, Gran Canaria and Tenerife.
- Boat from El Hierro to: La Gomera and Tenerife.
- Boat to Lobos Island from Fuerteventura.
As you can observe, the Canary Islands are very well connected, so you don’t have to worry if you can’t decide which Canary Island to visit. Simply go Canary Island Hopping! Also, many boats accept cars, so you can get an inexpensive rental car and move it between the islands.
Flights between the Canary Islands
There are 8 airports across the Canary Islands that connect the different islands to one another. These airports are located in Tenerife South, Tenerife North, Fuerteventura, La Gomera, Gran Canaria, El Hierro, Lanzarote, and La Palma.
Moreover, traveling between the Canary Islands via air transportation is very convenient, since the trips regularly require under an hour and flights between the islands are scheduled daily. Therefore, if you can locate reasonably priced flights, you should not hesitate to enjoy exploring multiple Canary Islands. The primary airlines providing service in the Canary Islands are Binter and Canaryfly.
Personally, I suggest considering taking a ferry or boat as your first choice for transportation whenever possible since you can save time spent waiting and going through airport security. However, if a ferry or boat is not a viable option, island hopping between the Canary Islands by plane is also a great choice.
It is difficult to decide unequivocally which of the Canary Islands is the absolute most lovely, but fortunately there are numerous possibilities for you to move in between them over the course of your holiday. If you are uncertain which Canary Island to experience, opt for the two or three that appeal to you most and craft your itinerary around them. And if you have any inquiries and would like our assistance in determining which Canary Island would be best suited for your needs, offer a comment and I will happily assist.
Have a pleasant trip to the Canary Islands!
