Spain has been a much-loved destination for families for decades, and it’s no surprise why, with the great climate, amazing food, and relaxed family atmosphere. You can either go to mainland Spain or the Canary Islands for your next holiday in Spain with kids. The Canary Islands, as a general destination, is a great choice for a family holiday to Spain in 2023.

The Canary Islands are an autonomous community of Spain and are located off the coast of northwest Africa. They have a unique culture and history that sets them apart from mainland Spain, but they are still a part of the country. Spoiler alert, Tenerife is the island that comes out on top, so in this post, I’ll explain a bit more about why a family holiday to Tenerife should be your Spanish destination of choice in 2023.

This is a collaborative article written by myself.

family holiday to Spain

Which Canary Island is better for Families?

All of the Canary Islands have something to offer families, but some may be better suited to certain preferences or interests. Here are some of the Canary Islands that are great for families:

  1. Tenerife: Tenerife is a popular destination for families and has a wide range of attractions and activities, such as beaches, water parks, animal parks, and hiking trails. It also has a great selection of family-friendly hotels and resorts.
  2. Gran Canaria: Gran Canaria is another popular destination for families, with several family-friendly beaches and attractions such as the Palmitos Park zoo and the Aqualand water park. It also has a wide range of accommodations that cater to families.
  3. Lanzarote: Lanzarote is known for its unique volcanic landscape and has several attractions that are great for families, such as the Timanfaya National Park and the Rancho Texas animal park. It also has several beaches that are ideal for families.
  4. Fuerteventura: Fuerteventura is a great destination for families who love the beach, with over 150 km of beaches to choose from. It also has several water parks and family-friendly accommodations.

Overall, Tenerife and Gran Canaria are probably the most popular and well-suited Canary Islands for families with Tenerife coming out on tops when you ask which is the best family holiday destination in Spain, but each island has its own unique attractions and culture that may appeal to different families.

Here are some of the top reasons why Tenerife is a great family holiday destination in 2023:

1. Beaches

Tenerife has some of the best beaches in Europe, and with 67 km of coastline, you’re sure to find a spot that suits your family. Some of the most popular beaches include Playa de las Americas, Los Cristianos, and Costa Adeje. All of these beaches offer clean, golden sand and clear, turquoise waters.

2. Water Parks

Tenerife is home to some of the best water parks in Europe, including Siam Park, which has been voted the world’s best water park for several years in a row. Siam Park is a great day out for families, with thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. Other water parks on the island include Aqualand and Costa Martianez.

3. Animal Parks

Animal parks are always a hit with families, and Tenerife has several to choose from. Loro Parque is one of the island’s top attractions, with a wide range of animals, including dolphins, sea lions, and tigers. There’s also Jungle Park, which is home to exotic birds, monkeys, and big cats.

4. Volcanoes

Tenerife is home to Mount Teide, which is the highest mountain in Spain and the third-largest volcano in the world. Families can take a cable car to the summit, which offers stunning views of the island. There are also hiking trails around the volcano for those who want to explore more.

5. Culture

Tenerife has a rich cultural history, and families can explore this through visits to museums and historic sites. The Museum of Nature and Man is a great place to learn about the island’s natural history, while the Castillo de San Cristobal is a 16th-century fortress that offers insight into the island’s colonial past.

beautiful family holiday to Tenerife

What type of accommodation is available for families in Tenerife?

As with most holidays to Spain, there Tenerife offers a wide range of accommodation options for families. Here are some of the best types of accommodation for families in Tenerife:

  1. Family-friendly hotels and resorts: Many hotels and resorts in Tenerife offer amenities and activities specifically designed for families, such as kids’ clubs, pools with water slides, and family entertainment. These types of accommodations can be a great choice for families who want everything in one place.
  2. Apartments or villas: Apartments or villas in Tenerife can offer more space and privacy for families. They often have kitchens, which can be convenient for families with young children who need to prepare their own meals. Some apartments or villas also have access to shared pools or other facilities.
  3. All-inclusive resorts: All-inclusive resorts can be a great choice for families who want to minimize their expenses and have everything included in their stay, such as meals, drinks, and activities. Many all-inclusive resorts in Tenerife offer kids’ clubs and entertainment, as well as family-friendly amenities.
  4. Campsites: Camping can be a fun and affordable option for families who enjoy the outdoors. There are several campsites in Tenerife that offer facilities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and organized activities for kids.

Overall, the best type of accommodation for families in Tenerife will depend on their preferences, budget, and the size of their family. I’ve covered the different types of family holiday accommodation before, so if you’ve not sure, check it out and learn from my experiences.

book self-catering accommodation

Which Part of Tenerife is best for kids

There are several areas in Tenerife that are great for kids, depending on your preferences and interests. Here are some of the best areas:

  1. Costa Adeje: This area is known for its family-friendly beaches, such as Playa del Duque and Playa de Fanabe. There are also several water parks in the area, including Siam Park and Aqualand.
  2. Playa de las Americas: This is a popular resort area that is great for families. It has a wide range of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, as well as several beaches that are safe for children.
  3. Puerto de la Cruz: This is a quieter resort town that is ideal for families looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. It has several beaches, including Playa Jardin, and a variety of attractions such as the Loro Parque zoo and the Martianez Lakes.
  4. Los Cristianos: This is another popular resort area that is great for families. It has a wide range of restaurants and shops, as well as a sheltered beach that is perfect for young children.

Overall, all of these areas offer a great range of activities and amenities for families with kids.

Overall, Tenerife is a great family holiday destination in 2023. With its beautiful beaches, exciting water parks, and wide range of activities, it’s sure to provide a fun and memorable holiday for everyone.