Discover why these island gems tick almost every holiday box – all year round
If you’re looking for reliable sunshine, easy travel and incredible value for money, the Canary Islands tick all the boxes – and then some.
Just a short hop from the UK – around four hours by plane – these Spanish islands offer a healthy slice of sunshine all year round. Set adrift in the Atlantic Ocean, just off the northwest coast of Africa, they’re a perennial top pick for British holidaymakers looking for dazzling skies. Even in the winter, temperatures rarely dip below 20°C. But these islands offer far more than just a guaranteed tan.
What makes the Canaries really special is how diverse they are. Despite being neighbours, each island has its own personality – from the lush green valleys of Tenerife’s north to Lanzarote’s moon-like lava fields. Whether you’re craving golden beaches, dramatic hiking trails, buzzing nightlife, family-friendly fun or peace and quiet with a sea view, you’ll find your perfect fit.
The islands are also incredibly easy to explore. English is widely spoken, driving is a breeze and the food scene is amazing – think tapas with a Canarian twist, fresh seafood and local wines served with a view.
Want to savour a slice for yourself? Then read on to find your perfect island match. Let’s take a closer look at four of the Canary Islands – each one bursting with character, charm and oodles of sunshine.
Tenerife: the Island that has it all
If the Canary Islands were a family, Tenerife would be the big sibling who’s good at everything. Beaches? Loads. Nightlife? Tick. Family fun? Absolutely. Mountains, volcanoes, culture, Michelin-starred restaurants? You get the idea.
Tenerife isn’t just the largest of the Canary Islands, it’s the one that truly packs in the most variety.
You’ve got lush, misty forests in the north, lunar-like lava fields in the centre and sun-drenched beaches down south. And it’s all overseen by epic Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak and one of the world’s most dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Tenerife is also the most developed of the Canary Islands, so you’ve got a slick tourist infrastructure, alongside charming Canarian villages that feel untouched by time.
The main resorts
Let’s start in Playa de las Américas, because that’s the most well-known resort. Welcome to party central. You come here for the nightlife. It’s brash, bold and full of life. There’s no escaping the karaoke bars, beachfront clubs and the heaving clubbing scene here. In Playa de las Américas you party by night and start each day with a full English fry up with all the trimmings.
However, if this isn’t for you scene, then no fear. This is just a tiny fraction of the island.
Just up the coast is calmer Los Cristianos offering family-friendly beaches and a harbour lined with fishermen’s boats.
And if you like your holidays more polished, then Costa Adeje is where to be. This is Tenerife’s chic corner, where the hotels are five-star, the beaches are well-kept and the vibe is more cocktails and cabanas. It’s perfect for honeymooners, stylish families or anyone who wants a grown-up getaway.
Over in the north, Puerto de la Cruz offers a completely different atmosphere. It’s greener, cooler and more Canarian. It has bags of local character, traditional restaurants, botanical gardens and a cosier, local feel.
It’s also home to the famous Lago Martiánez – a huge complex of saltwater pools designed by the island’s most celebrated architect, César Manrique. The northern part of the island is ideal for travellers looking for culture, nature and a slightly slower pace.
For pure peace and quiet, check out Los Gigantes, where dramatic cliffs tumble into the Atlantic and the sunsets are dazzling.
Not-to-be-missed attractions
Mount Teide dominates the island – and rightly so. It’s not just Spain’s tallest mountain, but also the heart of Teide National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site full of surreal rock formations and hiking trails. The cable car ride up is an experience in itself, but if you’re up for a real adventure, get a permit and hike to the summit at sunrise. It can be chilly; some might find it challenging but it’s always worth it for the views at the top.
Elsewhere, don’t miss Loro Parque in Puerto de la Cruz, an award-winning wildlife park that’s both educational, beautifully run and has a big focus on conservation.
Then there’s the Unesco-listed town of La Laguna, full of pastel-coloured mansions and cobbled streets. It’s a great place to wander and stop for a local barraquito (a layered coffee with liqueur, condensed milk and cinnamon).
Meanwhile, the natural pools at Garachico, formed from volcanic eruptions, offer a stunning spot for a swim, and Masca, a tiny village tucked into a mountain gorge, is a hidden gem with jaw-dropping views.
Must-do activities
As much an attraction as it is an activity: a day at Siam Park is a must. This isn’t just a waterpark – it’s THE waterpark. Consistently voted one of the best waterparks in the world, it’s a sure-fire crowd pleaser and makes for a fantastic family fun day out.
