Planning to visit the Canary Islands? – Here are the top beautiful places in The Canary Islands you can not miss!
- This post contains affiliate links from which I earn a commission (at no extra cost to you). For more info, please read my disclosure. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Top Beautiful Places in The Canary Islands
How I tried not to like the Canary Islands
First and foremost, I have a funny personal story about the Canary Islands. The first time I set my eyes on this epic travel destination was back in 2014 when my husband Carlos and I visited the Big Island of Hawaii. I know it sounds strange – you don’t see any obvious connection between the two places, except for both being islands. But there’s more to the story! My extremely patriotic Spanish husband constantly compares every place we visit across the globe with his home country. I do give him credit: Spain is a wonderful country, full of stunning places to visit and mouth-watering food to eat. Nevertheless, when we visited the Waipio Valley in Hawaii, I felt like it was the most beautiful place I’d seen in my entire life. I still think so (despite visiting Iceland, which, in terms of natural wonders, could hardly be compared to any other place on this planet). So, you can imagine my frustration when, as I stepped onto one of the black sand beaches of Hawaii and began expressing my admiration for this magical land, my husband made a brief comment: “Every beach on the Canary Islands is volcanic.” It made me quite mad! He literally ruined my moment with his unnecessary skepticism. Plus, I had never been to the Canary Islands myself, so I couldn’t fight back with a strong argument. But I promised myself that the day we finally got there, I’d do my best not to like it. I was convinced it would be one of those boring package destinations with plenty to criticize. But my revenge dreams never came true. My first trip to the Canary Islands ended in absolute love for this magical destination. Even the thousands of photos I’ve taken can’t fully showcase the palette of colors, landscapes, and landforms.
The Most Beautiful Places in The Canary Islands
Let me share my list of top beautiful places in The Canary Islands. For now, I’ve already visited a few of the best Spanish islands – Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura. I hope to add Gran Canaria to this list anytime soon. Not to mention that according to one of the fascinating Spanish legends the archipelago has one secret island as well.
1) Teide National Park in Tenerife
The most popular tourist attraction in Tenerife, as well as one of the most iconic national landmarks, is Spain’s highest mountain, Teide (over 3,700 m). It should be at the top of any Spain bucket list. The most common activity in this most-visited Spanish national park is to take a cable car to the nearly summit – but be sure to check the weather conditions before visiting, as it might be closed due to wind. We were lucky with the weather. However, we visited Tenerife with a baby and children under two were not allowed due to the altitude changes, so we didn’t get the chance to take the cable car. For hiking to the top of Teide, special permission is required – but it’s definitely one of the most unique hikes in Spain. You can read more details in my post about adventurous things to do in Spain.

2) Anaga Forest in Tenerife
You simply cannot visit the Canary Islands without seeing Parque Rural de Anaga. It is a beautiful forest, full of top Spanish hiking trails of varying difficulty and length. Keep in mind that some of them (for example, Sendero El Bosque Encantado) may have limited access, and you’ll need to request permission online in advance. However, the most-visited trail, Sendero de los Sentidos (near a parking lot and visitor center), does not require any prior permission and is suitable for children, with some sections adapted for disabled access and strollers. Be sure to check the weather, bring a jacket (as the temperature can unexpectedly drop in this area), and wear comfortable shoes (preferably hiking boots).

3) Playa del Aguila in Fuerteventura
If you’re looking for some of the best beaches in Spain, Fuerteventura should be on your travel bucket list. Let’s be honest – it’s not about the smooth, warm Mediterranean waters. But how about volcanic landscapes and black sand beaches instead? Technically, the Canary Islands are much closer to Africa than Europe. I visited Fuerteventura during the peak summer season, and it still felt very relaxed. Playa de Aguila felt like such a natural wonder, though with the waves, it seemed better suited for surfers. Yet, Fuerteventura is the second-largest of the Canary Islands, with over 150 beaches. With that many, you can find something for every taste.

4) Cueva de los Verdes in Lanzarote
I won’t be sharing too many details about Cueva de los Verdes. This unique volcanic cave system holds a stunning surprise at the end of the tour, and visitors are encouraged to keep the secret to preserve the experience for others. The cave, located in Lanzarote, was formed by a lava flow from the nearby Corona volcano. Historically, it served as a refuge for locals hiding from pirate attacks. Today, it’s a popular tourist destination, known not only for its geological beauty.

