Situated in the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 850 miles southwest of Spain, the eight stunning Canary Islands create a unique volcanic paradise. The trio of popular islands—Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote—each offer distinct attractions that appeal to diverse travelers. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning, determining the right island for your trip can significantly enhance your experience.

Tenerife and Gran Canaria are particularly family-friendly, featuring a wide range of activities from kayaking, whale watching, and hiking to exhilarating waterpark adventures and relaxing on beautiful beaches. Both islands cater to couples, friends, and solo adventurers alike. Lanzarote is ideal for those seeking outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, and surfing, coupled with an array of boutique accommodations and a vibrant local art scene tied to the legacy of artist César Manrique. Given the increased concerns about overtourism, it’s advisable to visit during off-peak seasons for a more enjoyable getaway.

Beaches

Winner: Lanzarote

Across the three islands, you’ll find the best weather on the southern coasts, where temperatures rarely fall below 15°C, while the north offers a more rustic vibe with varied climates. Tenerife and Gran Canaria boast stunning beaches, featuring everything from volcanic-sand coves to expansive golden shores and natural Atlantic pools.

On Tenerife, favorites include El Médano for surfing, golden Playa de las Teresitas near Santa Cruz, and the natural pools at Bajamar and Garachico. In contrast, Gran Canaria offers the urban elegance of Playa de las Canteras in Las Palmas, the enchanting Maspalomas dunes to the south, and natural pools like Los Charcones along its northern coast.

If beautiful beaches are on your wishlist, Lanzarote stands out with its exceptional locations. Punta del Papagayo, located east of Playa Blanca, features stunning beaches amidst rugged cliffs, complemented by a tranquil atmosphere. Famara Beach is perfect for surf enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxed vibe, along with pristine natural sea pools at Punta Mujeres and picturesque coves near Orzola.

Culinary Scene

Winner: Tenerife

The culinary scene in the Canary Islands has gained significant recognition, with chefs across the islands creatively showcasing traditional flavors. For a memorable dining experience, choose Tenerife, where it features seven Michelin-starred restaurants as of April 2025, including two with two stars. Notable chefs, Juan Carlos and Jonathan Padrón, lead the way with their renowned restaurant, El Rincón de Juan Carlos in Adeje.

Tenerife’s gastronomic offerings include seafood establishments, innovative tapas bars, and charming brunch spots. Be sure to explore the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África in Santa Cruz, which is bustling with fresh produce and local eateries. Don’t overlook the traditional guachinche, casual dining spots known for their home-cooked dishes, primarily found in the island’s northern regions.

Gran Canaria also features a variety of exciting dining options, including Michelin-starred restaurants in Las Palmas. Exploring the quaint streets of Triana and Vegueta for delightful tapas is a must. Lanzarote is home to inventive kitchens that are reinterpreting local cuisine in refreshing ways, with numerous local dining spots serving classic dishes.

Accommodations

Winner: A tie between Lanzarote and Tenerife/Gran Canaria

Each island features a plethora of incredible hotels, appealing to every preference. Lanzarote is known for its boutique hotels, showcasing creative and artistic designs set against its striking volcanic scenery. Standouts include the César Lanzarote Hotel, situated in a historical building, and Alava Suites in Costa Teguise.

Gran Canaria boasts intimate boutique accommodations in Las Palmas, including Veintiuno, a transformed 18th-century mansion. The Santa Catalina hotel, a beautifully restored 19th-century landmark, is among the top choices on the island, alongside numerous family-friendly resorts located in the southern coastal areas.

Tenerife features luxurious five-star resorts along its southwest coast, with highly regarded establishments like Bahia del Duque, Tivoli La Caleta Tenerife Resort, and the Ritz-Carlton Tenerife, Abama. For those seeking a rustic retreat, unique design-led accommodations await in the northern region.

Activities and Attractions

Winner: Tenerife

Tenerife excels when it comes to variety, offering extraordinary activities such as hiking Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak at 3,718m, whale watching, and exploring scenic vineyards. With numerous hiking trails throughout the island, notable spots include the Anaga mountains and the Unesco-listed Parque Nacional del Teide. Be sure to arrange permits for the most popular routes.

Additionally, you can join yoga sessions, take kitesurfing lessons, kayak around Los Gigantes cliffs, explore beautiful Canarian architecture in La Laguna, and enjoy vibrant arts scenes like the famous carnival celebrations in Santa Cruz.

Gran Canaria offers a range of adventure activities, including hikes in the mountainous zones and cultural experiences in Las Palmas. Lanzarote also provides diverse activities, highlighted by the cultural insights from César Manrique’s artistic contributions across the island.

Nightlife

Winner: A close competition between Gran Canaria and Tenerife

Gran Canaria is known for its vibrant nightlife, featuring a mix of all-night clubs, sophisticated cocktail bars, and annual music festivals. Particularly in Maspalomas, the island is famous for its lively LGBT scene, especially during Pride celebrations in May. In contrast, Las Palmas offers chic rooftop bars and youthful nightlife experiences.

Tenerife has its own vibrant nightlife, complete with dazzling cocktail bars and lively beach clubs, especially in Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje. The nightlife in La Laguna is particularly popular among students, while Santa Cruz has various bar scenes that remain active late into the night.

In Lanzarote, nightlife is more laid-back, focusing on local bars that overlook scenic lagoons and wine-tasting experiences that highlight the island’s agricultural heritage.