A First-Timer’s Guide to the Best Canary Islands

The Canary Islands boast the second-largest Carnival in the world and Spain’s highest mountain, Mount Teide. They’re also home to world-class wines, volcanic landscapes, and a mix of wild and tranquil beaches. Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera and El Hierro — each of these islands will bring a different zest to your visit. You may naturally have a question: which of the Canary Islands is best for you? Here's your guide to help you decide.

What is the best Canary Island?

The Canary Islands are the epitome of diversity. From dramatic deserts and snow-capped mountains to lush valleys and towering cliffs, the scenery here is truly spectacular. Add to these seemingly endless beaches - from golden to strikingly black volcanic sands - and you have an archipelago that certainly can't be called ordinary.

The islands' volcanic origins make them even more intriguing. The Teneguía volcano on La Palma erupted back in 1971, and just recently, in 2021, the Cumbre Vieja volcano erupted, captivating the world for over 85 days. If this fascinates you, exploring volcanic trails or learning about the geology of the islands might be just right up your alley.

So which Canary Island should you choose? Honestly, it just depends on what you're after, but whatever your travel style, one of the Canary Islands is sure to quench your desires.

Tenerife: best for an endless variety

The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife is best suited to families and couples with different interests. If one of you likes to laze on the beach and the other craves outdoor adventure, Tenerife can help you find the balance.

While the dry, sunny south coast, dominated by busy resorts, water parks and beach bars, is the center of the island's tourism, Tenerife's true appeal lies beyond the crowds.

On the north coast, Puerto de la Cruz attracts with its more traditional charm. This town has been welcoming visitors for over a century, and its colonial architecture and old-world atmosphere are still intact, despite a modernized waterfront.

In search of history, you should head to La Orotava, a city with a timeless character. Its cobblestone streets, stately mansions and ancient churches make it interesting to explore. There are also plenty of fantastic local restaurants serving authentic Spanish cuisine.

For a truly unforgettable experience, head inland to Teide National Park, home to Spain's highest peak, the Teide Volcano. The park’s lunar-like landscapes are nothing short of spectacular. A cable car ride offers incredible views, especially when paired with a guided tour to dig deeper into the island’s volcanic history.

Where to stay in Tenerife:

• La Orotava stays: Hotel Alhambra
• Beachfront luxury: Hotel Cleopatra Palace
• Upscale retreat: Hacienda del Conde

Find more accommodation options in Tenerife.

Fuerteventura: best for wind sports and beaches

Fuerteventura, the second largest Canary Island, is located just around 60 miles from the African coast. With its windswept golden sand beaches and virtually undeveloped landscape, it will become a paradise if you are looking for a beach vacation combined with thrills.

The island’s vibe is unpolished and laid-back, epitomized by Corralejo, a once-sleepy fishing port turned lively resort town. Here, Brits, Germans, and locals mingle, while a solid lineup of tapas bars keeps the evenings buzzing.

One of the main attractions is Corralejo National Park, where endless dunes stretch out to azure waters. Rent a buggy or quad bike to see the dunes in all their glory, or take a jeep tour to explore more remote locations, including Cofete Natural Park, known for its coves and cactus-dotted terrain.

Beach enthusiasts will love Playa del Moro, a golden, windswept stretch with a raw, untamed feel. It’s also one of the island’s prime surf spots, where the winds add a wild edge to the waves.

For a quieter escape, take a short boat trip to Isla de Lobos, a pristine, mostly uninhabited nature reserve. Ideal for families and nature lovers, the island offers scenic walking trails, calm waters for snorkeling, and a real sense of solitude.

Where to stay in Fuerteventura:

• Corralejo luxury: Luxury Cayetana
• Beachfront bliss: Castillo Playa
• Family-friendly option: H10 Tindaya

Find more accommodation options in Fuerteventura.

Gran Canaria: best for diverse landscapes

Gran Canaria, the third-largest Canary Island, is a serious contender for offering the best variety. It has it all: spectacular volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, lively resorts, cultural centers and a thriving restaurant scene.

The island’s terrain owes much to its volcanic origins, giving it a striking cone-shaped profile. This mountainous landscape creates unique microclimates, meaning you can leave the cloudy streets of Las Palmas and, within an hour, be basking under the sun on the stunning Maspalomas Dunes.

