There are plenty of things to do in South Tenerife, from quick activities to more specific ones that are best enjoyed in the rain, at night, or if you’re coming to the island for hiking and nature. I’ll save those ideas for another day, when I’ll be writing articles dedicated to those particular topics.

In this post, however, I want to focus on what to do in South Tenerife first and foremost that is unusual and distinctive to the southern part of the island.

All the activities I mention are fantastic for all ages, depending on individual interests, of course.

For me, South Tenerife is very different from the North. My husband and I love going there about once a month to change the scenery, have a cocktail at one of the bars in Adeje, take a dip in the pool at one of my favorite reasonably priced all-inclusive hotels, or simply walk along the coast in Los Gigantes or Playa de las Americas, enjoying the views that are completely different from those we have in the north, where we live.

Top Things to Do in South Tenerife That Are Also Unique

Explore One-of-a-Kind Landscapes of Los Gigantes

Los Gigantes is a special place on the island with sharp, almost vertical cliffs that are around 800 meters tall. I’d say that along the entire coast of southern Tenerife, cliffs of Los Gigantes are the most impressive ones, so visiting them is a must-do thing when you are in the south.

You don’t need anything special to admire the beauty of these cliffs. Just visit the town (which is partially situated on the edge), and from many spots there, you’ll have magnificent views.

One of the most popular locations where to stop is Mirador Archipenque (it’s the first place for viewing before you enter the town), but it’s always crowded (with tourists and sellers) which may not be to everyone’s liking.

My favorite way of contemplating and photographing the landscapes is at Mirador Punta del Roque, near the Barcelo Santiago Hotel. There is a park area there and a nice walking path where it’s pleasant to walk, take beautiful photos and get other views, those of the area and rocky beach.

However, for a truly unique experience, join a sailing excursion or take a boat trip that includes snorkeling. They allow to see the cliffs close and are more exclusive options which are quite affordable and less touristy.

Stay in a Swim-Up Room

Staying in a hotel room with direct access to the pool is one of the unique things to do in southern Tenerife and one of the luxurious experiences not found everywhere.

Swim-up rooms are typically offered by resorts and can be quite expensive. However, in south Tenerife, you can find these rooms at relatively affordable rates. Plus, in such a room, you enjoy immediate access to the pool right from your terrace or patio, receive complete seclusion and upgraded amenities, making the experience feel truly special.

We stayed in such a room in H10 Atlantic Sunset Hotel, when our friends visited they stayed in one of the swim-up rooms in Bahia Principe Fantasia (but to be honest, H10 Atlantic was better since you have access to a larger pool). However, if your budget allows, choose instead Royal River Luxury Hotel where you can have swim-up access to the whole river (!) with a jungle, not just a pool.

Read More: Unique Place to Stay for Couples Around the Island

Go Whale-Watching

This is a definite must-do activity in South Tenerife due to the fact that waters around the island are home to a variety of marine species, and the best thing is that seeing them is possible year-round.

Tenerife is one of the best places in the world for observing bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales, so you can often spot resident populations of these species.

Tours typically operate year-round (again, because pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins reside here all the time), but the peak season for sightings of migrating whales (like humpback whales for example) is in December to February (basically the entire Tenerife winter) as they pass through the area.

The number of tours is different and they vary in length, but if you can afford it, go on a more private tour (which will include fewer people) on a smaller yacht. Because with that, you will not only observe the animals but hear the magical strange sounds they emit. I found this catamaran whale experience that offers just that and reviews are excellent.

Visit the Abama Resort & Gold Sand Beach Near It

The Abama Resort is a luxury hotel and residential property located near San Juan town. It’s officially called The Ritz-Carlton, Abama and it’s main feature is the terracotta architecture.

However, besides that, this resort is situated in a gorgeous area (as Ritz-Carlton always does, chooses locations for its hotels that impress with their surroundings and views) with beautiful sea views and a beach, which I think should be on the list of hidden gems in Tenerife because it’s one of those few striking beaches with gold sand on the island.

So you can come here to swim, sunbathe, or just walk and take photos (the beach is called the same way as a hotel Playa Abama). The main thing is to be willing to walk from the parking lot (it’s near the hotel) and come early or outside weekends.

And if visiting luxurious hotels is something you enjoy, then come to Abama Hotel. Of course, as with any 5-star hotel, it is possible to visit certain areas there (if you’re not staying), but there are some limitations.

Non-guests can book reservations at one of the hotel’s restaurants, including Michelin-starred options like Kabuki or Txoko. In this way, you’ll have access to the garden and other common areas.

Watch Surfers (Or Take a Surf Lesson) in El Medano

El Medano is a small coastal town near the airport with interesting coastal line that is consistently blown by winds and has big waves, which is why it is a great spot where to watch surfers or where to go for learning to surf or kite surf.

The town features a long sandy beach, Playa de El Medano, which is perfect for sunbathing and swimming but mainly in the summer as winds there are really strong and in winter on some days they are even quite chilly.

In the town itself you’ll also find a nice promenade lined with cafes and restaurants with some views, where to enjoy local cuisine and fresh seafood. Although the place is quite busy and always is full of crowds which may be overwhelming for some people. It is here where surf schools are located right nearby where to sign up for a course or take just one class.

If you like hiking, go from here towards Montaña Roja, a volcanic cone that offers hiking opportunities and panoramic views of the coastline.

