At Kora Living, we believe in conscious tourism that connects with the environment and people. That’s why we propose a journey through some of the island’s most special places, so you can discover Tenerife like a local.

1.Teide National Park

Standing at 3,718 meters, Mount Teide is not only Spain’s highest peak but also a symbol of Tenerife. Located within the National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), this imposing volcano is one of the most visited in the country and will surprise you with its lunar landscapes, unique rock formations, and hiking trails offering spectacular views of the Atlantic and neighboring islands. If you plan to ascend by cable car to the summit, we recommend booking in advance and bringing warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly even on sunny days.

Additional tip: If you’re looking for accommodation options near Teide, you can learn more about Kora Nivaria Beach on our website, with strategic locations to explore the island.

2. Las Teresitas’ beach and its golden sand

Just 10 kilometers from Santa Cruz, Las Teresitas Beach will surprise you with its golden sand brought from the Sahara and its calm waters, ideal for a relaxing swim. Surrounded by palm trees and with views of the Anaga mountains, it’s the perfect spot to unwind without straying too far from the city.

Additionally, it offers all necessary services: sunbed and umbrella rentals, showers, restrooms, and several beach bars where you can taste local cuisine. In short, it’s a perfect beach to spend the day with family or friends.

3. Garachico, a picturesque fishing village

Garachico is one of those villages that captivate at first sight. Its cobbled streets, colorful houses, and the sound of the sea crashing against the rocks create a unique atmosphere where time seems to have stopped. The village is famous for its natural pools formed by volcanic lava, a legacy of the 1706 eruption, which turned the coast into a natural paradise for an exceptional swim.

During your visit, you can stroll through its historic center and explore the San Miguel Castle. Additionally, if you’re eager to try local cuisine, Garachico offers several restaurants where you can enjoy traditional dishes with sea views.

How to get there: Garachico is located 62 km from Santa Cruz, approximately a 75-minute drive. From Kora Nivaria Beach, we encourage you to explore this village using public transportation, a more sustainable option to connect with its beauty at a leisurely pace.

4. Masca and its spectacular gorge

Masca is one of the most breathtaking spots in Tenerife—a must-see for hiking and nature lovers. This tiny hamlet, nestled between steep ravines and surrounded by dramatic scenery, preserves the charm of a remote mountain village. Its stone houses appear to hang in midair, offering panoramic views that will leave you speechless.

From here begins one of the island’s most iconic hiking routes: the descent through the Masca Gorge all the way down to the beach. It’s a demanding trek that requires good physical condition and proper footwear, but every step is worth the effort. As you make your way through the wild, silent landscape, you’ll be immersed in a world of contrasts, ending at a hidden cove where the sea crowns an unforgettable adventure.

You can reach Masca from Santiago del Teide, though parking is limited and the road features some sharp bends—so take it slow and enjoy the journey.

5. La Laguna and its UNESCO World Heritage old town

San Cristóbal de La Laguna—more commonly known as La Laguna—is a colonial city designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its old town, with cobbled streets, stately homes, and leafy inner courtyards, feels like stepping back in time.

It’s the perfect place to wander aimlessly, discover charming boutiques, visit museums, and indulge in the local cuisine. Don’t miss the La Laguna Cathedral, the San Pablo Market, or simply sitting at a terrace café to soak up the city’s rhythm. To dive deeper into its architecture and cultural spirit, take a look at this guide to the best things to see in La Laguna, where we highlight all the must-visits.

6. Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the heartbeat of the island

Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the island’s capital, invites you to explore it at a leisurely pace. From the striking silhouette of the Tenerife Auditorium to its parks, museums, and bustling markets, the city offers a wide range of experiences—from contemporary art to historic charm—all wrapped in a calm rhythm that encourages you to savour each moment.

It’s the ideal place to wander aimlessly, browse through unique shops, or enjoy a quiet coffee while watching life unfold in the lively Plaza de España.