5) Masca in Tenerife
One of the most famous hikes in Tenerife is the Masca hike. It begins in the village of Masca and leads all the way down to the rocky beach. The road to Masca is quite a drive – mountainous and narrow. Additionally, it is very touristy, making it quite stressful for even one vehicle to pass through. Imagine two minibus drivers trying to cross paths! Despite this, Masca is one of the most impressive places in Tenerife. However, it’s best to visit earlier in the morning to avoid the crowds, especially since the area has been used as a filming location for Hollywood movies like Clash of the Titans, the sixth part of the Fast & Furious saga, and Wonder Woman 1984.

6) Los Gigantes in Tenerife
Located in the west of the island, the small resort of Los Gigantes is famous for its towering 800-meter-high cliffs. These dramatic rock formations, which rise steeply from the Atlantic Ocean, are one of the most impressive natural sights in Spain. Los Gigantes, meaning “The Giants,” offers a perfect setting for various activities, including boat rentals and kayaking, allowing visitors to get a closer view of the cliffs from the sea. Many travelers consider the cliffs of Los Gigantes to be the most epic in Spain due to their immense size and stunning beauty.

7) Lago de los Clicos in Lanzarote
Lago de los Clicos (also known as Charco de los Clicos) in Lanzarote is a striking green lake formed within the crater of an extinct volcano. The lake owes its vibrant color to the presence of algae that thrive in the water, giving it a surreal appearance. The lake remains connected to the ocean through underground channels, which help maintain its water level. This unique location is often referred to as one of the most otherworldly-looking spots in Spain, thanks to its dramatic landscape and the stark contrast between the green water and the surrounding volcanic terrain.

8) Parque Natural de las Dunas de Corralejo in Fuerteventura
Another natural gem of the Canary Islands is the Parque Natural de las Dunas de Corralejo. Covering 24 square kilometers, this protected area is renowned for its stunning beaches, vast sand dunes, and distinctive volcanic landscapes. It offers visitors a unique blend of diverse ecosystems and the dunes are absolutely breathtaking.

9) Playa de las Teresitas in Tenerife
With its golden sands, imported from the nearby Sahara, and blue waters, protected by an artificial reef, Las Teresitas beach is a picturesque haven nestled below the Anaga mountains. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain, known for its stunning mountain views, calm and safe waters, excellent snorkeling opportunities, and convenient parking. The beach is also surrounded by several small food kiosks, and there are many great seafood restaurants in the nearby village of San Andres. The only drawback, during my last visit, was the strong winds, which caused sand to spray across the entire body.

10) Los Hervideros in Lanzarote
The stunning lava cliffs of Los Hervideros in Lanzarote are so unique. These dramatic formations were created nearly 300 years ago when a lava flow from a volcanic eruption met the Atlantic Ocean. The cliffs showcase a breathtaking mix of colors, with emerald blue waters crashing against the dark brown and black volcanic rock, while the sunlight casts a warm, golden-orange glow across the scene. The natural beauty of this area, with its striking contrasts and powerful waves, makes it a must-see destination in the Canary Islands.

11) Cactus Garden in Lanzarote
The Cactus Garden in Lanzarote is one of the most remarkable and beautiful places in the Canary Islands, blending nature with art in a truly unique way. Designed by the renowned architect César Manrique, the garden is home to over 1,000 species of cacti from around the world, set against the island’s stunning volcanic landscape. Thanks to its striking and artistic design, Lanzarote’s Cactus Garden is often considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Spain. You can find more photos from my visit in this post.

Read more about the Spanish Islands:
- Tenerife Family Holidays: What to see and do? (Read it)
- 10 Best Spanish Islands to Visit (Read it)
- 5 Days in Lanzarote: Cool things to do in Lanzarote (Read it)
- A Weekend in Mallorca with Kids: 3-Day Itinerary (Read it)
- Renting a Car in Mallorca: All You Need to Know (Read it)
- A Weekend in Formentera: Recharging Mind, Body, and Soul (Read it)
- Your perfect Ibiza vacation: Must-Do List (Read it)
- A Visual Guide To The Cactus Garden in Lanzarote (read it)
Map of the Beautiful Places in The Canary Islands
Pin it:

For more Spain travel tips check out my Pinterest board Spain Travel Collection and Flipboard Travel to Spain.

