Tenerife is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Europe. The island effortlessly combines sunny skies with breathtaking natural landscapes, short travel distances, and a wide range of activities for children of all ages. While many families head straight for well-known attractions like Siam Park or Loro Parque, it is off the beaten path that you will discover the real charm of Tenerife.
In this article, we share 20 unique tips for exploring Tenerife with children. Imagine walking along lava fields, swimming in natural rock pools, visiting hands-on museums, and relaxing on hidden beaches far from the tourist crowds. There are no dolphin shows or water slides, yet you will find plenty of adventure, space to play, and moments to connect with nature.
Most of these outings are perfect for toddlers, preschoolers, and older children alike. Everything is practical, varied, and easy to fit into a relaxed vacation day. This way, you can experience Tenerife in a whole new way without giving up fun or comfort. It is perfect for families who want a little more than the usual tourist experience.
Why is Tenerife perfect for families?
Tenerife is the perfect destination for a family holiday. The island is compact, safe, and you can easily drive from one type of landscape to another in no time. In just an hour, you could be relaxing on a black sand beach, wandering through fields of lava, or driving up a mountain to look down at clouds drifting below you. The weather is sunny throughout the year without ever being unbearably hot, and even in winter, a day at the beach is always an option.
There is so much to keep children entertained. They can swim in natural pools, hike along volcanoes, enjoy short walks, or explore quiet, hidden beaches. Most activities are easy to reach, free or affordable, and require very little planning. Playgrounds, shaded areas, high chairs, and supermarkets stocked with familiar products are everywhere, making family life simple, practical, and stress-free.
Tenerife feels like an adventure with its dramatic landscapes and striking volcanoes, yet it also offers the comfort of a European destination designed for visitors. You do not have to travel far, medical care is excellent, and you can pay almost anywhere with a card. Convenient, comfortable, and fun all at the same time, Tenerife is a destination that truly has something for every member of the family.
The Zoos and Water Parks of Tenerife
Tenerife is a hugely popular destination for families, and that shows in the wide range of attractions available. Famous spots include Siam Park, Aqualand Costa Adeje, Loro Parque, Jungle Park, and Monkey Park. Children often love these places, as slides, shows, and exotic animals are always a big hit on holiday.
Even so, we deliberately choose to skip these kinds of parks. Not because they are not fun, but because we prefer to explore the island’s natural wonders. Think dramatic coastlines, volcanoes, lava fields, black sand beaches, and extraordinary landscapes. You really do not need a zoo or water park to give children a memorable and fun day.
In addition, shows featuring dolphins or orcas in captivity do not feel right to us personally. We think it is important for children to experience real nature without animals in confinement. And honestly, swimming in a natural rock pool or walking among volcanic rocks often leaves just as lasting an impression.
In this article, you will find twenty original ideas for child-friendly activities in Tenerife. That means no water parks or zoos, but plenty of variety, adventure, space to play, and chances to connect with nature. Whether you are traveling with a toddler or older children, there is always something that will suit your family perfectly.
The Best Places to Visit on Tenerife for Families
Tenerife is an island packed with adventure, perfect even for young children. From dramatic volcanic landscapes to striking black sand beaches and hands-on museums, there is no shortage of exciting places to explore away from the usual tourist trails.
#1 Take the Cable Car to the Top of Teide
The Teleférico del Teide is one of the most breathtaking experiences on the island. In less than ten minutes, you ascend to over 3,500 meters in the heart of Teide National Park. The ride itself is an adventure, with the landscape constantly shifting and, on a clear day, views reaching all the way to the coast.
At the top, you enter a completely different world. Towering rock formations, hardened lava fields, and wide, quiet vistas create an almost otherworldly feel. In winter, you might even find yourself standing in snow. From the cable car station, short walking trails begin along well-marked paths. They are easy to follow, but remember the altitude. For young children, it is best to take your time and go at a gentle pace.
Children are welcome from age three. Tickets are best booked online in advance. Make sure to bring warm clothing, even in the summer months. For families who love nature, this outing is truly unforgettable.
#2 Watch Dolphins from a Boat
Tenerife is one of the best places in Europe to see dolphins and whales in the wild. From ports like Los Cristianos, Puerto Colón, or Los Gigantes, boats head out daily for short trips at sea. Many companies offer family-friendly excursions of around two hours, with plenty of seating, shaded areas, and sometimes even glass-bottom sections.
Children often find it magical to watch real dolphins swimming and leaping alongside the boat. Some trips also pass the towering cliffs of Los Gigantes, making the experience even more breathtaking.
It is best to choose a boat with a Barco Azul certification, which ensures a responsible and animal-friendly approach. Don’t forget sunscreen and a light sweater to stay comfortable in the cool sea breeze.
