Discover the best things to do in Tenerife in December as the perfect winter escape awaits!
Planning to travel Tenerife in December?
Then, you’re about to have one of the best winters you’ll ever have!
Though many parts of Europe are snowy during the last month of the year, Tenerife has just about the perfect weather to travel, enjoy, and relax in December!
You can enjoy sunny days at beaches, snowy adventures in Mount Teide, whale-watching activities, and nature hiking sessions.
Not to mention, you’ll have the chance to visit the local Christmas markets and even celebrate New Year’s Eve wrapped in Tenerife’s unique holiday traditions!
That’s just one of the many reasons why I chose to live on this island for a year!
To make the most of your time on this island, let me share the most fun things to do in Tenerife in December.
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Table of Contents
Overview: Best Things to do in Tenerife in December
- Hike Mount Teide National Park
- Go Whale and Dolphin Watching
- Visit Loro Parque
1. Enjoy the Warm Weather at Playa de Las Teresitas
When tourists think about having a beach day in Tenerife, they often head to one of the popular beaches in South Tenerife.
After all, the southern sections are the hottest part of Tenerife in December.
However, the northside also has gorgeous beaches, and it features surprisingly warm temperatures in Tenerife in December.
One of those is Playa de Las Teresitas.
This beach is renowned for its golden sand, calm waves, stunning mountainous backdrop, and calm vibe.
In the mornings, it gets nice and hot, but there are plenty of shaded areas thanks to the tree shades!
Compared to beaches in the south, Playa de Las Teresitas is often quieter and full of locals, not just tourists! So, you’ll enjoy better privacy and quieter moments!
It’s really one of the best beaches in Tenerife North!
2. Hike Mount Teide National Park
Is Tenerife warm in December? Yup.
Does it snow in Tenerife in December? Also yes.
If you want to witness the transition between the warmth of Tenerife’s center and the winter wonderland in its mountainous regions, Mount Teide National Park is a destination you shouldn’t miss.
Here, you can find very unique landscapes featuring dramatic rock formations and unique plants.
Plus, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of Tenerife once you reach the snow-covered summit!
The weather in Tenerife in December is also perfect for hiking Mount Teide, which offers lots of well-marked trails.
Not a big fan of strenuous activities?
Not a problem! Mount Teide has a cable car ride, which will allow you to reach the snowy summit with zero physical stress!
Many guided tours give you the option to either reach the mountain’s peak by foot or by cable car. Reaching the summit is really one of the best things to do in Tenerife in December.
3. Visit the Pyramids of Güímar
One of the best things to do in Tenerife in December is to visit the pyramids of Güímar, located at the Ethnographic Park.
These pyramids may not be as grand as the more popular Egyptian pyramids, per se, but trust me, they’re still a sight to behold!
I visited the Pyramids of Güímar through a guided tour with my friends.
At first, I had very low expectations. The pictures I saw online weren’t really so exciting.
But we had a blast throughout our entire stay at the Pyramids of Güímar!
This destination is more than just seeing the six 4-meter-high pyramid structures in Tenerife’s Pyramid Park.
You can also walk through the park’s beautiful botanical garden and the poisonous garden that’s home to over 70 poisonous plants from around the world!
Not to mention, during the tour, you’ll learn how the archipelago of the Canary Islands was formed and also learn fun facts about the culture of the islands.
4. Explore the Christmas Markets in Santa Cruz
The winter temperatures in Tenerife may not be so Christmas-y, but everything else on the island sure brings out holiday vibes!
Especially if you visit the Christmas Markets in Santa Cruz, which usually run in late November and run until early January!
So, what can you expect from these Christmas markets?
Pretty much everything that makes Christmas magical, except for snow!
There are lots of food ranging from traditional Canarian treats to unique Christmas specialties, including my favorites—the turrón and churros.
You can see street performers left and right dancing, singing, and doing lots of other entertaining stunts.
Plus, many local arts and crafts are displayed for sale.
Last but not least, the markets will be covered and showered with Christmas lights, really bringing out the holiday spirits throughout the town!
Anytime you’re wondering what to do in Tenerife in December, just visit the Christmas markets and you can easily enjoy the entire day!
5. Go Whale and Dolphin Watching
What is Tenerife famous for except for its beaches and volcanoes?
Whale and dolphin watching, of course!
So, if you’re about to visit the island in December, don’t forget to book a dolphin and whale-watching cruise that not only lets you watch these magnificent creatures but also lets you swim in crystal-clear waters!
It’s been years since I’ve last been to one of these tours, but I can still vividly remember every detail of our last one!
We were accompanied by the view of the majestic cliffs along the coast as we approached our dolphin-watching destination.
Then, in no time, we saw the dolphins dancing so close to our boats that I felt we could almost reach out and touch them.
It was fun learning facts about Tenerife wildlife while we ordered drinks.
Oh, and having a swim break was also a nice added bonus.
That said, when planning what to pack for Tenerife in winter, make sure to pack swimsuits too!
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6. Experience Tenerife Carnival in December (Santa Cruz Pre-Carnival Events)
If Rio de Janeiro has Carnaval do Rio de Janeiro, Tenerife also has Carnival de Tenerife.
Both celebrations are as festive as carnivals can be, featuring extravagant parades, unique, vibrant costumes, and lively music!
Now, Tenerife’s main carnival is held in February, which is such a slight bummer if you won’t be on the island by then.
But don’t worry.
Prior to the big carnival, there will already be pre-carnival festivities held in Tenerife in December to hype up the upcoming carnival season!