Have a Day of Fun in Siam Park

Siam Park is considered to be one of the best water parks in the world, with unique and thrilling rides and tropical surroundings. It’s one of those south Tenerife activities that will suit all types of travelers as far as preferences go.

This park has Thai-themed architecture, exhilarating rides, and lush exotic surroundings that set it apart from other water parks. When visiting, it feels like you are not really in Tenerife but somewhere in the jungles of SE Asia. On some rides, it is also possible to have views of southern Tenerife.

If you plan to go to northern Tenerife and visit Loro Park during the same holiday while on the island, then there’s the option to purchase a double ticket for two parks and save some money.

Explore the Aloe Vera Farm in Arona

This aloe farm is called Finca Canaria in the town of Arona and can be easily reached by car (or even bus) on a day trip from Costa Adeje or any other town in Tenerife South.

By visiting, you’ll get an intimate glimpse into the cultivation and uses of this remarkable plant, which is integral to both local culture and wellness.

The farm provides (free) guided tours where you can learn about the various species of aloe, their health benefits, and how the gel is extracted and processed.

Additionally, the farm often has workshops or demonstrations on how to use aloe vera in skincare, making it not just an educational visit but also a practical one. You can even purchase products directly from the farm, ensuring you have a unique souvenir from Tenerife that embodies the local culture.

I personally like their second location in the town of Guimar which in my opinion feels more authentic. But if you don’t have a chance to go there, go to this agricultural center in Arona, it gives an excellent presentation too.

Find the location of this farm here which is not far from the old center of Arona, worth visiting as well.

Enjoy a Night Out in Playa de las Americas

One of the fun things to do in Tenerife South at night is to head out to Playa de las Americas, where you can enjoy everything from Canarian tapas to international cuisine at beachfront restaurants.

This area is known for many cool bars that often host themed nights and live performances and have a very dynamic atmosphere.

Unlike other places in Tenerife, not far from the seaside in Playa de las Americas, you can find late-night beach parties and clubs with famous DJs. So if you want to dance the night away or just come for a drink while listening to live music, Playa de las Americas is the place.

If staying in other towns of south Tenerife and coming here by taxi, you’ll have everything within walking distance here, having a chance to explore various venues and entertainment options without the hassle of transportation.

As for bars, we personally like Sax Bar (they regularly have rock and pop live music), Magic Lounge Club (live music as well, dancing, and good cocktails), and Papagayo with a more upscale feel, elegant interior, and good music.

Go for a Swim in a Large Natural Rock Pool

I personally think that natural rock pools are a must-have activity in northern Tenerife as they are just much better there. But if you don’t have a chance to go north, then I’d recommend a few decent natural pools in the south that I checked out myself.

They are Charco la Vaca in La Arena town (by the Arena beach), Los Abrigos Natural Pools between Los Abrigos and Montana Roja, and Natural Pool of Los Gigantes (the location is here where you can reach by a beautiful coastal walk).

Experience La Caleta Fishing Village

Visiting La Caleta is one of those unique things to do in South Tenerife because the village itself is a fishing rarity for the south.

Such villages can mostly be seen in the north of Tenerife, where Canarians have lived for centuries, but the south was developed solely for tourism. However, this one village still exists, and it should be visited to experience the authentic local culture and charm.

Here, you can enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, walk by the beach and on those small patches of trails that go by the coast close to some houses with colorful boats. A few hours here can help to witness a slower pace of life that contrasts sharply with the more commercialized areas.

Sunsets here are also impressive, so come in the evening for a glass of beer and take in the local vibe.

Have a Spooky Visit to the Ghost Town of Sanatorio de Abona

If you like all things spooky combined with a pinch of nature, then a visit to the abandoned Sanatorio de Abona is truly an unusual thing to do in Tenerife South. You can have here a haunting yet scenic experience along the rugged coastline.

So, the first thing to know – Sanatorio de Abona is not a very popular place. It is an eerie abandoned leper colony. It was built in the 1940s during the Franco era as a place to quarantine leprosy patients. However, the facility was never fully operational, and the project was abandoned, leaving behind an entire ghost town of buildings, including a large, haunting church, a hospital, and staff accommodations.

Visiting this site feels like stepping into a post-apocalyptic scene. The buildings are empty and weathered by time, with graffiti on the walls and open windows framing views of the desolate coastline.

However, it is not for everyone! If you have only 5 days in Tenerife or slightly more, you may want to include it as a quick stop on the road trip around Tenerife or just skip this place at all.

Otherwise, if you are staying in the south and want a unique thing to do, reach Abades village nearby where the site is located, and walk to it freely. Just keep in mind that structures are old and lack safety features, so be cautious.

This activity will give you an unusual look into a specific part of Tenerife’s past that isn’t widely talked about!

Pre-Arranged Adventurous & Fun Things in Tenerife South

• Teide Buggy Adventure – from many areas in the south to Teide (Check Availability)
  
• Costa Adeje by Tuk-Tuk – interactive tour with a driver-guide (Check Availability)
  
• Skip the Line in Jungle Park – animal park in Tenerife South (Check Availability)
  
• Kayaking & Snorkeling With Turtles – sports activity & a discovery (Check Availability)
  
• Tandem Paragliding – soar above Southern Tenerife & see aerial views (Check Availability)
  
• Jet Ski Tour Around South – with expert guide to secret beaches (Check Availability)
  
• Scuba Diving for Beginners – half day course in Costa Adeje (Check Availability)