Tenerife is one of the best places in Europe to see whales and dolphins, and all year round. Between its south-west coast and La Gomera lives a stable population of short-finned pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins, in a protected marine area recognised as a Whale Heritage Site. The key is choosing the right boat.
Book the essentials
| Activity | Rating | From |
|---|---|---|
| Whales and dolphins on an eco-yacht from Los Cristianos | 4.7★ (19,490) | €30 |
| Kayak and snorkel tour in Los Cristianos | 4.7★ (12,364) | €25 |
| Masca Gorge: hike and boat back | 4.7★ (374) | €145 |
Which species you'll see
- Short-finned pilot whale: the star. It lives in family groups and is seen on almost every trip.
- Bottlenose dolphin: also resident, curious and common.
- With luck: Atlantic spotted dolphin, common dolphin, Bryde's whale and, more rarely, sperm whale.
Where the boats leave from
The ports of Los Cristianos, Puerto Colón (Costa Adeje) and Los Gigantes are minutes from the cetacean area. From Los Gigantes you also see the cliffs from the sea.
How to choose a responsible boat
- Look for operators with the Canary Islands government's whale-watching licence (the Barco Azul badge).
- Avoid boats that chase the animals or get too close: the law requires keeping a distance.
- Prefer small or eco-friendly boats, quieter and more stable.
- Be wary of "swim with dolphins" offers: it's forbidden.
⭐ Tip: if you get seasick, choose a wide-hulled boat or a catamaran and the first departure of the day, when the sea is usually calmer.
When to go
All year, because the main species are resident. Mornings usually have the calmest sea. Winter can bring more swell.
What to bring
Sunscreen, a cap, swimwear and a towel (many trips include a swim stop), a light jacket and a seasickness tablet if you need one.
Other ways to see the sea
The kayak tour from Los Cristianos follows the volcanic coast and sometimes meets dolphins or turtles. And the Masca Gorge hike ends with a boat ride beneath the Los Gigantes Cliffs. More ideas in what to see in Tenerife.
In one sentence
Choose a licensed boat that doesn't chase the animals, head out in the morning from the south-west and you'll have every chance of seeing wild pilot whales.
