Tenerife is a vacationer’s paradise with its beautiful beaches and sunny climes. From its white sandy beaches and legendary nightlife to outstanding locations, there’s much to discover on this Canary Island. Visitors flock to this island paradise in huge numbers to soak in all it has to offer. So it’s no surprise that there are tons of hotels to choose from. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to hotels in Tenerife, Spain because there are so many to choose from. Whether you’re looking for over the top luxury, a secluded locale, an all-inclusive resort, or a budget hotel, you’ll find them all here.
Although most visitors to this island are here for a relaxed holiday there’s much more to the most visited Canary Island. Apart from the beaches, the other rugged areas of Tenerife will catch your breath. Some of the top things to do in Tenerife are to explore the breathtaking Pico del Teide area or marvel at the giant cliffs, Los Gigantes.
Where To Stay In Tenerife
Though Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands distances are relatively small so it won’t take you long to get from one place to the next. However, each area of the island has its own special charm so where you stay will depend on what you’re looking for.
The capital Santa Cruz in the north gets quite packed in February during the Tenerife Carnival, one of the best carnivals in the world after Rio. It’s the only place on the island where you’ll find shopping malls, cinemas, and international bars and restaurants. Party animals, on the other hand, make a beeline for Playa de las Americas. This resort town is where you’ll find some of the best hotel pools in Tenerife and a wide range of restaurants and bars that are open till the early morning hours. If you’re looking for a bit of peace and quiet, you’re not going to find it here.
A relatively new classy family resort town, Costa Adeje with its long stretch of sandy beach has many luxury hotels. The hotels in this area are more expensive than the neighboring Playa de las Americas. Another popular place, Los Cristianos is not too far from Playa de las Americas. It’s a good option for those interested in island hopping as you have easy access to the ferries from its port. While the harbor is one of the busier areas, the pedestrian-friendly resort town has two big beaches and plenty of shops and cafes.
Closer to the new airport in the north of the island is the town of Puerto de la Cruz. The former fishing village is now one of the top destinations on the island and has a number of mid-range hotels along the seafront promenade. Apart from these areas, other interesting places to stay in Tenerife are the historical capital, San Cristobal de la Laguna, El Medano for its surfing and water sports, La Orotava with its historic buildings, and Los Gigantes for its breathtaking scenery.
Hotel San Roque
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One of the most romantic boutique hotels in Tenerife, Spain is the Hotel San Roque, in historic Garachio on the west coast of the island. This picturesque village has a rather chequered history, having faced the brunt of many natural calamities. You’ll find some stunning rock pools in this area as well as a good selection of restaurants.
This ‘adults only’ hotel is housed in a renovated 18th-century mansion. What makes this place so special is that it has retained much of the original character of the Canarian style house that includes a watchtower. You’ll find polished wooden floors, wooden balconies and roofs, and superb interiors. It’s one of the best places to get a feel of traditional Tenerife and also ranks as one of the top gay-friendly hotels in Tenerife.
20 individually styled rooms set around the main courtyard are traditional yet big on modern comforts. Rooms feature Rennie Mackintosh furniture, a whirlpool bath, and comfortable beds. For the ultimate experience try out the Tower Suite in the watchtower with its own rooftop solarium terrace. A great way to start the day here is with a made to order poolside breakfast. You can continue to lounge around the pool with a drink from the Pool Bar or enjoy a romantic dinner poolside, at the Anturium Restaurant. Other facilities include a sauna and tennis court.
Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife
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At the western end of Costa Adeje in a quiet area, you’ll find the Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife. There isn’t much to do in the immediate vicinity of the hotel barring a few tiny beaches but the livelier part of Costa Adeje is a 15-minute drive from here. However, given the huge number of amenities at the recently renovated hotel, it’s a good option for those who prefer to spend more time inside the hotel.
Similar to its other properties, the trademark rock star glamour of the hotel chain is well in place here too. The guest rooms and suites are spread over two tall buildings the adults-only Nirvana and the Oasis Tower. The decor is stylish yet hip and bold with a punk-rock theme. Not surprisingly, rooms are packed with several high-end amenities.
