At the very beginning of our travel journey back in 2021, we did what a lot of Brits were dreaming about at the time and headed for a few months of winter sun. Between December and February, we lived in Tenerife, basing ourselves in Los Gigantes, and it ended up being one of the best decisions we made.

Like so many people from the UK, we were desperate to escape the grey, cold winter back home. Having visited Tenerife plenty of times before on pre-Christmas holidays, we already knew it ticked all the boxes: reliable sunshine, mild winter temperatures, and most importantly for us, great food. What we hadn’t experienced before, though, was what Tenerife was like as a place to live rather than just visit.

Spending three full months on the island quickly taught us something important: where you stay in Tenerife matters far more than which hotel you book. Each area has a completely different feel, especially in the busy winter season, and choosing the right base can make the difference between a relaxing, sun-soaked escape and feeling like you’ve picked the wrong spot entirely.

In this guide, I’ll break down the best areas to stay in Tenerife for winter sun and what each area is best for based on personal experience and time spent exploring the island.

If you’re planning your winter sun escape, I’ve linked recommended hotels and apartments for each area below to help you compare options easily.

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Best Areas to Stay in Tenerife at a Glance

If you’re short on time or just want a quick answer, here’s a snapshot of the best areas to stay in Tenerife for winter sun, and who each one is best for. Psst you can use this list to jump to your preferred area below.

• 👉 Los Gigantes – Best for scenic views, quiet winter stays, couples, and longer stays
• 👉 Costa Adeje – Best for winter sun, comfortable resorts, couples, and first-time visitors
• 👉 Los Cristianos – Best all-rounder with good transport links and a relaxed but lively feel
• 👉 Puerto de la Cruz – Best for a more local atmosphere, culture, and cooler north-coast weather
• 👉 Playa de las Américas – Best for nightlife and entertainment, but not for everyone
  

Each part of the island feels very different, especially in winter. Some areas are all about peaceful sea views and coastal walks, while others are better suited to nightlife, family-friendly resorts, or a more traditional Canarian vibe.

Below, I’ll break down each area in more detail, including what it’s really like to stay there in winter, who it’s best for, and the pros and cons to consider before booking.

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📌 Los Gigantes – Best for Quiet Winter Sun

If you’re looking for winter sun without crowds, Los Gigantes is one of the most underrated places to stay in Tenerife.

We lived here for three months over winter, and it’s very different to the busier resorts in the south of the island. Los Gigantes is a small, laid-back town tucked beneath dramatic volcanic cliffs on Tenerife’s west coast, with a slower pace of life that suits winter stays particularly well.

What it’s really like to stay in Los Gigantes in winter

Day-to-day life in Los Gigantes is calm, sunny, and unhurried. Winter days are typically bright and warm, especially compared to the north of the island. If you like the sounds of bright morning walks, sea views, long lunches, and watching the sunset from a café or your balcony, then this is your place.

It’s not a party town, and that’s exactly the appeal. Even in peak winter months, it never felt overwhelmingly busy. Most visitors are couples, long-stay travellers, or people escaping colder European winters for a few weeks or months at a time.

Who Los Gigantes is best for

Los Gigantes is ideal if you’re:

• Travelling as a couple
• Planning a longer winter stay
• Working remotely and want a peaceful base
• Looking for scenery, walks, and relaxed days
• Keen on whale watching and boat trips

If you want nightlife, big shopping centres, or lots of entertainment on your doorstep, this probably isn’t the right area.

Accommodation in Los Gigantes

Accommodation here is mostly made up of apartments with large terraces, quieter hotels and self-catering options suited to longer stays. Many places are built into the hillside, which means incredible views but also plenty of steps and steep slopes. We definitely got a workout while we were staying here. It’s something to bear in mind if mobility is a concern, although taxis are easy to use.

Our Recommendation – Barceló Santiago Adults Only [4-star]

Perched on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic, Barceló Santiago Adults Only is all about the views, and they really are something special. From here, you’ve got uninterrupted panoramas of La Gomera and the Los Gigantes cliffs, which are especially stunning at sunset.

The hotel has a calm, grown-up feel, with stylish, comfortable rooms, air conditioning, and all the mod cons you’d expect. Outside, there are four pools, perfect for slow days in the sun, plus a spa with a sauna, Turkish bath and hot tub if you’re in full relaxation mode.

Food-wise, you’ve got a main buffet restaurant alongside El Olivo, an à la carte option serving Mediterranean dishes. There’s also a poolside snack bar for easy lunches and an entertainment bar with live shows in the evenings, if you fancy a bit of low-key nightlife without leaving the hotel.

