The Best Canary Islands for Family Holidays: A Comprehensive Guide

The Canary Islands, an idyllic Spanish archipelago floating off the northwestern coast of Africa, are renowned for their warm climate, stunning vistas, and diverse cultural experiences. For families seeking a memorable getaway, the Canaries offer an unparalleled combination of fun, relaxation, and adventure. But with seven main islands to choose from—Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro—how do you determine which island is best suited for your next family holiday?

In this in-depth guide, we'll examine each island’s unique offerings for families, explore popular attractions and family-friendly resorts, discuss the practicality of getting around, and provide helpful tips tailored to family needs. Whether your ideal holiday involves sandy beaches, educational activities, natural wonders, or vibrant local culture, this article will help you plan the perfect family trip to the Canary Islands.

Table of Contents

1. An Overview of the Canary Islands
2. Key Factors for a Family-Friendly Island
3. Tenerife: The Ultimate Family Destination
4. Gran Canaria: The Miniature Continent
5. Lanzarote: Volcanoes, Art, and Play
6. Fuerteventura: The Island of Endless Beaches
7. La Palma: Nature, Stars, and Tranquility
8. La Gomera and El Hierro: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
9. Top Family Activities Across the Islands
10. Practical Guide: Planning Your Family Holiday
11. Frequently Asked Questions
12. Conclusion: Which Canary Island is Best for Your Family?

An Overview of the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are a Spanish autonomous community and consist of seven main islands, each with its own character, history, and attractions:

• Tenerife: The largest and most populous, home to Spain’s tallest peak, Mount Teide, and a wide array of family attractions.
• Gran Canaria: Known as a 'continent in miniature,' with diverse microclimates, golden dunes, and vibrant cities.
• Lanzarote: Famous for its lunar-like volcanic landscapes, artistic heritage, and family-friendly seaside resorts.
• Fuerteventura: Renowned for its endless white-sand beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
• La Palma: Lush, mountainous, and famed for its stargazing.
• La Gomera: Rugged terrain, unique rainforests, and walking trails—perfect for adventurous families.
• El Hierro: The smallest, an eco-paradise ideal for exploration and peace.

While all these islands are great in their own right, families often prioritize certain factors when choosing a holiday destination. Understanding these preferences is key to making the right choice.

Key Factors for a Family-Friendly Island

What makes an island particularly well-suited for families? Here are the essential criteria parents typically look for:

• Safety and Accessibility: Safe environments, good healthcare, and ease of access.
• Beaches: Family-friendly beaches with gentle waters and facilities.
• Attractions and Activities: Things to do for kids and adults, including theme parks, animal attractions, water parks, and cultural sites.
• Accommodation: Availability of family-friendly hotels, apartments, and resorts with dedicated kids’ clubs, pools, and services.
• Transport: Well-developed roads and easy car rentals or public transport options.
• Weather: Year-round sun, mild temperatures, and minimal risk of extreme conditions.
• Dining: Child-friendly cuisine and options for different dietary needs.

With these in mind, let’s explore how each island stacks up for family holidays—and which might be your best fit.

Tenerife: The Ultimate Family Destination

Why Tenerife Ranks #1 for Many Families

Tenerife is the island that most often tops the list for family travel, thanks to its wide-ranging attractions, reliable weather, and excellent infrastructure. From all-inclusive seaside resorts to ecological parks and interactive museums, Tenerife has something to entertain children of all ages—as well as their parents.