Speaking of Las Palmas, the island’s capital blends modern energy with historic charm. It’s a major commercial hub, an essential seaport, and a cultural treasure trove. Its museums and galleries, particularly in the Vegueta Old Town, make it a fantastic wandering spot. A guided walking tour here is an excellent way to uncover the city’s fascinating history.

For an iconic island experience, head to Roque Nublo, a dramatic volcanic rock formation revered by the island’s original inhabitants. It’s a relatively easy hike and perfect for families or anyone keen to combine natural beauty with cultural significance.

Where to stay in Gran Canaria:

• Rural retreat: El Rinconcito de Tejeda
• Beachfront escape: Valentina Beach Apartments & Suites
• Family favorite: Hotel Cordial Mogán Playa

Find more accommodation options in Gran Canaria.

Lanzarote: best for an elegant ambiance

The youngest of the Canary Islands, Lanzarote exudes sophistication, thanks in large part to the vision of César Manrique. This renowned architect and artist left an indelible mark on the island, seamlessly blending natural beauty with the art and architecture that make Lanzarote unique.

To witness Manrique's genius firsthand, visit Jameos del Agua, a stunning attraction built in a volcanic grotto. Its subterranean lagoon, atmospheric lighting and soothing music make it a dreamy retreat that seems almost otherworldly.

But Lanzarote isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s also a center for winemaking. The island’s volcanic terrain gives Malvasia wine grapes their distinctive character, and a wine-tasting tour is the perfect companion to a visit to Timanfaya National Park. Here, you’ll see surreal, Mars-like landscapes formed by volcanic eruptions, offering a glimpse into the island’s fiery origins.

For a more laid-back vibe, Playa Blanca delivers family-friendly resorts, golden beaches, and a lively marina perfect for people-watching. It’s also where you can catch the 40-minute ferry to nearby Fuerteventura. And if you’re craving true seclusion, hop on a boat to La Graciosa, a tiny, unspoiled island with pristine beaches and no cars — just peace.

Where to stay in Lanzarote:

• Boutique charm: Hotelito Rural Flor de Timanfaya
• Beachfront comfort: Apartamentos Acuario Sol
• Family-friendly fun: Grupotel Cinco Plazas

Find more accommodation options in Lanzarote.

La Graciosa: best for secluded getaways

Tucked away at the northern tip of Lanzarote, the tiny island of La Graciosa is the ultimate destination for peace and solitude. Accessible only by ferry from Orzola, a small fishing port, this tranquil island offers pristine beaches and a slow pace of life, making it a great option for a day trip or even a longer family vacation.

For the best view of La Graciosa, head to Mirador del Río, an iconic observation gallery sculpted into the cliffs by César Manrique. From here, you’ll witness breathtaking views of Graciosa and the surrounding islets — Montaña Clara and Alegranza — set against the turquoise waters of the narrow strait known as El Río. It’s arguably the most spectacular mirador in the Canary Islands, and the silence, broken only by the wind, adds to the magic of the setting.

The island is part of the Parque Nacional del Archipiélago Chinijo, a protected natural area that also includes part of Lanzarote’s northwest coast. With no paved roads and limited development, La Graciosa feels like a world apart. Spend your time here hiking along sandy paths, cycling to hidden coves, or simply lounging on the untouched beaches.

Where to stay in La Graciosa:

• For couples: La Pardela Excellence Apartamentos
• Beachfront bliss: La Graciosa Camelia Beach Vistas Mar
• Family-friendly option: Apartamentos Graciosamar

Find more accommodation options in La Graciosa

La Palma: best for jaw-dropping scenery

La Palma, the most northwesterly of the Canary Islands, has earned its dual nicknames: La Isla Bonita (The Beautiful Island) and La Isla Verde (The Green Island). With its lush forests, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status, this island offers scenery that genuinely stops you in your tracks.

The capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma, is a charming, history-steeped town worth a day (or two) of exploration. Its blend of traditional and modern architecture reflects its storied past as one of the Spanish Empire’s most important ports during the Renaissance.

For a unique adventure, explore La Palma’s volcanic origins with a guided tour of a 1640-feet-long lava tunnel. These cool (literally and figuratively) formations offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s fiery geological history.

But La Palma’s most iconic destination is Caldera de Taburiente National Park. This stunning area, blanketed in dense Canarian pine forests and dissected by deep ravines, is a haven for hikers. The park’s highlight is Roque de los Muchachos, where you’ll find some of the most breathtaking views in the Canary Islands. You can drive most of the way to the summit, then enjoy walking trails around this volcanic peak.