👉 You can check current prices and availability for Barceló Santiago here

Things to do locally

Despite its quiet feel, there’s still plenty to do:

• Whale and dolphin watching trips leave directly from the marina
• Coastal walks with cliff and ocean views
• Natural sea pool and small beaches nearby

It’s also a great base if you’re planning to hire a car and explore the west and south of Tenerife at a relaxed pace.

Downsides to consider

To keep things honest, Los Gigantes isn’t for everyone. A few things to be aware of: there is limited nightlife and evening entertainment, a very hilly terrain, and it’s not ideal if you want lots of organised activities or attractions close by (most are 30 minutes or so away by car).

For us, these were part of the charm, but it’s worth knowing before you book.

Where to Eat, Drink & What to Do in Los Gigantes

Our recommendations

There are actually SO MANY great restaurants in the area, honestly, this list could be so much longer. Los Gigantes borders Puerto Santiago, which is another cute little beach town that has a small but lovely beach – just be aware of the waves here as they can get crazy!

• Tas-k – our absolute favourite, small tapas, menu changes daily, local produce, the sangria is addictive
• Restaurante la Pérgola – stunning sea views, paella and tapas is a must try here, sunset drinks are always a great idea
• Restaurante El Mesón – very fun, authentic Spanish style restaurant on the hill, beautiful sunset views, food is solid, staff and service is next level
• Restaurante Alfonso – family-run, the fish platter is just amazing
• KV Bar Gourmet – in the marina, Belgian owned, of course the moules frites is a must!
• Restaurante El Pescador – authentic fish restaurant, beautifully rustic decor, highly recommend the sole
• Pejeverde Los Gigantes – another marina restaurant, beautiful little tapas, draught beer, great lunch spot
• Punjab Sizzling – if you’re craving a good curry, these guys know how it’s done
• China Town II – if Chinese food is more your vibe, you’ll want to go to China Town II, delish
• Tapas Y Mas Tapas – heading down to the beach in Puerto Santiago, authentic tapas with stunning views at great prices
• Restaurante Pancho – a little more high end by the beach, classic Canarian dishes, local fish, great wine list
  

Would we stay in Los Gigantes again?

Absolutely, especially for a winter escape or an extended stay. It’s one of the few places in Tenerife where winter feels genuinely restful, without sacrificing sunshine or scenery.

If you’re choosing Tenerife specifically for winter sun and a slower pace of life, Los Gigantes is a fantastic option.

You can check current prices and availability for apartments and hotels in Los Gigantes here 👇 

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📌 Costa Adeje – Best for Reliable Sun & Resort Stays

Located on the south-west coast, Costa Adeje is one of the warmest and sunniest parts of the island in winter, which makes it a firm favourite for couples and winter holidaymakers who want guaranteed sunshine.

What it’s like to stay in Costa Adeje in winter

Winter in Costa Adeje, the days are bright and warm, the promenade is lively, and everything is geared towards comfort. Beaches are well-kept, restaurants stay open year-round, and there’s always somewhere to sit outside in the sun.

It’s busier than Los Gigantes, especially during school holidays, but it still feels calmer and more refined than nearby Playa de las Américas.

Who Costa Adeje is best for

Costa Adeje is a great choice if you:

• Want reliable winter sunshine
• Prefer hotels and resorts over apartments
• Like having everything within walking distance
• Are visiting Tenerife for the first time

Accommodation in Costa Adeje

This is one of the best areas in Tenerife for:

• High-quality hotels and resorts
• Adults-only hotels
• Apartment-style resorts
• Beachfront stays

There’s a wide range of options, from mid-range hotels to luxury resorts, which makes it easy to find something that fits your budget without compromising on location.

Our recommendation – Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife [5-star]

If you like your holidays with a touch of VIP treatment, Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife is a standout choice. Set in a quieter part of Costa Adeje right on the beachfront, it feels luxurious without being stuffy.

The hotel is big on facilities, with multiple pools (including adults-only options and a saltwater lagoon pool), a full spa, and a great choice of restaurants, whether you’re all-inclusive or prefer à la carte dining. Rooms are spacious, modern, and designed for comfort, with large terraces and luxury bathrooms.

What really sets it apart is how flexible it is. It works just as well for couples wanting a stylish escape as it does for families, thanks to excellent kids’ clubs and family-friendly spaces. And if you want to dial things up a notch, the Rock Royalty experience adds concierge service, lounge access, and spa perks that make the whole stay feel extra special.