- Accommodation: For short stays, I usually book via Agoda, Booking, and Hotellook
- Tours&excursions: My favorites for guided tours are GetYourGuide, Viator, and Klook
- Museums&attractions: Get mobile tickets for attractions via Tiqets (use ATC5 code for a 5% discount via this link)
- Semi-private & private tours: LivTours is my favorite place for unique & crafted experiences in Europe
- For Foodies: Eatwith is a unique platform for finding culinary experiences with locals around the world
- Audio guides: Book audio excursions & tours in 35+ countries via WeGoTrip
- Flights: Find the best deals with Skyscanner, WayAway, and Kiwi
- Driving in a new country? – Check out Tripiamo guides (do not miss Tripiamo Driving in Spain Guide)
- Train&bus tickets: Currently, I book via Trainline, Busbud, and Omio
- Car rental: To find the best deals, I use Rental Cars and Discover Cars
- Top E-Sim: GigSky helps me to avoid roaming fees and provides connectivity everywhere (even on a cruise ship)
- Internet Security on the road: Connect safely to public Wi-Fi and bypass censorship with NordVPN
- Transfers: For individual transfer services, I like GetTransfer and Kiwitaxi
- Suitcases&Luggage: Discover where to store your luggage on the go with Radical Storage
- Travel Insurance: Find the best trip insurance plans via VisitorsCoverage and EKTA
- Compensation for delayed/canceled flights: Check out AirHelp and Compensair
- Renting Bikes: To find motorcycles, scooters, quads, and bicycles, I use BikesBooking
- Package Tours: Head to CheapOair and Expedia
- For Bloggers: To monetize my blog, I work with Travelpayouts and Stay22
Looks exotic and interesting. The mountain formation is unique, something that I haven’t seen somewhere else. Love this kind of post and nice to see your blog.
Thanks, Mercy! Glad to connect!
Uau amazing places!
Xoxo
Thank you, Ana!
I haven’t yet been pulled to visit the Canary Islands but your photos are enticing me to visit! It does look rather pretty!! #FeetDoTravel
Such a magical place! Thanks for stopping by!
What an interesting looking locale! I’ve heard of the Canary Islands, but do not think I’ve ever seen pictures from there before.
Thanks for your comment, Ericka!
I have not been to the Canary Islands. They look absolutely stunning and I can see why you feel in love.
They do! Thanks so much for sharing!
Gorgeous shots! The diversity of the landscape is impressive. I have been wanting to go to the Canary Islands so hopefully I will make it there soon! Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard
Thank you, Anisa! Hope you get to visit soon!
I am actually fascinated by the Canary Islands and hope to be able to visit there one day. Meanwhile I enjoy reading posts and looking at photos from travel bloggers so thanks for this. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Thanks for stopping by, Deborah! Hope you´ll get to experience them for yourself soon!
Such a beautiful place! Like you, before you visited, I always associated the Canary Islands with beaches – and not much else. It looks gorgeous, your photos make me want to go visit. Looking forward to reading your next posts about them. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard, #FeetDoTravel
I would love to visit the Canary Islands; they do seem to have it all. I have to ask how you captured the photo of Masca/Tenerife #5, were you on a higher mountain or in a plane? #TheWeeklyPostcard
It was from one of the mountains nearby (the one where you have parking) you don´t need even to walk or climb for the view. However, the road to Masca itself was something… lol… so hilly and narrow (even though the place is quite touristic)!
The Canary Islands seem like the perfect destination for photography, but I’m sure the offer so much more than that. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Yes, it´s great when you could have everything in one place – from popular resorts to wild nature!
WOW! I saw the forest photo and I was staring and then I started looking down and I just kept seeing one gorgeous shot after the next! I have never visited the Canary Islands but this looks exactly like the type of destination I would love.
It´s such a beautiful place! You´d enjoy it for sure!
I love the Canary Islands!Amazing pictures!
Thak you, Olga!
Wow ,these placed are breathtaking, I have been to Spain but not the canary islands, I always imagined it will be a great place to go on vacation . Your pictures are awesome . Hope you had a swell time.
Thanks for stopping by!
My friend visited it years ago. I wish I could too:) great photos #TheWeeklyPostcard
Thank you, Tanja!
Ahh the lovely Canary Islands, for now, I have only visited Gran Canary – a very diverse island for sure. Planning to visit the other islands soon. 😉
Gran Canary is the one I didn´t see, along with Gomera and Palma though! A great excuse to travel back one day!
The Canary Islands look so beautiful and like a nature lover’s dream! #TheWeeklyPostcard
It´s a paradise for nature lovers, for sure!
Very beautiful! I’ve never been to the Canary Islands although it is not too far of a trip for us so we should definitely go. BTW, I also love the Big Island of Hawaii 😉
Thanks! Cheers to the Big Island! LOL
