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Complete Guide to Tenerife with Kids

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is a sun-kissed paradise that offers an abundance of family-friendly activities, stunning landscapes, and cultural experiences. With its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and diverse attractions, it’s an ideal destination for a family holiday. This complete guide will help you navigate the island with kids, ensuring a memorable trip for everyone.

Getting There

Most families arrive on Tenerife via the Tenerife South Airport (Reina Sofia), which has excellent connections to major UK cities. Depending on your choice of accommodation, you can hire a car for convenience or use public transport, which is reliable and relatively inexpensive.

Accommodation

When travelling with kids, consider staying in family-friendly resorts or apartments. Areas such as Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos offer numerous options that cater to families, complete with pools, kids’ clubs, and easy access to beaches. Many hotels provide services like babysitting and children’s menus, making your stay even more comfortable.

Top Attractions for Families

1. Loro Parque

Located in Puerto de la Cruz, Loro Parque is one of the island’s top attractions. This award-winning zoo is home to a variety of species, including parrots, penguins, and killer whales. The shows featuring dolphins and sea lions are particularly popular with children. The park also has beautifully landscaped gardens that make for a leisurely stroll.

2. Siam Park

Siam Park, often regarded as the best water park in the world, is a must-visit. With its Thai theme, the park boasts thrilling water rides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. There are also designated areas for younger children, making it a fun-filled day for all age groups.

3. Teide National Park

Home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers breathtaking landscapes that are perfect for outdoor adventures. Families can take the cable car to get a closer look at the volcano, and the park offers numerous walking trails suitable for children. Remember to pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature!

4. Playa de Las Américas

This popular beach destination features golden sands and calm waters, ideal for families with kids. Plenty of beach clubs offer sunbeds and umbrellas, and numerous watersport activities are available, from jet skiing to parasailing. Children can also enjoy building sandcastles or playing in the clear waters.

5. Aqualand

Another excellent water park is Aqualand in Costa Adeje. It has a variety of slides, pools, and a playful dolphin show. While Siam Park may be the more famous of the two, Aqualand provides a fantastic day out without the larger crowds.

Outdoor Activities

1. Whale Watching

The waters surrounding Tenerife are home to various species of dolphins and whales. Several local companies offer boat trips suitable for families, which can be both educational and exhilarating as you spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

2. Hiking

Tenerife boasts numerous hiking trails suitable for families. Adventures can range from easy walks in the forests of Anaga Rural Park to more challenging climbs in the Teno Mountains. The family can encounter unique flora and fauna along the way, making the experience both fun and educational.

3. Beaches

Apart from Playa de Las Américas, consider visiting Playa de Los Cristianos, which is more family-oriented and features shallow waters, ideal for younger children. Playa Jardín in Puerto de la Cruz is another great option, with its black sand and plenty of facilities.

Cultural Experiences

1. Pueblo Chico

Located in the northern part of the island, this miniature park depicts Tenerife’s most famous landmarks in a scale model. Kids will love exploring the tiny villages and discovering the island’s culture and architecture. It’s a fun and educational experience that the whole family can enjoy.

2. Local Markets

Visiting local markets can be a great way to experience the island’s culture. Markets like the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África in Santa Cruz are vibrant and full of local delicacies, crafts, and souvenirs. It’s a perfect spot to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle while trying some tasty treats.

Tips for Travelling with Kids

• Plan Downtime: Balancing activities with downtime is crucial when travelling with children. Ensure you have plenty of time to relax by the pool or beach.
• Pack Essentials: Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and light clothing. The sun can be intense, and keeping your kids protected is critical.
• Keep Snacks Handy: Always have some snacks on hand to prevent meltdowns, especially during outings and excursions.
• Be Flexible: While planning is important, being flexible with your itinerary can lead to enjoyable spontaneous moments.

Conclusion

Tenerife is a fantastic destination for families, offering everything from thrilling theme parks to serene natural landscapes. With a bit of planning and consideration for your children’s needs, your family holiday can be a delightful experience, filled with exploration and adventure. So pack your bags, grab the kids, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in this beautiful Canary Island!