Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago located off the northwest coast of Africa.
The island is home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, a dormant volcano and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of Tenerife nickname is the Island of Eternal Spring. The mild and temperate climate throughout the year has earned it this nickname.
Tenerife attracts millions of visitors each year who come to enjoy its warm climate, outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage.
The island offers a plethora of stunning photography opportunities, showcasing its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and unique natural features.
The (non-exhaustive) list of stunning spots below is organized going around from the Northeast tip and moving counterclockwise 🤨
Benijo beach
Benijo is a picturesque beach located on the northeastern coast of Tenerife, one of the most beautiful spots of the island in my view.
It’s known for its rugged beauty, with dramatic cliffs, black sand, and crashing waves.
The beach is surrounded by stunning volcanic landscapes and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
It’s a popular spot for photography (especially around sunrise & sunset), surfing, and simply enjoying the natural beauty of Tenerife.
While Benijo isn’t as easily accessible as some of the more touristy beaches on the island, many visitors find the journey well worth it for the chance to experience its unspoiled beauty.
The trail to get down might be closed so proceed safely 😊.
The view toward Almaciga (opposite side) is beautiful as well.
On the small and sinuous road to get there, there are as well some great views over the coastline.
Mirador Playa de las Gaviotas
The Mirador Playa de las Gaviotas is a viewpoint located on the northern coast in the municipality of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Translated as “Seagulls Beach Viewpoint,” it offers stunning vistas of the rugged coastline and the Atlantic Ocean.
It’s a fantastic spot for photography, particularly during sunrise or sunset when the colors of the sky and sea blend beautifully.
San Cristóbal de La Laguna
La Laguna, is a UNESCO World Heritage historic city located north East boasts a wealth of architectural treasures, including grand mansions, churches, and public buildings dating back to the 15th century.
The heart of La Laguna is its charming Old Town, characterized by narrow streets, picturesque squares, and colorful buildings adorned with intricate balconies and wooden shutters.
The city’s colonial-era architecture reflects its role as the former capital of Tenerife and a major hub of trade and culture.
Dominating the skyline of the city is the Cathedral of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a striking example of Canarian Baroque architecture.
The cathedral’s interior features beautiful altarpieces, sculptures, and religious artifacts.
One of the best view over the town (a couple of the images above) is walking 15 min uphill toward Mirador de San Roque
Mirador Pico del Ingles
The Mirador Pico del Inglés is another stunning viewpoint in Tenerife. Situated in the Anaga Rural Park in the northeastern part of the island, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged Anaga Mountains, dense laurel forests, and the shimmering Atlantic Ocean.
From the Mirador Pico del Inglés, visitors can admire the unique geological formations of the Anaga Mountains, which are remnants of ancient volcanic activity.
On clear days, you can see as far as the neighboring islands of La Gomera and Gran Canaria. You can as well see Mount Teide quite far (images below are with a tele zoom)
Camino Viejo al Pico del Ingles
The “Old Path to Pico del Inglés,” is a historic trail located in the Anaga Rural Park that starts near the village of Chamorga.
Without doing the trail, one of the most popular spot is the old road , close to the Mirador Pico del Ingles
Roque de Taborno Trail
The Taborno hike is a popular trail located in the Anaga Rural Park. It’s known for its stunning scenery, including rugged cliffs, lush forests, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The Taborno hike starts from the village of Taborno (near the church). From there, hikers traverse along well-marked trails that wind through the Anaga Mountains, passing through dense laurel forests, picturesque valleys, and rocky terrain.
One of the highlights of the Taborno hike is reaching the viewpoint of Mirador de Taborno, which offers spectacular vistas of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
The entire hike typically around the roque de Taborno takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete depending on your pace.
Overall, the Taborno hike is a fantastic way to experience the stunning landscapes of Tenerife Anaga Rural Park and is highly recommended for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Mirador Punta del Hidalgo
The Mirador Punta del Hidalgo is a scenic viewpoint located in the coastal town of Punta del Hidalgo, situated on the northern coast of Tenerife.
This viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged coastline, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding volcanic landscape.
It’s a fantastic spot for photography, particularly during sunrise (or sunset) when the colors of the sky paint a stunning backdrop.
The best views are in my views form the cliffs walking toward Ermita San Juanito.
Puerto de la Cruz
Puerto de la Cruz is a vibrant coastal town located on the northern coast of Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands.
There are a couple of specific places to see there.
Calle Mequinez
Calle Mequinez is a charming street located in the heart of Puerto de la Cruz. It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
This lively street runs parallel to the waterfront promenade. It is characterized by its colorful buildings, and plantrees
Calle del Lomo
Calle del Lomo runs parallel to Calle Mequinez and the waterfront promenade and is as well characterized by its colorful buildings.
There is as well some nice street art there.
Castillo San Felipe
This historical fortification also referred to as “Fortaleza de San Felipe.” is an old fortress located at the western end of Puerto de la Cruz, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
It was built in the 17th century to protect the town from pirate attacks and other maritime threats. The fortification has played a significant role in the history of Puerto de la Cruz and Tenerife as a whole.
Agatha Christie painted stairs
The “Agatha Christie Painted Stairs” in Puerto de la Cruz is a delightful artistic homage to the famous English writer, Agatha Christie, who visited the island of Tenerife. These stairs are located near the port area.
Mirador La Paz, Puerto de la Cruz
Not the best view of the island clearly, but if you pass nearby, the Mirador La Paz is offers panoramic views of the town, the coastline, and the Atlantic Ocean.
Elevator de Agua de Gordejuela
The Elevador de Agua de Gordejuela, also known as the Gordejuela Water Lift, is an impressive hydraulic engineering structure located in the municipality of Los Realejos, on the northern coast of Tenerife, Canary Islands.
Constructed in the early 20th century, the Gordejuela Water Lift was designed to harness the power of water to transport water from the Gordejuela Ravine to higher elevations for agricultural purposes.
Today, the Elevador de Agua de Gordejuela area remains a nice photography spot for sunset
Best is to follow the Mirador de la Gordejuela toward north for some nice perspectives over the elevator and the coastline
Playa de los Roques
A few kilometers north from the elevator, Playa de Los Roques, or Los Roques Beach, is a picturesque beach located in the municipality of Los Realejos.
This beach is characterized by its dark volcanic sand and rocky coastline, with large basalt rock formations dotting the shoreline.
There is a trail up hill and down to the beach (closed but it seems that people still use it) and you can even hike up to the Elevator de Agua de Gordejuela
While Playa de los Roques may not be as well-known as some of the larger beaches on the island, its rugged beauty (despite large hotels around) makes it a great spot, especially at sunrise.
Not to leave it unsaid, the bay is surrounded by big hotels, so you need a bit of pictures framing creativity to avoid them on the images 😢
From the trail, there is a nice view as well (with a tele zoom) over Punta Brava colorful houses.
Drago de Icod de los Vinos
If you pass nearby, the Drago Milenario of Icod de los Vinos is a famous dragon tree located in the town of Icod de los Vinos, on the northern coast of Tenerife.
This ancient tree is believed to be around 1,000 years old, making it one of the oldest living specimens of its kind.
Garachico
Garachico is a charming coastal town located on the northwestern coast of Tenerife. Garachico boasts a well-preserved historic center with narrow cobblestone streets, traditional Canarian architecture, and historic buildings dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries.
The town’s layout reflects its colonial past, with a central plaza, churches, and elegant mansions.
For panoramic views of the town and its surroundings, visitors can head to Mirador de Garachico, a scenic viewpoint located on the outskirts of town.
Punta de Teno
Punta de Teno is a stunning and remote peninsula located on the western tip of Tenerife. It’s renowned for its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and neighboring islands.