#3 Play and Swim at Playa de Las Teresitas
Playa de Las Teresitas is one of the most family-friendly beaches in Tenerife. Unlike most of the island’s beaches, this one is covered in soft, golden sand imported from the Sahara. The water here is especially calm thanks to a long breakwater that keeps the waves gentle, making it perfect for toddlers and preschoolers who love to splash and play in shallow water.
Palm trees along the shore provide natural shade, and there are plenty of facilities to make your day easy and comfortable. You will find showers, toilets, a first-aid station, and several beach cafés where you can enjoy a drink or a refreshing ice cream. Parking is conveniently located just behind the beach, so you do not have to carry your beach gear far.
With its wide open space and soft sand, this is an ideal spot for families who want to relax for half a day or a full day. The beach is so spacious that it never feels crowded. It is perfect for building sandcastles, enjoying a picnic, and endless fun in the shallow water.
#4 Swim in Natural Rock Pools
The coast of Tenerife is dotted with natural pools formed among the lava rocks. Especially around Garachico and Los Silos, you will find beautiful spots where children can safely swim when the sea is calm. The water is crystal clear, the shapes of the volcanic rocks are fascinating, and it feels far more adventurous than a regular swimming pool.
In Garachico, the pools are partly protected from the sea and easily accessible from the town center. There are steps, flat areas to sit, and a few shallow pools where little ones can splash around safely. In Los Silos, the pools are just outside the village in a slightly wilder area, but they are still family-friendly. You can park nearby and alternate between the black sand beach of Los Silos and the rugged rock pools. The lesser-known rock pools at La Jaca were also a huge hit with our kids. The water here is very shallow, and along the coastline, you will find a variety of pools, some with small steps to climb in.
One of the most stunning swimming spots is the large rock pool at Los Gigantes, where the pool meets the sea like a natural infinity pool.
Always pay attention to the sea conditions. On days with high waves or strong currents, it is better to wait or choose a different location. If a storm is approaching or has just passed, the pools may also be closed off. We strongly advise staying away in these situations, as there have been fatal accidents in Tenerife under such conditions. On calm days, however, swimming in these natural pools is a magical and refreshing way to enjoy the ocean without getting sand between your toes.
#5 Walk Among the Roques de García
The Roques de García are one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Teide National Park. These large, dramatic rock formations rise over 2,000 meters above sea level and are a must-see when visiting Teide National Park. The walk around the rocks is about 3.5 kilometers long and suitable for children from around five years old. We completed the route with a toddler in a carrier and a 4.5-year-old walking alongside.
Along the trail, you will discover unusual stone structures, hardened lava fields, and viewpoints with breathtaking views of Teide itself. Children can climb, scramble, and pause for a snack as they explore. The paths are well marked and mostly flat, although there are a couple of short but steep climbs along the way.
Make sure to bring sun protection, sturdy shoes, and plenty of water. Being at high altitude means the air is thinner and the sun feels stronger. This trail is ideal for introducing children to hiking in a dramatic, awe-inspiring landscape without it being too difficult or tiring.
#6 Explore the Otherworldly Landscape of Minas de San José
Just off the main road through Teide National Park, you will discover Minas de San José, one of the island’s most surreal and striking landscapes. Picture golden sand, reddish-brown rocks, black lava fields, and unusual formations that make you feel as if you have stepped onto another planet. You don’t need a long hike to enjoy it. Simply wandering a short distance, picking up fascinating stones, and taking in the view is enough.
Children love to explore here freely, climb small rocks, and collect unique stones. It feels like a huge natural playground without fences or marked paths. The area is also a favorite for stargazers, so if you visit later in the day, you might even spot a few planets.
The site is right along the road and easy to reach by car. Make sure to bring extra warm clothing, as it can get surprisingly chilly even during the day. This makes it a perfect stop for families who want to experience the beauty of the national park without taking on a long hike.
#7 Walk Under the Arco de Tajao, A Natural Bridge in the Desert
The Arco de Tajao is a natural rock arch, sculpted over time by wind and erosion. It lies in a dry, almost desert-like landscape on Tenerife’s southeast coast, just a short distance from the village of Tajao. From the parking area, it’s only a few minutes’ walk to reach this striking formation.
The arch itself is impressively large, standing alone in the middle of an open plain. Most visitors admire it from above, but the most memorable view comes from climbing down. You can walk underneath the arch, scramble over the surrounding rocks, and capture some truly stunning photos.
There is no shade at the arch itself, but near the parking area, a small food truck offers snacks and drinks. This is a short but surprisingly dramatic stop, perfect for families traveling along the island’s south coast.
