Best Whale Watching Tenerife

Tenerife is a paradise island located in the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago off the coast of Africa. This beautiful island is known for its volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and stunning beaches.

However, what makes Tenerife truly unique is its incredible whale-watching opportunities. The waters around Tenerife are home to a wide variety of whales and dolphins, making it one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Visitors can see anything from bottlenose dolphins to killer whales and even the rare beaked whales. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience in a truly breathtaking location, Tenerife should be at the top of your list!

Types of whales and dolphins in Tenerife

The waters around Tenerife are home to a diverse range of whales and dolphins, each with its own unique characteristics and behaviors. Short-finned pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins are among the most commonly sighted species, while the largest-toothed whale in the world, the sperm whale, can be seen year-round. Visitors may also have the chance to spot other species such as killer whales, Bryde’s whales, common dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins, and beaked whales.

Here is a list of some of the most common species of whales and dolphins that can be seen in the waters around Tenerife.

Short-finned pilot whale — the most commonly sighted species in Tenerife’s waters. They are highly social and often travel in large groups, or pods. They are known for their vocalizations, which can be heard underwater and are thought to be a form of communication.

Bottlenose dolphin — another commonly sighted species in Tenerife. They are highly intelligent and social animals, known for their playful behavior and acrobatics. Bottlenose dolphins are often seen swimming alongside boats and surfacing to breathe.

Sperm whale — the largest toothed whale in the world, and one of the deepest divers, with dives lasting up to an hour. They are known for their distinctive clicking vocalizations, which they use to communicate with one another. Sperm whales can be seen in Tenerife’s waters year-round, but are most commonly seen in the winter.

Long-finned pilot whale — a larger species of pilot whale, often seen in Tenerife’s waters in smaller groups. They are known for their long, pointed flippers and their vocalizations.

Risso’s dolphin — a relatively rare species in Tenerife, with distinctive white markings on their bodies. They are typically seen in smaller groups and are known for their playful behavior and high-pitched vocalizations.

Killer whales — also known as orcas, these highly social animals are rarely seen in Tenerife’s waters, but can occasionally be spotted. They are known for their intelligence and hunting prowess, and are sometimes referred to as the «wolves of the sea».

Bryde’s whale — a smaller species of baleen whale, often seen in Tenerife’s waters during the summer months. They are known for their acrobatic behavior, such as breaching and tail-slapping.

Common dolphin — a small and highly acrobatic species, often seen in large pods in Tenerife’s waters. They are known for their distinctive hourglass pattern on their bodies and their playful behavior, such as leaping out of the water and riding the bow waves of boats.

Atlantic spotted dolphin — a smaller species of dolphin, known for their distinctive spotting on their bodies. They are highly social and often seen in large groups, engaging in playful behavior such as leaping out of the water and riding the bow waves of boats.

Beaked whales — a family of whales that are difficult to spot, as they spend most of their time in deep waters. However, several species of beaked whales can be seen in Tenerife’s waters, including the Cuvier’s beaked whale and the Blainville’s beaked whale. They are known for their elongated beaks and are some of the deepest diving whales in the world.

Tenerife is a truly remarkable destination for whale-watching enthusiasts, offering a variety of whales and dolphins to observe and learn about. From the highly social and vocal short-finned pilot whale to the playful and acrobatic bottlenose dolphin, visitors to Tenerife are sure to be amazed by the diverse range of species in the area.

10 places for whale watching in Tenerife

Tenerife is home to a diverse range of marine mammals that can be observed in their natural habitat. Several towns and marinas on the island offer a wide range of whale-watching tours and excursions. So. let`s explore the top places in Tenerife where you can see whales and other marine mammals.

1. Los Gigantes

whale watching in costa adeje

Los Gigantes is an exceptional location to witness whales and dolphins in Tenerife, offering a unique experience for visitors. The town is situated on the west coast of the island, surrounded by towering cliffs that provide a dramatic backdrop for whale-watching tours. Los Gigantes is known for its year-round sightings of pilot whales, which can often be seen in large groups of up to 20 individuals.

In addition to whale watching in Los Gigantes, visitors to Los Gigantes can also spot a variety of dolphin species, including bottlenose, striped, and common dolphins. One of the highlights of whale watching in Los Gigantes is the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, swimming and playing in the clear blue waters. There are also several tour operators in the town that offer whale-watching and dolphin-watching tours, allowing visitors to experience these animals up close while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery.

2. Costa Adeje

Costa Adeje is another fantastic location to see whales and dolphins in Tenerife, offering a unique experience for visitors. The town is situated on the southwest coast of the island and is known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and lively nightlife. One of the highlights of whale watching in Costa Adeje is the opportunity to see a variety of whale species, including sperm whales, fin whales, and even the occasional humpback whale.

Visitors can also spot a variety of dolphin species, including bottlenose, striped, and common dolphins. Another special thing about Costa Adeje is that it offers a wide range of whale-watching and dolphin-watching tours, with many operators based in the town’s busy marina. These tours provide visitors with a chance to observe these magnificent creatures up close while enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery. Additionally, Costa Adeje has many restaurants and cafes where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink after a day of whale watching or exploring the town.