And when you’re not making a splash down the chutes, the sea awaits. Snorkel with turtles in El Puertito, kayak with dolphins off Los Gigantes or take a catamaran tour for a chance to spot whales – the waters here are one of the best places in Europe for marine life.
Hikers will love the Anaga Rural Park in the northeast, it’s like stepping into Jurassic Park with its ancient laurel forests and misty trails.
For food lovers, hunting down a guachinche is highly recommended. These rustic, family-run restaurants – often in someone’s garage or garden – serve local dishes like grilled meats, wrinkly potatoes with mojo sauce and lashings of home-made wine. They’re delicious, cheap and totally authentic.
And if you’re visiting in February, the Santa Cruz Carnival is not to be missed. It’s one of the biggest and brightest carnivals in the world, with parades, costumes and music that goes on for days.
Stay at… GF Gran Costa Adeje, Costa Adeje
This hotel ticks the box for couples and families. It has four pools, including a rooftop pool just for adults. Three restaurants and a trio of bars cater to all tastes and tipples. The beach is just 500m away if you fancy a change from laying poolside. And there’s a good choice of restaurants along the winding paved coastal path.
Gran Canaria: The miniature continent
It’s fair to say that Gran Canaria is the most diverse island in the Canaries. Often called a ‘miniature continent’, it packs in golden dunes, dramatic mountains, lush green ravines, charming colonial towns and bustling beach resorts – all in a day’s drive.
It’s a paradise for beach lovers, hikers, foodies, families and party-goers, yet it somehow never feels overcrowded or overly commercial.
Gran Canaria has its own distinct personality. It’s less stark than Lanzarote, greener than Fuerteventura and more laid-back than Tenerife. And thanks to its microclimates, you can be sunbathing on the southern coast in 28 degrees while clouds hug the northern mountains. It’s a dream for explorers who want variety without having to island-hop.
The main resorts
For the sun-seekers and nightlife fans, Playa del Inglés is the big name. Yes, it’s been around for decades, and yes, it’s unapologetically lively, but there’s a reason it’s stood the test of time. It’s a huge, sprawling resort that caters to everyone, from party animals to budget-conscious families. Expect beachfront bars, all-night clubs and plenty of fun.
Just next door is Maspalomas, which offers something a little more grown-up. It’s famous for its vast sand dunes that look like a slice of the Sahara, but it’s also got some lovely upscale hotels, a stylish seafront promenade and a more laid-back vibe.
If you want charm, head further west to Puerto de Mogán, a dreamy little fishing village turned boutique resort. It’s all whitewashed buildings, bougainvillea and pretty canals (hence the nickname ‘Little Venice’). It’s perfect for couples and anyone after a slower pace.
Puerto Rico, meanwhile, is a family favourite thanks to its calm, sheltered bay and laid-back vibe. It’s a classic sun-and-sea resort with waterparks nearby and plenty of shops and restaurants. It’s a great all-rounder.
Not-to-be-missed attractions
Don’t leave the island without exploring the heart of it – literally. Drive inland and you’ll find a completely different world: pine forests, rugged peaks and sleepy mountain villages.
If you only visit one village then make it Teror. A maze of cobbled streets and charming houses boasting ornate wooden balconies overflowing with flowers. If you visit on a Sunday then you’ll find the weekly market in full swing. It’s the perfect place to pick up homemade gifts and pastries.
The village of Tejeda is another strong contester for the “prettiest village” trophy, so ensure you also add this to your itinerary.
However, Roque Nublo is the standout attraction: a towering rock formation that juts out of the island’s centre like a giant finger. It’s considered one of the biggest natural crags in the world. Hiking up there (wear layers) rewards you with views that make every winding bend worth while.
Then there’s the island’s capital of Las Palmas. Often overlooked, this city is a treasure trove of history, especially in the cobbled streets of the old part of town known as Vegueta. You’ll find 15th-century buildings, quirky art galleries and some seriously good tapas.
Must-do activities
Let’s start with the dunes. Whether you’re on a camel, barefoot at sunset or capturing them on camera from the viewpoint in Playa del Inglés, the Maspalomas dunes are magic. Head out on a desert safari to ride the sand waves on a dune buggy and take in the awesome, undulating views. At dawn or dusk, the sun casts a golden hue across the dunes, so it’s worth getting your timing right. Don’t forget to bring binoculars.