At the end of the peninsula stands the Punta de Teno Lighthouse (Faro de Punta de Teno), which has been guiding ships safely along the coast since the late 19th century.
Punta de Teno is characterized by its towering cliffs and unique rock formations, which have been sculpted by centuries of volcanic activity and erosion.
The rugged coastline provides a stunning backdrop for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
The lighthouse itself is a picturesque landmark and offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
La Oratava
La Orotava is a municipality located on the northern coast of Tenerife. It is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning natural landscapes.
La Orotava boasts a well-preserved historic center with cobbled streets, traditional Canarian architecture, and historic buildings dating back to the colonial era.
Get lost in the old town.
Walking around the historic town, especially early morning is a great way to discover the old houses
Church of Our Lady of Conception
The Church of Our Lady of Conception (Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción) is a prominent landmark in La Orotava.
Construction of the church began in the late 16th century and continued over several centuries, resulting in a mixture of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements.
The church stands in the heart of La Orotava historic center, adjacent to the Plaza de la Constitución. The interior features a stunning altarpiece, beautiful stained glass windows, and impressive sculptures.`
Plaza de Fernando Fuentes
Uphill, plaza de Fernando Fuentes is a small square lush garden surrounded by historical and colorful buildings.
It is a great place around sunrise.
Jardines del Marquesado de la Quinta Roja
These beautiful gardens are located near the town center and feature lush vegetation, fountains, and sculptures.
The Quinta Roja Gardens are part of the larger Marquesado de la Quinta Roja estate, which dates back to the 16th century.
The gardens were designed in the 18th century in the traditional Canarian style, featuring terraced slopes, winding paths, and a wide variety of plant species.
The Quinta Roja Gardens are open to the public and are a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Charco de la Laja Natural pool
The Charco de la Laja is a natural swimming pool located in the municipality of San Juan de la Rambla on the northern coast of Tenerife.
Masca gorge
Masca is a picturesque village located in the Teno Mountains on the northwest coast of Tenerife. It is nestled in a deep ravine surrounded by towering cliffs, making it one of the most scenic spots on the island.
Masca is known for its traditional Canarian architecture, with whitewashed houses adorned with wooden balconies and terracotta roofs. The village has retained much of its historic charm and character, providing visitors with a glimpse into traditional island life.
Masca is a popular starting point for hiking trails that wind through the Teno Mountains and surrounding countryside. One of the most famous hikes is the Masca Gorge (Barranco de Masca), which takes hikers on a scenic trek through the rugged terrain to the coast.
There are several viewpoints in and around Masca that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. These viewpoints are ideal for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers looking to capture the beauty of Tenerife’s northwest coast.
Masca is a hidden gem of Tenerife, offering visitors a chance to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Get there early morning. After 9 AM, it is not hidden at all and fully crowded with tourists 😢.
La Caleta de Adeje hike
The Costa Adeje Coastal Path starts from La Caleta and goes along the coastline towards Costa Adeje.
It offers stunning views of the ocean and rugged cliffs as you walk toward Playa de los Morteros
While not a challenging hike, it’s a pleasant walk with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and photography. You can continue up to Puta Las Samas and then Caleta de Adeje
Mirador de las Americas, Los Cristianos
If you hike in the south hills above Los Cristianos harbor, you’ll find some great sunset spots over the ocean and the Harbor.
There is (on the map) a place called Mirador de Las Americas but no road is getting there anymore (as far as I could find. But just hike on the trails at the end of the city (C. La Marca) and you’ll then get there eventually 😊.
Las Americas Rocks
In the same area, “La Piscina” in Playa de las Américas, Tenerife, refers to a natural rock pool formation along the coastline.
This spot is favored by locals and tourists alike for swimming and enjoying the coastal scenery. It is very busy at sunset.
If you’re a photographer, ideal is sunset with tide “halfway” between low and high (youc an find free iphone apps for planning this)
The area offers a nice coastline walkway, as well as many, restaurants and shops.
