Rolling with the Tide in Tenerife

Tenerife is the largest of the seven islands that make up the Canary Islands, found just west of Africa. Despite their location, the Canary Islands are considered part of Europe, specifically Spain. So make sure you have your Euros and pocket Spanish handAy, although given its popularity among tourists, you’ll be able to get away with English. The island is, shocking I know, full of beach. It’s up to you to choose how you take advantage of this ocean proximity. You can get your tan the leisurely way, laying on the sand, or you can earn some golden color taking part in more high energy activities.Tenerife is a water sport paradise. The pleasant and warm climate lets you enjoy year round water adventures.

Sailing is hugely popular and a great way to explore the surrounding Atlantic. Another big draw to Tenerife (and the Canary Islands in general) is its prime windsurfing conditions. With spots all around the island, there are wind and wave combinations for starters, seasoned veterans, and everyone in between. Winds are strongest in the summer but if it is powerful waves your after, plan a visit in the winter time. Another option is to ditch the sail and hit the ocean for some no frills surfing. The waves in Tenerife are revered for their year-round left and right breaking patterns and peaks and the island is often site to rounds of the professional circuit. If you’re in the know when it comes to the world of surfing, you might want to pack your autograph book with your bathing suit. Enough above the water action? Head below the surface and try out scuba diving. Dive among beautiful seabeds and share the space with locals like the parrotfish or dusky grouper.

When it’s time to get out of the water, Tenerife offers some pretty cool land activities.The island is home to the highest peak in Spain, strange as it may sound in terms of geographical locale. Mount Teide also happens to be an active volcano. You are allowed to hike to the peak and the volcano is located in a national park. Beware, hiking up to the very top does require a permit from local authorities. Other land based fun can be had caving and canyoning. In case you’re unsure, as I definitely was, canyoning is exploring canyons through a mix of climbing, abseiling, and other forms of “travel” that may be required to cover the area.

After all this water and land exploration, you’re going to be hungry. Good news, Tenerife restaurants boast excellent cuisine, whether a bodega or white tablecloth affair.Although a Spanish island, Tenerife has its own flair on food, offering its own brand of tapas as well as more common Spanish fare. Tenerife also offers up a wide selection of international cuisine if you are so inclined.

Just like the restaurants, Tenerife hotels come in a variety. There are traditional hotels and resorts for a bit more luxury. The island also has smaller guest houses and hostels for your stay. If you’re looking for a little fun in the sun, Tenerife is your place. Learn more at mydestination.com/tenerife.