I just returned from another trip to Tenerife, and realised that a lot of people don’t actually know where the island is! So I decided to write this post and answer the question “Where is Tenerife island?”
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. Nestled away from the hustle and bustle of mainstream tourism, this island is like that secret ingredient in your grandma’s recipe – not always easy to spot, but oh-so-worth the hunt.
Picture yourself stepping into a world of breathtaking landscapes, from majestic volcanic peaks to stunning black sand beaches. The island’s diverse microclimates create a paradise for nature lovers, offering lush forests, arid deserts, and even snow-capped mountains.
But Tenerife is more than just its natural beauty. The island boasts a vibrant culture, blending Spanish traditions with its unique Canarian identity.
Explore charming villages with colorful houses and narrow cobblestone streets, where locals welcome you with warm hospitality. Indulge in delicious Canarian cuisine, savoring fresh seafood, succulent meats, and the world-renowned Canarian potatoes.
For history enthusiasts, Tenerife holds its own stories to tell. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, a colonial town with well-preserved architecture and a rich history dating back to the 15th century.
Learn about the island’s connection to Christopher Columbus, who likely made a few wrong turns before discovering Tenerife during his explorations.
So, pack your bags, fellow travelers, and let’s embark on a virtual journey to uncover the wonders of Tenerife. Get ready to immerse yourself in captivating landscapes, experience the vibrant culture, and create unforgettable memories in this hidden gem of the Canary Islands.
Read next: Which is the best Canary Island to visit?
Where is Tenerife Island?
Tenerife, a name that brings to mind images of year-round sunshine and vibrant nightlife, is one of the seven Canary Islands. And where, you might ask, are the Canary Islands?
The islands are located in the Atlantic Ocean, just off the Northwestern coast of Africa. But, here’s the twist, they’re actually part of Spain. So, while you’re soaking up the sun in Tenerife, you’re technically chilling (or rather, warming) in European territory.
Read next: Where to stay in Tenerife (including a north vs south breakdown)
If you are wondering exactly where you’d find Tenerife on a map, it’s simple.
When looking at a map, look towards the west side of Africa, just a bit above the equator. Now, glide your eyes slightly to the left, into the Atlantic Ocean.
There you’ll find a tiny cluster of islands, like a handful of confetti thrown into the sea. That’s the Canary Islands for you!
Now, zero in on the largest island in that cluster, that’s our star – Tenerife, basking in all its sunny glory, waving at you from the map. You found it! It’s closer to Africa, but remember, it’s still sipping sangria under the flag of Spain.
The exact coordinates for Tenerife are 28.291565 (latitude) and -16.629129 (longitude). Here’s a link to the Google Maps location!
What is Tenerife Island Known for?
Tenerife is a great destination for travelers looking for a beautiful beach getaway with plenty of activities to enjoy. As we now know, it is located off the coast of Spain, and the island is home to some of the best beaches in the Canary Islands. Plus, with many airlines offering direct flights to Tenerife, it’s easy to get to the island.
Once you arrive in Tenerife, there’s plenty to do. Not only are there beautiful beaches on the island, but you can also visit some of the vineyards and wineries in the area. From El Hierro in the north to La Palma in the south, you can take in some of the best vineyards in the area.
Tenerife is also known for its amazing stargazing opportunities. With its clear night skies, the island is a great place to view the stars, and you can find some of the best stargazing in Spain there. Plus, the local observatory, the Teide Observatory, is at 7841 feet/2390 meters above sea level!
With its spectacular beaches, lush vineyards, and amazing stargazing, Tenerife is the perfect destination for a beach vacation. So if you’re looking for a place to relax, explore, and have some fun in the sun, book your trip to Tenerife today.
Below are some of the highest-rated tours and activities on Tenerife:
Which Country Does Tenerife Belong To?
Tenerife is the largest of the seven Canary Islands, which are located off the coast of Africa.
This stunning Spanish island is part of the country of Spain and is a popular tourist destination. The Canary Islands are known for their beautiful beaches, spectacular landscapes, and vibrant culture.
Tenerife is also home to some of Spain’s most impressive volcanic landscapes and the highest mountain in Spain, Teide.
Is Tenerife European or African?
Tenerife is a Spanish island and thus part of Europe, not Africa. However, it is located closer to the African continent than Europe, which is why people can get confused.