Tenerife All-Inclusive Holidays: Island Experts Share Their Canarian Paradise Secrets

Known as the “Island of Eternal Spring,” Tenerife combines year-round sunshine with dramatic volcanic landscapes, stunning beaches, and rich Spanish-Canarian culture. We’ve gathered insights from five Tenerife tourism experts to create the ultimate guide to all-inclusive holidays on this captivating island, complete with regional insights, transport tips, and a comprehensive price guide.

Regional Guide: Choosing Your Perfect Location

Carlos Rodríguez, a Tenerife tourism veteran with 20 years of experience, breaks down the island’s main holiday regions: “Tenerife offers distinct experiences depending on where you stay. The southern resorts deliver reliable sunshine and lively entertainment, Costa Adeje provides upscale experiences, while Puerto de la Cruz in the north offers a more authentic Canarian atmosphere.”

His recommendations by region:

• Southern Tenerife (Playa de las Américas/Los Cristianos): “Ideal for sun-seekers, families, and those seeking vibrant nightlife and entertainment options”
• Costa Adeje: “Perfect for those wanting premium all-inclusive experiences with sophisticated dining and quieter surroundings”
• Puerto de la Cruz (North): “Great for experiencing authentic Canarian culture alongside your resort stay, with lush surroundings”
• Golf del Sur/Costa del Silencio: “Peaceful resorts perfect for relaxation and golf enthusiasts, away from the busier tourist centers”

The Complete Tenerife Transport Guide

Elena Martínez, a local transport specialist, shares essential information for exploring the island:

Public Transport

• TITSA Buses (Guaguas): Connect major towns (€1.50-€10 per journey)
• Tram (Tranvía): Connects Santa Cruz to La Laguna (€1.35 per journey)
• Airport Transfers: Usually included in all-inclusive packages

Car Hire

• Economy: €30-45 per day
• Mid-range: €50-70 per day
• Luxury vehicles: €100+ per day

Taxi Approximate Costs

• Tenerife South Airport to Playa de las Américas: €25-30
• Tenerife South Airport to Costa Adeje: €30-35
• Short trips within resort areas: €5-10
• Island tours: €180-240 for a full day

Transport Tips:

• Taxis should use meters; insist on this
• Consider a Bono bus ticket for discounted public transport
• TITSA buses are efficient but can be busy during peak times
• Car rental offers the most flexibility for exploring the island

Price Guide: All-Inclusive Hotels in Tenerife

Maria González, a Canarian hospitality consultant, provides a breakdown of typical costs:

Mid-Range All-Inclusive (4-star)

• Peak season (December-April, July-August): €180-250 per night
• Shoulder season: €150-200 per night
• Low season: €120-170 per night

Luxury All-Inclusive (5-star)

• Peak season: €250-400+ per night
• Shoulder season: €200-300 per night
• Low season: €170-250 per night

Ultra-Luxury All-Inclusive

• Peak season: €400-800+ per night
• Shoulder season: €300-600 per night
• Low season: €250-500 per night

Local Restaurant and Activity Price Guide

Traditional Restaurants

• Local lunch: €15-25 per person
• Mid-range dinner with drinks: €30-45 per person
• High-end Canarian restaurant: €60-100+ per person

Activities and Excursions

• Mount Teide cable car and national park: €38-60
• Whale and dolphin watching: €30-60
• Siam Park water park: €40
• Loro Parque: €40
• Jeep safari tours: €50-80
• Boat trips: €40-90
• Scuba diving: €80-120

Hidden Culinary Treasures of Tenerife

Chef Javier Méndez, a Tenerife culinary expert, shares his insights: “The best all-inclusive resorts now showcase authentic Canarian cuisine alongside international offerings. Look for properties featuring local ingredients like papas arrugadas, fresh seafood, and Canarian mojos.”

His recommended local restaurants:

• El Rincón de Juan Carlos (Los Gigantes): Michelin-starred Canarian cuisine
• Casa Pache (La Laguna): Traditional Canarian in a historic setting
• La Cofradía de Pescadores (Los Abrigos): Fresh seafood direct from local fishermen

Cultural Experiences and Local Traditions

Dr. Ana Hernández, a historian specializing in Canarian heritage, emphasizes the importance of cultural immersion: “The best resorts offer excursions to experience our rich traditions, from local wine tasting to exploring the UNESCO World Heritage city of La Laguna and witnessing traditional fiestas.”

Expert Tips for Resort Selection in Tenerife

• Look for properties with sea views or Mount Teide vistas
• Choose resorts offering Canarian nights and local cuisine
• Consider proximity to natural attractions and hiking areas
• Check for heated pools if traveling in winter months
• Verify inclusion of premium activities and excursions

Hidden Gems Near Popular Resort Areas

Playa de las Américas/Los Cristianos Area

• La Caleta: Authentic fishing village with excellent seafood
• Monkey Park: Small interactive zoo popular with families
• El Médano: Windsurfing paradise with bohemian atmosphere

Costa Adeje

• Barranco del Infierno: Stunning ravine with nature trail
• La Caleta de Adeje: Upscale dining district with ocean views
• Playa del Duque: Premium beach experience

Puerto de la Cruz

• Botanical Gardens: Historic gardens with exotic plant collections
• Playa Jardín: Black sand beach designed by artist César Manrique
• La Orotava: Beautiful historic town with traditional architecture

Cultural Notes and Local Customs

• Siestas are still observed in more traditional areas
• Local fiestas and processions are important cultural events
• Canarian wrestling (lucha canaria) is a traditional sport worth watching
• Local markets (mercadillos) operate on specific days in different towns
• Carnival (February/March) is a major celebration across the island

Seasonal Considerations for Tenerife

• Peak Season (December-April, July-August): Busiest periods, higher prices
• Shoulder Season (May-June, September-October): Excellent weather, fewer crowds
• Low Season (November): Short rainy period, best deals
• Year-round appeal: Tenerife maintains pleasant temperatures throughout the year

Making the Most of Your All-Inclusive Package in Tenerife

According to Carlos Rodríguez, “Tenerife offers so much beyond your resort. Use your all-inclusive package as a comfortable base while exploring our natural wonders, from Mount Teide National Park to the ancient laurel forests and dramatic coastlines.”

