Wed. Nov 13th, 2024

Fun for All Ages: Family-Friendly Attractions in the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands offer a perfect getaway for families seeking adventure, relaxation, and a break away from the mundane. Each of the seven islands—Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro—presents a unique attraction, ensuring that every member of the family, from toddlers to grandparents, will find something to enjoy.

Gran Canaria: A Miniature Continent

Gran Canaria is often considered a miniature continent due to the number and diversity of its landscapes. Families can explore the Maspalomas Dunes, a unique desert-like environment, or visit Palmitos Park, a zoological and botanical park with various shows and exhibits. The island’s capital, Las Palmas, also boasts beautiful beaches a budding culinary scene and plenty of cultural experiences.

Lanzarote: A Volcanic Wonder

Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape provides an exciting setting for family adventures. Timanfaya National Park, with its otherworldly lava fields, offers guided tours that fascinate both children and adults. The island’s many interactive museums, such as the César Manrique Foundation, combine art, nature, and education in a way that captivates visitors of all ages.

 

Tenerife: Wildlife Adventures

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is home to Loro Parque, a world-renowned animal park with diverse wildlife and entertaining shows. Families can also explore the island’s natural beauty at Teide National Park, where Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak, provides a breathtaking backdrop for hiking and stargazing.

Fuerteventura: Beautiful Beaches and Water Sports

Known for its beaches and crystal-clear waters, Fuerteventura is a paradise for families who love the ocean. The shallow, calm waters at Corralejo Natural Park are perfect for young swimmers, while older kids and adults can enjoy surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. The island’s Oasis Park offers an exciting family day out with its interactive animal experiences and beautiful botanical gardens.

El Hierro: The Sustainable Island

El Hierro, the smallest of the Canary Islands, is a pioneer in sustainability and eco-tourism. Families can enjoy the island’s natural pools, perfect for safe swimming, and explore its diverse marine life through snorkeling and diving. The island’s numerous trails and viewpoints provide excellent opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.

La Gomera: A Hidden Gem

La Gomera’s unspoiled beauty and rich cultural heritage make it a unique family destination. The island’s Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers enchanting laurel forests perfect for hiking and picnicking. Families can also discover the island’s unique whistling language, Silbo Gomero, through engaging demonstrations and workshops.

La Palma: The Beautiful Island

La Palma, known as “La Isla Bonita” (The Beautiful Island), is perfect for nature lovers. Families can explore the island’s forests and cliffs at Caldera de Taburiente National Park. The island’s clear night skies make it a top destination for stargazing, with numerous observatories and organized tours that unlock the stories behind the night skies to young and old alike.

For more information on planning your perfect family holiday to the Canary Islands, visit hellocanaryislands.com.

If you're thinking of buying something recommended by us, please go via the links on our pages. When you do this we may earn a fee which supports our editorially independent, family business.

By Penny McCarthy

Penny McCarthy is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Parents News UK, a pioneering publication launched in 1993 to serve the needs of busy parents in Southwest London. Alongside her husband, Fergus McCarthy, Penny played a crucial role in the rapid expansion of the printed edition, which grew from a local startup to a widely circulated monthly publication with a reach of 192,000 copies across Kent, South London, and beyond. Under Penny’s leadership, Parents News quickly became a trusted resource for families, providing valuable information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly events. Her vision helped the publication extend its influence with franchises in Northern Ireland and Cornwall, catering to a growing demand for accessible, family-oriented content. In 1997, recognising the importance of digital media, Penny spearheaded the launch of Parents News UK Online. The website initially mirrored the content of the printed editions and has since evolved into a comprehensive online resource for parents, achieving significant popularity with up to 700 daily hits. In 2017, the publication transitioned fully to an online platform, continuing to inform and engage families across the UK. Today, Penny remains deeply involved in the ongoing success of Parents News UK, focusing on innovative advertising opportunities and future growth plans. Her dedication to supporting families through accessible and practical content has made Parents News a cherished name in households across the country.

Read next