Must-Visit Family Attractions in Tenerife

• Siam Park: Voted one of the best water parks in the world, Siam Park is a Thai-themed water adventure land suitable for toddlers through teens (and adults). Lazy rivers, wave pools, child-specific zones, and adrenaline-pumping slides ensure hours of fun.
• Loro Parque: This world-famous animal and marine park houses dolphins, orcas, parrots, penguins, and more. Educational shows and conservation initiatives make this an enriching day out.
• Mount Teide National Park: Take a cable car up Spain’s highest peak. Families frequently enjoy the easy walks around the summit station, unique volcanic landscapes, and telescope-guided stargazing tours.
• Jungle Park: With its engaging bird-of-prey shows, big cats, primate enclosures, and lush vegetation, Jungle Park provides an immersive animal experience.
• Playa de las Américas and Costa Adeje: These well-developed tourist areas have numerous family-friendly hotels, accessible beaches with gentle surf, and walkable promenades full of ice cream parlors and playgrounds.
• Museums and Culture: Visit the Museum of Science and the Cosmos in La Laguna for interactive exhibits, or football fans can take stadium tours at CD Tenerife’s Estadio Heliodoro Rodríguez López.

Best Beaches for Families in Tenerife

• Playa de las Teresitas: A sheltered, golden-sand beach north of Santa Cruz, with calm waters ideal for children.
• Playa del Duque: Upmarket and clean, with all facilities and a laid-back vibe.
• Los Cristianos Beach: Centrally located in a bustling resort town, with wide sand, shallow entry, and many amenities nearby.

Family-Friendly Accommodation in Tenerife

Tenerife excels in providing family-specific hotels and resorts. Here are a few standout options:

• GF Victoria, Costa Adeje: Offers family suites, children’s pools, an adventure playground, waterpark, and onsite entertainment.
• Iberostar Selection Anthelia: Renowned for outstanding service, kids’ clubs, and varied pools for all ages.
• Bahia Principe Fantasia: A “fairy-tale” themed resort with castles, extensive kids’ programming, and all-inclusive options.

Transport and Getting Around on Tenerife

Tenerife features a modern road network, plentiful car hire, and efficient public buses (known locally as "guaguas"). Taxis are regulated and widely available. Families with infants or toddlers will appreciate the abundance of supermarkets carrying baby supplies and the accessibility of pharmacies and clinics.

Additional Tips for Families in Tenerife

• Look for resorts offering “Kids Stay Free” promotions outside of peak summer.
• Visit off-season (April-May or September-October) for fewer crowds and milder temperatures.
• Participate in one of the lively local festivals—Carnival of Santa Cruz is second only to Rio de Janeiro’s Carnival in size and spectacle, but is still friendly for children in the daytimes.

Gran Canaria: The Miniature Continent

Gran Canaria’s Unique Family Appeal

Gran Canaria is often described as a “continent in miniature,” blessed with remarkably diverse landscapes within short drives: golden dunes, lush forests, dramatic mountains, and cosmopolitan cities. This variety is a major boon for families who enjoy mixing beach days with exploration and educational outings.

Unmissable Family Highlights in Gran Canaria

• Maspalomas Dunes: One of the island’s most iconic sights, these sweeping sand dunes feel like visiting the Sahara. Camel rides, sandboarding, and photo ops abound.
• Palmitos Park: A botanical garden, aviary, aquarium, and zoo all rolled into one. Their dolphin and bird shows are very popular with families.
• Aqualand Maspalomas: A massive water park full of slides, pools, and splash zones suitable for all ages.
• Poema del Mar Aquarium: A state-of-the-art marine park in Las Palmas offering immersive ocean habitats and interactive experiences for budding marine biologists.
• Las Palmas Old Town: Families with older children or culture buffs will enjoy the historical Vegueta district, packed with museums, colorful markets, and charming streets.

Top Beaches for Kids on Gran Canaria

• Playa de Amadores: A horseshoe-shaped bay with crystal-clear, calm waters and soft sand, patrolled by lifeguards and lined with family-friendly restaurants.
• Playa de Las Canteras: In Las Palmas, this urban beach offers gentle surf, excellent snorkeling, and numerous playgrounds and cafes along its promenade.
• Anfi del Mar: A pretty, sheltered cove with white sand imported from the Caribbean, very popular with families thanks to its tranquil water and safe swimming.