3. Puerto Colon

Whale watching in Puerto Colon offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. The town is located on the southwest coast of the island and is known for its bustling marina, which serves as a departure point for many whale-watching and dolphin-watching tours. One of the special things about Puerto Colon is that it’s located in a prime area for sightings of pilot whales, which are known to reside in the waters off the town’s coast year-round.

Visitors can also spot a variety of dolphin species, including bottlenose, striped, and common dolphins, which are frequently seen swimming and playing in the clear blue waters. Another special thing about Puerto Colon is that it offers a wide range of whale-watching and dolphin-watching tours, with many tour operators based in the town’s marina. These tours provide visitors with a chance to see these magnificent creatures up close while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery.

4. Playa de las Americas

Playa de las Americas is a vibrant location to see whales and dolphins in Tenerife. The town is situated on the southwest coast of the island and is known for its lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and numerous tourist attractions.

One of the special things about Playa de las Americas is that it’s located in an area where visitors can spot a variety of whale species, including fin whales, sperm whales, and even the occasional humpback whale. Visitors can also observe a range of dolphin species, including bottlenose, striped, and common dolphins, which are frequently seen swimming and playing in the clear blue waters.

Additionally, the location has many restaurants, bars, and shops where visitors can relax and enjoy the town’s lively atmosphere after a day of whale watching in Playa de las Americas or exploring the surrounding area.

5. Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital city of Tenerife, is a fascinating location to see whales and dolphins, offering visitors a unique and diverse experience. The city is located on the northeast coast of the island and is known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and bustling port.

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a departure point for several whale-watching and dolphin-watching tours.

Visitors can spot a variety of whale species, including pilot whales, fin whales, and even the occasional humpback whale, as well as several dolphin species, including bottlenose, striped, and common dolphins. Another special thing about Santa Cruz de Tenerife is that it has a range of cultural and historical attractions, such as the Auditorio de Tenerife and the Castillo de San Juan, that visitors can explore after a day of whale watching.

Additionally, the city has many restaurants, cafes, and bars where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal or a drink with a view of the sea after whale watching in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

6. Los Cristianos

Los Cristianos is located on the southwest coast of the island and is known for its beautiful beaches, lively atmosphere, and excellent seafood restaurants. One of the special things about Los Cristianos is that it’s a popular departure point for many whale-watching and dolphin-watching tours, with several operators based in the town’s busy port.

Visitors can spot a variety of whale species, including pilot whales, sperm whales, and even the occasional humpback whale, as well as several dolphin species, including bottlenose, striped, and common dolphins. Los Cristianos has a beautiful promenade that runs along the coast, offering visitors stunning views of the sea and the surrounding landscape.

The town also has several beautiful beaches where visitors can relax and enjoy the sunshine after a day of whale watching in Los Cristianos. Additionally, the location has a bustling town center with many shops, cafes, and bars where visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere and sample the town’s excellent seafood cuisine.

7. Garachico

Garachico is a picturesque location to see whales and dolphins in Tenerife. The town is situated on the northwest coast of the island and is known for its charming cobbled streets, historic buildings, and stunning natural scenery.

Visitors can spot a variety of whale species, including pilot whales, sperm whales, and even the occasional humpback whale, as well as several dolphin species, including bottlenose, striped, and common dolphins. Garachico has several natural pools, formed by ancient volcanic activity, which visitors can swim in after a day of whale watching in Garachico.

The town also has several excellent restaurants that specialize in fresh seafood, offering visitors a chance to sample some of Tenerife’s delicious cuisine. Additionally, Garachico has several cultural attractions, such as the Castillo de San Miguel and the Convento de San Francisco, that visitors can explore after a day of whale watching.

8. El Medano

Let`s enjoy whale watching in El Medano! The town is situated on the southeast coast of the island and is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, windsurfing, and kite surfing.

El Medano is a departure point for several whale-watching and dolphin-watching tours. Visitors can spot a variety of whale species, including pilot whales, sperm whales, and even the occasional humpback whale. Also, you can enjoy several dolphin species, including bottlenose, striped, and common dolphins.

Another special thing about El Medano is that it has a relaxed and bohemian atmosphere, with many independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. The town also has several beautiful beaches where visitors can relax and enjoy the sunshine after a day of whale watching. Additionally, El Medano has several natural attractions, such as the Montaña Roja nature reserve and the La Tejita beach.

9. Punta del Hidalgo

Punta del Hidalgo is a stunning location to see whales and dolphins in Tenerife, offering visitors a unique and peaceful experience. The town is situated on the northeast coast of the island and is known for its rugged coastal landscape and surfing.

One of the special things about Punta del Hidalgo is that it’s a departure point for several whale-watching and dolphin-watching tours. Visitors can spot a variety of whale species, including pilot whales, sperm whales, and even the occasional humpback whale. You can also see dolphin species, including bottlenose, striped, and common dolphins, so it`s not only about whale watching in Punta del Hidalgo.