Montana Roja
Montaña Roja, or Red Mountain, is a prominent volcanic cone located on the southern coast of Tenerife, near the town of El Médano, a popular coastal resort known for its beaches and water sports.
It is easily recognizable from a distance due to its conical shape and reddish hue.
Like much of Tenerife, Montaña Roja is of volcanic origin. The red coloration of the mountain comes from the oxidation of iron minerals in the volcanic rock.
Montaña Roja is part of a protected natural area known as the Montaña Roja Special Nature Reserve (Reserva Natural Especial de Montaña Roja).
At the base of Montaña Roja lies Playa de la Tejita, a beautiful sandy beach that stretches along the coast.
Arco de Tajao
The “Arco de Tajao” is a natural arch located in the coastal village of Tajao, on the southeastern coast of Tenerife,
This geological formation is known for its striking beauty and unique shape, which has been carved over time by the erosive action of the sea and wind.
Faro Punta de Abona
The Faro de Punta de Abona Lighthouse, is a prominent landmark located on the southeastern coast of Tenerife, near the town of Poris de Abona in the municipality of Arico.
The lighthouse is perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and serves as an important navigational aid for ships in the area.
It is a great spot for astrophotography and morning twilight.
It’s a picturesque spot for photography and offers a peaceful atmosphere away from the bustling tourist areas.
Teide national park
The Teide National Park (Parque Nacional del Teide) is a UNESCO World Heritage. It’s named after Mount Teide, which is the highest peak in Spain and the third-largest volcano in the world from its underwater base.
Teide National Park is renowned for its unique geological features, including volcanic landscapes, lava flows, and rock formations.
The park’s centerpiece, Mount Teide, rises to an impressive height of 3,718 meters (12,198 feet) above sea level.
Despite its harsh volcanic environment, the park is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, many of which are endemic to the Canary Islands.
Due to its high altitude, clear skies, and minimal light pollution, Teide National Park is an exceptional location for stargazing.
Mirador de Chipeque
The Mirador de Chipeque offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape, including the iconic Mount Teide.
This mirador is lower in altitude than some of the other, meaning more opportunity to be on the edge between clouds and clear sky, for ideal sunset conditions like when I was there.
Roques de García
The Roques de García is one of the most iconic and easily recognizable landmarks in the Teide Park
The Roques are a group of volcanic rock formations that were sculpted by various volcanic and erosive processes over millions of years.
The most famous rock formation within the Roques de García is known as “Roque Cinchado” or simply “El Roque.”
This distinctive rock formation features a unique shape and is often depicted in photographs and postcards showcasing the natural beauty of Tenerife.
Roques de García trail
The Roques de García area offers several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the surrounding volcanic landscape and enjoy panoramic views of the rock formations and Mount Teide.
The loop is 2 to 3 hours to complete, with stunning rock formations on the way
The Roques de García viewpoint provides visitors with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape, including the rugged terrain, lava flows, and distant peaks.
That hike attracts many (many) visitors so I strongly advice to start to hike before 9. After 10 ish the parking is full of large buses, and the area looks like Disneyland’😢
Overall, the Roques de García remains a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Teide National Park, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island’s volcanic past and showcasing some of its most iconic natural landmarks.
Again, doing part of the trail during a no moon night is a dream for stargazing or astrophotography.
La ventana de Igueque
One of the most beautiful “hidden spot” of the park is the Ventana de Igueque.
That small arch offers an amazing view toward Mount Teide, especially during morning twilight and sunrise.
That place is on the hills above Mirador de la Tarta. It can be reach after a 15 min ish walk on a dirty road that starts a bit before Puerto de Izana.
The small hike on the way offers great views and always changing light over the volcano
As I’m a good boy, here is the GPS point 28.33325 -16.48611 😊
Teide Cable Car
The “Teleférico del Teide,” or Teide Cable Car, is a popular attraction in Teide National Park,
The cable car transports visitors from a base station ( 2,356 meters – 7,729 feet above sea leve) to a higher station near the summit of Mount Teide, at approximately 3,555 meters (11,663 feet).
