For those who love exploring beaches, getting out on the ocean, discovering hidden spots, and viewing coastal landmarks, a trip island hopping around the Canary Islands is the perfect holiday. This Spanish archipelago off the coast of Africa provides some of the most spectacular landscape in Europe with volcanoes, national parks, and beaches. Take a look at a Canary Islands map and you’ll see that as well as the better known larger islands, there are numerous small spots to visit, many of which are accessible on boat day trips.
To plan your Canary Islands itinerary, here’s a Canaries island hopping guide with all the best spots. There are regular ferry routes between most of the islands, and some have airports too, so it’s easy to start exploring.
Where to go
Tenerife
The largest of the islands, this is a popular tourist destination known for its party atmosphere, but there’s more to it than nightclubs. Mount Teide, an active volcano in the UNESCO World Heritage Teide National Park, is Spain’s highest mountain. This island is also the best Canary Island to visit for whale-watching. Take a day trip by ferry to El Hierro, one of the smaller islands, for a total change of pace. There you’ll find great diving and marine life.
Fuerteventura
This is the place to go for some of the best Canary Island beaches. It boasts gorgeous white-sand beaches, cliffs, and hidden coves. There are opportunities for water sports too, especially windsurfing, surfing, and water skiing.
Lanzarote
Known for its party life, there are lots of clubs to enjoy, but don’t miss the other highlights here. Volcanic landscapes, including lava tubes you can go inside, and amazing wine are just two of the other things to discover on this popular island. It’s easily accessible via Arrecife airport or ferry.
Gran Canaria
This island has something for everyone. It boasts volcanoes, beaches, culture, history, great cuisine, and spas. Stroll through the historic quarters including the Santa Ana cathedral, then check out some of the local live music. This could be the best Canary Island for couples because of the wide range of activities to enjoy together. As well as an airport, there are regular ferry services.
La Gomera
Here you’ll find some of the most striking scenery in the archipelago. Explore hills, ravines, and nature on the island where Christopher Columbus stopped on his way to the Americas. This is the ideal place for hiking and getting away from the crowds to enjoy nature.
Where to stay
Make your base in one of the numerous hotels in Tenerife and explore the other islands from there. The Catalonia Hotels have options in convenient locations for an island-hopping adventure.
Catalonia Oro Negro, on the west side of the island near Playa de las Américas, offers free wifi, parking, and air-conditioned rooms. A buffet restaurant, outdoor pools and bars make for a relaxing, laid-back place to stay.
In Puerto de la Cruz in the north, Catalonia Las Vegas features ocean views and terraces for some rooms. This 4-star hotel also has pools, restaurant, and entertainment.
Catalonia Punta del Rey is another great option. Located on the north-east coast of the island and near public transit while easily accessible by car, this location is near the beach and great for shopping, sightseeing, and checking out the local bars.