A honeymoon in the Canary Islands is ideal because of their year-round sunny weather, rich culture, and friendly locals. The eight islands vary in size and landscape, so deciding which one suits you before booking your trip is essential.
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Are the Canary Islands a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
There are few honeymoon destinations in the world as romantic as the Spanish Canary Islands. With their sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning landscapes, the islands offer everything you could want in a honeymoon destination. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy if you’re looking for a little more than just sun and sand. Moreover, the island’s mild year-round climate makes it an ideal destination for any time of year.
What Activities Can You Do on a Honeymoon in the Canaries?
- Visit the historic center of Tenerife. Orotava has preserved architecture from the 15th century. It’s a humble, quiet town where you can visit the historical statues, gardens, churches, and more to learn about the island’s past.
- Take a hike through one of the many national parks. Tenerife’s best park is Teide National Park. It has several hundred kilometers of hiking trails and is the third-tallest volcano in the world. In Lanzarote, visit Timanfaya National Park to enjoy unique volcanic landscapes.
- Explore the capital city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Like Orotava, this city has a fascinating history dating back to the 15th century when Spanish explorers founded it. It is home to half of Tenerife’s population and gives you a glimpse into everyday life in the Canary Islands.
- Visit La Laguna, another UNESCO World Heritage site. This beautiful town is known for its well-preserved colonial architecture. You can also learn about the Canarian culture here, as it is home to several museums dedicated to traditional arts and crafts.
- Relax by the ocean. Each island has miles of palm tree-lined beaches. Depending on the vibe you’re looking for, you can enjoy peaceful empty beaches or restaurant and bar-lined beaches.
What Is the Best Month to Visit the Canary Islands?
The Canary Islands are a beautiful destination for a honeymoon any time of year, but some months are better than others. Spring (March-May) and Fall (September-November) are the best times to visit the Canary Islands. The weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds than in the summer months. You’ll also find lower prices on hotels and flights during these months.
Is a Honeymoon in the Canary Islands Expensive?
The Canary Islands are a relatively affordable destination for a honeymoon, with most couples spending between $3,000 and $5,000 in total.
The most expensive part of a honeymoon in the Canary Islands is usually the flight. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, you can often find cheaper flights by flying during off-peak times. You can also look for package deals that include your hotel and airfare.
How to Plan a Budget Honeymoon in the Canaries
- Start by looking for flight deals early. Airlines typically release their cheapest fares around three months in advance, so if you know your dates, start checking prices as soon as possible.
- Consider staying in an apartment or villa rather than a hotel. This can be a great way to save money, especially if you plan to spend most of your time outdoors exploring the islands. Airbnb is an excellent place to start your search.
- Go for cheap eats. Take advantage of the many local eateries on the islands. Street food is plentiful and often delicious, so don’t be afraid to sample some regional cuisines. Of course, there’s always the option of cooking meals yourself if you’re staying in self-catering accommodation.
- Take advantage of free activities. Take advantage of all the free activities and attractions that the Canary Islands offer, from hiking and biking trails to beaches and museums.
Which Island Should You Stay On In the Canary Islands?
The Canary Islands are known for their sandy beaches, year-round sunshine, and lush landscapes. With eight islands total, deciding which one to stay on during your honeymoon can be challenging. Here is what each offers:
Tenerife
Tenerife is the largest and most populated Canary Island. Tenerife is known for its black sand beaches, cliffs, and towering volcanoes. Tenerife has many activities, from hiking and biking to visiting the Teide National Park or taking a cable car up Mount Teide. The island also has a reputation for being a party destination, with a lively nightlife scene centered in the capital of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Where to stay: Costa Adeje, La Orotava, or Los Gigantes
Fuerteventura
The island is known for its sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and year-round sunshine. Fuerteventura is a great place to honeymoon if you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation. Many resorts, excursions, and activities include windsurfing, kitesurfing, and horseback riding.
Where to stay: Corralejo, Lajares, or El Cotillo
Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is a UNESCO biosphere reserve. The island is a popular tourist destination, with its golden sand beaches, year-round sunshine, and diverse landscape. Gran Canaria is also great for excursions and activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the island’s many towns and villages.
Where to stay: Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, or Meloneras
Lanzarote
Lanzarote is the northernmost of the Canary Islands, 80 miles from the coast of Africa. Lanzarote is best known for its beaches, many in sheltered coves with crystal-clear water. For those looking for a more active holiday, there are plenty of excursions, from hiking and biking to windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Where to stay: Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen, or Costa Teguise
La Palma
This northwestern island is home to the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, which features hiking trails, waterfalls, and views of the crater lake. Excursions on La Palma include hikes through the national park, visiting greenhouses, birdwatching, stargazing, and taking a cable car up to Roque de Los Muchachos. La Palma is best for nature lovers and those seeking a quieter island experience.
