Our kayak tour in Tenerife

I’m continuing the articles on the best things to do in Tenerife. This time, I’m suggesting that you go kayaking in Tenerife. As for me, I had planned to go, but unfortunately, the first time, the weather wasn’t on our side. So I talked to the provider to postpone. Once again, the conditions weren’t right, there was way too much wind on the Los Gigantes side. Honestly, it’s a shame. I was a bit disappointed, but I quickly planned other things for my morning. There is so much to do in Tenerife.

You can’t control the weather and it’s particularly unpredictable on the island of Tenerife with its microclimates. It’s pretty impressive! To give you an idea, between two bends, I’ve already lost or gained 5 degrees. You can never really predict it. But it’s part of the adventurous side and the sensations of Tenerife. Even the locals are still surprised, they told us a few anecdotes about it haha, especially around Teide National Park.

What’s also great about kayaking is that you can observe the marine species around you. The waters are rich, with tropical fish such as parrotfish and even turtles, especially near the rocks on the Los Gigantes side. I suggest you check out all our tips on kayaking in Tenerife. If you’re tempted, I invite you to stay to the end. It could help you!

If you love the sea and outdoor activities, go kayaking in Tenerife is an amazing experience! I think it’s a great way to discover the island and all its facets, with its volcanic cliffs, sea caves and small coves only accessible from the ocean. Plus, kayaking is open to all levels, but if it’s windy, it gets complicated pretty quickly. If all the conditions are met: grab your paddles! You’ll see some magnificent landscapes up close. On the island, there are several perfect places for kayaking; I’ve put together a list of the best ones for you.

And if you’re looking for even more spots to spend a relaxing day between sand and sea, feel free to check out our article on the most beautiful beaches in Tenerife.

It’s no coincidence that I start with this route for kayaking in Tenerife. It’s one of the best-known on the whole island, and it’s easy to see why. It’s right in the south of the island, where you can enjoy a magnificent setting, in generally calm water. You paddle along a rocky coastline in dark shades, which makes the deep blue of the water stand out. You’ll also pass a few sea caves.

Most operators, by the way, leave from Playa de Los Cristianos to reach Palm-Mar at a leisurely pace and at your own rhythm. If you’re lucky, you might see dolphins, as you pass through a corridor where there are quite a few marine species. It’s truly magical to see them! As for me, I saw them very close during my whale and dolphin watching boat trip (on a sailboat, rather). It’s another water activity that I really recommend for anyone who doesn’t get seasick.

Back to our route: the water is clear, so you can easily see fish swimming around your kayak and your paddles. Very often, the guides also offer a snorkeling stop. In my opinion, on this route, you won’t be disappointed!

If there’s one place you absolutely must go kayaking in Tenerife, it’s at the foot of the cliffs of Los Gigantes. This is actually where I was supposed to go. If you don’t know this place yet, you absolutely have to go. These are rock faces that are more than 600 meters high. They are so well integrated into the setting that it looks like they were placed there on purpose.

Leaving from the small port of Los Gigantes, you paddle along these magnificent cliffs with, on the other side, the coasts of the island of La Gomera. The only downside is that this area is exposed to wind and swell. If you can, choose a slot in the morning. Even though it’s no guarantee, the ocean is generally calmer at that time of day. But if everything goes well on that front, you’re going to have a lot of fun. Here too, the instructors often make a snorkeling stop. There are indeed some pretty little fish to see, hiding in the rocks. As it’s an area only accessible by sea, this will be your chance to make the most of it!

In any case, even though I couldn’t go there by kayak, I went by boat and it was truly incredible. I almost felt dizzy looking at them from so close and really realizing their height and scale.

This time, we’re changing course completely and heading to the northeast of the island, between the famous Las Teresitas beach and the Anaga Rural Park. It’s very different from the south: it really feels like another island. The north is much greener, wilder, with a coastline of cliffs and more discreet, intimate coves. In general, kayak tours depart directly from Las Teresitas, which is very accessible by car or public transport. That’s already a good point!