Over on the west coast, try a dolphin-spotting cruise from Puerto Rico. These waters are teeming with marine life and you’ve got a good chance of sightings year-round.
Hikers should head to the rugged north. The Agaete Valley is lush, green and quiet.
If you’d rather be in the water, then head north to Las Canteras Beach in Las Palmas for a spot of surfing. This is one of the best urban beaches in Europe, with year-round waves and a buzzing surf scene.
Stay at… LIVVO Club Koala Garden, Maspalomas
This all-inclusive resort is a real family favourite. It has an impressive seven swimming pools, including a splash park. It’s in a peaceful location, just a short walk away from the popular family-friendly theme park Holiday World. The kids’ club is a hit with little ones (and their parents) and the rooms are spacious.
Lanzarote: a volcanic wonderland
Lanzarote is in a league of its own. Unlike its sister islands, Lanzarote is a swathe of black lava fields stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s quieter, more raw and rugged. The island’s unusual biosphere status means it’s beautifully protected from overdevelopment, and hence it’s a hit with nature lovers, creatives and those who want a slice of something a little different. Think of Lanzarote as the artsy, eco-conscious cousin of the Canaries.
The main resorts
The resorts on Lanzarote tend to be low-rise and well spread out. Each has its own flavour, making it easy to find your perfect spot.
Puerto del Carmen is the classic choice if you want a bit of buzz without going overboard. It boasts a long, sandy beach, an eclectic nightlife scene and tons of restaurants lining the seafront. It’s the versatile choice with a good variety of accommodation.
Playa Blanca down south is more relaxed. It feels intimate with a promenade running alongside the beach either side of its marina. It’s the kind of place where you stroll along the prom admiring yachts and dip into boutique shops or beach bars. There’s also a pleasant coastal path giving access to the stunning string of Papagayo white-sand coves.
On the east coast, Costa Teguise is the quieter option. It also tops the charts for watersports –windsurfing and sailing fanatics love it – and has a smart, slow-vibe atmosphere. It’s great if you want a sporty vibe but with less hustle and bustle. Come evening, you can nab a seat at a seafood restaurant in the town square for a spot of ‘people watching’.
Not-to-be-missed attractions
Timanfaya National Park isn’t your average park – it’s like stepping into a moonscape. The volcanic terrain here is otherworldly, with steam rising from the earth and fiery demonstrations that show the heat just beneath the surface. You can take a guided coach tour through the park, but for the real insiders, riding a camel across the lava fields is a quirky and unforgettable way to experience it.
Don’t miss the Cueva de los Verdes, a subterranean and eerie lava tube cave system that feels like exploring nature’s secret tunnels – the lighting and acoustics inside make it truly magical.
Another Lanzarote classic is the César Manrique Foundation. This is where art and nature collide, showcasing the island’s beloved artist’s work in a home carved from volcanic rock. It’s a must for culture lovers and design geeks.
And if you want to soak up some traditional Canarian village vibes, head to Teguise, the old capital with its charming Sunday market, great for picking up local crafts and tasty treats.
Must-do activities
Lanzarote has you covered if you’re into adventure. Cyclists absolutely love it. The roads are smooth, the views are dramatic and there’s barely any traffic. And it’s a great one for all levels – you don’t have to be a die-hard, Lycra-clad cyclist to join in. Even if you just want to try it out there are loads of specialist companies on the island renting out bikes and offering guided excursions.
And then there are the surfers. The island’s volcanic coast is a surfer’s dream, with spots for all levels, especially around Famara Beach.
For something more laid-back, hop on a boat trip from Playa Blanca to the nearby island of La Graciosa, where you’ll find untouched beaches and a true sense of escape. Snorkelling and diving are excellent here too – the clear waters and underwater volcanic formations make this a one-of-a-kind marine playground teeming with life.
Into hiking? Then you’ll find loads of trails around the Timanfaya area or the Famara cliffs offering jaw-dropping views and a peaceful way to connect with the landscape.
Food lovers, listen up. Lanzarote’s wines are a hidden treasure. Take a wine tour around the La Geria region, where vines grow in craters of volcanic ash, producing some seriously delicious wines. Sipping a glass of local Malvasia while watching the sun dip behind volcanic peaks is an unbeatable way to end the day.
