Most tourists visiting Tenerife make the same mistake – they follow only the well-worn tourist trails, missing the opportunity to discover the island’s authentic face. When planning unusual things to do in Tenerife, it’s worth stepping beyond standard travel guides to uncover places that reveal the genuine character of the Canary Islands. What to do in Tenerife to feel the atmosphere that local residents live and breathe?
Tenerife according to Instagram is always the same: posing with Teide in the background, standing in traffic on the “hellish” road to Masca, spectacular swims in natural pools with drones overhead, and of course, the obligatory showing off with drinks on the golden beach of Las Teresitas. But the real Tenerife, known by local residents, is something completely different.
If you’re wondering what to see in Tenerife beyond popular attractions, I’ve prepared a list of 8 unusual experiences that will allow you to discover the island’s true face. These Tenerife hidden gems often remain undiscovered by tourists, offering authentic cultural experiences away from the crowds. While most guides focus on standard things to do in Tenerife, these locations provide genuine insight into Canarian life and traditions.
These must see in Tenerife experiences showcase why this Canarian island offers so much more than typical beach destinations. From family-run wineries hidden in private homes to million-year-old ecosystems accessible only with permits, these experiences in Tenerife will transform your understanding of what makes this island truly special.
Want to see them before your own trip? Check out the reel on Instagram and TikTok @theonlyguide, find the answer to what to do in Tenerife to explore the island like a true insider, and get addresses to places worth visiting!
- Guachinche – Where Locals Savor Authentic Canarian Cuisine
- Charco de Archille – Crystal Clear Secret in San Miguel de Abona
- Anaga Laurel Forests – 40-Million-Year Treasure Accessible Only with Permits
- Casa Museo Cayetano Gómez Felipe – The Only Authentic Canarian House Open to Visitors
- Playa de Tamadiste – Secret Beach Accessible Only on Foot
- Cueva del Viento – Fifth Longest Lava Tube in the World
- El Pasaje Secreto – Mysterious World Created by a Local Family
- Ventana al Teide – Natural Window to Spain's Highest Peak
- Practical Tips for True Tenerife Explorers
- Frequently Asked Questions
Guachinche – Where Locals Savor Authentic Canarian Cuisine
When planning what to do in Tenerife, you cannot miss experiencing a guachinche – family-run wineries that represent the heart of the island’s culinary traditions. These are places where you’ll get an authentic meal with homemade wine for 10 euros, while in tourist restaurants you’d pay 40 euros for similar experiences.
Tenerife things to do rarely include these authentic gems because guachinche are not typical restaurants – they’re parts of private homes, garages, or patios where local families serve homemade wine from their own vineyards alongside traditional dishes. According to regulations, authentic guachinche can offer a maximum of three main courses and operate seasonally, usually from December to April.
For a complete guide to authentic dining experiences beyond guachinche, explore our comprehensive list of the best restaurants in Tenerife where locals eat, featuring everything from fresh seafood in fishing villages to historic cafés with Teide views. To ensure your culinary adventures go smoothly, also check our guide on what to avoid in Tenerife to prevent common tourist mistakes that could impact your authentic dining experiences.
The best guachinche represent some of the most unusual things to do in Tenerife:
Guachinche El Cubano (La Orotava)
- Specialty: Rabbit in salmorejo sauce with homemade wine
- Location: Picturesque orange grove setting
- Prices: 7-10€ for main courses, 5€ for wine pitcher
Bodegón 7 Islas (La Guancha)
- Unique concept: Seven wooden huts named after the Canary Islands
- Specialty: Parrilladas (grilled meat platters) with Teide views
Most guachinche are located in the northern part of the island, particularly around La Orotava, Santa Úrsula, and El Sauzal. These represent must do in Tenerife experiences for anyone seeking authentic local culture. The atmosphere is incredibly welcoming – families gather around simple tables, sharing stories while enjoying wines made from grapes grown in volcanic soil.
Practical Information:
- Season: December-April (wine season)
- Payment: Cash only in most places
- Reservations: Recommended, especially weekends
- Transportation: Car rental advisable for accessing remote locations
Charco de Archille – Crystal Clear Secret in San Miguel de Abona
What to see in Tenerife that guidebooks don’t mention? Charco de Archille is a perfect example of a place that just a few years ago was an inaccessible pool full of garbage, and today it’s a crystal-clear natural swimming pool.