Where to stay: Santa Cruz de la Palma, Barlovento, or El Paso
La Gomera
La Gomera is known for its lush vegetation, cliffs, and black sand beaches. Several hiking trails wind through the island’s lush vegetation and provide sweeping coastline views. Plenty of swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving opportunities exist for those who want to get in the water.
Where to stay: San Sebastián de La Gomera or Playa Santiago
El Hierro
El Hierro is one of the least touristy islands and is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. There are challenging mountain bike routes, excellent diving sites, and boat trips to see dolphins and whales. It has a laid-back vibe and spectacular coves and lagoons.
Where to stay: Valverde, El Pinar del Hierro, or Frontera
La Graciosa
La Graciosa was named the eighth island of the Canaries in 2018. Before, it was an islet dependent on Lanzarote. It is the smallest island and has no asphalted roads. It has some of the most beautiful beaches and virgin volcanic landscapes. The water is crystal clear, and many activities, such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, fishing, and more, keep you busy.
Where to stay: Caleta de Sebo or Pedro Barba
What Is the Best Way to Travel to the Canary Islands?
The best way to travel to the Canary Islands is by air. The most popular islands for tourists (Tenerife, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote) all have direct flights from major European airports.
Two main airports service the Canary Islands: Tenerife South Airport, on the largest island of Tenerife, and Gran Canaria Airport. Both are well-connected and offer a variety of flights.
Traveling Within the Canary Islands
The best way to explore one island is by car. This allows you to see all the different islands at your own pace and stop whenever you want to explore more. If you plan to island hop, you can take a ferry or a flight. The inter-island ferry is typically cheaper but is time-consuming.
What Types of Honeymoon Accommodations Are Available in the Canary Islands?
There are many types of accommodations available in the Canary Islands. You can find anything from luxurious beach resorts to simpler, affordable hotels.
The Canary Islands have many high-end resorts if you want a luxurious honeymoon. These resorts offer all the amenities and services you could want, including spa treatments and private pools.
Plenty of great options are still available if you’re working with a more modest budget. There are affordable hotels throughout the islands that will offer a comfortable place to stay without breaking the bank. You can also consider renting an apartment or villa for more privacy during your trip.
What Type of Food Should You Try in the Canaries?
- Paella: The dish is originally from Valencia but is famous all over Spain. It is made with rice, vegetables, and meat or seafood.
- Potato omelet: The dish is similar to an American omelet but is made with potatoes and onions instead of eggs. It is a popular breakfast dish in the Canaries.
- Sancocho Canario: The stew is made with chicken, fish, or beef and vegetables such as yams, potatoes, carrots, and onions. It is usually served with white rice on the side.
- Goat cheese: The Canary Islands are home to some of the best goat cheese in Spain. Be sure to try this delicious cheese in various dishes while you’re on the islands.
Are There Any Cultural Experiences to Include on a Honeymoon in the Canary Islands?
There are many cultural experiences to include on a honeymoon in the Canary Islands. Pueblo Canario is a great place to start, full of folklore, song, and dance. You can also visit La Gomera to learn about this island’s unique history and culture, and its volcano that last erupted three million years ago. There are also many museums and art galleries on the islands that you can visit.
What to Pack for a Canary Islands Honeymoon
In general, tourists and locals dress casually. What you pack will depend on your level of activity. A few things you can’t do without include the following:
- A light sweater or jacket. The evenings can get chilly, especially at higher elevations.
- Sunscreen and a hat. Protecting yourself from the sun is essential. The UV index is typically 11+ in the summer.
- Comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so pack a pair of sneakers or other comfortable shoes.
- Bathing suits. With 500 beaches, you’ll likely be swimming every day.
Are the Canary Islands Safe to Visit?
The Canary Islands are a safe destination for honeymooners, but there are a few things to remember to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
- Research the islands in advance and familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs.
- Be aware of your surroundings, and avoid walking alone at night.
- Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in busy areas.
- Carry copies of essential documents (passport, travel insurance, etc.) in case of loss or theft.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit the Canary Islands?
As a US citizen, you don’t need to apply for a visa if your stay is less than 90 days. American citizens should register with the U.S. Department of State before departure to inform them of their travel plans and ease communication in case of an emergency.
Bonus Tips For Your Canary Islands Honeymoon
- The official language of the Canary Islands is Spanish. However, English is also widely spoken.
- The currency is the Euro (EUR). 1 Euro is equivalent to $1.08 at the time of writing.
- Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated, so feel free to use your discretion when deciding how much to tip.
- The local bus (guagua) is cheap and functional but doesn’t follow a strict schedule.
- Many stores and restaurants close between 3 and 6 pm for a siesta.