Where to Avoid in Tenerife: Areas to Think Twice Before Visiting

Tenerife is a stunning destination, offering diverse landscapes, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture.
However, like any popular tourist spot, some areas might not align with every traveller’s expectations.

Knowing where to avoid in Tenerife can help you:

• Save time and money.
• Enjoy a more authentic experience.
• Avoid unnecessary crowds or disappointments.

In this guide, we will explore the areas that you might want to think twice before visiting, depending on your travel style — and we’ll also share better alternatives so you can still enjoy the best that Tenerife has to offer.

Important: Tenerife is generally a safe and welcoming island.
Our goal is not to discourage you, but to help you plan smarter for a more rewarding adventure.

Why Some Areas Might Not Be Ideal

Not every traveller looks for the same kind of experience.
Some parts of Tenerife, while popular and lively, may not be ideal if you are seeking:

• Peace and nature.
• Authenticity and local culture.
• Affordable prices.
• Less tourist-oriented environments.

Common reasons why some areas might disappoint include:

• Overcrowding, especially during high season.
• Higher prices compared to the rest of the island.
• Less authentic atmosphere, with an overfocus on international tourism.
• Nightlife noise, which can disturb those looking for rest.

Tip: Planning ahead and knowing these details can make the difference between an average holiday and an unforgettable journey.

Main Areas to Avoid (Depending on Your Travel Style)

Here we don’t speak of “dangerous” areas—because Tenerife is very safe overall—
but of zones that might not fit if you want a quieter, more authentic, or less expensive trip.

Let’s see them one by one:

Playa de las Américas – Too Touristy for Some

Playa de las Américas is the epicentre of mass tourism in Tenerife.

Why it might not suit you:

• Extremely crowded beaches and streets.
• Bars and nightclubs open until early morning.
• Higher prices in restaurants and shops compared to quieter areas.
• Less local atmosphere, with many businesses targeting tourists.

Who might still enjoy it:

• Travellers looking for party scenes, international restaurants, and constant activity.

Los Cristianos – Busy and Commercial

Los Cristianos was once a charming fishing village but has grown into a busy tourist hub.

Possible downsides:

• Heavy traffic and parking difficulties.
• High density of hotels and resorts.
• A more commercialised environment, with many tourist shops and fast-food chains.

Alternative idea:
Visit El Médano instead, a vibrant but authentic coastal town popular with locals and surfers.

Costa Adeje (Certain Parts) – Expensive and Crowded

While some parts of Costa Adeje are beautiful, the southern tip near Playa del Duque can feel:

• Overpriced, especially in luxury zones.
• Overbuilt, losing part of its charm.
• Saturated with high-end resorts, making it harder to find a relaxed local vibe.

Best tip:
If you like Costa Adeje’s beaches but want a more relaxed vibe, head towards Playa del Puertito or even explore Playa Paraíso for a more peaceful stay.

Specific Situations to Watch Out For

Beyond specific towns or areas, there are situations during your trip where a little caution can go a long way.

Very Touristic Beaches at Peak Times

Beaches like Playa de Troya, Playa de las Vistas, or Playa Fañabé are beautiful, but during high season they can become:

• Extremely crowded (difficult to even find a spot).
• Overpriced (sunbeds, drinks, parking).
• Less clean due to the volume of visitors.

Tip: Visit early in the morning or at sunset for a quieter, more magical experience.

Certain Nightlife Hotspots

If you’re looking for peace, you might want to avoid areas around Veronica’s Strip (Playa de las Américas) at night:

• Very loud with club music until late.
• Younger, party-heavy crowds.
• Occasional petty crime, typical of nightlife zones.

Alternative:
Head to towns like La Laguna or Garachico if you prefer evening walks, tapas, and traditional life.

Parking Issues in Popular Towns

In places like Los Cristianos, Santa Cruz city centre, or Costa Adeje, parking can be:

• Very scarce during the day.
• Expensive in some public lots.

Pro tip: If you’re travelling with a campervan, plan your parking or overnight spots carefully and consider moving early in the morning to avoid stress.

Alternatives for a More Authentic Tenerife Experience

Instead of fighting the crowds, why not venture a little further?
Tenerife is full of hidden gems that offer:

• Stunning landscapes.
• Real local life.
• Lower prices.
• Peace and quiet.

Here are some perfect alternatives:

North of Tenerife: The Authentic Heart

The northern part of the island offers an entirely different experience:

• San Cristóbal de La Laguna: A UNESCO World Heritage Site full of colonial architecture and lively tapas bars.
• Anaga Rural Park: Fairy-tale forests and breathtaking hikes.
• Tacoronte and La Orotava: Vineyards, traditional towns, and real Canarian life.

Insider tip: The north is greener and cooler—ideal if you want a different side of Tenerife.

Tips to Explore Tenerife Safely and Authentically

Want to make the most of your trip while avoiding tourist traps?
Here’s how:

• Travel by campervan to explore the island at your own pace.
  • Wake up in nature instead of city centres.
  • Respect local customs—especially in small villages and natural parks.
  • Support local businesses, restaurants, and shops.
  • Plan your routes outside peak times (e.g., early mornings, weekdays).

Freedom tip: Travelling with a campervan from AJJ Vans gives you the flexibility to escape crowded spots and discover secret places inaccessible to big tourist groups.

Final Thoughts: Plan Smart, Travel Happy

Tenerife is an incredible island with endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery.
By knowing where to avoid and where to go instead, your trip can be more authentic, more relaxed, and far more memorable.

Adventure, authenticity, and freedom await you.

🌟 Ready to explore Tenerife like a true traveller?
Discover the real island with the freedom of a campervan. Start your journey today!