7 Tourist Mistakes to Avoid in Tenerife (From a Local)
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Tenerife is stunning, with everything from golden beaches to dramatic volcanoes, which is why it attracts so many tourists. But as someone born and raised here, I’ve noticed certain mistakes that almost every visitor makes, and they can seriously affect your experience.
In this blog, I’m sharing 7 common tourist mistakes and how to avoid them, so you can explore Tenerife like a local and make the most of your holiday.
1. Sticking only to Playa de las Américas
Don’t get me wrong, if you plan to lounge in an all-inclusive resort, this might not bother you. But Tenerife is so much more: stunning mountain ranges, unique volcanoes, hidden villages, and centuries of history. Stick only to the south, and you’ll miss the real island waiting to be explored.
If you are planning your trip to Tenerife, these two blogs will save you hours of research: Tenerife North: 5 Unique Things to Do This Summer and 5 Best Areas to Stay in Tenerife (Based on Travel Style)
2. Underestimating the temperature in Mount Teide
Tenerife, and the Canary Islands in general, are known for having tropical weather all year round. I wouldn’t be surprised if you started packing nothing but swimming trunks, flip-flops, and tank tops. But if you’re planning to visit Mount Teide, make sure to bring a jumper, and maybe even a blanket. Depending on the month, the temperatures and strong winds can catch you completely off guard.
If you’re heading up for sunrise, sunset, or stargazing, warm clothes aren’t optional; they’re a must.
If you’re planning to visit Siam Park, make sure you read SIAM PARK: Everything You NEED to Know! (2026 Guide) before booking your tickets.
3. Renting the wrong car
Tenerife’s streets, especially in built-up towns and villages, can be narrow, winding, and sometimes downright stressful for anyone not used to them. Many tourists rent a big car or a small van that is too wide and quickly regret it; parking is tight, and even simple turns can feel like a challenge.
Search on the internet “Big car in Tenerife” to see what we are talking about.
If you want to avoid the stress, renting the right car is key. The platform we always use to find the best car rental is QEEQ, a reliable platform that lets you compare options and grab the best deals without hidden fees. A small to mid-sized car will make navigating Tenerife’s streets way easier, and leave more energy for exploring the island instead of worrying about scraping bumpers.
If you do decide to drive, we always book our cars through QEEQ. They consistently find the best rates across all major suppliers, and their “worry-free” service is a total lifesaver when car rental companies try to throw sketchy hidden charges your way. You can also use our exclusive discount code QRCARMA5 at checkout to get an extra 5% off!
4. Eating only at tourist restaurants
If your Tenerife experience is limited to restaurants with photos on the menu and English-only boards, you’re missing the heart of the island’s food scene. Many tourists stick to the obvious spots along the coast, but the real flavours of Tenerife are found in guachinches, small, family-run eateries usually tucked away inland.
At a guachinche, you’ll find dishes locals actually eat: papas arrugadas with mojo sauce, queso asado, huevos a la estampida, carne fiesta, and locally-produced wines. The portions are generous, the prices are fair, and the atmosphere? Authentic and unpretentious, a world away from the touristy beachfront chains.
5. Underestimating the ocean current
The Atlantic Ocean around Tenerife looks calm and inviting, but don’t let that fool you. On many beaches, the currents are strong, and waves can get dangerous fast. Every year, tourists who are overconfident in their swimming abilities end up in fatal accidents.
To be sure:
- Check the tide reports online; they’re usually very accurate.
- Watch the locals. If the current looks strong and nobody’s swimming, don’t take the risk.
- Pay attention to the flag, it’s there for a reason.
- Never swim alone, safety first.
6. Skipping the north entirely
As a local, I have to be honest, my favourite part of Tenerife is the north. Many tourists never make it past the busy southern resorts, and that’s a huge mistake. The beaches in the north are quieter, cleaner, and far less crowded, and the vibe is just more relaxed and authentic.
But it’s not just about the beaches. The north is full of incredible hikes, charming villages, and lush mountains you won’t find in the south, like the Anaga and Teno Massifs. We’ve actually created a Google Maps list with over 100 locations in Tenerife, from stargazing spots, beaches and historic towns, to local food spots and much more. It will save you hours of research!
Discover the top food spots, landmarks, towns, beaches and more with our custom Google Maps list for Tenerife. Over 100 filtered locations for less than the price of a cocktail!
7. Getting caught up on Veronica’s strip
Veronica’s Strip in Playa de las Américas is famous for wild nightlife, but here’s the truth: there are hardly any locals. It’s full of tourists partying hard, which can create a risky environment: fights, pickpockets, and vulnerable situations happen more often than people realise.
You don’t have to skip nightlife entirely, but if you want a safer, more authentic night out, head to smaller bars or beachside spots in Los Cristianos, Puerto de la Cruz, or even other parts of Playa de las Américas. You’ll still have a great night without the chaos.
We hope you enjoyed reading this blog, and if you have additional questions about Tenerife, do not hesitate to drop them in the comments section below!
