The Canary Islands are just as great for a beach-and-relax holiday as they are for nature-focused trips with volcanoes, hikes and villages. To help you see things more clearly, we’ve gathered here the two most comprehensive guides available so far.

Don’t worry: more guides are in the works (Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera…). They’ll be published gradually to help you choose the best places to stay based on your itinerary.

As a first step in your research, we suggest spotting at a glance the accommodations we particularly recommend in the Canary Islands. Plus, you can zoom in on each island and compare options depending on the type of stay you have in mind. We also update this map regularly!

In the Canary Islands, you’ll find a wide range of accommodation options. However, there are still big differences from one island to another (and depending on the areas: seaside resorts, small towns, more natural and remote spots). Here, we share the most common types of accommodation, along with all our tips before booking.

Apartments and rentals (studios, “apartamentos”)

You’ll find quite a lot of them, especially in tourist areas and seaside resorts. It’s true that this is a practical option, with a private kitchen to cook your own meals and save on restaurant costs. It also offers more independence and great value for money. Honestly, these are solid options for stays of a week or more. We simply recommend checking the location carefully: some areas are very spread out and a car can be almost essential.

Hotels and boutique hotels

You’ll find everything: from simple hotels to high-end properties, as well as charming addresses or small boutique hotels in villages or quieter areas. It’s ideal if you want a good level of comfort without necessarily staying in a large complex, and still enjoy a unique setting typical of the Canary Islands. You might really love it! It’s the kind of place you don’t really want to leave.

Resorts and large seaside complexes

They’re mostly found on certain coasts (especially in the south of Tenerife, and in Lanzarote in the south and the east). It’s very convenient if you want everything on-site (pool, restaurants, bars, entertainment), but the experience can feel less authentic. Another thing to know: prices rise very quickly in high season.

Rural houses

This is a great option for a more local vibe, especially if you love villages, volcanic landscapes and hiking. They’re often set in quieter surroundings, sometimes even a bit isolated. In those cases, renting a car is almost essential.

Hostels, guesthouses and budget stays

Depending on the islands and towns, you’ll find more affordable options such as small guesthouses, youth hostels and simple but functional accommodation with everything you need. It’s perfect if you move around a lot and want to keep your lodging budget under control.

Unusual accommodation (volcano, nature, eco-lodges)

They’re rarer, but you should know there are truly unique addresses focused on nature. It’s a great way to create a real bubble of disconnection and memories you’ll keep for a long time. In our eyes, these are options to prioritize if you’re looking for peace and a real break.

The Canary Islands can be visited in different ways. For example, you can travel around just one island or combine several islands. Before booking, it’s especially important to ask yourself this question: beaches and relaxation, or volcanic landscapes, hiking and nature?

“Beaches and relaxation” trip

For a stay strongly focused on the beach, we recommend aiming for well-developed coastal areas with everything you need close by: beaches, restaurants, bars and water activities. The south of Tenerife (with Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos or Las Américas) is an ideal area for that. In Lanzarote, you’ll want to head towards Playa Blanca, Costa Teguise, Puerto del Carmen, etc. This is also where you’ll find the widest range of accommodation.

Nature, volcanoes and hiking trip

If your main goal is hiking and exploring volcanic landscapes, choose a more central or more local base. In Tenerife, being well located allows you to explore Mount Teide and its lunar landscapes, Anaga Rural Park or Teno. In Lanzarote, the interior of the island and certain villages are perfect for exploring the famous Timanfaya Park, the wild beaches (those in the south, in Los Ajaches Natural Park, and the less touristy but more rugged spots).

To guide you as best as possible in your research, we present here the most practical areas depending on the vibe you’re looking for. As the archipelago is quite large, the idea is mainly to choose a place that matches your wishes and activities.

South Tenerife (Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas)

The most convenient area for your stay. On the agenda: plenty of hotels, beaches, restaurants and activities. It’s perfect if you want sunshine, comfort and simple logistics, especially with family. Unsurprisingly, it’s often the most touristy and sought-after area. For a truly luxurious experience, you’ll find plenty of great options. Playa de las Américas is great for party-goers, while Los Cristianos offers a calmer and beautiful setting.

North Tenerife (Puerto de la Cruz and surroundings)

Greener, more authentic, with a more local vibe. It’s a great choice if you want to combine sightseeing, nature, swimming and pleasant towns, while avoiding the “seaside resort” feel. The climate stays mild but cooler, which feels great. Plus, the atmosphere is calmer than in the south, and you’ll be able to fully enjoy Tenerife’s typical scenery.

Central area / Teide (for easy day trips)

For a very nature-focused stay, we recommend choosing a well-located base to quickly reach the most beautiful volcanic landscapes. Keep in mind: here, you’ll mostly find rural accommodation and a quiet atmosphere. A car is therefore essential.

Lanzarote — south coast (Playa Blanca)

A very convenient base between beaches, walks, excursions and easy access to several must-see spots. It’s just perfect if you want a comfortable beach stay while still exploring the island a bit. You’ll feel like you’re in a chic, well-designed cocoon, with wilder, preserved areas just a few minutes away by car.

Lanzarote — center / east (Arrecife, Costa Teguise, Puerto del Carmen)

Well-located areas for getting around, with a wide range of accommodation. We’re thinking in particular of Costa Teguise and Puerto del Carmen, which are very convenient for a first stay, with activities and beaches nearby.

Villages and inland Lanzarote (a quieter vibe)

If you want a more village-like, more authentic atmosphere and quick access to volcanic landscapes, there are several villages that could interest you. On our side, we truly fell in love with El Golfo, a fishing village with a lovely beach and a nice atmosphere. You feel good there right away. In the same authentic spirit, there are also: Tías, Yaiza, Haría, etc. It’s ideal for a peaceful trip, but you need to accept less nightlife in the evening and plan to rent a car.

Let’s be honest: your accommodation will directly shape the vibe of your trip. Some areas are perfect for beaches and relaxation, others for hikes, volcanoes and a slower pace.

First time in the Canary Islands

For a first trip, the simplest option is to choose a well-rounded island that’s easy to get around. Tenerife is perfect for that: you can combine beaches, nature and varied excursions without too many transfers. Lanzarote is amazing if you’re looking for a real change of scenery and a smaller island to explore. In our eyes, these two islands are very different but both work extremely well for a first trip to the Canary Islands. Let us know how it goes!

Beach, pool and relaxation

If you mainly want to unwind, choose well-developed coastal areas, with accessible beaches and plenty of hotels. We’ve already mentioned it a bit: the south of Tenerife and some resort areas in Lanzarote are the most convenient for this. A little extra tip: choose a well-located accommodation to limit daily driving time.

Hiking and nature

For hiking and scenery, we recommend a more central accommodation or in the greener north (in Tenerife) and/or in a quieter village (in Lanzarote). You’ll save time on drives and enjoy a more local atmosphere. You’ll simply spend your days exploring spectacular landscapes one after another.

Family trip

With family, you usually don’t want to overcomplicate things. You’re mainly looking for convenience to travel with peace of mind. In that sense, choose a spot with beaches, restaurants and activities nearby. The seaside areas in the south of Tenerife and the most practical resort areas in Lanzarote are often the most comfortable. Look closely at options with a kitchen or family suites to feel more at ease and enjoy a certain freedom and independence.

Budget trip and longer stays

To keep your accommodation budget down, we recommend looking at apartments and holiday rentals, which are often the best value, especially if you cook a little. Avoid ultra-touristy areas in high season, book early, and also consider neighborhoods slightly back from the seafront. The longer you stay in one place, the more you’ll reduce transport-related expenses.