Water Sports Tenerife: what’s available and what each one is actually like

What water sports you can actually do in Tenerife (and what each one involves)

The south coast of Tenerife, from Costa Adeje through Playa de las Americas to Los Cristianos, is sheltered from the trade winds by Mount Teide. That means calm, warm water for most of the year, which is why almost all of the island’s water sports operate from this stretch. Sea temperatures range from 19°C in winter to 24°C in late summer, so you can do these activities year-round.

This guide covers the water sports available through CanaryVIP, with honest descriptions of what each one is actually like, how long it lasts, and who it’s best for.

Jet ski tours (1h, 2h, and 3h)

Jet ski tours are the most popular water sport in south Tenerife. Guided safaris depart from Costa Adeje and follow the coastline. The 1-hour tour stays along the Costa Adeje shore. The 2-hour tour covers around 60 km. The 3-hour safari goes all the way to the Los Gigantes cliffs on the west coast, which is a genuinely impressive thing to see from sea level.

All tours include a safety briefing, life jackets, and an instructor leading the group. No experience needed. The jet skis are late-model Kawasaki and Yamaha machines and easy to handle after a few minutes. You may see dolphins on the longer tours.

There’s also a 20-minute jet ski circuit on a marked buoy loop between Puerto Colon and Playa Fañabe. No guided tour, just speed on a contained course. Good for a quick thrill if you’re short on time.

Prices start from €85. Hotel pickup from the south included on most tours. Free cancellation up to 48 hours before.

Best for: Couples, groups of friends, anyone who wants speed and coastal scenery. The 3-hour Los Gigantes safari is the standout option.

Kayaking with sea turtles

The kayaking tour runs along the sheltered southern coast. You paddle through calm water, and there’s a good chance of seeing sea turtles and possibly dolphins from the kayak. The guides know the spots where turtles are most often seen.

All equipment is provided (kayaks, paddles, life jackets). No previous experience required. The pace is relaxed and the guides adjust to the group’s level. Suitable for families with children.

Best for: Couples, families, nature lovers, people who want something active but not intense.

Scuba diving

Two options here. For certified divers, scuba diving sessions take you to volcanic reef sites with good visibility, where you’ll see a range of marine life including rays, barracudas, moray eels, and various reef fish. All equipment provided.

For beginners, the PADI Open Water Course runs over 3 to 4 days and combines classroom theory with pool and open water dives. You finish with a globally recognised PADI certification that lets you dive up to 18 metres anywhere in the world. The water conditions in Tenerife (warm, clear, calm) make it one of the better places in Europe to learn.

Best for: Certified divers looking for easy holiday diving. Beginners who want to get PADI certified in good conditions.

Parasailing

Parasailing lifts you about 50 metres above the sea, towed by a speedboat. The flight lasts around 10 minutes. Up to 3 people can fly at the same time. You take off and land from the boat, so you don’t even need to get wet if you don’t want to.

The views from up there are good: you can see along the coast, across to La Gomera, and down into the water where you might spot marine life. It’s surprisingly peaceful once you’re up.

All safety gear (harness, life jacket) provided. Available daily. Best for: Families, couples, people who want a quick thrill with great views.

Banana boat

The banana boat is a 10-minute ride on an inflatable towed behind a speedboat. Up to 12 riders per ride. You hold on, bounce over waves, and try not to fall off (you will). Life jackets included.

It’s simple, it’s silly, and kids love it. Not much to explain beyond that.

Best for: Families with kids, groups who want a laugh, a quick add-on to a beach day.

Flyfish

The flyfish is like a banana boat but more intense. The inflatable is designed to lift off the water as speed increases, so you get brief moments of being airborne. Up to 3 riders, about 10 minutes, life jackets provided.

More of an adrenaline hit than the banana boat. Good for teenagers and adults who want something faster.

Best for: Adrenaline seekers, teenagers, groups of friends.

What about the north coast?

Most water sports operate from the south coast. The north and east coasts get more wind and swell, which makes them better for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing (see El Medano for wind sports, covered in our wind and watersports guide). If you want calm-water activities like jet skiing, kayaking, parasailing, or snorkeling, the south is where you need to be.

Practical tips

Bring swimwear, towel, and sunscreen. Sunscreen especially. You’re on the water at 28°N latitude and the UV reflects off the surface. Reapply after every activity.

Morning sessions tend to have calmer water. Afternoon wind picks up on most days, even on the sheltered south coast. For kayaking and snorkeling especially, mornings are better.

Book in advance. Jet ski tours and kayaking fill up in summer. Booking through CanaryVIP secures your spot and most activities include free cancellation up to 48 hours before.

Book water sports with CanaryVIP

All activities operate from the south coast with hotel pickup available. Every booking includes our Best Price Guarantee.

Jet ski tours from €85 | Kayaking with turtles | Snorkeling with turtles | Scuba diving | PADI Open Water Course | Parasailing | Banana boat | Flyfish

See all water sports in Tenerife.