Money-Saving Tips for Tenerife Holidays

• Travel during May-June or September-October for ideal weather and lower rates
• Book excursions online in advance for better pricing
• Look for resorts including premium attractions in their packages
• Consider hotels offering dine-around options at local restaurants
• Watch for winter sun deals, especially in November

Your Guide to Tipping in Tenerife

As shared by Miguel Torres, Head Concierge at a premier Tenerife resort with 15 years of experience, and Lucia Fernández, local hospitality consultant, here’s your comprehensive guide to tipping in Tenerife.

All-Inclusive Resort Tipping

Room Service and Housekeeping

• Housekeeping: €1-2 per day
• Turn-down service: €1-2 per service
• Room service delivery: €1-2 per delivery
• Special requests: €2-5 depending on complexity

Expert Tip: “While tipping is not mandatory in Tenerife, small gestures are greatly appreciated by staff,” advises Torres.

Restaurant Staff

• Buffet servers: €1 per meal
• A la carte waiters: €2-5 per meal
• Bartenders: €1 per round or €5 per evening
• Pool/beach servers: €1-2 per delivery

Expert Tip: “Tipping in all-inclusive resorts is less expected than in à la carte restaurants, but still appreciated for exceptional service,” says Fernández.

Resort Activities and Services

• Spa treatments: 5-10% of treatment cost
• Fitness instructors: €2-5 per class
• Water sports instructors: €5-10 per session
• Entertainment staff: €2-5 for personal assistance
• Concierge: €5-10 for extensive arrangements

Transportation Tipping

Taxis

• Airport transfers: €2-3
• Short trips: €1-2
• Island tours: €10-20 for a full day
• Late night services: Add extra €2

Expert Tip: “Rounding up the fare is the most common approach to tipping taxis in Tenerife,” recommends Torres.

Car Services

• Private drivers: 5-10% of daily rate
• Tour guides: €10-20 per day
• Resort shuttle drivers: €1-2 per journey

Restaurants Outside Resorts

Dining

• Casual restaurants: 5-10% of bill
• Fine dining: 10% of bill
• Cafés: Rounding up the bill or €0.50-1

Expert Tip: “Service charge is rarely included in Tenerife. A tip of around 5-10% is standard for good service,” says Fernández.

Tours and Excursions

Activity Specialists

• Boat trip crew: €2-5 per person
• Teide guides: €5-10 per tour
• Whale watching guides: €2-5 per tour
• Diving instructors: €5-10 per dive

Cultural Experiences

• Wine tasting guides: €5-10 per tour
• Museum guides: €2-5 per person
• Cultural performers: €1-2 per performer

Special Circumstances

Group Services

• Group tour guides: €2-5 per person
• Wedding coordinators: €20-50
• Photographers: €10-20
• Special celebration arrangements: €10-20

Holiday Periods

During Christmas, New Year, and Carnival:

• Consider increasing tips by 50%
• Show extra appreciation for staff working during holidays
• Tip more generously for special holiday services

Important Considerations

Currency

• Euro (€) is used for all transactions including tipping
• Carry small coins and notes for convenience
• Contactless payment is widely available but cash is preferred for tips

Cultural Notes

• Tipping is less ingrained than in some other destinations
• Service staff appreciate acknowledgment of good service
• A smile and “gracias” enhances any monetary tip

When Not to Tip

• Owner-operators of small businesses
• Self-service establishments
• When service has been genuinely poor
• For basic directions or information

Expert Tips for Smart Tipping

1. Keep a small amount of change accessible for convenience
2. Reward exceptional service rather than tipping automatically
3. Adjust tipping based on length of stay and service quality
4. Learn a few Spanish phrases to show appreciation
5. Be discreet when offering tips

Special Advice from Local Experts

“Tipping culture in Tenerife is more relaxed than in the UK or US,” notes Torres. “It’s seen as a gesture of appreciation rather than an obligation, but it’s still an important way to recognize good service.”

Lucia Fernández adds: “Many resort staff are from mainland Spain or other countries where tipping forms a more significant part of their income expectation. Your generosity helps support the people who make your holiday special.”

Planning Your All Inclusive Holiday in Tenerife

The ideal Tenerife experience balances resort comfort with island exploration. Choose properties that encourage you to discover the island’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.

As Elena Martínez notes, “Tenerife is an island of contrasts, from the lunar landscapes of Teide to lush forests and vibrant coastal resorts. The best holiday experiences combine relaxation at your all-inclusive resort with adventures across our beautiful island.”

Top 5 Must-Do Experiences in Tenerife

1. Visit Mount Teide National Park and take the cable car for spectacular views
2. Experience whale and dolphin watching in their natural habitat
3. Explore the historic UNESCO World Heritage city of La Laguna
4. Enjoy the award-winning Siam Park water park
5. Sample local wines and traditional Canarian cuisine

Note: All expert recommendations and prices are based on 2025 rates and professional experience in Tenerife tourism and hospitality. Contact specific travel agents for current offerings and availability. Prices may vary by season and availability.