These aren’t really scheduled events, but you’re sure to hear about them once you’re on the island.
They’re one of the best things to do in Santa Cruz and other towns and villages, so make sure to ask around and join one of these festivities!
Expect mini-parades, performances, and other kinds of gatherings. Some of the best things to do in Tenerife in December!
7. Visit Loro Parque
For tourists who love nature and animals, Loro Parque has always stood out as one of the best things to do in North Tenerife.
This “park” used to be a simple parrot park, but it has grown to be a world-class animal sanctuary in Puerto de la Cruz with lush botanical gardens.
It’s so dedicated to offering animals top-quality care that it’s the first zoo in the world to be awarded the environmental certification of Animal Embassy!
Loro Parque is now home to more than 400 species.
Apart from seeing animals in their beautifully designed habitat, you can also enjoy presentations of animals like sea lions, dolphins, orcas, and of course, parrots!
I was so surprised at how amazing the park trained the animals to perform tricks!
December is easily one of the best months to visit the park as it’s less crowded. Less time lining up, more time for exploring!
So, if you’re looking for things to do in Puerto de la Cruz or nearby in December, book your tickets to Loro Parque!
8. Relax at Natural Pools in Garachico
Is Tenerife hot in December?
On some days, it is!
During those days, one of the best things you can do in Tenerife is to relax at the natural lava pools in Garachico.
Don’t let the name fool you—these pools are not heated by lava. They’re filled with refreshing, cool ocean water!
The name’s just from the fact that these pools were formed due to an ancient volcanic eruption that solidified.
While relaxing in these lava pools, you’ll be surrounded by volcanic rock formations and the occasional splashes from the ocean waves!
You can visit these pools on your own, but if you love convenient trips where you just gotta enjoy and not stress about the logistics of your travels, I recommend joining this tour!
When we tried this 9-hour tour, we spent almost two hours in the natural lava pools of Garachico, sightseeing and swimming.
The temperature in Tenerife in December is really perfect for quick, refreshing dips. A little cold but just enough to rejuvenate your mid-day!
While you’re in the area, make sure to also try out local restaurants and enjoy fresh seafood and traditional dishes like Gofio.
9. Explore La Laguna’s Historic Center
Still wondering what to do in the Canary Islands in December?
If you’re into learning about architecture and history, check out La Laguna’s historic center, the San Cristóbal de La Laguna.
In this small town, you’ll be surrounded by colorful mansions, churches, leafy courtyards, and cobblestone streets that were established as far back as the 16th century.
So, just walking along the sidewalk feels like you’ve traveled back in time when phones weren’t even a thing!
Speaking of walking, this UNESCO World Heritage site is very walkable.
Cars are restricted in many areas. So, it’s perfect for strolling the entire day, shopping, and eating at local establishments to your heart’s content!
You’ll learn a lot about the Canarian culture in La Laguna’s center, so make sure to stop by at least once during your stay!
10. Take a Scenic Drive to Masca Village
Masca Village is pretty much Tenerife’s hidden paradise.
This remote village is very picturesque, surrounded by stunning cliffs and lush greenery, but in order to reach it, you have to purposely drive through winding, narrow roads for about an hour.
The good news, though, is that the drive to this village is easily one of the best road trips you’ll ever make anywhere in Europe!
If you start from the Southern coast of the island (like Los Gigantes) and take the TF-82 road, you’ll pass through breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and gorges, as well as lots of charming mountain villages.
There are also several viewpoints along the way, which are perfect spots for taking a break, stretching or snapping selfies!
Honestly, the narrow, winding roads to the village were kinda scary at first, but they’re as safe as roads can be if you drive carefully!
Once you reach Masca, you’ll be rewarded with views of one of the best remote villages, along with local shops and traditional restaurants!
There’s no better way to spend a quiet winter in Tenerife than driving to the Masca village! This activity is really one of the best things to do in Tenerife in December.
11. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Tenerife
As the hottest Canary Island in December, Tenerife is also one of the hottest places to celebrate New Year’s Eve!
The island is known for its spectacular fireworks displays, especially in major towns like La Laguna and Santa Cruz, as well as the beaches!
Of course, plazas, clubs, and restaurants are also packed to the brim with locals and tourists alike.
Be prepared to enjoy live music all day and night until and after the clock strikes 12 to welcome the New Year!
Really want to celebrate New Year the Canarian way?
Well, make sure to follow Nochevieja traditions like:
- Eating 12 grapes at midnight
- Wearing red underwear
- Putting on a completely new or elegant outfit
Celebrating New Year is really one of the best things to do in Tenerife in December. I’m more than happy to experience this beautiful event again!
12. Discover Anaga Rural Park
Anaga Rural Park is one of the main highlights of Tenerife for nature lovers.
Located in the northern part of the island, this protected area is home to a very diverse ecosystem with lots of stunning landscape, flora and fauna, and breathtaking views!
Here, you can find a lot of unique nature features, such as overlapping roots creating a tunnel for pedestrians and moss-covered trees.
This was my go-to getaway during days when I wanted to reconnect with nature while still living in Tenerife.
Make sure you have extra storage for taking lots of pictures, as this is a place best suited for photography!
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My final thoughts on Tenerife in December
I’m sure by now, you’re all excited about your future trip to the Canary Islands, wondering what to wear in Tenerife in December.
Well, all I can say is be as excited as you want to be!
This island never disappoints tourists who visit.
In fact, some people, including me, ended up falling in love with this place so much that we decided to make it our temporary home!
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
