A Port-by-Port Guide to the Canary Islands' Hidden Gems

The Canary Islands are an archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, roughly 100 to 150 kilometers (62 to 93 miles) off the coast of Morocco. This chain of eight islands belongs to Spain and was formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. Today it attracts travelers seeking year-round warm weather for a mix of nature, adventure, relaxation, and cultural activities.

While the islands certainly have more popular areas than others, each has its own identity, flavor, and allure, drawing in travelers from all walks of life.

Whether you’re in search of an out-all-night rave scene, next-level surfing and fishing spots, historical gems, or simply a peaceful respite from the daily grind, the Canaries offer something for practically any vacation vibe.

If you’re looking for a healthy dose of unique and interesting things to experience in the Canaries beyond the most well-known hotspots, let this guide be your starting point.

See: Mount Teide, a dormant volcano located in the center of Tenerife, which is Spain’s highest peak at 3,718 meters (12,198 feet). The park is home to dramatic volcanic rock formations and craters, as well as diverse flora and fauna. Its notoriously clear skies make the area an international hub for stargazing, and during the day visitors can take a cable car through the stunning scenery.

Touch: The sand at the beaches scattered along the coastline of every island. Exploring these beaches and their respective communities offers visitors an eclectic taste of the islands, with some areas boasting natural springs for those who want to take a dip (weather permitting).

Smell: Barraquito, a layered coffee liqueur that can often only be found in the Canary Islands. The drink is made of coffee, Licor 43, frothed milk, condensed milk, cinnamon, and a lemon peel. Do not leave the islands without experiencing the barraquito; ask for it “sin alcohol” (without alcohol) should you wish to skip the liquor.

Hear: Any scheduled event at Tenerife Auditorium, a beautiful venue designed by architect Santiago Calatrava that is considered to be one of the finest contemporary buildings in the Canary Islands. It is home to the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra and its many performances.

Taste: Canarian food is unique due to its blend of Spanish, African, and Latin American influences, shaped by the islands' isolated geography. Traditional dishes often feature simple, locally sourced ingredients like fresh fish, potatoes, and a variety of vegetables. Mojo sauces—green (herb-based) and red (pepper-based)—are signature accompaniments, adding bold flavors. Gofio, a toasted grain flour, is a staple, while volcanic soil gives Canarian wines a distinct character.

During the 20th century, everybody who was anybody visited the Canary Islands. Ernest Hemingway, David Attenborough, Richard Branson, Agatha Christie, Winston Churchill, Frida Kahlo, George Orwell, and even Charles Darwin all had positive things to say about their experiences during trips to the Canaries. The Port of Tenerife’s marina features a row of small plaques with glowing reviews from the islands’ most notable visitors over the years.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is located on the northwestern part of Tenerife, and is a quieter, more peaceful area of the island than any of its western neighborhoods during the summer months. The area offers great shopping, casual strolling areas, and laid-back eateries.

There’s enough to see and do here in a day or two, but travelers must remember that siesta is taken seriously here, with many shops and restaurants closing between the hours of 2 and 5 pm. The Port of Tenerife also offers access to shuttle liners that allow rental cars, motorbikes, or those simply on foot to easily get to the other islands in the Canaries.

Morning: Visit Plaza de España, the largest square in the Canary Islands. It hosts an artificial lake fountain which provides ample photo opportunities and travelers can check out the underground bunker, a free public attraction.

Late Morning: Go to the Mercado Municipal Nuestra Señora de Africa (African Market), where many locals purchase fresh food, vegetables, cheeses, oils, and other delights from vendors. Afterwards, get the grilled octopus and potatoes, a common Canarian dish, at any one of the cafés behind the African Market. Bring cash.

Siesta (2 pm): Go to the rooftop bar on the top of Urban Anaga Hotel Tenerife. A good selection of beers, wines, cocktails, and sangria is available. The views are spectacular and offer a bird’s-eye look at the unusual Bauhaus architecture that influenced the city in the 1930s.

Evening: Stroll down Calle Del Castillo for shopping and end a perfect sunset stroll with a Canarian dinner at Bodeguita Canaria. If there’s a long line, you may be able to snap an outside seat at La Cuadra Del Palmero across the street.

Puerto del Rosario is the vibrant capital of Fuerteventura, the second largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, and offers a captivating blend of culture, history, and stunning landscapes. With its picturesque harbor and charming beaches, this destination beckons travelers seeking sun-soaked relaxation and rich local experiences. The city's transformation from a humble fishing village to a bustling urban center is evident in its architecture, art installations, and lively markets.

Famed naturalist and biologist David Attenborough has long regarded Puerto del Rosario as a gateway to the island's stunning natural beauty—from the pristine dunes of Corralejo to the tranquil shores of Sotavento. It also beckons adventure seekers with a litany of water sports like windsurfing, kitesurfing, and hiking in the nearby volcanic landscapes.