#8 Explore the Science Museum Museo de la Ciencia y el Cosmos
In San Cristóbal de La Laguna, you will find the Museo de la Ciencia y el Cosmos, an interactive science museum designed especially for children and young people. Everything is hands-on, inviting kids to touch, try, and experiment. You’ll find games and exhibits exploring gravity, light, electricity, mirrors, and the human body. There is also a small planetarium where you can enjoy short, engaging shows.
The museum is compact, entirely indoors, and perfect for a hot or rainy day. Children can explore at their own pace, pressing buttons, experimenting, and discovering new things. Parents will enjoy it too, especially if your child is curious about how the world works and you like discovering things together.
The explanations are in Spanish, but most exhibits are easy to understand and follow on their own. Children from around four years old can easily spend a few hours here, and for the very youngest visitors, there is a separate room with toddler-friendly activities. The museum also has a small shop and a café where you can grab a snack.
#9 Visit a Banana Plantation
Tenerife is dotted with banana plantations, and in a few special spots, you can get up close and see them in action. One of the most popular is Finca Las Margaritas in Las Galletas. Here, you can enjoy a short guided tour of the plantation, watch how bananas grow, and even taste different varieties of bananas along with other local products.
For children, it’s exciting to see exactly where their food comes from and to discover what a banana plant really looks like. The tour is relaxed and lasts about an hour. Most tours are offered in Spanish or English, so parents may need to help translate along the way. As you explore, you’ll also spot papayas, sugarcane, and coffee plants, making the visit even more varied and interesting for the whole family.
#10 Hike the Barranco del Infierno
The Barranco del Infierno is one of Tenerife’s most stunning hiking trails. The gorge is located near the popular resort town of Adeje, and the route takes about 1.5 hours to reach a small waterfall. Entry is only allowed with a reservation, and children are officially permitted from age five. In our experience, the age limit is not strictly enforced, as I completed the hike with my almost five-year-old daughter.
The trail is well-maintained, varied, and occasionally spectacular. You walk between towering rock walls, along sparkling streams, and over charming wooden bridges. The hike begins in a wide, sun-drenched section of the gorge and gradually leads to a narrower, cooler, and greener area. Along the way, you may spot lizards, birds of prey, and unusual plants. For children, it feels like a true adventure, with plenty of resting spots and enough variety to keep them engaged.
The hike is not particularly difficult, but it is best suited for families who enjoy being active. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, bring plenty of water, and a hat to protect against the sun. Access is limited to 300 people per day, so booking in advance is strongly recommended. Due to the heat, it’s wise to reserve the earliest time slot possible, as we found the mid-morning sun quite intense.
#11 Picnick on the Volcano: Recreation Areas with Playgrounds
Teide National Park is home to several recreation areas where families can enjoy a picnic surrounded by pine trees, lava rocks, and volcanic sand. One of the most popular and family-friendly spots is Zona Recreativa Las Lajas, located on the southern slope of Teide near Vilaflor. We also really enjoyed Área Recreativa Pinar Chío.
Both areas offer picnic tables, barbecue facilities, and even playgrounds for children. There is plenty of shade from the pine trees and enough space for kids to run, play, and explore. Lizards scurrying by, pinecones to collect, and lava stones to examine, children can easily spend an hour wandering and discovering.
On holidays and weekends, the areas are lively with local families, while on weekdays, you often have the space almost entirely to yourself. Be sure to bring your own food and warm clothing, as it can be cool here even when it’s hot on the coast. This makes for a perfect stop to enjoy a relaxed afternoon in nature, combining fresh air, playtime, and a stunning volcanic backdrop.
#12 Play at Black Sand Beach Playa de Benijo
Playa de Benijo, in the northeast of Tenerife, is one of the island’s most breathtaking and unique beaches. Nestled near the Anaga Mountains, it is renowned for its dramatic scenery, black sand, and striking rock formations rising from the sea.
For children, it is a paradise for play. Digging in the black sand, paddling in the shallow water at low tide, and hunting for shells and unusual stones can keep them entertained for hours. To reach the beach, you follow a staircase down from the road, as it sits well below the cliffside.
There are no facilities directly on the beach, but the nearby village of Taganana offers cafés and small restaurants for snacks and drinks. Its remote location means the beach is usually quiet, especially on weekdays. Keep a close eye on the waves and the green flag, as swimming is not always safe. Playing at the water’s edge is perfectly fine at low tide. This magical spot is ideal for families looking to enjoy something different from the usual tourist beaches.
#13 Hike at Arenas Negras
Arenas Negras is a quiet and beautiful walking area near La Montañeta on the northwest side of Tenerife. The name means “black sand plains,” and that is exactly what you will see here. The short trails wind over black lava sand, through fragrant pine forests, and past the remnants of ancient volcanic eruptions.
The paths are wide, easy to follow, and ideal for children. Along the way, they can collect interesting stones, run across the sand, and climb on fallen tree trunks. There is also a small recreation area with picnic tables and plenty of shade, perfect for a snack or a short break.