Family-Friendly Accommodation on Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria’s array of family resorts is impressive, including:

• Lopesan Baobab Resort, Meloneras: Africa-themed with rivers, bridges, extensive pools, and a kids’ club.
• Hotel Cordial Mogán Playa: Nestled in Puerto de Mogán—a peaceful village dubbed “Little Venice”—with its own botanical garden, kids’ areas, and large pools.
• Radisson Blu Resort, Gran Canaria: Larger suites, several pools, and activities for children of all ages, situated near Anfi Beach.

Transportation and Facilities in Gran Canaria

The island’s main tourist areas are well-served by buses, especially between hubs like Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas, and Las Palmas. Car rental is recommended for families wishing to explore inland villages or remote beaches. Medical services, supermarkets, and baby supply shops are abundant, providing peace of mind for traveling parents.

Gran Canaria Family Travel Tips

• South coast resorts are sunniest and driest year-round, and best for guaranteed beach weather.
• If visiting in February-March, catch the family-friendly events of Gran Canaria’s famous Carnival.
• Packed with playgrounds, shopping centers, and miniature golf, Meloneras is a favorite for families with young children.

Lanzarote: Volcanoes, Art, and Play

Lanzarote’s Distinctive Family Holiday Experience

If your family is curious about geology, art, or simply craves stunning scenery and tranquil resorts, Lanzarote delivers in spades. Declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the island’s strict environmental policy has preserved its remarkable lunar landscapes and white-washed villages. Most attractions are easily accessible, making it a superb option for families with smaller children.

Top Family Attractions in Lanzarote

• Timanfaya National Park: Embark on a guided coach tour through dramatic volcanic landscapes—see geothermal demonstrations and even dine at the El Diablo restaurant, where food is grilled using heat from the earth below!
• Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park: Theme park, zoo, and water complex all-in-one. Kids adore the pony rides, entertaining bird and sea lion shows, and water slides.
• Cueva de los Verdes: Explore a volcanic tunnel and cave system—a thrilling but safe underground adventure for kids aged 5 and up.
• Jameos del Agua: Marvel at César Manrique’s lava tube auditorium, home to rare blind albino crabs and otherworldly architecture.
• Aquapark Costa Teguise: Splash pools, slides, and water games designed with different age groups in mind.

Best Lanzarote Beaches for Families

• Playa Flamingo: A sheltered cove with golden sand, breakwaters, and calm, shallow water ideal for the youngest bathers.
• Playa Blanca: A lively main beach in the heart of the resort, great for building sandcastles and easy access to ice cream shops, toilets, and shaded cafes.
• Costa Teguise: Offers sunbeds, play parks, and watersports—a safe, clean beach for hours of family fun.

Top Family-Friendly Resorts in Lanzarote

Lanzarote’s hotel scene caters well to families:

• H10 Suites Lanzarote Gardens: Known for its spacious apartments, splash pools, pirate ship playground, and kids’ club with professional entertainers.
• Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel Resort: Luxury meets family-friendliness, boasting eight pools, a Kikoland children’s sports complex, and a superb spa for parents.
• Iberostar Selection Lanzarote Park: Multiple pools, direct access to Flamingo beach, and a miniclub.

Getting Around Lanzarote

The island’s compact size makes car rental popular for getting between beaches and volcanic sites. However, many family resorts are walkable to beaches and restaurants. Public buses connect the airport and major towns, suitable for short-distance travelers. Many attractions run their own shuttles.

Extra Lanzarote Family Recommendations

• The annual Carnaval de Arrecife and local fiestas include parades, fancy dress, and kid-friendly events in February and summer.
• For a unique outing, take a glass-bottom boat trip from Puerto del Carmen or Playa Blanca.
• If sensitive to the sun, seek out the many shaded playgrounds and rooftop pools at major family hotels.

Fuerteventura: The Island of Endless Beaches

What Makes Fuerteventura Special for Families?

