Are you planning a family holiday in the Canary Islands and wondering which of the 8 Canary Islands to choose?
The Canary Islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and La Graciosa) offer a perfect mix of safe beaches, activities for children, and relaxation for parents, but each has something unique to offer families.
With a mild climate year-round and breathtaking scenery, the Canary Islands are an ideal family destination, but choosing one can seem daunting.
In this article, we'll guide you through the characteristics of each island, helping you decide which Canary Islands to choose for your Canary Islands holiday with kids. We'll also share a fun fact to make your reading even more interesting.
Ready to find your perfect Canary Islands destination for kids?
Why are the Canary Islands ideal for a family holiday?
The Canary Islands are a paradise for families thanks to their versatility. First, the subtropical climate guarantees pleasant temperatures (20-28°C) year-round, perfect for playing on the beach or exploring without worries. Furthermore, the islands offer safe accommodations, family-friendly hotels, and amusement parks that make Canary Islands holidays fun for children and relaxing for adults.
But with eight different islands, which Canary Islands should you choose for a family vacation? Let's analyze them one by one.
The 8 Canary Islands for Families: Which One to Choose?
Tenerife: fun for everyone
Tenerife is often the first choice for families choosing the Canary Islands for their beach holidays. It's the largest island and offers attractions like Siam Park, one of the world's best water parks, and Loro Parque, a zoo with dolphins and orcas that delights children.
Costa Adeje's beaches, such as Playa Fañabé, are safe and well-equipped, ideal for a Canary Islander with children. Furthermore, Teide National Park offers easy excursions for adventurous families. Choose Tenerife if you want a mix of fun and nature.
Gran Canaria: Variety and Safe Beaches
Gran Canaria is another top option for a family vacation in the Canary Islands. Known as the "miniature continent," it boasts sheltered beaches like Playa de las Canteras in Las Palmas, perfect for little ones.
Palmitos Park, with its animals and shows, is a must-see attraction, while the Maspalomas dunes add a touch of adventure. For example, children can play in the dunes while parents relax. It's ideal if you're looking for variety on your Canary Island holiday with kids.
Lanzarote: nature and tranquility
Lanzarote is perfect for families who love nature and a slower pace. Its beaches, such as Playa Blanca and Playa de Papagayo, have calm, shallow waters that are safe for children.
Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park, with its pools and animals, is a great option for a day of fun. The volcanic landscape of Timanfaya, with its geysers, will fascinate children. Choose Lanzarote if you're looking for a relaxing yet educational family vacation in the Canary Islands.
Fuerteventura: a beach paradise
Fuerteventura is synonymous with endless beaches, perfect for families in the Canary Islands. Playa de Sotavento, with its natural lagoons, and Corralejo, with dunes where children can run wild, are ideal for a Canary Island getaway with kids.
Oasis Wildlife Fuerteventura offers giraffe and camel encounters, an experience the little ones love. It's the perfect choice if you're looking for sun, sea, and simplicity for your Canary Islands vacation.
La Palma: nature and peace
La Palma, nicknamed “La Isla Bonita,” is less touristy but perfect for families looking for a family holiday in the Canary Islands surrounded by nature.
Its natural pools, such as Charco Azul, are safe for children, while Caldera de Taburiente National Park offers easy hiking trails. It's less equipped for amusement parks, but ideal for those seeking tranquility and breathtaking scenery.
La Gomera: authenticity and light adventure
La Gomera is a hidden gem among the Canary Islands for families. Wilder and less developed, it offers tranquil beaches like Playa de Santiago and Garajonay National Park, with enchanting forests straight out of a fairytale.
It's perfect if you want an authentic Canary Island with children, away from the crowds, with easy walks for the whole family.
El Hierro: the wildest
El Hierro, the smallest of the Canary Islands, is ideal for adventurous families who love unspoiled nature. Its natural pools, such as La Maceta, are safe for children, and the island offers a truly peaceful experience. However, there are no attractions specifically for children, so it's best for families with older children who enjoy exploring.
La Graciosa: a corner of paradise
La Graciosa, the eighth and least-known island, is a unique option for a family vacation in the Canary Islands. Accessible by ferry from Lanzarote, it boasts deserted beaches like Playa de las Conchas and a relaxed atmosphere. There are no theme parks, but it's perfect for families seeking simplicity and crystal-clear waters for their Canary Islands holiday with children.
A curious anecdote: Tenerife's "secret" beach
Here's a story that makes this trip special: years ago, an Italian family vacationing in Tenerife accidentally discovered a small, hidden beach near Los Cristianos, accessible only on foot via an unmarked path. They called it "Playa della Fortuna" because finding it was like finding a treasure: calm waters, no crowds, and shells perfect for children.
Today, that trail is known among locals, but remains a well-kept secret.
Who knows, maybe you'll find it during your Canary Islands holiday and add it to your list of family-friendly Canary Islands!
Practical tips for choosing the right island
Age of children
Which Canary Island to choose depends on the age of your children. For younger children (0-6 years), Tenerife and Gran Canaria offer more amenities and parks. For older children (7-12 years), Lanzarote and Fuerteventura combine nature and activities. Teenagers might prefer La Palma or La Gomera for adventure.
Type of holiday
Do you want relaxation or action? For a quiet family vacation in the Canary Islands, opt for La Graciosa or El Hierro. For organized entertainment, Tenerife and Gran Canaria are unbeatable. In other words, define your priorities before deciding.
Travelling between islands
If you want to visit multiple islands, use internal flights with Binter Canarias or ferries like Fred Olsen Express. For example, you can combine Tenerife and La Gomera in one week. Read more What to see and do in the Canary Islands in 7 days to plan.
Where to stay in the Canary Islands with children
Choose family-friendly hotels or apartments with pools, kids' clubs, and play areas. In Tenerife, try the Bahía Príncipe Fantasía; in Gran Canaria, the Lopesan Costa Meloneras.
Apartments in Fuerteventura, like those in Corralejo, offer kitchens for self-catering. For details, see Where to sleep in the Canary Islands.
Why choose the Canary Islands for families?
In conclusion, the Canary Islands offer something for everyone: safe beaches, amusement parks, nature, and tranquility. Deciding which Canary Island to choose depends on your tastes, but Tenerife and Gran Canaria stand out for their versatility, while Lanzarote and Fuerteventura shine for their sea and landscapes. For more information, visit Canary Islands Tourism.