If you’re after a five-star Tenerife stay that blends luxury, atmosphere, and comfort, this is a very easy yes.

👉 You can check current prices and availability for Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife here

Things to do locally

Costa Adeje has plenty to keep you occupied:

• Beach days at Playa del Duque and Fañabé
• Coastal walks along the promenade
• Boat trips and excursions from nearby ports
• Shopping centres, cafés, and restaurants

It’s also well-connected for tours, making it a convenient base if you plan to explore other parts of the island.

Many popular excursions and boat trips run year-round from this area 👇 

Downsides to consider

To keep expectations realistic:

• It’s more tourist-focused than Los Gigantes
• Less traditional Canarian character
• Prices can be higher than other areas

If you’re looking for something quieter or more local-feeling, Costa Adeje may feel a little too resort-oriented.

Is Costa Adeje worth it for winter sun?

If your priority is warm weather and ease, Costa Adeje is one of the best choices in Tenerife for a winter holiday. It may not have the dramatic scenery of Los Gigantes, but it delivers exactly what many winter travellers are looking for.

You can check current prices and availability for apartments and hotels in Costa Adeje here 👇 

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📌 Los Cristianos – Best All-Rounder

Originally a fishing village, Los Cristianos has grown into a busy but relaxed town that works particularly well for winter stays thanks to its transport links, walkability, and year-round buzz.

What it’s like to stay in Los Cristianos in winter

The town is popular with long-stay visitors and winter escapees, so everything stays open and there’s always a gentle buzz of activity, especially along the promenade and harbour. It’s less polished than Costa Adeje and less scenic than Los Gigantes, but it makes up for that with convenience and atmosphere.

Who Los Cristianos is best for

Los Cristianos is a good choice if you:

• Want winter sun with a bit of life
• Prefer walkable towns over large resorts
• Don’t want to hire a car
• Like having shops, cafés, and beaches nearby
• Are staying for more than a week

It’s also a solid option if you’re travelling solo or as a couple and want things happening around you without a party-heavy vibe.

Accommodation in Los Cristianos

Accommodation here is mainly:

• Apartments and aparthotels
• Mid-range hotels
• Budget-friendly options

You’ll generally get more space for your money than in Costa Adeje, which makes Los Cristianos popular for longer winter stays.

Our recommendation – Sol Arona [4-star]

Sol Arona Tenerife is a modern, clean, and spacious hotel, making it a great choice for a stay in Los Cristianos. Located just a short walk from the beach, it offers bright, comfortable rooms, many with balconies and sea views, and a relaxed atmosphere that’s easy to settle into from day one.

It’s particularly well suited to families, with a dedicated children’s pool, playground activities, and nightly entertainment to keep little ones busy, while parents can relax by the main pool, hit the gym, or enjoy the sun terrace. Everything is designed to be straightforward and convenient, including an on-site buffet restaurant for easy mealtimes.

With Tenerife South Airport less than 20 minutes away, it’s also a great choice if you want to maximise holiday time and minimise travel stress.

👉 You can check current prices and availability for Sol Arona here

Things to do locally

There’s plenty to do without needing to travel far:

• Beach days at Playa de Los Cristianos and Las Vistas
• Harbour walks and ferry trips
• Cafés, bars, and casual restaurants
• Easy access to tours and excursions

It’s also one of the easiest bases if you’re planning day trips around the island.

Downsides to consider

To keep things realistic:

• It can feel busy at times
• Less scenic than Los Gigantes
• Some areas feel more built-up

If dramatic views and quiet evenings are high on your list, you may prefer Los Gigantes or Puerto de la Cruz.

Is Los Cristianos a good choice for winter?

For many travellers, yes. It’s a reliable, practical base with plenty going on, especially during the winter months when other parts of the island can feel quieter.

You can check current prices and availability for apartments and hotels in Los Cristianos here 👇 

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📌 Puerto de la Cruz – Best for Culture & a More Local Feel

If you’re drawn to a more traditional, local side of Tenerife, Puerto de la Cruz offers something very different from the resort-heavy south of the island.

Located on the north coast, Puerto de la Cruz is one of Tenerife’s oldest resort towns, with a historic centre, leafy streets, and a noticeably greener landscape thanks to the Atlantic weather patterns.

What it’s like to stay in Puerto de la Cruz in winter

Winter in Puerto de la Cruz feels cooler and more changeable than the south. While there are still plenty of bright days, cloud cover and occasional rain are more common, especially compared to Costa Adeje or Los Gigantes.