Fuerteventura is the least built-up of the main islands, celebrated for its natural, windswept beauty and more than 150 kilometers of beaches, many of which are safe for family swimming. If your children love sandcastles and paddling, or if you seek a less crowded, peaceful retreat, Fuerteventura is a strong contender.

Fuerteventura’s Best Family-Friendly Attractions

• Oasis Park Fuerteventura: A large zoo and botanical garden with camel rides, interactive shows, a children’s farm with feeding sessions, and animal experiences for all ages.
• Acua Water Park (Corralejo): The only water park on the island, with slides, splash zones, and fun amenities for both kids and parents.
• Dune Safari: Explore the Corralejo Natural Park’s dunes on a 4x4 jeep or buggy adventure, suitable for the whole family.
• Museo de la Sal: Learn about the island’s salt-making tradition in this quaint museum, a gentle educational stop for curious kids.

Fuerteventura Beach Highlights for Families

• Corralejo Grandes Playas: Miles of fine sand and shallow turquoise waters, with quieter pockets for little ones to play.
• Playa de Costa Calma: A popular family spot with gentle surf and all the essentials close by—public toilets, sunbeds, eateries, and playgrounds.
• Playa del Castillo (Caleta de Fuste): This horseshoe bay is perfect for tots, with a shallow entry and vibrant promenade.

Recommended Hotels and Resorts in Fuerteventura

• Barceló Castillo Beach Resort: Suite-style accommodations in a low-rise, village-like setting, with kids’ clubs, pirate-themed facilities, and a fitness center.
• Hotel Riu Oliva Beach Resort: Prime position by the Corralejo dunes, all-inclusive packages, kids’ programs, and enormous pools.
• H10 Tindaya: Beachfront property in Costa Calma featuring kids’ splash parks and regular family entertainment.

Transport and Facilities on Fuerteventura

While car hire is beneficial for exploring hidden coves, many resorts in Corralejo and Caleta de Fuste are walkable and bike-friendly. The island boasts a relaxed pace with modern supermarkets, children’s pharmacies, and English-speaking medical centers in main resort towns.

Family Travel Tips for Fuerteventura

• Don’t miss windsurfing or sailing taster sessions—even for children as young as six, thanks to several certified schools with kids’ equipment.
• Pack sun and wind protection—the constant breeze is refreshing but can hide the strength of the sun.
• Ask hotels about babysitting or kids’ evening programs if parents want a night out.

La Palma: Nature, Stars, and Tranquility

La Palma’s Distinct Atmosphere

Nicknamed “La Isla Bonita” (the beautiful island), La Palma is a verdant, mountainous haven, less visited by mass tourism and ideal for families in search of peaceful, outdoor-focused holidays. Its unique attractions—lush hiking trails, volcanic scenery, and world-class stargazing—attract nature lovers and those who prefer a more authentic local experience.

Best Family Activities on La Palma

• La Caldera de Taburiente National Park: Home to hiking trails suitable for even young children, spectacular viewpoints, and interactive visitor centers.
• Astrophysical Observatory of Roque de los Muchachos: Night sky events and guided visits to the world’s top stargazing site. Offerings are age-appropriate for kids fascinated by astronomy.
• Charco Azul: Natural sea pools near San Andrés, safe for swimming and popular with local families.
• Interactive Science Museum: Engaging hands-on exhibits focused on ecology and astronomy.
• Guided Volcano Tours: Short walks to the recently erupted volcano sites and educational panels detailing the island’s geologic history.

Beaches and Swimming in La Palma

La Palma features mostly black volcanic sand beaches and rocky coves. For family swimming, the best and safest are:

• Playa de Puerto Naos: Calm waters, sunbeds, and a lively promenade.
• Playa de Los Cancajos: Sheltered by breakwaters and conveniently near many holiday accommodations.
• Charco Azul and La Fajana Natural Pools: Enclosed pools perfect for toddlers and young swimmers.

