Costa Adeje was once an overlooked fishing village filled with the world’s most fascinating beaches. It was only a matter of time before tourists discovered its golden shores and clear blue waters that lead into the Atlantic.
With powdery white sand and a year-round climate likened to an endless summer, it is not difficult to see why the southern coast of Tenerife has become a hotspot for posh vacationers and affluent travelers.
Side by side along its just as desirable neighbors, Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas, Costa Adeje has quickly risen from its quiet beginnings to one of the most coveted resort destinations in the world.
Costa Adeje at a Glance
Prior to Tenerife being colonized, Adeje served as the capital of the ancient Guanche kingdom. It was also the home of Tinerfe “the Great,” the final king or mencey of the Guanche people before the island was split into nine menceyatos (kingdoms). Today, Adeje is the latest addition to the slew of high-class resort areas on the island. Its current developments have come from the recent tourism boom and the need for space to accommodate the growing number of visitors.
More than just gorgeous sprawling beaches, Costa Adeje is also home to world-class entertainment and recreation. It houses Siam Park, one of the largest and best water parks in Europe, Golf Costa Adeje, a world-class 18-hole golf course, and many others to keep visitors at the tip of their toes. At night, the town transforms into a reflection of the night sky with dazzling lights from the luxurious resorts and neon signs.
Pitted against the backdrop of Tenerife’s natural beauty, Costa Adeje merges nature and human developments. Despite man-made encroachment, the picturesque town keeps to itself while respecting the environment it shares with the native flora and fauna. Streets are kept spotless, and beaches are left crystal clear. In fact, a lot of activities involve spotting Tenerife’s diverse marine life just off the coast of Costa Adeje.
Because it is the most recent resort town on the southern coast of Tenerife, Costa Adeje is where the island’s most opulent accommodations can be found. Towering hotels overlooking the Atlantic or the island may come at a price, but that’s why Costa Adeje attracts the chic type of tourists. The town is perfect for families, especially those with younger children. At the same time, travelers who want to experience the best their money can offer will definitely find indulgence in Costa Adeje.
Things to Do in Costa Adeje
Costa Adeje is mainly composed of sprawling beaches with a variety of water conditions, from calm waters to surfable waves. On the other hand, it is also the site of numerous theme parks that will keep the kids and the kids at heart excited.
Beaches
Soak up the sun, play in the sand or engage in a multitude of water sports on a Costa Adeje beach. Sit by the shore and order a cooler from any of the resorts or restaurants nearby and expect excellent service from the line of beaches that merge seamlessly into each other. While many of these coves can be reached by taxi or bus, many opt to walk because of the proximity and the scenic views.
Playa del Duque
This 600- to 700-meter stretch of gray gold sand reveals itself in the midst of Costa Adeje’s rocky cove. The beach is owned by the hotel where it is situated but is open to the public. The path leading down to the beach offers scenic views of the cove and the Atlantic Ocean and is filled with strollers and joggers.
Playa del Puertito
A bit further below the coast of Adeje is the quaint town of El Puertito. This old fishing village is a far cry from the high-end or touristy spots of the neighboring resort areas. Its main beach, Playa del Puertito, is visited mostly by the locals who enjoy barbecuing and walking their dogs here.
Playa de Fanabe
Five kilometers from the center of the municipality of Adeje is the coastal town of Fañabe. The town itself exudes a British ambiance with a central plaza surrounded by tea rooms. Upscale villas are a typical site here, along with the more lavish and very exclusive resorts along the beach.
Playa Blanca
A 200-meter stretch of golden sand, Playa Blanca has become popular for its diving and as a nudist beach in Costa Adeje. The rich marine biodiversity of the waters here attracts a number of visitors as you can find local species of barracuda, rays, sharks, and the like swimming nearby.
Playa del Bobo
It is a preferred beach by many visitors because it is so close to many of the hotels in the area. Playa del Bobo is an artificial cove with black volcanic sand that is best for families and is relatively quieter than the surrounding beaches of Costa Adeje.
Ocean Experiences
Costa Adeje weather all year round is a perpetual summer ranging from its warmest at an average of 24 degrees Celsius in August (but almost reaching 30 degrees on some days) to its coldest season in January with an average temperature of 18 degrees Celsius. Despite the pleasant weather, the waters off the coast are quite cold since it does open out to the Atlantic Ocean. So, for vacationers, a Costa Adeje beach and its waters are filled with marine life just further offshore and can be ripe for ocean adventures and activities.
Dolphin and Whale Eco-Cruise
By charting through its waters, you get to see more off the coast of Adeje and its beaches. The boat trip offered by White Tenerife will tour the waters around the island, including the Teno-Rasca Whale Sanctuary, and even let you swim and snorkel without the crowds.
Water Sports
Try one of the many jet ski tours around the island or just ride it around the sea. If this is not your cup of tea, then Water Sports Tenerife also offers group activities, including banana boats, parascending, and fly fish. Adrenaline junkies could go for wake boarding.