The Hard Rock abounds in onsite amenities with three heated swimming pools which include an adult-only pool and the beach club lagoon. Both these pools have swim-up bars, DJ booths, and partially submerged loungers. A space at the hotel where you can indulge in some pampering is the Rock Spa while the Body Rock gym is well equipped for working off the extra vacation calories.
You’ll also find various entertainment facilities including clubs for children and teens. When it comes to dining you’re swamped for choice with five a-la-carte restaurants and one buffet-style eatery. Whether it’s Italian cuisine, burgers, or Japanese you’ll find it all under one roof. The 16th Sky Lounge Bar offers some spectacular views as well as some interesting events.
Bahia Del Duque
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Luxury hotels in Tenerife, Spain like the Bahia de Duque should be experienced first hand to understand what the hype is all about. Beginning with its fantastic location in the upscale area of Costa Adeje, to the wonderful service and sensational facilities, this luxury resort hotel is definitely one of the best. It sits plum on Playa del Duque, one of the best beaches in Costa Adeje. The mostly residential area has a few restaurants in the immediate vicinity but you’ll find a few large shopping malls within walking distance.
Modeled on the lines of a 19th century Canarian colonial village, the resort is one of the largest in the area. The luxurious historic theme seeps into the rooms, suites, and private villas. Bright spacious rooms either look out to the sea or the hotel’s exotic gardens. Each comes with a balcony or terrace. The Casas Ducales features larger spaces with extra perks such as an exclusive breakfast terrace and complimentary canapes and aperitifs. For those looking to step up the luxury quotient, the colonial-style villas offer exactly that.
When it comes to amenities outside the room, there’s nothing to beat this hotel. Its swanky full-service spa with an outdoor hammam, cabanas, and 20 treatment rooms is just one part of the facilities for guests. Four free form pools with beautifully landscaped areas that include gazebos, footbridge, and multiple bars are havens for relaxation. Multiple restaurants are at hand for dining too with eight restaurants to choose from. That’s not all the property has to offer guests. There’s tennis, squash, mini-golf, ping pong, yoga, Pilates, and paddle tennis too.
Red Level Gran Melia Palacio de Isora
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An adults-only resort within a larger resort, the Red Level Gran Melia Palacio de Isora boasts of being a ‘hedonistic paradise’ on the coast of Tenerife. The sophisticated environs of the hotel and its location do some justice to the description. Located on Tenerife’s quieter southwest coast in the Alcala community, you won’t find much outside the hotel. However, Playa La Jaquita is a 10-minute walk from here while it’s about 20 minutes on foot to Playa Mendez. Los Gigantes is a 10-minute drive from here.
Although Red Level is part of the Gran Melia Palacio de Isora, there’s not much in common between the two. The Red Level has its own entrance, staff, and reception area plus a few extra perks. You’ll find exclusively designed rooms in ochre, olive green, and earth tones. Mood lighting, custom-made furniture, and other stylish elements add to the comforter of the room. Rooms that face the ocean come with a whirlpool tub on the terrace. However, it’s the garden villas that score big with their luxury and elegance.
Guests at the Red Level have exclusive amenities such as a private saltwater pool with concierge staff and a dedicated lounge for breakfast. There’s also a happy hour exclusively for Red Level guests. The pool area is one of the best places to unwind with poolside snacks and drinks brought by the concierge. At the far end of the resort, you’ll find a beach complete with free lounge chairs, lifeguards, and a bar. In addition to this, Red Level guests get priority to the YHI spa as well as the a la carte restaurants.
Royal Gardens Villas & Spa
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For those looking for a touch of romance and luxury, the Royal Garden Villas Boutique & Spa Hotel is the place to go. The hotel is not far off the mark when it boasts of being the most romantic hotel in the south of Tenerife. It definitely ups the ante in style and luxury with its 28 luxury villas. However, the secluded location within the Costa Adeje golf course means that you’ll need a vehicle to get around. It’s a five-minute drive from the bars and restaurants of La Caleta village but everything else is further away.