Thanks to the initiative of local authorities in San Miguel de Abona, this natural pool was cleaned and transformed into a genuine treasure for residents and visitors. Located where a barranco (ravine) meets the ocean, Charco de Archille offers peaceful swimming surrounded by dramatic lava formations.
This represents one of the most rewarding experiences in Tenerife:
- Authenticity: A place discovered and used mainly by local residents
- Tranquility: Away from tourist crowds
- Natural beauty: Pristine volcanic rock formations create a stunning backdrop
The location sits near the Montaña Amarilla natural monument, allowing you to combine your visit with exploring this fascinating volcanic hill. The contrast between the bright yellow volcanic cone and the deep blue natural pool creates one of the most photogenic spots among Tenerife hidden gems.
Practical Information:
- Access: Free entry
- Best time: Early morning or late afternoon
- Facilities: No services – bring water and snacks
- Safety: Calm waters, suitable for swimming
Anaga Laurel Forests – 40-Million-Year Treasure Accessible Only with Permits
Wondering what to see in Tenerife to experience something truly extraordinary? The Anaga laurel forests, accessible only with permits, represent a 40-million-year-old ecosystem that survived the Ice Age. Only 50 people daily can visit the most precious fragments of this green paradise.
The El Pijaral Reserve, known as the “Enchanted Forest,” is a fairytale realm covered in mists, where giant ferns create carpets underfoot and moss-covered trees resemble scenery from fantasy films. It’s one of the world’s best-preserved laurel forests, serving as a living natural museum and representing must see in Tenerife for nature enthusiasts.
How to obtain permits:
- When: Spots become available at 8:00 AM (winter) or 7:00 AM (summer) for 16 days ahead
- Quantity: 45 free spots daily
- Where: Through centralreservas.tenerife.es
- Limit: One person can reserve maximum 5 spots
The El Pijaral trail is a 6.7-kilometer hike through one of Europe’s most precious ecosystems. The laurel forest has remained unchanged for millions of years, offering encounters with unique plant and animal species. Walking through these ancient woods feels like stepping into prehistoric times.
Other permit-required trails include:
- Sendero de los Roques – spectacular volcanic formations
- Punta del Hidalgo – Bajamar – wild stretch of northern coastline
This protected access ensures these unusual things to do in Tenerife remain pristine for future generations while providing unforgettable experiences for those fortunate enough to secure permits.
Practical Information:
- Duration: 4-6 hours hiking
- Difficulty: Moderate fitness required
- Equipment: Sturdy hiking boots, waterproof jacket
- Best time: Year-round, but winter offers more mystical mist
Casa Museo Cayetano Gómez Felipe – The Only Authentic Canarian House Open to Visitors
Tenerife things to do aren’t limited to natural wonders – in the UNESCO World Heritage city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, you’ll find the unique 18th-century Casa Museo Cayetano Gómez Felipe. This is the only authentic Canarian house open to visitors on the entire island.
The house contains a fascinating collection of antiques related to art, daily life, and customs in the Canary Islands across centuries. Cayetano Gómez Felipe (1902-1978) was one of the 20th century’s greatest collectors in the islands, and his family residence can now be toured, discovering the authentic atmosphere of Canarian domestic life.
This museum offers one of the most educational experiences in Tenerife:
- Authentic interiors: Original furniture and decorations preserved
- Historical artifacts: Centuries-old objects telling island stories
- Cultural insight: Understanding traditional Canarian lifestyle
- Architectural beauty: Classic Canarian colonial design elements
The building itself showcases traditional Canarian architecture with wooden balconies, interior courtyards, and thick stone walls designed to keep interiors cool. Each room tells a different story of island life, from the formal parlor where important guests were received to the kitchen where daily family life unfolded.