Where to stay in La Palma:

• For a charming city stay: Hotel Emblemático Holiday Time
• For beach relaxation: Puerto playa
• For countryside charm: Apartamentos La Caleta

Find more accommodation options in La Palma.

La Gomera: best for heavenly hiking

Columbian history, rugged terrain, and a splash of honey rum — La Gomera is Tenerife’s wilder sibling. This mountainous island is crisscrossed by winding roads, edged by dramatic cliffs, and dotted with only a handful of beaches. But where La Gomera truly shines is in its interior.

At the heart of the island is Parque Nacional de Garajonay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a stunning escape into nature. The park features rare laurel forests, subtropical plants, and archaeological sites. Its well-marked circular trail weaves through verdant valleys often draped in clouds, rewarding you with breathtaking views at nearly every turn.

La Gomera may be small, but it’s packed with culinary delights. Try almogrote, a creamy, spicy cheese paste perfect for spreading on bread. Pair it with a glass of local wine or ronmiel (honey rum), a signature Canarian liqueur with a sweet twist that’s a La Gomera specialty. For a true taste of the island, sample guarapo, a honey-like syrup made by heating the sap of Canarian palm trees.

Where to stay in La Gomera:

• For stunning sea views: Apartamentos Tapahuga
• For active adventurers: Telegraph Hostel
• For a town-centered stay: Hotel Torre Del Conde

Find more accommodation options in La Gomera.

El Hierro: best for utter escape

Rounding out our guide to the Canary Islands is rustic El Hierro, the smallest and most southwesterly of the archipelago. It’s also the least touristy — harder to get to, less developed, and refreshingly free of crowds.

If you’re looking for 24-hour bars or a nightlife scene, you won’t find it here. Likewise, if it’s postcard-perfect beaches you’re after, El Hierro might not be your match. But if you’re a diver, hiker, or someone craving complete escape, this island is paradise.

The inland capital, Valverde, is the only Canarian capital not located by the sea. It’s small but charming, with a friendly selection of bars and restaurants. Beyond the town, the landscape is a highlight. Explore the Tubo Volcánico, a 295-foot volcanic cave, or wander through El Sabinal, a windswept forest of juniper trees twisted into surreal shapes by the island’s relentless winds.

For beach lovers, Playa del Verodal is the standout spot. Its red-hued sand and dramatic cliffs make it worth a visit, though swimming here requires caution due to strong currents. For a quieter coastal vibe, head south to La Restinga, a laidback fishing village. This area boasts a black-sand beach, excellent fish restaurants, and a well-regarded diving center. Neighboring Bahía de Naos, a marine nature reserve, offers pristine underwater landscapes perfect for exploration.

Where to stay in El Hierro:

• For stunning views: El Laurel
• For a coastal retreat: Salitre
• For beachside comfort: Lightbooking Varadero La Restinga

Find more accommodation options in El Hierro

How to get to the Canary Islands:

Getting to the Canary Islands is easier than it seems. There are options to suit every type of traveler. From the UK, USA or mainland Europe, here's everything you need to know about getting to the Canary Islands.

Flights to the Canary Islands

There are numerous direct flights from the UK departing from most major airports. Many of them land in Tenerife or Gran Canaria, and some offer connections to smaller islands.

For US travelers, flights to the Canaries mostly pass through Madrid or London and are operated by airlines such as British Airways, Air Europa and Iberia. Keep an eye out for connecting flights to Tenerife or Gran Canaria for a more comfortable trip.

Ferries to the Canary Islands

If you prefer to travel by sea, several ferry operators connect mainland Spain to the Canary Islands and also offer inter-island routes:

• Trasmediterránea: There are weekly flights from Cádiz to Arrecife (Lanzarote), Las Palmas (Gran Canaria), Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Santa Cruz de la Palma.
• Fred Olsen Shipping Line: There are regular ferries between Gran Canaria and Tenerife and between Tenerife and El Hierro.
• Naviera Armas: Offers services connecting Gran Canaria to Tenerife, Fuerteventura, La Gomera, and Lanzarote, as well as routes between Tenerife and El Hierro or La Palma.

Whether you’re after beaches, volcanoes, or world-class hiking, the Canaries are ready to impress. Need inspiration or expert help planning your trip? Check out The Rough Guide to Spain for itineraries, tips, and advice on the best time to visit.

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