A week in Adeje — for Paul & Gemma
Costa Adeje is the finest stretch of Tenerife's sun-drenched south coast — brilliant beaches, world-class attractions, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and some genuinely excellent food. Here's how to make the most of every day.
Walk the promenade from Playa del Duque down to Playa de Troya, get your bearings, and pick your favourite beach spot. The Atlantic light in the late afternoon is spectacular. Don't rush — the week is long. Start the next morning with a brunch at Routine Tenerife Cafe.
Book tickets in advance and arrive before 10am — the queues swell after midday. The Thai theming is genuinely spectacular, and the wave pool and lazy river make for a brilliant day. The park closes at 5pm, so there's no rushing. Bring your own towel.
Hire a car or book a guided excursion and head up to Mount Teide. The volcanic landscape is strikingly Mars-like — vast lava plains, ancient craters, and crystalline air. Take the cable car for breathtaking views across the islands. Book your summit permit well in advance if you want the very top.
A winding, dramatic drive through the Teno mountains to Masca, a tiny village clinging to a ravine with jaw-dropping views. Combine with a stop in Garachico — a beautifully preserved historic town with natural sea pools carved into the volcanic rock. A proper Tenerife day, miles from the resort strip.
A drive north to Puerto de la Cruz, but absolutely worth it. Consistently rated one of Europe's finest zoological parks. The orca and dolphin shows are genuinely moving, the gorilla enclosure is extraordinary, and free-flying parrots swoop overhead throughout the day. Budget a full day and arrive early for the shows.
A proper slow day at Playa del Duque — the nicest beach in the area, calmer and more sheltered than Troya. In the evening, book ahead for Almar Tenerife — a stunning seafood restaurant with a terrace overlooking the Atlantic, a tasting menu, and about the finest sunset view on the island. This is your date night.
Explore the old village of Adeje itself — a 10-minute drive uphill from the coast and a world away from the resort. Then for a final meal, Restaurant Sebastian is a hidden gem for tapas, or The Ginger Pig is reliably excellent with sunset views over Fanabe Beach and a notably good gluten-free menu.
A beautifully designed brunch spot with brilliant coffee and fresh, generous food. The perfect way to start a slow holiday morning. Open 8:30am–4:30pm daily.
A genuine hidden gem — tucked away from the tourist drag. Exceptional tapas, knowledgeable staff, and a cosy atmosphere. One of those places you instantly want to return to.
A firm favourite for good reason — great food, sunset views over Fanabe Beach, and gluten-free menu options throughout. The Piggy Platter is a must. Book evenings in advance.
The special occasion restaurant of the trip. Stunning terrace over the sea, a beautiful tasting menu, and exceptional sunset timing. Rated 4.8 stars from over 3,000 reviews. Book well in advance.
Essential for at least a couple of days. Teide and Masca are very difficult by public transport, and having wheels unlocks the whole island.
Siam Park tickets, the Teide summit permit, and Almar restaurant all need advance booking. Don't leave these until you're there.
Playa del Duque is the pick of the local beaches — calmer, more sheltered, and a notch above the busier Playa de Troya and Las Americas strip.
Adeje and Costa Adeje are notably quieter and classier than Las Americas. Worth staying in for the evenings rather than heading south to the noisier resort end.
Sea breezes can make evenings cooler than expected, and Teide is genuinely cold at altitude. One light jacket between you at least.
Tenerife's south is sheltered and sunny almost year-round. The north can be cloudier. If you see cloud on Teide, the south coast is usually still glorious.