Where to Stay With Family on La Palma

• H10 Taburiente Playa: Family rooms, kids’ club, and a sea-facing pool in Los Cancajos.
• Sol La Palma: Overlooks Puerto Naos beach, offers large family suites and entertainment programs.
• Apartments Los Rosales: Self-catering, budget-friendly, and close to the beach.

Getting Around La Palma

The island is best explored by car, essential for visiting the remote natural attractions. Local buses (guaguas) are reliable for short trips between main towns but less convenient for accessing natural parks. The smaller size and lighter tourism impact mean less traffic and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Extra La Palma Family Insights

• Perfect for nature-focused families who value tranquility over built entertainment.
• Stargazing nights are magical—bring a telescope or join a guided tour.
• Packed lunches and reusable water bottles recommended for full days out in the national parks.

La Gomera and El Hierro: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

La Gomera: Forests, Valleys, and Adventure

La Gomera is a nature-lover’s paradise, with lush rainforests (Garajonay National Park), dramatic cliffs, and picturesque villages. Tourism is low-key, ideal for families seeking authenticity, hiking, and wildlife encounters. Children will love the mystical laurel forests and the possibility of spotting rare birds or lizards.

• Garajonay National Park: Easy waymarked trails suitable for young children.
• Valle Gran Rey beaches: Black sand coves with safe paddling and local cafes.
• Dolphin and Whale Watching Tours: Regular departures from the marina—one of the best places in Europe to spot these marine mammals.

El Hierro: Smallest, Greenest, and Most Sustainable

El Hierro is the least developed Canary Island, a UNESCO Geopark known for its eco-tourism and underwater volcanic landscapes. It’s best for families with older children or teens who love hiking, diving, or simply unplugging from the busy world.

• La Restinga: Top-class snorkeling and shore diving.
• Circular scenic drives: Multiple viewing platforms (“miradors”) with safe paths and spectacular vistas.
• Rural accommodation: Cozy cottages and family-run guesthouses.

Practical note: Both La Gomera and El Hierro are best for adventurous families who are comfortable renting a car and want minimal crowds. Accommodations tend to be small, locally owned, and often self-catering.

Top Family Activities Across the Islands

Water Parks and Theme Parks

• Siam Park (Tenerife): Universally popular water slides and play zones.
• Aqualand (Tenerife and Gran Canaria): Easy-going, with zones for little ones.
• Acua Water Park (Fuerteventura): Great for a sunny family day out.
• Rancho Texas Park (Lanzarote): Combines water play with animal encounters.

Animal and Nature Encounters

• Loro Parque (Tenerife) and Palmitos Park (Gran Canaria): High-quality zoos, aquariums, and educational shows.
• Oasis Park (Fuerteventura): Feeding sessions, wild animal experiences, and lush botanic gardens.
• Jungle Park (Tenerife): Impressive bird-of-prey shows and animal habitats in lush surroundings.

Hiking and Family Trails

Safe, waymarked trails on all islands—with everything from stroller-friendly promenades to volcano hikes and forest walks on La Gomera or La Palma.

Boat Trips and Marine Adventures

• Glass-bottom boat excursions in Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.
• Dolphin & Whale Watching: Especially from Tenerife or La Gomera.
• Sailing, windsurfing, and kayak schools on most islands for kids from 6+.

Interactive Museums and Cultural Experiences

• Science and Cosmos Museum (Tenerife): Hands-on learning for all ages.
• César Manrique Foundation (Lanzarote): Inspiring spaces and art exhibits.
• Salt Museums, astronomy centers, and local heritage parks scattered across all four larger islands.

Practical Guide: Planning Your Family Holiday

When to Go: Understanding Canary Islands Weather

The Canaries enjoy what’s rightly called the “eternal spring,” with average temperatures ranging from 18°C in winter to 28°C in summer. There’s little rainfall and over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year. Most families prefer:

• Spring (March-May): Warm, green, fewer crowds.
• Autumn (September-October): Still beach-worthy, excellent value, quieter than August.

