Family Holidays to the Canary Islands

Best family friendly beaches in the Canary Islands

From long stretches of golden sand to sheltered bays with calmer waters, the Canary Islands have plenty of beaches for family days out.

• Playa de las Vistas, Tenerife, is a popular family beach with golden sand, sheltered swimming areas, sunbeds and plenty of places to grab an ice cream nearby.
• Playa de las Canteras, Gran Canaria, has a long sandy shoreline and a natural reef that helps shelter parts of the beach, making it a great spot for paddling and snorkelling.
• Costa Calma Beach in Fuerteventura offers a wide stretch of pale sand and beautiful turquoise water ideal for splashing around with little ones.
• Playa Dorada, Lanzarote, is a family favourite in Playa Blanca, with golden sand, relatively sheltered swimming and restaurants and shops close by.
• Playa de Amadores, Gran Canaria, is a sheltered sandy bay with clear water, making it a lovely choice for relaxed beach days just for you and yours.
• Playa de Papagayo, also in Lanzarote, is known for its beautiful scenery and clear water. It’s a great option for families who enjoy exploring quieter coves – although facilities are more limited than at resort beaches so pack a picnic!

Best family activities in the Canary Islands

There’s plenty to keep everyone entertained, from thrilling waterslides and wildlife encounters to boat trips and adventures among volcanic landscapes.

• Siam Park, Tenerife, is a must for water-loving families, with huge waterslides, a wave pool, a lazy river and dedicated areas for younger children.
• Loro Parque, another fun family day in Tenerife, is home to a wide range of animals, including parrots, penguins and big cats, making it a popular day out for curious kids.
• Whale and dolphin-watching trips are popular across the Canary Islands, but particularly in Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos, Tenerife.
• Palmitos Park, Gran Canaria, combines a botanical garden with animal habitats and bird presentations, giving families plenty to discover in a scenic valley.
• Poema del Mar Aquarium, Gran Canaria lets children discover marine life from around the world, with impressive underwater displays and a huge viewing window.
• Timanfaya National Park, Lanzarote, is ideal for budding explorers, with dramatic volcanic scenery and guided bus tours through the island’s striking lava fields.
• Aquapark Costa Teguise, Lanzarote, has waterslides, pools and play areas for a splash-filled family day out.
• Oasis Wildlife in Fuerteventura offers a chance to see a variety of animals and explore botanical gardens, making a fun alternative to another day by the pool.