At least it sets the tone right away: you’ll get into the water from a magnificent golden sand beach lined with palm trees and, above all, turquoise-blue water. What’s more, I found that, yes, it’s a busy beach, but also calm and family-friendly. From my point of view, that makes you feel more at ease straight away. Once you’re settled into your canoe-kayak, probably in a duo, you’ll be along the coast, towards Anaga, where the landscapes change very quickly. Suddenly, they become rougher and greener.

With this route, you’ll discover isolated beaches that can only be seen from the sea. There’s still one little thing to know: this area is exposed to wind, so if you can, head out in the morning to stack all the odds in your favor.

In short, it’s the route that differs the most from the ones we’ve just seen, very typical of northern Tenerife: more authentic and very different. In my opinion, those who like to get off the beaten track will choose this one.

At the far west of Tenerife, this area is incredible to see, so paddling in the middle of this setting, I can’t even imagine! Between its famous lighthouse, its sheer cliffs and its crystal-clear waters, it’s just a magical place. The advantage is that you’ll be at peace in the middle of unspoiled scenery.

Generally, you put in and depart from Punta de Teno beach, right next to the lighthouse. You’ll quickly reach the cliffs of Los Gigantes. I didn’t mention it earlier, but you’ve probably guessed: these cliffs are a real favorite of mine. They offer a setting you wouldn’t expect, and when you’re close, at their feet, it’s even more impressive. Depending on the tour you choose, you might even make a snorkeling stop in a wild cove. The water is clear, with marine biodiversity that is simply exceptional.

By the way, this is also a good time to tell you that I did a snorkeling tour in Tenerife: it was really fun. I even saw a bright orange starfish! Basically, paddling at Punta de Teno is a pretty unique experience: it’s yet another sublime area of Tenerife. Honestly, it’s a great place to end this list of the best spots for kayaking in Tenerife on a high note.

As you’ve seen, there are plenty of options in different parts of the island. For example, if you haven’t rented a car, some departure points are accessible. That can help you make your choice, because I’m almost sure that’s the hardest part out of all this, haha!

We agree: go kayaking in Tenerife is already a real adventure in itself, but doing it with a guide changes the experience even more. No matter your level or whether you’ve done it before, a guided tour has quite a few advantages. First, you won’t have to worry about the route: you just let yourself be guided and enjoy.

On top of that, the instructors know the island and the ocean around it like the back of their hand. They also know the famous microclimates of Tenerife very well: it’s immediately reassuring and makes you feel safer. I have to admit that, even for swimming, you always have to be careful on the island: there are some places with strong currents and swell. It’s immediately impressive, and I’ve already had a few little scares. I’m not telling you this to frighten you, but I’d rather warn you: it’s an island bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, and it’s best to be cautious.

Another advantage of going on a guided kayak tour: most excursions include a snorkeling break. The guide provides all the equipment you need: mask, snorkel and fins. And of course, they always stop at the best spots to see fish, and sometimes turtles, depending on the conditions that day. Also, on the routes I mentioned above, you might see dolphins in the distance.

As for me, I’m used to booking my activities through the Manawa website. It’s always gone well: I really recommend it. Here is the provider I used through the Manawa site, who offers kayaking tours departing from Los Gigantes:

Teno Activo: this is a small local agency that only has good reviews! Its goal is to offer outings in a warm atmosphere while respecting the ocean. Their main tour is the one I was supposed to do: paddling along the cliffs of Los Gigantes by kayak, in a small group. If you’re interested, they also offer snorkeling, boat trips to observe cetaceans and guided hikes in the Teno massif and Teide National Park. Honestly, it’s a safe bet, with local, passionate guides who know Tenerife by heart. I really think it’s worth going through them.

That’s my opinion on the benefits of using a local agency for a kayak tour in Tenerife. Now it’s your turn!

As usual, you’ll find everything you need to know about kayaking in Tenerife in this section.

As with most activities, you can go kayaking all year round in Tenerife! So despite its microclimates, temperatures are generally mild throughout the year. They range between 20 and 30 degrees depending on where you are on the island and, above all, on the altitude. I’d say the best times to grab your paddles are between April and October. That’s when the water is warmer and, especially, calmer, even if that’s no guarantee. I was there at the end of September, and there were days when all the conditions were right, while on others not at all.