That said, the town itself feels alive year-round. Cafés, bars, and restaurants stay busy, and there’s a strong local atmosphere that makes it feel less touristy and more lived-in, particularly appealing for longer stays.

Who Puerto de la Cruz is best for

Puerto de la Cruz is a good choice if you:

• Prefer culture and character over guaranteed sun
• Enjoy walking cities and historic centres
• Don’t mind cooler evenings
• Want a more local Canarian feel
• Plan to explore the north of the island

It suits travellers who value atmosphere and authenticity over beach weather alone.

Accommodation in Puerto de la Cruz

Accommodation here includes:

• Traditional hotels in and around the old town
• Larger hotels on the outskirts
• Apartment-style stays for longer visits

Prices are often more reasonable than in the south, especially in winter, making it attractive for extended stays.

Our recommendation – Sol Puerto de la Cruz Tenerife [4 star]

Set right in the heart of Puerto de la Cruz, Sol Puerto de la Cruz Tenerife is a great choice if you want sea views, a central location, and a relaxed base for exploring the north of the island. Many rooms come with balconies overlooking the ocean, making it an easy place to slow down and enjoy the Atlantic views.

It’s just a short stroll to the beach, the lively Plaza del Charco, and the old fishing port, so you’re never far from cafés, restaurants, and local life. With a swimming pool, sun terrace, and gardens on site, it works well for couples in particular, especially if you’re after a laid-back stay with everything within walking distance.

👉 You can check current prices and availability for Sol Puerto de la Cruz here

Things to do locally

Puerto de la Cruz offers plenty beyond sunbathing:

• Wandering the old town and harbour
• Visiting Lago Martiánez (the sea-water pool complex)
• Botanical gardens and green spaces
• Easy access to Anaga Rural Park and northern viewpoints

It’s also a good base if you’re interested in nature, hiking, and exploring Tenerife’s greener side.

Downsides to consider

It’s important to be realistic:

• Cooler, cloudier weather than the south
• Rougher seas and fewer swimmable beaches
• Less of a classic “winter sun” feel

If warmth and sunshine are your main priorities, Puerto de la Cruz may feel disappointing in winter.

Is Puerto de la Cruz worth it in winter?

If you’re looking for culture, greenery, and a more authentic atmosphere, yes. But if you’re choosing Tenerife specifically for winter sun, the south or west of the island will generally suit you better.

You can check current prices and availability for apartments and hotels in Puerto de la Cruz here 👇 

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📌 Playa de las Américas – Best for Nightlife

Playa de las Américas is one of Tenerife’s most well-known resorts and often the first place people think of when planning a holiday to the island. In winter, it’s busy, bright, and unapologetically lively.

It sits right next to Los Cristianos and shares a similar climate, but the atmosphere is noticeably different.

What it’s like to stay in Playa de las Américas in winter

Winter here feels energetic. Bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues stay open year-round, and the area attracts a mix of younger travellers, groups of friends, and anyone looking for nightlife alongside winter sun.

That said, it’s a large area, and not every part feels like a party strip. Some pockets closer to the coast are calmer and more suitable for couples or short winter breaks, especially if you choose accommodation carefully.

Who Playa de las Américas is best for

This area works well if you:

• Want nightlife and evening entertainment
• Like busy promenades and lots of choice
• Are travelling with friends
• Want guaranteed activity day and night
• Prefer a lively atmosphere over peace and quiet

It’s less suited to travellers looking for scenic views, tranquillity, or a slower pace of life.

Accommodation in Playa de las Américas

Accommodation options are wide-ranging:

• Budget-friendly hotels and apartments
• Large resorts
• Self-catering complexes

Prices can be competitive in winter, particularly outside school holidays, but location within the resort makes a big difference to your experience.

Our recommendation – Hotel Cleopatra Palace [4-star]

Set right opposite El Camisón Beach, Cleopatra Palace Hotel is a great choice if you like your holidays with a touch of drama and a seriously good location. The hotel leans into its Roman-inspired style, with grand columns, marble details, and a beautiful pool area that feels a little bit theatrical.

Rooms are spacious and comfortable, each with a balcony or terrace and a marble bathroom, making it ideal for couples looking for a relaxed but slightly indulgent stay. One of the big perks here is access to the wider Mare Nostrum Resort, meaning you can enjoy a huge choice of restaurants, bars, and evening entertainment without ever leaving the area.

With shops, beaches, and some of the best dining spots in the south of Tenerife all within a few minutes’ walk, it’s easy to see why couples consistently rate this hotel so highly. If location, atmosphere, and easy access to great food and nightlife matter to you, Cleopatra Palace is a very solid pick.

