Tenerife is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. And not just because it’s an island, but also because of its idyllic climate conditions year-round, the visibility of its waters, and the biodiversity of the underwater environment. While scuba diving is the most comprehensive way to discover the hidden treasures beneath Tenerife’s surface, there’s another option for those who don’t have their certification or enough time to embark on one of the diving courses we offer at DPM Diving. That option is snorkeling, one of the most popular water sports practiced in Tenerife, which involves diving on the water’s surface. Luckily, there are many places on the island perfect for observing all kinds of species without the need for a deep dive.
And remember, if you get the bug and want to take it a step further, at DPM Diving, we offer one-day initiation courses and fascinating ecology programs.
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Playa de las Vistas
Located in the south of the island, in the Adeje area, and very close to DPM Diving, Playa de las Vistas is one of the most popular beaches thanks to its calm and crystal-clear waters, as well as the variety of services available nearby. Its allure extends below the surface, where you can snorkel and spot turtles, rays, the occasional octopus, and fish of vibrant colors.
El Puertito de Adeje
It is one of those hidden corners in the south of Tenerife, in a small fishing village, that holds a treasure beneath the water. The cove is barely 150 meters long, but it’s perfect for swimming among endangered green turtles and fifty or so species that inhabit the seabed in the area.
Acantilado de Los Gigantes
If the exterior is imposing, with rock formations rising up to 600 meters in height, what can be seen below the surface is equally awe-inspiring. The crystal-clear waters of the Los Gigantes area allow you to see all kinds of species, including, with some luck, cetaceans like pilot whales and dolphins. A unique experience in a singular place.
Montaña Amarilla
In the Costa del Silencio, Montaña Amarilla is a protected natural area characterized by peculiar rock formations and vibrant colors, which continue below the surface, allowing those who decide to snorkel to contemplate a marine bottom of great beauty and a wide variety of species.
Punta de Teno
Now we head to the northwest of Tenerife, an area with less tourist pressure but with stunning landscapes, marked by the profile of its cliffs. It offers waters with great visibility and no currents, ideal for snorkeling with children and seeing schools of fish and other species.
Marine Fauna in Tenerife
Tenerife’s marine ecosystem is characterized by rich biodiversity, with a multitude of marine species permanently residing on the island due to the abundance of food in its sandy and volcanic depths. Crustaceans, cephalopods, nudibranchs, and cartilaginous fish like rays, bishops, and angel sharks are abundant. Endangered species such as the green turtle and angel sharks can also be found. Let’s not forget the colonies of cetaceans like whales and dolphins that live off the Tenerife coast.
Tips for Snorkeling in Tenerife
The main advantage of snorkeling over scuba diving is that no special preparation is required to practice it. You don’t even need professional equipment – a mask and a snorkel are more than enough, although adding fins to the gear can enhance the experience. However, if you’re not accompanied by professionals, it’s advisable to seek advice from locals to be aware of possible obstacles or important considerations.
Best Time for Snorkeling in Tenerife
Given the island’s climate conditions and the excellent visibility of its waters, thanks to the absence of large amounts of plankton, any month is good for snorkeling, especially in the south. During the summer months, the water temperature is higher, around 24ºC, while September, October, and November stand out for the lack of wind on the island, making the sea exceptionally calm.
Spaniard vagabond trying to discover this beautiful world
📍 Tenerife
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