Each of the 28 Balinese style villas scores high on the wow factor with luxurious furnishings and top-class amenities. All villas come with their own private pool, a fully equipped kitchen, and a secluded ocean-view terrace. You’ll also find a fully stocked fridge and wine cabinet. The expansive bathrooms feature large soaking tubs and a hydro-massage shower.
You probably won’t want to leave the luxury of your villa but if you do venture out, you’ll find an excellent Asian-inspired spa with a thalassotherapy pool. It’s a great place to spend a few hours getting pampered or just relaxing. There’s also a common infinity pool with a poolside cocktail bar and a fitness room. For those who prefer something more active, you’ll find a squash court. You can also head to the golfing greens for an extra fee if that’s not enough. While you can enjoy room service in your villa, dinner at the romantic Jardin Restaurant should definitely be on your cards. A complimentary breakfast is also served at the restaurant.
La Laguna Gran Hotel
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Bang in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tenerife you’ll find La Laguna Gran Hotel. It’s one of the best hotels in Tenerife to base yourself if you want to explore the history of the region. There are plenty of attractions to explore in the area from the 18th-century colonial architecture to bars, restaurants, and plenty of shopping. It also offers easy access to Santa Cruz by public transport.
The hotel is a beautiful blend of the traditional Canarian and boutique style. It keeps many of the original elements of the 18th-century house intact. A closed interior courtyard with wooden walkways is a throwback to its glorious past. Guest rooms are surprisingly spacious with stylish designs and a wide range of amenities. All have a shared terrace in the open courtyard.
Amenities include a seasonal swimming pool with sun loungers, an expansive rooftop space, and a well-equipped gym. A Michelin star restaurant, the NUB Restaurant is also housed in this hotel.
Hotel Botánicoand the Oriental Spa Garden
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Located just opposite the Botanical Gardens you’ll find one of the most tranquil hotels in Tenerife, Hotel Botánico the Oriental Spa Garden. Set in a residential area in the Puerto de la Cruz area, the hotel is a perfect base for those looking for a bit of serenity. It’s about two miles to the gorgeous Loro Parque and a five-minute drive to the black sandy beaches. Guests who don’t have a vehicle can make use of the hotel’s minibus service that runs to the city center several times a day. Just 50 meters from the hotel you’ll also find public transportation.
The first 5-star luxury hotel on the Canary Islands, Hotel Botanico has stayed true to its standards through the years. You’ll find exquisite rooms and suites spread across five floors. Although the carpeted rooms are not all that big on space, they’re stylish and comfortable. Furnished balconies provide great views of the surroundings with some with views of Mount Teide.
This beautiful oasis features well-manicured gardens with a huge pond thriving with koi carp, black swans and turtles, and a lovely outdoor pool. The standout at the hotel is the Oriental Spa that is set around a lagoon-style pool. Besides regular treatments, there are various slim and wellness programs also on offer. For those who like to be more active, you’ll find a modern gym as well as tennis courts, a practice green, table tennis, and a billiards table. Hotel Botanico has five on-site restaurants that cater to a variety of tastes. Whether it’s French, Italian, or Asian flavors that you hanker after, you can take your pick from the variety on offer.
Iberostar Grand Salome
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Another adults-only hotel within a larger family-friendly resort is the Iberostar Grand Salome. Sitting in Costa Adeje, the hotel is one of the best located beachfront hotels in Tenerife, offering the best of both worlds. Just in front of the hotel is Fanabe Beach while behind the hotel you’ll find the Plaza Del Duque shopping and plenty of bars and restaurants.
White dominates most of the area of the hotel which is enlivened with lots of greenery. You can choose from three categories of well-furnished suites that provide great views of the ocean. Depending on the accommodation plan that you choose, guests can enjoy various perks.
An exclusive swimming pool plus an infinity whirlpool tub and a full spa are what you can look forward to at the hotel. There are also two fitness centers, a tennis court, pool tables, plus guests have access to the facilities at the larger space, Anthelia. You can satiate your cravings at any of the four restaurants onsite.
Europe Villa Cortes
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Just a few steps from the pulsating nightlife of Parque la Paz you’ll find the luxurious Europe Villa Cortes, a favorite with celebrities. Its ocean-facing location on the golden mile that runs through the Playa de Las Americas means that you’re well placed for a great vacation.