Practical Information:
- Location: At the foot of La Concepción church’s symbolic tower
- Hours:
- Tuesday-Thursday: 10:00-20:00
- Friday-Saturday: 10:00-21:00
- Sunday: 11:00-16:00
- Entry: Modest fee for maintenance
- Language: Spanish and English information available
Playa de Tamadiste – Secret Beach Accessible Only on Foot
What to do in Tenerife for those who value tranquility and untouched natural beauty? Playa de Tamadiste represents one of the most unusual things to do in Tenerife – discovering the island’s most beautiful secret beaches, accessible only after a 2-hour hike through lush laurel forest in the Rural Park of Anaga.
This virgin beach stretching 250 meters offers an unforgettable experience of communing with Tenerife’s wild nature. The black volcanic sand contrasts with crystal-clear ocean water, while surrounding cliffs create dramatic scenery. Most importantly – you’ll have this beach practically to yourself.
Why Tamadiste represents must see in Tenerife:
- Virgin character: No tourist infrastructure whatsoever
- Spectacular surroundings: Surrounded by Anaga cliffs and lush forest
- Difficult access: Only the most determined explorers reach this beach
- Photogenic beauty: One of the most beautiful landscapes on Tenerife
The hike itself becomes part of the adventure. The trail winds through ancient laurel forest, crosses several streams, and offers glimpses of the ocean through the canopy. The sense of discovery when you finally emerge onto this pristine beach is incredible – it feels like finding a lost world.
Warning: The beach is known for strong waves and currents – swimming is not recommended. This is an ideal place for nature contemplation, photography, and picnicking with ocean views.
Practical Information:
- Access: 2-hour hike each way
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Essential gear: Hiking boots, water, snacks
- Best time: Early morning start to avoid afternoon heat
Cueva del Viento – Fifth Longest Lava Tube in the World
Wondering what to see in Tenerife to experience a true geological wonder? The Wind Cave in Icod de los Vinos offers a fascinating journey into the earth’s depths, where you can discover 27,000 years of the island’s volcanic history.
Cueva del Viento is one of the world’s longest volcanic tubes – 18 kilometers of underground corridors formed from basaltic lava from Pico Viejo volcano. The cave consists of three levels of corridors, offering visitors an unparalleled exploration opportunity and ranking among the most unusual things to do in Tenerife.
What the cave visit offers:
- Unique geological formations: Lava stalactites, cascades, and other formations
- Rich underground fauna: 44 species of troglobites, including eyeless beetles
- Educational experience: Professional guides explaining island geology
- Safety equipment: Each participant receives a helmet with headlamp
One fascinating discovery during exploration – you can touch real obsidian, the volcanic glass known from popular video games! The cave also houses rich underground biodiversity, with species that have adapted to complete darkness over thousands of years.
The experience provides deep insight into Tenerife’s volcanic origins. Walking through these lava tubes, you’re literally following the path that molten lava took 27,000 years ago. The formations inside are otherworldly – twisted rock sculptures created by flowing lava, frozen in time when the eruption ended.
Practical Information:
- Location: Icod de los Vinos
- Languages: Spanish and English guided tours
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours
- Reservations: Required in advance
- Included: Safety equipment and expert guidance
El Pasaje Secreto – Mysterious World Created by a Local Family
Tenerife things to do aren’t limited to natural creations – El Pasaje Secreto represents one of the most unusual things to do in Tenerife, offering a unique attraction created with passion by a local family over 10 years. It’s a genuine time travel experience where the history of the Guanches, the islands’ original inhabitants, comes alive through interactive experiences.
Under the guidance of María, the hostess of this extraordinary place, you can transport yourself into a world full of legends and Canary Islands history. For younger explorers, pirate adventures are prepared, where María’s children take on the role of guides through the world of legends.
What El Pasaje Secreto offers:
- Interactive history: Stories about Guanches and their culture
- Pirate adventures: Special programs for different age groups
- Authentic experience: Created by a local family with passion
- Personalized tours: Small groups and individual approach
This represents one of the most genuine experiences in Tenerife because it’s not a commercial tourist attraction, but an authentic cultural experience. The family’s passion for sharing their island’s history is evident in every detail – from hand-crafted displays to personally guided storytelling that brings ancient Guanche legends to life.
The location is deliberately kept off main tourist routes, offering encounters with genuine local passion for preserving and sharing island heritage. María and her family have created something truly special – a place where history becomes tangible and engaging.
