Whale and dolphin watching in Tenerife
Whale and dolphin watching in Tenerife is one of the island’s most popular nature experiences.
Thanks to deep Atlantic waters close to the coast and resident cetacean populations,
Tenerife offers excellent chances to see whales and dolphins throughout the year.
This activity is suitable for families, couples, and groups of all ages.
Tours operate from several coastal areas around the island,
each offering slightly different routes, boat types, and experiences.
Choosing the right departure area is the first step.
Choose where to go whale watching in Tenerife
Whale and dolphin watching tours in Tenerife depart from different locations.
Select the area closest to where you are staying to see available tours and practical information.
| Area | What to expect | More information |
|---|---|---|
| Costa Adeje | The most popular departure area with daily tours and the widest choice of boats. | Whale & dolphin watching in Costa Adeje |
| Los Cristianos | Known for smaller boats and eco-focused whale watching tours. | Whale watching from Los Cristianos |
| Los Gigantes | Ideal for combining whale watching with dramatic cliffs and scenic routes. | Whale watching in Los Gigantes |
| Puerto de la Cruz | Seasonal whale watching options for visitors staying in the north of Tenerife. | Whale watching in Puerto de la Cruz |
| Playa de las Américas | Easy access to nearby harbours and combined boat trip options. | Boat trips from Playa de las Américas |
Whale and dolphin watching
Tenerife is considered one of the best places in Europe for whale and dolphin watching.
The waters between Tenerife and La Gomera are home to resident species,
which means sightings are possible in every season.
During whale watching excursions, boats sail at low speed and remain near the animals long enough
to observe them respectfully. While sightings can never be guaranteed in nature,
the probability of seeing whales or dolphins is very high compared to many other destinations.
Whales and dolphins you may see
More than 20 species of cetaceans have been recorded in the waters around Tenerife.
Some live here permanently, while others pass through during migration.
- Pilot whales – very common and present all year round
- Bottlenose dolphins – frequently seen close to the coast
- Atlantic spotted dolphins – occasional sightings
- Common dolphins – mainly during winter months
- Sperm whales and fin whales – rare but possible
What to expect on a whale watching tour
- Relaxing boat cruise along Tenerife’s coastline
- Wildlife spotting with experienced local captains
- Optional swimming or snorkeling stops on longer routes
- Family-friendly experience suitable for children
Transport and meeting points
Some whale watching tours include transport from major tourist areas such as
Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, and Puerto de la Cruz.
Availability depends on the specific tour and your location.
If you are unsure which departure area is best for you,
feel free to contact us via WhatsApp and we will help you choose
the most suitable whale and dolphin watching experience in Tenerife.