👉 You can check current prices and availability for Hotel Cleopatra Palace here

Things to do locally

There’s no shortage of activity:

• Beaches and coastal walks
• Bars, clubs, and live music venues
• Shopping centres
• Easy access to tours and excursions

It’s also very well connected for transport and day trips.

Downsides to consider

To be completely honest:

• Can feel loud and busy
• Less character than other parts of Tenerife
• Not ideal for longer, restful stays

For some travellers, that’s exactly the appeal. For others, it’s a reason to look elsewhere.

Is Playa de las Américas good for winter sun?

Yes, if you want warmth, energy, and entertainment. But if peace, scenery, or a local feel are higher priorities, you’ll likely be happier in other areas of the island.

You can check current prices and availability for apartments and hotels in Playa de las Américas here 👇

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Which Area of Tenerife Is Best for You?

• Best for quiet winter sun & long stays: Los Gigantes
• Best for comfort & guaranteed sunshine: Costa Adeje
• Best all-rounder without a car: Los Cristianos
• Best for culture & local atmosphere: Puerto de la Cruz
• Best for nightlife & entertainment: Playa de las Américas

If you’re still undecided, think about how you want your days to feel rather than ticking off attractions. In winter especially, choosing the right base can completely shape your experience of Tenerife.

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Practical Tips for Choosing Where to Stay in Tenerife in Winter

Before booking, there are a few Tenerife-specific things worth knowing, especially if you’re visiting between December and March.

South vs north coast weather really matters

If winter sun is your main goal, the south and west of the island are generally warmer, drier, and sunnier than the north. Areas like Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, and Los Gigantes are far more reliable for sunshine in winter.

The north, including Puerto de la Cruz, is greener and cooler, with more cloud cover and occasional rain. It’s still lovely, but it feels very different in winter.

Think about wind as well as temperature

Tenerife can be breezy in winter, especially along exposed coastlines. Some areas are naturally more sheltered than others, which can make a big difference to how warm it feels day to day.

West and south-west locations, including Los Gigantes and Costa Adeje, often feel more comfortable in winter than windier spots.

Decide whether you want to hire a car

Where you stay will influence whether you need a car:

• Los Gigantes – a car is very helpful, especially for longer stays
• Costa Adeje & Los Cristianos – easy without a car
• Playa de las Américas – very walkable
• Puerto de la Cruz – manageable without a car, but day trips are easier with one

If you don’t plan to drive, staying somewhere walkable with good transport links can make your trip much more enjoyable.

Longer stays work best in apartments

If you’re visiting Tenerife for more than a week in winter, apartment-style accommodation is often better value and more comfortable than hotels. Having outdoor space, a kitchen, and a quieter setting can really enhance a longer winter escape.

This is especially true in places like Los Gigantes and Los Cristianos.

Choose your area before choosing your hotel

This sounds obvious, but it’s the biggest mistake people make. Two hotels at the same price can offer completely different experiences depending on where they’re located.

Start by choosing the area that fits your travel style, then narrow down accommodation options from there.

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FAQs About Staying in Tenerife in Winter

Is Tenerife warm enough in winter?

Yes. Tenerife is one of the warmest winter destinations in Europe. Daytime temperatures in winter usually sit between the low to high twenties (°C), with plenty of sunshine, especially in the south and west of the island.

Where is the warmest place to stay in Tenerife in winter?

The south and south-west of the island tend to be the warmest in winter. Areas like Costa Adeje, Playa de las Américas, Los Cristianos, and Los Gigantes are popular for winter sun thanks to their climate and shelter from trade winds.

Is Los Gigantes a good place to stay in winter?

Yes, especially if you’re looking for a quieter, more scenic winter escape. Los Gigantes offers great weather, dramatic views, and a relaxed atmosphere that works particularly well for couples and longer stays.

Is the north of Tenerife worth visiting in winter?

It depends on what you’re looking for. The north of Tenerife is greener and more traditional but cooler and cloudier in winter. If sunshine is your priority, the south and west are better choices.

Is Tenerife busy in winter?

Tenerife is popular in winter, particularly from December to March. However, how busy it feels depends on where you stay. Resort areas are livelier, while places like Los Gigantes remain calm even during peak winter months.

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Whether you’re looking for peace and scenery, comfort and convenience, or nightlife and energy, there’s a part of the island that fits.

If you’re still undecided, start with the areas that match how you want your days to feel, not just what looks good on paper.

Travel safe and don’t forget to subscribe for more travel tips + guides!

Until next time,