Where to stay in Tenerife

Hotels

There are literally hundreds of hotels in Tenerife, most of them located in the southern coastal resorts. Many belong to international chains and are block-booked by package tour operators through the busy summer and Christmas seasons. Accommodation options range from room only through to all inclusive.

Grading: Hotels and pensiones in Tenerife are graded from 1 to 5 stars, with the exception of the ultra-luxurious which are classified as 5-star GL (Gran Lujo or Grand Deluxe).

Bed and breakfast

Pensions are family-run guest houses. In Tenerife they usually offer basic facilities on a bed and board-only basis.

Camping

No unauthorised camping on beaches or areas covered by the Canary Islands Protected Natural Spaces Act is allowed. Permits can be obtained to stay in any of the 19 government-run campsites, most of which are in the mountain pine forests. There are also several privately run campsites complete with comprehensive facilities.

Other accomodation

Many apartments and villas in Tenerife are available to rent either directly through the owners or via online rental directories. The level of accommodation available is as varied as the differing hotels with everything from simple studios to 10-bedroom gated villas.
A small selection of hostels are available, principally aimed at backpackers and trekkers.
Casas Rurales are government-run cottages in a rural setting. They range from one-bedroom units tagged onto an existing house, to exclusive use of rustic villas with private swimming pools.