Morning: Start your day with a freshly brewed coffee at Café del Mar and then explore the city’s many sculptures scattered throughout Puerto del Rosario. Each piece tells a story, showcasing the creativity and talent of local artists. The open-air art gallery atmosphere provides a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls.

Noon: Savor a delicious lunch at Restaurante La Jaira de Demian, known for its exquisite local specialties such as grilled fish and the famous papas arrugadas (wrinkly potatoes) with mojo sauce (garlic, olive oil, spices), all prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Siesta: After lunch, take a walk along the picturesque seafront promenade. Here, you can feel the ocean breeze while taking in stunning coastal views before reaching Casa Museo Miguel de Unamuno, the former residence of the famed Spanish writer and philosopher. Explore the museum’s exhibits, which provide insight into his life and work, along with the history of the Canary Islands.

Evening: Head over to Playa Blanca for stargazing. As night falls, the clear skies of Fuerteventura reveal a dazzling display of stars, unobscured by city lights. It would be prudent to bring a blanket, lie back on the soft sand, turn off your phone, and marvel at the constellations in the Milky Way.

Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote, is the third largest island of the Canaries, and the third most visited. Originally a small fishing village, Arrecife has evolved into a bustling town characterized by its picturesque waterfront, charming streets, and striking architecture. Today it is best known for its volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and the art of César Manrique, a Spanish artist, sculptor, and nature activist from Lanzarote whose architectural projects dot the island. As a result, the city is renowned for its unique combination of traditional Canarian and contemporary design, evident in landmarks like the iconic Castillo de San Gabriel and the modernist Centro Insular de Cultura.

Arrecife’s natural beauty takes center stage on its captivating beaches, such as Playa del Reducto, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters. The town serves as a gateway to Lanzarote’s unique volcanic scenery, including the stunning Timanfaya National Park, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Morning: Grab a quick barraquito and croissant before heading to one of the private vineyards nestled in the beautiful Lanzarote countryside. Several guided tours help educate and immerse visitors in the winemaking process, the region’s unique volcanic soil, and the indigenous grape varieties cultivated throughout the Canaries. One of the best known local tour companies is Wine Tours Lanzarote, though you can often also book tours directly through the vineyards themselves, either online or by phone. Some of the best ones you won't want to miss include Bodega Stratvs and Bodega La Geria.

Noon: Head to the Castle of San Gabriel, a historic fortress from the 16th century built to protect Arrecife from pirate attacks. The castle provides intriguing exhibits that detail the island's maritime history and cultural heritage. Here visitors can catch a glimpse of the coastline from the vantage point of the castle.

Siesta: There are several small vessel cruises, private charters, and boat rides offered from the coast of Lanzarote. Beyond the harbor, the vast Atlantic stretches out, offering the occasional glimpse of marine life such as dolphins, sea turtles, and even whales during certain times of the year. At sunset, the horizon offers breathtaking views with the sky set ablaze in hues of orange, pink, and purple—it’s no wonder why some of the world’s greatest artists found such inspiration here.

Evening: Treat yourself to a culinary experience at Lilium, the only restaurant in Arrecife recognized by the Michelin Guide, although it does not hold an official star. Lilium boasts a creative menu that celebrates local ingredients and traditional Canarian flavors with a modern twist. Be sure to try the cochinillo negro canario (their take on Canarian black pork)—something you can only find in this part of the world.

The Canaries are a part of Spain, so they use the Euro. Credit card machines are everywhere, and there are plenty of ATMs that can charge hefty international fees if you need cash money for whatever reason. Cheaper currency exchange terminals exist in the airport or with some banks in the larger towns, especially in Gran Canaria or Tenerife.

Because these islands belong to Spain, outlets are plug Type C. The standard voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50 Hz.

The weather is stable year-round, with temperatures ranging between 64°F and 75°F (18 – 24 °C). Spring falls between March and May when there are fewer tourists and slightly cheaper prices. Do not expect any rain.

Do not ignore the beach flags on any part of the islands’ coastline. Flags are placed out to indicate the safety of the waters beyond them: double red flags mean the beach is closed for public use, a single red flag indicates high hazards, yellow means medium hazards, green is low hazard, and purple means there are marine pests in the vicinity.

Do plan how to get around. The islands have public transportation in the form of inner-city trams, intra-city buses, and ferries that can hold rental cars to drive between islands. Renting a car will be the fastest way to get around, but the rental agencies do charge more for an automatic transmission vehicle (sometimes double the price of what you’d pay for a manual transmission).

Canarian blood sausage contains dried fruit. It’s really hard to find that anywhere else in the world. Enjoy it!

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