Another special thing about Punta del Hidalgo is that it has several natural swimming pools, formed by ancient volcanic activity. The town also has several excellent seafood restaurants, offering visitors a chance to sample some of Tenerife’s delicious cuisine. Additionally, Punta del Hidalgo has several natural attractions, such as the Anaga Rural Park and the Roque de las Bodegas beach.

10. La Caleta

La Caleta is a small fishing village on the southwest coast of Tenerife and is an ideal location to see whales and dolphins. One of the special things about the town is its peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, offering visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the larger tourist towns.

Visitors can spot a variety of whale species, including pilot whales, sperm whales, and even the occasional humpback whale. You can also see dolphin species, including bottlenose, striped, and common dolphins.

Another special thing about La Caleta is that it has several excellent seafood restaurants, offering visitors a chance to sample some of the island’s delicious cuisine. The town is known not only for whale watching in La Caleta but for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Additionally, the location is close to several natural attractions, such as the Barranco del Infierno nature reserve and the Teide National Park.

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Best time to go whale watching in Tenerife

The high season for whale watching in Tenerife is typically from November to March, coinciding with the winter months. During this time, the water temperature is cooler, and the weather is often cloudier and windier, but the ocean conditions are generally calmer. This time of year is also when many whale species, such as the sperm whale, are more commonly seen.

The low season for whale watching in Tenerife is from April to October, coinciding with the summer months. The water temperature is warmer during this time, and the weather is generally sunnier and less windy. However, the ocean conditions can be choppy, which can make spotting whales and dolphins more challenging. Some species, such as the Bryde’s whale, are more commonly seen during the summer months.

To maximize the chances of spotting different species, it’s recommended to go on a whale-watching tour during the high season. However, if you prefer warmer weather and calmer seas, the low season may be a better option.

Keep in mind that weather and ocean conditions can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast and speak with local experts before planning your trip. Regardless of the season, Tenerife offers excellent whale-watching opportunities year-round, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in observing these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

Choosing a whale-watching tour in Tenerife

Tenerife is home to a variety of tour companies offering whale watching in Tenerife, with each company providing its unique highlights and offerings. Choosing the right tour company can make all the difference in your whale-watching experience, so it’s important to select a reputable and experienced tour operator. So, we will compare five popular whale-watching tour options in Tenerife, including their highlights, departure points, duration, and price, to help you make an informed decision.

Tenerife Sunshine Excursions

Departing from Puerto Colon, this tour offers a knowledgeable guide, a small group size, and a comfortable boat. The tour lasts between 2-3 hours and costs €35 per adult. This tour is best for travelers seeking a personalized and informative experience.

Maritima Acantilados

Departing from Los Cristianos, this tour offers an experienced captain, a spacious boat, and opportunities for swimming and snorkeling. The tour lasts between 2-3 hours and costs €40 per adult. This tour is best for travelers seeking a fun and active tour.

Freebird Catamaran

Departing from Puerto Colon, this tour offers a spacious catamaran with an underwater viewing area and food and drinks included. The tour lasts for 3 hours and costs €50 per adult. This tour is best for families or groups looking for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Flipper Uno

Departing from Los Cristianos, this tour offers a small group size, an experienced guide, and snorkeling and swimming options. The tour lasts for 2.5 hours and costs €39 per adult. This tour is best for travelers seeking a more intimate and personalized tour.

Katrin

Departing from Puerto Colon, this tour offers a fast and maneuverable boat, a knowledgeable guide, and private tours available. The tour lasts for 3 hours and costs €50 per adult. This tour is best for travelers seeking a more exclusive and tailored experience.

When selecting a tour company, consider responsible and ethical whale-watching in Tenerife practices, the experience of the guides, and the comfort of the boat.

What to expect on whale watching in Tenerife

Whale-watching tours in Tenerife typically depart in the morning, with most tours leaving between 9-10 am. The exact departure time may vary depending on the tour company and the season. The tours usually last between 2-3 hours, with some tours offering longer or shorter durations. The route of the tour will depend on the location of the whales and dolphins, but most tours will take you along the coast of Tenerife and out into the open ocean.

During the tour, the boat will make stops at various locations where whales and dolphins have been spotted. The captain and crew will use their experience and knowledge to locate these animals and get as close as possible without disturbing them. Along the way, the tour guide will provide informative commentary on the different species of whales and dolphins that can be found in Tenerife’s waters.

When it comes to safety procedures and guidelines, most tour companies adhere to strict regulations to ensure the safety of both the passengers and the animals. It’s important to maintain a safe distance from the whales and dolphins to avoid causing any disturbance to their natural behavior.

Additionally, the use of loudspeakers or music on the boats is prohibited to prevent any noise pollution. Swimming with whales and dolphins is also not allowed, as it can be dangerous for both animals and humans.

To have a comfortable and enjoyable experience, it’s recommended to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. It’s also a good idea to bring a jacket or sweater, as the temperature on the open ocean can be cooler than on land. Snacks and water are usually provided on the tour, but you can also bring your own if desired.

Conclusion

Overall, a whale-watching trip to Tenerife is a unique and exciting experience, offering the opportunity to witness these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. By following responsible and ethical whale-watching practices and taking the time to research and compare tour options, you can ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience while respecting the marine environment.

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