Highway to Volcano
Near Parador de Cañadas del Teide is a long straight road, which is a popular Instagram spot.
As it is a very busy road during the day, early morning is a safer way to get that shot 😊.
Best is if you can plan your shot (thanks PhotoPills app) to get the right day / time for the Milky way to aligh toward Mount Teide. But keep a light on your back in case a car comes to stay safe 😂.
Minas de San José
The sulphur Minas de San José were active in the 19th and early 20th centuries for extracting sulfur
It is now a nice spot at the foot of Montana Rajada & Mount Teide
Mirador El Tabonal negro
The Mirador El Tabonal Negro is another viewpoint offering views of the volcanic landscape, particularly the Tabonal Negro lava field.
Zapato de la Reina arch
The “Zapato de la Reina” (Queen’s Shoe) is a distinctive rock formation located within Teide National Park. It’s named for its resemblance to a shoe, particularly a high-heeled one, hence its poetic name.
Best view is opposite to the trail, with the volcano in the frame as well 😊
Teide Observatory
The Observatorio del Teide is an astronomical observatory sitting at an altitude of around 2,390 meters (7,841 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest observatories in the world.
The observatory, situated on the slopes of Mount Teide is equipped with several telescopes and astronomical instruments, operated by various research institutions and organizations.
Stargazing in that area is obviously quite exceptional 🤩
Gallotia Galloti Lizard
The Gallotia Galloti Lizard is an endemic species to the Canary Islands and is one of the most widespread lizards in Tenerife, including Teide National Park.
Pyramids of Güímar
The Pyramids of Güímar are a fascinating archaeological site located in the town of Güímar. These pyramids are one of the lesser-known historical attractions of Tenerife but are nonetheless intriguing due to their mysterious origins and unique design.
Today, the Pyramids of Güímar are part of the Ethnographic Park, which includes a museum and botanical garden.
The museum provides information about the history and theories surrounding the pyramids, as well as different exhibits.The one on Polynesia and Easter Island is worth having a look
Candelaria
Candelaria, a municipality located on the eastern coast of Tenerife is known for its religious and cultural significance, as well as its picturesque seaside location.
Basilica of Candelaria
One of the most iconic landmarks in Candelaria is the Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria (Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria)
Los Menceyes
Near the Basilica of Our Lady of Candelaria, you can find Los Menceyes de Candelaria, a series of statues that represent the nine Guanche kings (Menceyes) of Tenerife.
The Guanches were the indigenous people of the Canary Islands, including Tenerife, before the Spanish conquest in the 15th century. The menceyes were the rulers of the various Guanche kingdoms on the island.
The statues of the menceyes serve as a tribute to the island’s pre-Hispanic history and cultural heritage.
They are situated along the Avenida de los Menceyes (Avenue of the Menceyes), a pedestrian promenade in Candelaria.
If you get lucky and get there when the ocean is wild, this is a cool (and wet) place.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Closing the virtual loop around Tenerife Island, here is Santa Cruz de Tenerife the capital city of the island, on the northeast coast.
Santa Cruz is known for its vibrant atmosphere, cultural attractions, bustling port and charming old town
The Auditorio de Tenerife a striking architectural landmark designed by Santiago Calatrava
It is best to photograph during morning twilight in my view.
So here is the end of my virtual tour of the Tenerife Island hoping that gives justice to that beautiful and very diverse place.
If you have interest in another Canaries Island, you can check my article Lanzarote, the fire island in the link
Love these images?
Selected photographs from this journey are available as fine art prints and for licensing on Shootplanet.com galleries link:
CANARY ISLANDS
NB: The website galleries showcase only a small selection of photographs from my journeys. All images featured in the article are also available as fine art prints or for licensing.
Please contact me at marcturcan@shootplanet.com for further information.