The Villa screams luxury right from its stunning architectural Mexican hacienda design with romantic courtyards, patio gardens, and fountains. Expansive guest rooms reflect this luxury with their regal touches and mahogany furniture. The suites come with massive terraces that look out over the ocean.
Like most of the luxury hotels in Tenerife, this one is also big on amenities. The highlight is its massive freshwater pool that features a waterfall plus a separate pool for children. Sun loungers and parasols by the pool make this an excellent space to while away your time. It’s no wonder that this ranks as one of the best hotel pools in Tenerife.
A solarium zone in front of the sea is perfect for sunbathing. Alternatively, you could head to the exclusive beach to chill out. If that’s not all, the hotel also has an opulent wellness center that is set in mock Mayan ruins. Other facilities that you can enjoy are a fitness center, tennis courts, and multiple restaurants. Villa Cortes offers a smorgasbord of dining venues from casual oceanfront restaurants to fine dining spaces. If you think that’s the end of it, you’re off the mark as the hotel also has four separate bars!
Meliá Hacienda del Conde
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Another of Tenerife’s hotels that features one of the best hotel pools is the Meliá Hacienda del Conde. This adults-only hotel is set in a quiet area of Tenerife, far from the touristy crowds! It’s the ideal location for a romantic getaway in the verdant north-west corner of the island. The black sand beach of Las Arenas is a 10-minute walk from here while Buenavista is a little further away on foot.
Built in the traditional Canarian colonial style, the hotel exudes style and luxury. A large open courtyard is surrounded by the main buildings of the hotel while the leisure spaces run down the hillside. Spacious guest rooms feature understated luxury in a contemporary colonial setting with a wide range of amenities.
The two infinity pools are wonderful spaces to unwind with sun terraces and loungers. The YHI spa is another great place to relax as you indulge in some pampering. An 18 hole championship golf course, onsite Salazar Restaurant, and a funky bar are other amenities that you can expect here.
Royale Hideaway Corales Suites
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Designed in the shape of a boat and inspired by the marine corals on the island, the Royale Hideaway Corales Suites is one of the best hotels in Tenerife for families. It floats at the back of the La Caleta village just a four-minute walk from the La Enramada beach. However, if you’re interested in going further you’ll need to hire a car. With all that the hotel has to offer, staying in will probably be a better option if you’re here for a relaxed holiday.
The minimalist exterior of the hotel belies the beautiful interiors of the hotel, beginning with the impressive lobby. It’s a cavernous three-story space that has been carved into volcanic rock and highlighted by mood lighting. The 114 luxurious suites exude opulence and style. From the comfortable bed to the living room sofas and floor-to-ceiling glass panels there’s great attention to luxurious detail. Some terraces are huge with stunning ocean views. You’ll also find private pools in higher-level suites. All suites come with a fully equipped kitchen and a separate bedroom.
With three outdoor heated, saltwater swimming pools, natural lush gardens, and a wide range of sports and wellness programs, what more could you want! There is more though. Multiple dining areas, several clubs for different ages, and access to the facilities of the adults-only hotel next door make this a great base.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Tenerife:
- Gauchinche Food Tour – This four-hour tour will take you to some of the incredible spots along the coast where you’ll get to feast on some of the delicacies. You’ll also visit a traditional Guachinche to enjoy quality food and drink.
- Restaurante La Vieja – Dig into some of the freshest seafood delicacies at this restaurant in the fishing village of La Caleta in Adeje. It’s not just the food that is great but you’ll also enjoy exceptional views of the sea.
Recommended Activities In Tenerife:
- Whale & Dolphin Watching with Drinks and Snacks – Set sail on a luxury yacht to catch sight of dolphins and whales. You’ll also get a chance to snorkel with turtles in a secluded bay and enjoy snacks and unlimited drinks.
- Teide National Park – Discover the rugged beauty of Tenerife as you explore Spain’s highest volcano. Enjoy spectacular views from the comfort of a cable car as you ride to the top of the mountain.