Stay at… The Labranda El Dorado, Puerto del Carmen
This three-star hotel is just 100 metres from the Playa Grande and 150 metres from the historic centre. Nicely furnished and decorated apartments make a great base and come complete with cooking facilities and either a balcony or a terrace. The complex also has two pools and a restaurant serving breakfast if you opt for the bed ’n breakfast option.
Fuerteventura: The laidback star of the Canary Islands
Often overshadowed by its louder sisters – Tenerife with its nightlife, Lanzarote with its lunar landscapes and Gran Canaria with its mix of everything – Fuerteventura quietly does its own thing. And that thing is beaches. Miles and miles of them with many completely untouched.
Silky golden sands, turquoise shallows and rolling dunes, it’s got a distinctly Caribbean vibe but with a Canarian soul. Add to that a constant breeze (hello, windsurfers!) and a relaxed, unhurried pace of life, and you’ve got the ultimate escape-from-it-all island.
It’s the least built-up of the main Canary Islands, with wide open spaces, rugged volcanic interiors and sleepy villages that haven’t changed much in decades. It’s perfect if you’re craving space to breathe, sunshine all year round and an island that feels a bit wild and somewhat untamed.
There’s less of the high-rise hotel scene here, more small-scale charm. And while there’s plenty to do, you’re never under pressure to do any of it. Fuerteventura is all about slowing down.
The main resorts
Let’s start with Corralejo, right up in the north. This one’s a firm favourite with Brits and it’s easy to see why. It’s lively without being too full-on. There are loads of restaurants and bars and it has a lovely, lived-in feel. It’s a real town, not just a tourist enclave. The beaches here are fabulous, especially the ones just outside town where the dunes take over. It’s a great pick for families, couples and anyone who wants a mix of beach time and decent nightlife.
Further south, you’ve got Caleta de Fuste, which is more low-key. It’s a hit with families, thanks to its sheltered horseshoe bay, calm waters and kiddie-friendly hotels. Everything’s close together, so it’s ideal if you don’t want to hire a car. It’s not the most scenic spot on the island, but it’s practical, easy and chilled – great for a stress-free break.
Then there’s Costa Calma and Morro Jable down on the Jandía Peninsula. These are your go-to spots if you’re after peace, space and those epic long beaches. Morro Jable has more going on, while Costa Calma is aptly named: quiet, breezy and a magnet for windsurfers.
Not-to-be-missed attractions
Top of the list has to be the Corralejo Natural Park: a vast sweep of golden dunes backed by the sea. It’s like the Sahara met the Atlantic and decided to stay. Bring your camera, your sandals and your sense of awe.
Pop into Betancuria, the island’s old capital tucked in the mountains, for a dose of Canarian culture and a completely different side of the island. It’s all whitewashed houses, cobbled lanes and tiny chapels. Don’t miss the small cheese shops and traditional eateries.
Make time to take the ferry to Lobos Island from Corralejo. It’s uninhabited, wild and totally beautiful. A little adventure that feels worlds away.
And don’t leave without visiting the Ajuy Caves on the west coast. These caves have been carved by the waves into the cliffs over millions of years and feel primeval.
Must-do activities
Watersports are huge on Fuerteventura, thanks to that ever-present breeze. Windsurfing and kitesurfing are the island’s pride and joy – Sotavento Beach hosts world championships, no less. If you’ve never tried it, this is the place to give it a go.
Hiking is popular too. Try the climb up to Pico de la Zarza for panoramic views over the island’s southern tip. Or explore the volcanic landscapes around La Oliva and Lajares.
And if all that sounds like hard work? Just grab a sun lounger, order a cold Dorada beer and soak up that laid-back Fuerteventura vibe. Because honestly, doing nothing here feels like doing everything right.
Stay at… Secrets Bahia Real Resort & Spa, Corralejo
This is a luxurious, five-star offering for adults only. You’ll have seven restaurants to choose from, a glorious spa and two swimming pools. It’s located right on the sprawling beach of Corralejo and is a really chic choice.
Final word
Like the sound of this? Can’t wait to go? Then give me a call. I can get you on the next flight and plan your adventure to the beautiful Canary Islands.
I’ll match you to the right island, the ideal resort and sort all the travel logistics for you. And even better: I won’t charge you a penny for my service.
So what have you got to lose – apart from a dream holiday to these year-round island gems.