If you’re coming in winter, from November to March, you can still go kayaking. However, you will have fewer route options. It’s better to choose Los Cristianos for kayaking: it’s a calmer area and less exposed to wind. Well, it still ranks among the best places to go kayaking in Tenerife! But depending on the day of your activity, you might be able to go in Los Gigantes or Costa Adeje. You never know with Tenerife.

To choose the best dates for your trip to Tenerife and combine your other activities, I invite you to read our article: When to go to Tenerife. You’ll find all our tips there depending on the seasons and your preferences (relaxation, hiking, nature or sea).

No surprise here, it’s obviously the morning! It’s clearly the best time to go kayaking in Tenerife. The ocean is often calmer, the wind hasn’t picked up yet or, at least, it remains light. Plus, the light is soft and offers beautiful colors over the island’s coastal landscapes. There are also fewer people around: you’ll be more peaceful, especially in well-known areas such as Los Gigantes or Los Cristianos, where tours follow one another quickly from late morning onwards.

You will also be less hot in the morning, especially if you’re in the south. The climate there is very dry and hot. So if you can, opt for a departure slot between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m.

Rest assured, going kayaking in Tenerife is a fairly affordable activity. Generally speaking, you should expect around €40 as a starting price per person for a guided, full tour lasting 2 to 3 hours. This price includes all the equipment: kayak, paddle and life jacket, while being accompanied by a professional guide. As I mentioned, very often the activity includes a snorkeling break; again, the equipment is provided (mask and snorkel).

If you opt for a more complete or private package, the price can naturally go up to around €70, or even more for a small-group tour or one at the end of the day, with sunset. But honestly, I still find it reasonable. Keep in mind that everything depends on the length and how private your kayak tour is.

Well, it all depends on the route and package you choose for your kayak trip. In general, “classic” tours last between 2 and 3 hours: that’s more than enough time to enjoy the scenery, go at your own pace and make a swimming/snorkeling stop. Honestly, I think it’s also the right length to enjoy it without coming back too tired.

Some local agencies also offer longer trips, from 4 to 6 hours, or even half-day tours, especially around Los Gigantes or Punta de Teno. In those cases, you get further away from the port to reach less crowded areas: it’s great! But needless to say, you have to be in good shape to keep going for that long, haha, especially if the ocean is rough. It’s up to you! In my opinion, you won’t see the time go by!

Well, that’s exactly what I wish for you: to see a sea turtle during your kayak tour in Tenerife! It must be a magical moment. From what I’ve heard, it happens much more often than you might think! However, it’s a protected species, so you must not disturb them. Besides, even if it weren’t a protected species, it’s essential not to disturb marine animals in their natural habitat, even when you’re doing water sports.

If you come across one, it’s best to keep your distance without touching it or following it. Ideally, if you can, you should stop and let it go on its way. And that will also allow you to enjoy the moment: it’s not every day you see turtles in their natural environment and by chance!

This is also when you’ll see whether the agency you booked through is serious and respectful of the environment. Very often, they give you these instructions before you get into the water and set off. Of course, this also applies to dolphins, rays, whales and all the other species you can see in the waters around Tenerife. They are particularly rich in marine biodiversity, as they include a protected marine area: the Teno-Rasca SAC. It is large and stretches along the southwest coast of Tenerife. Just keep in mind that it’s thanks to this protection that you may have the chance to see marine animals. So it’s important that you do your part too, by respecting nature.

We’ve reached the end of this article on the theme of going kayaking in Tenerife with all our tips on the subject. You now have all the essential info on this amazing activity. Even though I wasn’t able to do it, I’m sure you’ll enjoy your trip, between sports, scenery and marine life.
Still on the theme of water activities, and even though I couldn’t try them all, there are quite a few other sea sports to discover, such as kitesurfing, windsurfing, surfing, parasailing or even stand-up paddleboarding. However, I did go scuba diving in Lanzarote! Even though Tenerife and Lanzarote are not neighboring islands, they both are home to many marine species, such as parrotfish, trumpetfish, viejas, sargos and many more.

See you very soon for more water activities in Tenerife!

Written by Laura CALLES

Thanks to Mélanie and Sylvain, I had the chance to discover the Canary Islands, specifically Tenerife and Lanzarote, so that I could share these island paradises with you. Two real favorites of mine!

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