Highlights include García Sanabria Park—an urban oasis perfect for unwinding—and the Nuestra Señora de África Market, where local aromas and flavours mingle with tradition.

Thanks to its excellent public transport network, getting around the city is easy and sustainable—especially if you’re staying near the centre. From Kora Nivaria Beach, we encourage you to discover Santa Cruz de Tenerife at your own pace and dive into the city’s rich cultural offerings.

7. The cliffs of Los Gigantes

8. Playa del Duque

Located in Costa Adeje, on the southwest coast of Tenerife, Playa del Duque stretches for 390 metres along golden sands. Framed by a seafront promenade that links eight neighbouring beaches, it stands out for its calm waters protected by breakwaters and its Blue Flag certification, which guarantees cleanliness and quality.

The surrounding area offers a wide selection of restaurants and shops—perfect for enjoying local cuisine or simply relaxing. The beach is fully equipped with sun loungers, parasols, showers, accessible toilets, lifeguards, and adapted access for people with reduced mobility.

9. Cueva del Viento, an underground journey in Icod de los Vinos

Beneath the ground of Icod de los Vinos lies one of the longest volcanic caves on the planet. Formed 27,000 years ago, the Cueva del Viento offers a subterranean journey through lava stalactites, tubes, fossils, and the geological secrets of the island.

Visits are guided and limited in number, so it’s essential to book in advance through the official website. A perfect choice for those seeking unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

10. Bosque de Anaga, the island’s green lung

The Anaga Rural Park, spanning over 14,400 hectares, is a place where mist clings to the trails, moss blankets every surface, and silence breathes life into the landscape. Its laurel forest—one of the best preserved in the world—is ideal for hiking routes like the one that connects Cruz del Carmen with Punta del Hidalgo.

Just 30 minutes from Santa Cruz, we encourage you to get there by public transport to help protect this Biosphere Reserve. Bring water, comfortable shoes, and adaptable clothing, as the weather can shift quickly between fog and sunshine.

11. Punta de Teno, a wild retreat

Located at the northwestern tip of Tenerife within the Teno Rural Park, Punta de Teno is a secluded spot that captivates with its iconic lighthouse and breathtaking views of the Atlantic from volcanic cliffs. Its viewpoint offers unforgettable sunsets, with the cliffs of Los Gigantes as a dramatic backdrop.

Access by car is restricted, but you can reach it by bus from Buenavista del Norte—a small effort for a truly rewarding view.

12. Benijo Beach

Benijo is a wild beach, with black sand and rocks that rise from the ocean like sculptures. Located on the northern coast, it’s famous for its epic sunsets and its raw, untouched atmosphere.

It’s accessible by road, though parking is limited. The beach has no services, so it’s advisable to bring your own supplies if you plan to spend the day immersed in nature. Be sure to check official websites for current beach conditions and to verify whether access is open.

13. Puerto de la Cruz

14. The Thousand-Year-Old Dragon Tree (Icod de los Vinos)

The Thousand-Year-Old Dragon Tree, with over 800 years of history, is one of Tenerife’s greatest natural symbols and a must-visit for those seeking to connect with the island’s essence. This impressive specimen of Dracaena draco (a species endemic to the Canary Islands) stands proudly in the Drago Park in Icod de los Vinos, surrounded by native gardens and overlooking the town’s historic center. The park is open every day of the year, and you can check updated opening hours and purchase tickets on its official website.

15. The best-kept secret

And so we arrive at the end of our list, where the final spot is not just a conclusion, but an invitation to discover what many still do not know: a place with its own identity, away from the hustle and bustle, encapsulating the most authentic essence of Tenerife. This number 15 is undoubtedly the island’s best-kept secret, waiting to be explored by those seeking something different—something that doesn’t appear in conventional tourist guides. If you’ve made it this far, we know you’re someone who looks for more than just a destination; you’re searching for an experience that will leave you speechless.