You’ll be struck by just how quiet Playa Paraiso is once you arrive. The Tenerife you’re thinking of is probably bustling – but in Playa Paraiso the laidback atmosphere permeates even the bars. Head down to the small beach and you’ll find most people using the saltwater lido, which comes with a tropic-style waterfall.
There are plenty of places when you want to add a little bit of extra excitement to your sunny holiday in Tenerife, however.
Jungle Park
Enter Jungle Park and you’ll come face-to-face with tigers, jaguars, lions, alligators and orangutans. Not only that, but you can come into direct contact with monkeys and tropical birds – keep those cameras at the ready. Plus there’s an 800-metre toboggon ride that will set the adrenaline running.
La Gomera
Just off the southwest coast of Tenerife lies La Gomera. Imagine green forests, dramatic ravines and white-washed villages. The views over Mount Teide and the deep valleys of Gomera’s UNESCO-protected La Garajonay National Park will astound (and probably make you want to take a selfie). Check out the historic capital of San Sebastian while you’re there – Columbus sailed out of this spot in 1492.
Loro Parque
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This acclaimed park is home to whales, gorillas, dolphins, tigers and even giant tortoises. Take in the sight of orcas, sea lions and dolphins doing their thing in water shows. Lorco Parque also the world’s largest penguinarium, and has a see-through shark tunnel and great restaurants.
Aqualand
Hop on over to Aqualand near Playa de Las Americas for slides that drop, dip and curve. Technicoloured slides, flumes, chutes, restaurants and bars make this an all-day experience that never gets boring. Try out Boomerang, Rapids or spiral out of control on Anaconda. After countless rides, there’s even a dolphinarium or terraces for a spot of sunbathing.
Mount Teide National Park
The 12,402-foot Mount Teide is impressive and worth a trip, especially with the panoramic views it affords you. Roques de Garcia will put you up high above crazily shaped rocks and expansive views of Teide.
Los Gigantes, Masca
Masca provides some of the most beautiful hikes Tenerife has to offer. You’ll find it northwest at the foot of the Teno Mountains. The dramatic ravines, lush countryside and the hidden bay provide a stunning backdrop to your day out.
Siam Park
As waterparks go, Siam Park is pretty great. The Tower of Power, The Dragon and the Mekong Rapids will all get your heart racing. You can stroll through tropical, Thailand-themed gardens, witness a floating market and even visit some sea lions. Siam Park also plays host to the I Love Music festival which has seen the likes of Craig David take to the stage.
Playa De Las Americas
If you want to leave sleepy Playa Paraiso behind for a night for a wild night on the town, Playa De Las Americas should be on the list. Head to Starco Centre and Veronicas Strip where the drinks are cheap and the music is pumping.
