Snorkeling in Tenerife: Dive into underwater wonders

Why Tenerife is one of Europe’s top snorkeling destinations

Tenerife is a volcanic paradise underwater, full of colorful reef fish, angel rays, and the occasional sea turtle gliding past. The waters are calm, clear, and warm most of the year, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike. Unique volcanic rock formations create natural caves and swim-throughs.

Book epic all-in-one cruises with snorkeling stops

Sail, snorkel, and spot whales on Tenerife’s waters without planning a thing—guides, gear, and onboard treats make it effortless.

How to access snorkeling in Tenerife

Tourists snorkelling over coral reefs at Sesimbra Beach, Portugal.

Most of Tenerife’s top snorkeling locations are along the south coast near Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, and Playa de las Américas. Access is free at public beaches, but guided tours and equipment rentals require separate booking. Boats for secluded spots like Los Gigantes cliffs usually operate from local marinas.

Things to know before booking

Cruises can last anywhere from 2 to 8 hours. A 3-hour cruise is ideal for a comprehensive experience, while 6 or 8-hour cruises let you explore further and linger longer in prime spots.
Most whale watching cruises include snorkeling stops, but it’s always best to double-check before booking to ensure the itinerary suits your plans.
Some cruises provide snorkeling gear. You can also rent equipment on the spot—prices vary depending on the cruise and package you choose. Pick what works best for you!
You can choose a shared cruise for a budget-friendly option or a private cruise for a more intimate experience. Private cruises are perfect for families, groups of friends, or couples seeking privacy and flexibility.
You’ll be accompanied by experienced guides with deep knowledge of marine life. Learn fascinating whale and dolphin facts, spot interesting quirks, and enjoy insider insights you won’t get on your own.
For a more intimate experience, skip taking the boat and kayak to snorkeling spots. You’ll get closer to the action, enjoy secluded areas, and connect with the sea at your own pace.
While all cruises include snacks and beverages, some longer tours also offer lunch.

Snorkeling Tenerife tours explained

	Does it include a snorkeling stop?	Does it include snorkeling gear?	Why go for it	Starting price
Kayaking & Snorkeling	✅	✅	Get closer to dolphins and turtles	€35.98
Catamaran Cruise with Whale & Dolphin Watching	✅	✅	Most budget-friendly cruise	€44
Eco-Sailing Cruise with Whale & Dolphin Watching	✅	✅ (optional)	Ethical and sustainable sailing	€59
Luxury Yacht Cruise with Whale & Dolphin Watching	✅	✅	Convenient hotel transfers	€65
Private Sailing Cruise with Whale & Dolphin Watching	✅	✅	Private sails with loved ones	€650

Snorkeling spots in Tenerife

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Los Cristianos Reef

Start here for calm waters and abundant parrotfish, damsels, and sea urchins. Easy entry from the beach makes it family-friendly.

Playa de las Américas Coves

Swim through volcanic rock formations and find small caves where colorful wrasse and trumpetfish hang out.

Los Gigantes Cliffs

For the adventurous, snorkel off a boat in deep water. Spot rays, turtles, and if lucky, dolphins in the distance.

Abades Beach

Secluded volcanic sand, shallow reefs, and excellent visibility. Great for photographers and beginners alike.

Barranco del Diablo (Costa Adeje)

Glide over rocky reefs where moray eels peek from crevices and schools of tiny damselfish dart around. Keep an eye out for the occasional stingray resting on the sandy bottom.

El Puertito Bay

A turtle hotspot! Watch green sea turtles gracefully swim by while colorful parrotfish nibble on algae-covered rocks. Snorkel slowly to spot shy wrasses hiding near rocks.

Playa de la Tejita

Explore the sandy seabed and rocky patches where you might encounter octopuses and small cuttlefish blending perfectly with their surroundings.

Roque de las Bodegas

Perfect for spotting trumpetfish hovering vertically among rocks and schools of barracuda cruising the shallows. The volcanic formations make for dramatic underwater scenery.