Important: El Pasaje Secreto requires advance telephone or personal reservations – this isn’t a commercial tourist attraction, but an authentic cultural experience.
Practical Information:
- Reservations: Required by phone or in person
- Languages: Spanish primarily, some English
- Duration: 1-2 hours depending on program
- Groups: Small groups preferred for personalized experience
Ventana al Teide – Natural Window to Spain’s Highest Peak
What to do in Tenerife to experience truly spectacular views? Ventana al Teide is the only place on the island where nature has created a perfect natural frame for Spain’s highest peak. This viewpoint offers unforgettable photos and moments of contemplation, representing essential must do in Tenerife experiences.
This natural stone arch, formed by thousands of years of erosion, creates a perfect frame for majestic Teide. Views from this location rank among the most spectacular on the entire island, offering a unique perspective on the volcanic landscape and showcasing why this location represents must see in Tenerife.
For those seeking even more breathtaking vistas across the island, discover our comprehensive guide to Tenerife’s most spectacular viewpoints, featuring 15 incredible observation points that showcase the island’s diverse landscapes from dramatic cliff-top theaters to mystical cloud forests.
Why Ventana al Teide is extraordinary:
- Unique location: Nature created a natural frame for Teide
- Photogenic perfection: Ideal spot for memorable photographs
- Accessibility: Relatively easy access for everyone
- Symbolic meaning: Connection of two of nature’s most powerful forces – erosion and volcanism
The natural window perfectly frames Teide’s imposing silhouette, creating one of the most Instagram-worthy spots among Tenerife hidden gems. But beyond social media appeal, this location offers genuine moments of connection with the island’s dramatic landscape. Standing before this natural monument, you feel the incredible forces that shaped this volcanic island over millions of years.
Ventana al Teide serves as an excellent conclusion to a day spent discovering unusual things to do in Tenerife. Sunset observed through this natural stone window, with Teide as backdrop, creates an experience that will remain in memory forever.
Practical Information:
- Access: Short walk from parking area
- Best time: Sunrise or sunset for optimal lighting
- Photography: Bring wide-angle lens for best shots
- Weather: Clear days offer best Teide visibility
Practical Tips for True Tenerife Explorers
When planning what to see in Tenerife beyond beaten paths, several practical considerations matter:
Transportation and Access:
- Own car: Most described locations require personal transportation
- Reservations: Places like El Pijaral or El Pasaje Secreto require advance reservations
- Cash: Guachinche often don’t accept card payments
- Local knowledge: Some locations benefit from local insights
Best Visiting Periods:
- Guachinche: December-April (wine season)
- Anaga forests: Year-round, but mists are most frequent in winter
- Secret beaches: Spring and autumn (fewer crowds, better weather)
- Cave tours: Year-round with consistent temperatures
Cultural Considerations:
- Language: Basic Spanish helpful for authentic experiences
- Respect: These are often family-run or protected locations
- Patience: Authentic experiences often require more time
- Appreciation: Understanding local customs enhances experiences
These experiences in Tenerife represent the island’s authentic soul – places where local culture, natural beauty, and genuine hospitality create memories that last far beyond typical vacation photos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most authentic guachinche are located away from public transportation routes. The best solution is car rental, taxi, or joining an organized culinary tour. Some local guides offer specialized guachinche tours for small groups
Most natural locations like Charco de Archille and Ventana al Teide are free. Guachinche require payment for food and wine (very reasonable prices). Museums and guided experiences like Cueva del Viento have entry fees, but they’re generally modest compared to tourist attractions.
Guachinche season runs December to April. Anaga forests are beautiful year-round, but winter brings more mystical mists. Secret beaches are best visited in spring or autumn when there are fewer tourists and weather is pleasant.
Most places can be visited independently, but some (like El Pasaje Secreto or Cueva del Viento) offer only guided experiences. For trails to secret beaches, basic trekking knowledge is helpful, and a guide can enhance the experience with local knowledge.
This depends on time you want to dedicate to each location. Realistically, with good planning, you can visit most of them within a week, but it’s worth spreading visits over a longer period to fully appreciate each experience. Some, like the laurel forest permits, may require planning weeks in advance.