English
Do you think the south of Tenerife is just sun and beaches? Think again!
This part of the island, visited by tourists all year round, hides unique spots, living traditions, and surprising natural phenomena. From Hotel Villa Adeje Beach, located in the heart of Costa Adeje, you can explore many of these curiosities without having to travel far.
Get ready to discover a different side of Tenerife: more authentic, more unexpected, and more exciting.
1. The south of Tenerife has over 300 days of sunshine a year
Thanks to the influence of Mount Teide, which acts as a natural barrier, the south of the island enjoys a privileged microclimate. With more than 300 clear days a year and temperatures ranging from 22–28 °C in almost every season, it’s the perfect destination to enjoy the outdoors any time of year.
This makes it an ideal place for hiking, water sports, or simply relaxing by the pool or on the beach. From Costa Adeje to El Médano, sunshine is almost guaranteed.
2. This is where Tenerife’s longest beach is located
El Médano Beach, located in the municipality of Granadilla de Abona, is the longest beach on the island. With more than 2 kilometres of soft golden sand, it’s also a favourite spot for kitesurfers and windsurfers.
Thanks to the trade winds and its wide open space, this area blends sport, nature and local atmosphere, with seaside cafés and a laid-back vibe that sets it apart from the more urban beaches in the south.
3. The waters in the south are warmer and calmer
If you’re a sea lover, you’ll be happy to know that the beaches in the south of Tenerife have warmer and safer waters than those in the north. This is due to their lower exposure to Atlantic swells.
Areas such as Playa del Duque, La Caleta, Bahía del Duque or El Puertito de Adeje are perfect for swimming, snorkeling or enjoying sports like paddle surfing. Many also have blue flag certification, ensuring cleanliness, safety and accessibility.
4. You can see dolphins and whales all year round
One of the greatest natural treasures of southern Tenerife is its rich marine life. Between La Gomera and Tenerife, there’s a deep and sheltered channel home to more than 20 species of cetaceans, such as bottlenose dolphins and short-finned pilot whales.
From ports like Puerto Colón or Los Cristianos, whale watching excursions depart daily. It’s a magical and educational experience you can enjoy all year round.
5. It is home to one of the driest areas in Europe
While Tenerife is known for its lush green landscapes in the north, the south features desert-like areas, such as the coastline between Granadilla, Arico and Abades.
There you’ll find volcanic terrain, cardón and tabaiba plants, dry geological formations, and coastal hiking trails that look like something from another planet. This contrast between sea and desert is a unique opportunity for photography and trekking lovers.
6. In some villages, people still speak Silbo Gomero
Although it originated in La Gomera, Silbo Gomero has also been passed down in Tenerife, especially in rural areas of the south like Arico, Fasnia, or Vilaflor.
This whistled language was used to communicate across long distances between ravines and has been recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
If you’re lucky, you might come across a cultural demonstration or talk where local elders explain and practice it.
7. Vilaflor: the highest municipality in Spain is in the south
At over 1,400 metres above sea level lies Vilaflor de Chasna, a picturesque village surrounded by pine forests, hiking trails and vineyards. It holds the title of the highest municipality in all of Spain.
From here, you can access well-known routes like the Paisaje Lunar or the Camino de Chasna—perfect for those who want to combine nature, history and outdoor adventure.
8. High-altitude volcanic wines are produced here
The conditions in the south—altitude, volcanic soil and hours of sunshine—make the wines from this area truly special.
Wineries like Reverón (Vilaflor), Frontos (Granadilla) or Cumbres de Abona (Arico) produce white, red and sparkling wines using native grape varieties such as Listán Blanco, Marmajuelo or Baboso Negro.
You can organise a wine route from Hotel Villa Adeje Beach and enjoy an authentic wine experience, with tastings and guided tours.
9. The south has been the setting for international films and series
Thanks to its volcanic landscapes, natural light and stable climate, many production companies choose the south of Tenerife for filming. Movies like Clash of the Titans or Jason Bourne, and series like Doctor Who or The Witcher, have shot scenes here.
Popular filming spots include Montaña Roja, the cliffs of Los Gigantes, and the surroundings of Abades.
10. There are secret beaches little known to tourists
Beyond the famous beaches of Las Américas or Los Cristianos, the south of Tenerife hides wild and quiet spots such as:
- Playa Diego Hernández: white sand and hard to access, ideal for those seeking peace.
- Playa de los Morteros: hidden among cliffs, inside a nature reserve.
- La Rajita: located in the Guía de Isora area, for the more adventurous.
These beaches are perfect for experiencing a more intimate and crowd-free Tenerife.
The Hotel Villa Adeje Beach, located in Costa Adeje, is the ideal starting point to explore all these secrets of the south of Tenerife.
From hidden beaches to wine tours, kayaking excursions, whale watching or cultural visits, you’ll have everything at your fingertips.
Ask at reception and let us help you organise your next adventure.
Because Tenerife is much more than you can imagine… and it starts here.