The Canary Islands belong to a Spanish archipelago which lies just off the northwest coast of Africa. They are known for their volcanic qualities and fabulous beaches which attract a number of tourists. The islands of Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are the most popular and each have their own unique sights and things to do. Other islands include El Hierro and La Gomera which are the smallest islands in the Canaries, however they still have a lot to offer. When you embark on your next trip to the Canary Islands, fill up your itinerary with these 20 things to see and do.
Gran Canaria
1. Visit Playa del Inglés
This is perhaps the most popular beach on the island attracting loads of tourists during the high season. The beach is lined with hotels, restaurants and shops.
Photo credit: spain-grancanaria.com
2. Roque Nublo
This is the most iconic rock in Gran Canaria, making it perhaps one of the most symbolic views on the island. There are a number of trails which allow you to make your way to the top of this impressive formation.
Photo credit: grancanaria.com
3. Maspalomas Dunes
These sand dunes can be found in the south of the island creating a desert-like stretch across a 404-hectare area.
4. Las Palmas Cathedral
A Roman Catholic cathedral located in the capital of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. It has a stunning exterior which is a cause for admiration.
Fuerteventura
5. El Cotillo Beach
Situated in the northwest of Fuerteventura is El Cotillo beach. As well as being a great sandy beach to relax on, it is even better for those who love to surf!
Photo credit: Surfertoday.com
6. Corralejo Natural Park
Yet another area full of sand dunes! This huge area is preserved on the island and features vast stretches of sand dunes, accompanied by sparkling beaches.
7. Kite Festival
The sand dunes aren’t just sand, sometimes they’re full of colour. Every year, Fuerteventura’s sand dunes host a kite festival where hundreds of kites take flight into the sky.
8. Lobos Islands
Whilst in Fuerteventura, make sure you head over to the Lobos Islands. Laying just north of Fuerteventura, these islands have a preserved area full of birdlife and fauna.
Tenerife
9. Teide National Park
A trip to Teide National Park not only takes you to a UNESCO listed site, but to Spain’s highest mountain which is Teide volcano. Explore craters and lava flows whilst you’re here too.
10. Los Gigantes
Located on Tenerife’s west coast, these cliffs are… yep, you guessed it, gigantic! These iconic cliffs are one of the most significant sights on the island, so you have to give them a visit.
11. Barranco del Infierno
If you’re looking for an action-packed holiday in Tenerife, head to Barranco del Infierno. You’ll find a picturesque hiking trail complete with a waterfall and gorge, as well as lush flora and fauna.
12. Botanical Gardens
Who doesn’t love a botanical garden? Roam around these grounds featuring a number of exotic and tropical plants for a lovely day out.
Photo credit: Botanical Garden Photography
Lanzarote
13. Jameos del Agua
The Canary Islands have many volcanic characteristics and one of them are these volcanic caves in Lanzarote. These caves are open for visitors to explore, they feature a restaurant and even a concert hall! It’s so fascinating that we’ve included Jameos del Agua on our ultimate Lanzarote checklist!
14. Timanfaya National Park
This national park puts Lanzarote’s volcanic scenery on display, allowing you to enter the park on foot, by coach or by camel. Whilst there, enjoy a meal at the site’s geothermal restaurant.
15. Papagayo Beach
Looking for a beach holiday whilst in Lanzarote? Head to Papagayo Beach. It features golden sands and bright blue waters.
La Gomera
16. Roque Agando
You would know by now that rock formations are a common aspect in the Canary Islands. Roque Agando is La Gomera’s version.
Photo credit: visitcanaries.com
17. Hermigua
This stunning area of La Gomera offers many natural sights, from small villages to even more rock formations and canyons. Make your way to Hermigua beach for ultimate relaxation.
Photo credit: blog.private-holiday.de
El Hierro
18. Charco Azul
El Hierro, the smallest of the Canaries is home to Charco Azul which features amazing little swimming pools. Created by volcanic activity, have a bathe in these turquoise waters and rejuvenate.
19. Mirador de la Pena
If views are what you’re looking for, this is the place for you. One of the best viewpoints on El Hierro, enjoy the scenic views of the island.
Photo credit: hellocanaryislands.com
20. Candelaria Chapel Frontera
This beautiful little chapel really is a sight to see. Resting in the shadow of the island’s volcanic mountains, it is well and truly encapsulated by towering sights.