Summer (school holidays) is the busiest and priciest period but offers guaranteed sun and programs for children at all resort hotels.

How to Choose the Right Accommodation for Your Family

• Seek out all-inclusive resorts with kids’ clubs, buffet meals, and splash parks to make parenting easier.
• Self-catering apartments (particularly in Lanzarote or Fuerteventura) offer flexibility, full kitchens, and more space.
• Compare location—if you want to avoid long walks with toddlers, make sure your hotel is within 500m of the beach/playground.

Travel Documents and Healthcare

• As Spanish territory, Canary Islands are Schengen zone; EU/UK passports suffice for entry.
• European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or its UK equivalent (GHIC) is valid here for emergency medical treatment.
• Pharmacies are widespread and sell baby food, nappies, sunscreen, and children’s medicine.

Transport: Getting There and Around

• Major airports: Tenerife South (TFS), Tenerife North (TFN), Gran Canaria (LPA), Lanzarote (ACE), Fuerteventura (FUE), La Palma (SPC).
• Flight time (from UK/Europe): 4–5 hours direct.
• Inter-island ferries and flights link all major islands—ideal if you want to explore more than one.
• Car hire is straightforward and relatively affordable. All major roads are in good condition; child seats are legally required and provided by rental agencies.

Dining Out With Children

Canarian cuisine is simple, with lots of grilled meats, fresh fish, potatoes (“papas arrugadas”), and child-appealing options like pizza, pasta, and fries available everywhere. Most restaurants welcome children with open arms and offer high chairs, children’s menus, and coloring kits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Canary Islands safe for families?

Yes, the Canaries are extremely safe, with low crime rates, high food hygiene standards, and excellent healthcare. Beaches are lifeguarded during the main season.

Which island is best for babies and toddlers?

Tenerife and Lanzarote are generally rated best for travel with very young children thanks to their flat promenades, gentle beaches, and a high concentration of family resorts.

Can we visit multiple islands in one trip?

Absolutely—ferries and short flights make island hopping straightforward. The most popular routes are between Tenerife, La Gomera, and Gran Canaria, or Lanzarote to Fuerteventura (just a 30-minute ferry ride).

Which island is best for teens?

Gran Canaria and Tenerife suit older children and teens best, offering adventurous water sports, shopping malls, theme parks, and vibrant city experiences.

Are the islands good for rainy-day activities?

Rain is rare, but all major islands have interactive museums, aquariums, cinema complexes, bowling alleys, and soft play zones for indoor fun.

Is it easy to find English-speaking services?

Yes, staff at hotels, main attractions, and medical centers usually speak excellent English, especially in the four main tourist islands.

Conclusion: Which Canary Island is Best for Your Family?

The final choice depends on your unique family preferences, but here’s a quick summary:

• Tenerife is unbeatable for sheer range of attractions, theme parks, and family-centric hotels—perfect for first-timers or those seeking variety.
• Gran Canaria offers nature, history, and a rich blend of urban and beach experiences—perfect for families who want to combine sunrises over the dunes with culture and city buzz.
• Lanzarote stands out for its volcanic wonderland, artistic heritage, and relaxed, child-friendly resorts—great for those curious about nature and design.
• Fuerteventura is heaven for families who want beaches galore, fewer crowds, and a slower, more natural pace.
• La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro reward adventurous families with peace, natural beauty, and a more authentic Canarian atmosphere—these are best for repeat visitors, nature-lovers, or those traveling with older kids and teens.

Whichever you choose, the Canary Islands deliver safe, sun-soaked, and endlessly engaging holidays for all ages. With this comprehensive guide, you’re well-equipped to craft a family break tailored to your dreams. Safe travels and happy family exploring!