Playa de Abama

Swim alongside angel fish, rainbow wrasse, and the occasional sea bream. Small caves along the reef are great for discovering crabs and tiny shrimp.

Marine animals you can spot while snorkeling in Tenerife

Sea Turtles

Green sea turtles are a common sight, especially around El Puertito Bay and Los Gigantes. Watch them glide gracefully through the water or rest near rocky reefs—perfect for slow-motion photo ops.

Rays and skates

Angel rays and stingrays frequently patrol sandy seabeds in Barranco del Diablo and Playa de Abama. Spot them gliding silently, often partially camouflaged against the sand.

Reef fish

Tenerife’s reefs are alive with colorful parrotfish, damselfish, wrasse, and rainbowfish. Costa Adeje and Playa de la Tejita are hotspots where you can watch them nibble on algae or swirl in tight schools.

Eels and octopuses

Peek into rocky crevices at Barranco del Diablo or Playa de la Tejita to find moray eels and clever octopuses hiding and changing colors to blend with their surroundings.

Crustaceans and shrimps

Small crabs and shrimp scuttle among rocks in shallow coves like Roque de las Bodegas. Their vibrant colors and quick movements make them a delight for macro photography enthusiasts.

Cuttlefish and squid

In Playa de la Tejita, small cuttlefish camouflage brilliantly against the volcanic seabed. Their changing colors and patterns are mesmerizing to watch for even a few seconds.

Know before you go

Woman on yacht with lifebuoy sailing near rocky coast of Tenerife.

Timings: Most guided snorkeling tours run in the morning (9am–12:30pm) or early afternoon (1:30pm–4:30pm). Free access snorkeling at public beaches is available all day.
Age restrictions: Children as young as 5–6 years old can join most family-friendly tours, provided they are confident swimmers. Some advanced tours require participants to be at least 12 years old.
Fitness requirements: Basic swimming ability is required, but no diving certification is needed for snorkeling.
Safety gear: Snorkel mask, fins, and life jacket are typically included. Double-check your ticket before booking.
Booking tips: Book in advance during peak season (June–September) to secure preferred time slots. Early morning tours often provide calmer seas and better visibility.

Check out the month-by-month whale season breakdown

Snorkeler in ocean near sailboat during Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise, Tenerife.

Listen carefully to safety briefings, especially regarding currents, boat operations, and marine life interactions.
Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures, hand signals, emergency flotation devices, and boat return procedures.
Strong winds, high waves, or poor visibility can make snorkeling unsafe. Operators may cancel tours if conditions are risky.
Use safety gear. Life jackets and fins improve safety and efficiency. Wetsuits help prevent hypothermia and protect against abrasions.
Do not touch corals, fish, turtles, or rays. This protects both you and the ecosystem.
Stay close to your guide or group. Avoid venturing too far from shore or the boat, especially in deep waters.
Snorkeling is not advised if you have heart, lung, or severe mobility issues. Pregnant individuals should consult a doctor before participating.
Always snorkel with a partner or guide for safety. Never snorkel alone in unfamiliar areas.

Snorkeling tips from locals

While tours provide masks, fins, and snorkels, bringing your own ensures a perfect fit and comfort.
Protect your skin without harming the marine ecosystem. Apply reef-safe sunscreen before entering the water.
Don’t rush. Floating calmly improves visibility and lets you spot shy creatures like octopuses, wrasse, and cuttlefish.
Drink water before and after snorkeling. Lightweight snacks are good if you’re doing a half-day tour.
Use waterproof cases or leave cameras/phones in a safe place. Consider a small underwater camera for photos.
Ask locals or guides about tide times; low tide is best for calm, shallow snorkeling, and high tide may improve water clarity in some spots.
The summer months (June–September) are busiest. Book tours 2 months in advance to secure your preferred time slot.

Find more tips in the planning guide for whale watching in Tenerife

Frequently asked questions about snorkeling in Tenerife

Yes! Most tours allow personal masks, fins, and snorkels. Some travelers prefer their own gear for comfort and fit.

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Dolphins in Tenerife

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