13 Things to do in the 13 Hours of Daylight in August

Tenerife is one of the Canary Islands, found just off the coast of Africa and just a four hour flight from the UK. The long hours of sunshine, wide choice of beaches and excellent hotels make Tenerife a popular choice for summer holidays. The long days mean that you can squeeze plenty in to each day, so here are a few pointers to give you some inspiration…

7am – 9am – Breakfast and a swim in the pool

Stay in the Blue Sea Interpalace Hotel in Puerto de la Cruz for a relaxing stay that is nearby to all of the action in the resort centre and just a few steps away from the beach! There is a large pool with a poolside bar and plenty of sun loungers, perfect for a refreshing start to the day. Indulge in a continental breakfast whilst you enjoy the bright early hours of sunshine before it really hots up.

9am – 11am – Day Trips and excursions

Head to one of the island’s main attractions like the Thai themed water park, Siam Park, or to explore Mount Teide – either hiking or the cable car, depending on how active you’re feeling! If you are thinking of an excursion in Tenerife then it is best to go out early to avoid the queues and the hottest part of the day.

11am – 1pm – Ice Cream and a bit of sightseeing

After a morning at the pool enjoying the sunshine, now is the perfect time to explore the local shops and cool down with an ice cream. If you are visiting in festival month then La Orotava is a stunning town to visit. There are large parks, pavement cafes and the open floor spaces are covered in pictures made from different coloured sands and flowers.

1pm – 3pm Lunch and siesta

When the sun is at its hottest, you can retreat into one of the little cafes or bars for a light lunch and some shade. La Ranilla is the heart of the restaurant quarter here and is home to some amazing seafood restaurants, as well as most other cuisines that you can think of. Head back to the hotel and do as the locals do and have a siesta.

3pm – 5pm – Sandcastles and sunbathing on the beach

Once the heat of midday has passed, head down to the beach for a paddle in the crystal clear, warm waters of the Atlantic. The beaches in Tenerife range from black sand stretches to soft golden coves and rocky outcrops. In Puerto de la Cruz not only are there the beaches to choose from, but there is also a large outdoor pool complex, Lago Martianez. Here there are tropical gardens, salt and freshwater pools and an even an underwater casino!

5pm – 7pm – Walk along the promenade and find some souvenirs

There is no shortage of little shops and stalls where you can pick up mementos of your Canarian holiday. Favourites include honey rum, a traditional follow up to dinner and mojo, the spicy sauce that is served with papas arrugadas, one of the most popular foods on the island. Non-food items to take back include locally made lace and the traditional goatskin wine bottles that are still commonly used on carnival days.

7pm – 8pm – Dinner at one of the restaurants overlooking the Atlantic

Santa Cruz de Tenerife is the capital of the island and has a diverse range of restaurants to choose from. There is everything from traditional tapas bars with a great atmosphere hidden away in the back streets, to modern seafront restaurants serving up the freshest seafood. You will find every kind of cuisine here imaginable as well as a real feel for Tenerife as it is where many of the locals hang out.