Those pictures are impressive! Hope we can manage to visit the Canary Islands soon. Thanks for sharing in #TheWeeklyPostcard.
Thanks for stopping by!
The different colors of the water make for stunning views. I love the light green especially. And the landscape is gorgeous. Glad to hear you found the Canary Islands not boring at all!
Thank, Sharon! It was everything but not boring!
I went to Gran Canaria for my 21st birthday actually, spent 2 weeks there and loved it. There was so much to see and do and it was a very diverse landscape, more so than I initially thought. Mountains, deserts, beautiful blue ocean, fabulous! #feetdotravel
Such a cool place to celebrate a Bday!
I visited La Gomera in January, one of the lesser known Canary Islands and I absolutely fell in love. L Gomera is known to be ‘The island of eternal spring’ and it absolutely is. I highly recommend going there.
#FeetDoTravel
I´ve also heard many wonderful things about La Gomera – wish I could visit it next time!
I wasn’t expecting this landscape. It’s seriously beautiful. Looking forward to your detailed blog post. If these pics are anything to go by it’ll be great.
Thanks, Shona! I´m in love with the landscapes myself!
Gosh, these photos are beautiful and make me want to pack my bags and get on a plane right away! I’ve never been to the Canary Islands but it’s definitely on my list – it has such a unique and breathtaking landscape. Thanks for a much-needed dose of wanderlust. 🙂
Sneha
Thanks for stopping by, Sneha! Hope you´ll get a chance to visit soon – such a beautiful destination!
I love your photos, I still haven’t been on all major Canary islands, so it’s just great motivation for next trips 🙂 #TheWeeklyPostcard
Thanks, Tomas! The Canary Islands are definitely worth visiting!
Wow, I’m impressed about the beauty!
xx Rena
Thanks for stopping by, Rena!
Wow, Anna, great photos! And so much variety in the scenery. You’re right, it can seem hard to compete with Hawaii. Although very different, the Canary Islands are certainly stunning! I think we need to visit both, many times, just for “research” though. 😉
Yes! Both the Canary Islands and Hawaii are so stunning: I wish I could visit many times as well!
I can’t wait to visit the Canary Islands one day. All those different landscapes, and Anaga Forest as well, mean that I think it’s the perfect island destination for me. Beautiful!
For sure, you´ll love it! it´s such a great destination for the adventure&nature lovers!
These shots are absolutely incredible. I would love to see the Canary Islands with my family one day.
I had no idea the Canary Islands had such diverse geography. I would love to see them one day. They’re just beautiful.
We haven’t been to the Canary Islands. I would love for me and my wife to go some day.
Your photos are absolutely gorgeous. So many wonderful places to take some magnificient photos. I would love to be able to go there with just my husband.
Those are some beautiful pictures. Definitely makes you want to visit the islands!
These pictures looks so amazing. Now I understand why you fall in love with Canary Island. After seeing your photos, I want to visit there too.
Your photos are incredible! I love to travel and this post definitely makes me want to add the Canary Islands to my list.
Thanks for sharing these great pictures..! Heard so much of Canary Islands. I hope to visit here sometime.
Nnnniiiiccceeeeee….the “Teide National Park” has struck me the most. Looks like that is where I would begin my Canary Islands tour from.
What a beautiful place! I would love to get to the Canary Islands someday. This trip is now on my bucket list!
You’re right. The Canary Islands looks exactly like the type of place I would love to visit.
My ancestors came from the Canary Islands and I am looking for that day to visit. The forest, beaches are amazing
how gorgeous! did you take the photos? i have never been but #2 and #4 are very appealing.
Thank you! Yes, all of the photos are mine!
I want to see Anaga Forest / Tenerife! It looks so amazing! Can’t wait for it!
Spain has so much to offer! Canary Islands is a dream and it would be nice to visit all these wonderful places and just enjoy the view. So breathtaking and beautiful!
Another reason why Spain is a must visit place! OMG, those photos are breath taking! Looking at them made me want to pack my bags and go!
This island is gorgeous. I never heard of it until I read this blog but I have desires to travel there now.
Never been to the Canary Islands before but I’d love to with the family someday. Plenty of beautiful areas to explore especially the Anaga Forest, it looks quite magical.
Wow!! The Canary Islands were already on my list – but after seeing these photos I need to go now!!
Consider me inspired! Your photos are gorgeous!
Wow, these photos really blew me away. I never thought to visit the Canary Islands but you’ve totally inspired me. Masca on Tenerife looks especially incredible.
Lovely post. Brings back memories of my trip to Lanzarote many years ago. I really enjoyed Timanfaya National Park. The barbeque over the volcano was cool!
I love how you had more than just pictures, but included background info too!
Very well written. You have inspired me to go to Canary Islands now.