9 Mistakes People Make When Visiting the Canary Islands
What Not to Do in the Canary Islands on Your 1st Visit
These mistakes people make when visiting the Canary Islands can put a damper on your tropical getaway. Like most tourist destinations around the world, this Spanish archipelago has its fair share of less-than-desirable aspects like petty crime and scams.
It’s always a good idea to be well prepared for common inconveniences, such as weather changes, vague transportation options, and some local laws you might’ve not known about before. Figuring out where to stay can be a challenge, too: you have eight main islands and several smaller islets to choose from. This guide is especially handy if you’re visiting the Canary Islands for the first time.
9 mistakes people make when visiting the Canary Islands
- Choosing the wrong island to stay on
- Ignoring beach flags
- Drinking on the streets
- Getting around by public transportation
- Falling for timeshare scams
- Only packing beachwear
- Carrying valuables around busy neighborhoods
- Assuming only volcanoes and black sand beaches
- Missing out on stargazing
1. Choosing the wrong island to stay on
There are eight main islands, plus several islets in the archipelago
Categorías: Aventuras, Ambiente nocturno, Fotos
While island-hopping is a great way to explore the archipelago, choosing the right island to stay on can be challenging. It all depends on the type of vacation you’re looking for. The Canary Islands is made up of eight main islands, each of which has its own set of idyllic beaches, picturesque landmarks, and excellent hotels.
Fuerteventura is great for those who enjoy golden beaches and thrilling water sports, while Tenerife is known for its vibrant nightlife, world-class golf courses, and upmarket resorts. If you love hiking, choose El Hierro, Lanzarote, or La Gomera, which boast miles of trails through lush rainforests and volcanic mountains.
Choosing the wrong island to stay on
2. Ignoring beach flags
Staying safe while having fun in the Atlantic
Categorías: Aventuras, Parejas, Familias
The beaches of the Canary Islands are among the safest in the world, with over 60 awarded the Blue Flag award, yet it’s always important to heed the beach flags. Lifesavers often also patrol the beaches, so everyone can safely enjoy the ocean.
Pay attention to the color of the beach flags along the coastline. Red indicates strong currents unfit for swimming, while yellow means moderate surf or currents. Green flags indicate calm conditions, but it’s always good to exercise caution when swimming. When purple flags are posted, it means there are sightings of jellyfish, stingrays, or sharks in the water, so exercise caution.
Ignoring beach flags
3. Drinking on the streets
You can only do it in designated areas
Categorías: Parejas, Ambiente nocturno
Avoid drinking, smoking, or vaping in public spaces, such as streets or beaches, across the Canary Islands, as these activities are strictly prohibited. If caught, you may face a hefty fine.
Instead, look for any bar, restaurant, or cafe that has quiet outdoor seating with designated smoking areas. These venues provide a relaxed environment where you can enjoy a drink and appreciate Spain’s beautiful weather without breaking any rules. Respect local regulations and contribute to a pleasant atmosphere for everyone.
Drinking on the streets
4. Getting around by public transportation
Renting a car saves time
Categorías: Aventuras, Parejas, Familias
Most of the main islands are simply too large to explore without a motorized vehicle, but getting around by public transportation can be challenging. While there are local buses on each island, it’s relatively tricky to get around on them, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
The best way to explore the Canary Islands is to rent a car or motorcycle, although we prefer the former for added safety. Rent a car to save time and to have the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace.
Getting around by public transportation
5. Falling for timeshare scams
It’s always too good to be true
Categorías: Parejas, Familias
Timeshare scams are common across the world, including in the Canary Islands. Vendors tend to approach unsuspecting visitors with a scratch card that inevitably wins you a heavily discounted stay at a popular resort. However, if you accept the prize, you’ll surely be stung by various compulsory add-on costs that will outweigh any benefit.
A rule of thumb to follow: if an offer sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Stay vigilant and protect yourself from scams by questioning deals that seem overly generous.
Falling for timeshare scams
6. Only packing beachwear
It can get rather chilly in certain parts of the islands
Categorías: Aventuras, Parejas, Familias
The Canary Islands is known for its sunny weather, even during the winter months (December–February), but packing only beachwear might leave you unprepared for unexpected changes in temperature. While the average daytime temperature is 24°C year-round, certain parts of the archipelago can get rather windy and chilly.
It’s a good idea to pack for unexpected weather conditions, so bring a light jacket, covered shoes, and scarves. You might not need them for the beach, but make sure to pack them, especially if you’re planning to hike the mountains and national parks.
Only packing beachwear
7. Carrying valuables around busy neighborhoods
It’s wise to keep your personal belongings close to you
Categorías: Parejas, Familias
Like everywhere around the world, petty crime is common in neighborhoods frequented by tourists, and carrying valuables with you is never advisable. The Canary Islands are no exception, especially on Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote, basically the main islands in the archipelago.
To minimize the risk of pickpocketing, store valuables in your hotel’s safety deposit box. If you’re out and about, always keep your passport and billfold close and secure, ideally in a money belt or an inside jacket pocket. Always remain vigilant in crowded places, such as markets or public transportation, where thieves often operate.
Carrying valuables around busy neighborhoods
8. Assuming only volcanoes and black sand beaches
This archipelago is abundant in natural wonders
Categorías: Aventuras, Fotos
Some travelers might think the Canary Islands are only volcanoes and black sand beaches. The islands are volcanic in origin, which means many of the beaches feature jet-black sand. There are also several volcanoes across the islands, including Mount Teide in Tenerife and Cumbre Vieja in La Palma.
However, the Spanish archipelago boasts plenty of natural wonders, including pristine beaches with fine, golden sand. Fuerteventura boasts ten Blue Flag beaches, including La Concha and Corralejo Viejo. There’s even a Sahara-like sand dune in Gran Canaria, called the Maspalomas Dunes. Make sure to explore beyond the volcanic landscapes to experience the diverse beauty the Canary Islands have to offer.
Assuming only volcanoes and black sand beaches
9. Missing out on stargazing
High peaks and exceptionally clear skies create the ideal setting
Categorías: Parejas, Familias, Fotos
Stargazing is often overlooked by many first-time visitors to the Canary Islands. The archipelago has exceptionally clear night skies, with plenty of vantage points for you to marvel at constellations.
La Palma and Tenerife are among the best islands to enjoy a night of stargazing. Must-visits include the Teide Observatory on Mount Teide and Roque de los Muchachos Observatory at the edge of the Taburiente National Park. At these venues, talk to the professional astronomists who are happy to teach you how to use their gigantic telescopes.
Missing out on stargazing
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