Sitting over 1,000 meters above sea level, the area is usually a few degrees cooler than the coast, offering a refreshing change. It is a wonderful place for a calm, varied walk where you can really feel like you are in another world. This makes it perfect for families who want a little adventure without taking on a long or challenging hike.
#14 Marvel at Playa Amarilla
Playa Amarilla, near Costa del Silencio, is far from a typical sandy beach. Instead, it features a stunning stretch of coastline with rolling yellow-orange rock formations, sculpted over time by wind and waves. It feels like a piece of natural art and is a wonderful place for walking, climbing, and imaginative play.
Read more: A Guide to Playa Amarilla on Tenerife
Children can safely explore, trace the unusual shapes, and discover tiny rock pools where fish hide among the crevices. There is also a raised area perfect for sitting or enjoying a picnic while taking in the sea view. The water is crystal clear, making it easy to spot fish with a snorkel along the rock walls. At low tide, you can walk along the undulating rocks and even climb some of the volcanic formations on the far side.
Since there is no sand, bring water shoes and perhaps a small mat for sitting. This spot is ideal for families looking for a beach experience that is completely different from the usual. Calm, unique, and just adventurous enough for little explorers, Playa Amarilla is a true hidden gem that promises a memorable day for everyone.
#15 Climb the Giant Statue La Giganta
In the small village of Buen Paso, near Icod de los Vinos, you will discover a truly remarkable work of art: La Giganta, an enormous statue of a seated woman that seems to grow naturally from the landscape. Created by the artist José Abad, the sculpture is partially covered with grass and plants, allowing it to blend seamlessly into its surroundings.
For children, this is a magical place to spark their imagination. They can wander around the statue, climb onto its base, and invent their own stories about the mysterious figure. The statue rests on a quiet grassy field within an otherwise slightly neglected park, offering peaceful views of the mountains and the sea. It is a playful and intriguing spot, perfect for families to explore, let their creativity run free, and enjoy a unique blend of art and nature.
#16 Swim at Lago Martiánez and Parque Marítimo César Manrique
Looking for a day of water fun without the slides, noise, and crowds of a large water park? The man-made seawater pools at Lago Martiánez in Puerto de la Cruz and Parque Marítimo César Manrique in Santa Cruz are the perfect alternative.
Both were created by the famous Canarian architect and artist César Manrique, and they artfully combine swimming areas with natural stone, palm trees, waterfalls, and spacious sunbathing spots. The atmosphere is far calmer and more relaxed than a typical pool, giving it a natural, almost serene feel. The pools are filled with filtered seawater and vary in depth, so there is always a safe section for younger children.
For families, these spots provide a stress-free day out with plenty of shaded areas, showers, cafés, and stunning sea views. Entrance is very affordable, making it a simple, enjoyable, and memorable outing for everyone.
#17 Discover the Mummies at MUNA (Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre)
In Santa Cruz de Tenerife, you’ll find the Museo de la Naturaleza y Arqueología (MUNA), a captivating museum that brings the history of the Canary Islands to life. The main highlight is the mummies of the Guanches, the island’s original inhabitants, a mysterious and fascinating glimpse into the past.
For children, a visit here is both thrilling and educational. During our trip, one mummy was on display—a replica of an original kept in Madrid, alongside a collection of skulls. The mummy is showcased in a dedicated exhibition, complete with an informative film. Beyond that, the museum features fossils, taxidermy animals, ancient tools, and archaeological finds, giving visitors a rich understanding of the islands’ natural and human history.
The museum is laid out in a clear, easy-to-navigate way, making it suitable for children from about four years old. It’s a perfect way to weave a bit of culture and history into your holiday, especially if you’re already exploring Santa Cruz. The indoor spaces are cool and quiet, allowing everyone to take their time and absorb the exhibits at their own pace.
#18 Stargaze at Teide National Park
With its high altitude and crystal-clear skies, Tenerife ranks among the best places in the world for stargazing. Around Teide and the El Portillo area, you can witness thousands of stars sparkling on clear nights. For children, this is nothing short of magical, especially if they’ve never experienced a truly dark sky where the Milky Way seems to stretch endlessly overhead.
You can explore on your own with binoculars or a telescope, but family-friendly guided tours add an extra dimension to the experience. Knowledgeable guides point out constellations, and children often get the chance to peer through telescopes themselves. Some tours even include a short walk or a sunset picnic, creating a sense of wonder before nightfall.
Don’t forget to bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop sharply in the mountains after dark, and a flashlight is essential. Stargazing provides a peaceful yet unforgettable way to end the day, quiet, magical, and often just as breathtaking as a full day of adventures on Tenerife.