Surfing, Windsurfing, and Stand-up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Costa Adeje’s numerous beaches are a surfer’s paradise. With swells coming from the Atlantic, waves are aplenty. When the wind picks up, opt for windsurfing, and when the waves die down, try Stand-Up Paddle boarding on its clear waters.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
Costa Adeje caters to all divers, from beginners to advanced levels. Numerous dive centers with PADI courses and dive tours around the island’s coast can be found in the municipality.
Submarine Safari
Go 30 meters below the ocean’s surface and discover the underwater world of southern Tenerife. Get to see the diverse marine life representative of the Canary Islands without scuba diving through a state-of-the-art submarine.
The famous yellow submarine “Sub Fun Cinco” is moored at the Amarilla harbor, and this is where the adventure starts. While the marina is located outside Costa Adeje, it’s one of the most popular activities for the vacationers of the resort.
Barranco del Infierno
Once you’ve seen the incrediblebeauty ofBarranco del Infierno (Hell’s Gorge), you’ll quickly realize why it’s Tenerife’s second most visited protected area, after Mount Teide.About 2000 hectares of postcard-perfect scenery form this natural setting. Over the course of seven million years, nature carved this marvelous panorama of steep landscapes, which may today be explored via a network of trails. The ravine’s trails were formerly utilized primarily by shepherds leading their goats to higher grazing areas. Thousands of tourists now flock there every year.
Access to the Barranco del Infierno trail is currently restricted to 300 people per day to maintain the ecosystem and prevent interruption to the development of species that occupy this amazing site; hence, reservations are required. On this three-hour hike, guests are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a200-meter-high waterfall. During the cooler months, with the right boots on, the trail is a lot more enjoyable.
Parks
Siam Park
Amidst an exotic Thai backdrop, thrill-seekers will find lots to do at one of Europe’s most reputable water parks. From heart-stopping near-vertical slides to relaxing by the in-house beach, Siam Park has everything for those looking for a full day of fun and R&R.
Aqualand
For those traveling with younger kids, Aqualand is a good option for tamer rides. The massive establishment also features a dolphin and whale show where they do numerous tricks in captivity for human entertainment.
Golf Costa Adeje
For the older ones who want to enjoy a warm day of putting and swinging, Costa Adeje is home to one of the most majestic golf courses in the world. The 18-hole course presents breathtaking views of the Atlantic and a variety of obstacles over its spanning greenery.
Nightlife & Entertainment
Once the sun sets, Costa Adeje’s vibrant coast becomes brighter at night with its slew of bars and pubs. Entertainment options in the area are ripe with live music that ranges from jazz to rock classics in most establishments. While Los Cristianos and Playas de Las Americas are known as entertainment central in Tenerife, Costa Adeje’s chic vibe also offers its own brand of amusement.
St. Eugen’s Bar
For those looking for a night out filled with entertaining tribute acts from famous musicians of the past (i.e., Tom Jones), St. Eugen’s is the perfect way to end your day. The bar-slash-pub is known not just for its cover bands but also for its lively ambiance that includes games, a dance floor, and a pool table.
The Pub
For a late afternoon pint or a steady night out, The Pub offers a homey pub feel with live sports for football fanatics. The neighborhood bar is also family-friendly and includes a quiz night on most days with an entertaining host.
Moonlight Bar
Get beautiful views of the harbor at sunset from the terrace or indulge in karaoke all night. Moonlight Bar offers well-made cocktails to go with their in-house entertainment of impersonators.
La Cockteleria
Along one of the side streets of Costa Adeje, this unassuming bar serves well-curated cocktails for half the price of the other bars in the area. Despite its small space and hidden location, La Cockteleria is a real gem amidst all the pricey establishments surrounding it.
Where to Stay in Costa Adeje
Hotels
The newest resort complex of Tenerife has become one of the most coveted locations for the holidays or a well-deserved vacation. Chic hotels line the coast that sprawls out to the golden beaches. Whether it’s 5-star or cheap accommodation, the best hotels in Costa Adeje are easily available through online booking and social media. So, the most recent luxury addition to the neighborhood does not go bypassed by potential travelers and vacationers.
GF Gran Costa Adeje
Situated right outside the sandy Playa del Duque, a major selling point of the hotel for families and couples is its location. The hotel features amenities, numerous pools, gardens, and in-house restaurants, as well as spacious rooms with balconies. Book Now!
Tagoro Family and Fun Costa Adeje
Perfect for those traveling with younger children, this affordable hotel features family-friendly amenities, including kid’s rooms and a kid’s club. Adults, on the other hand, can enjoy lounging in the pool or their balcony Jacuzzi.Book Now!
La Tortuga Hostel
Located along the highway, La Tortuga is easily accessible by car or public transport. The staff is accommodating and serves breakfast every morning, while activities and socials are popular at night among backpackers and budget travelers seeking cheap hotels in Costa Adeje.Book Now!
Apartments & Villas
Whether it’s the larger surface area that a villa provides or the affordability of an apartment, more and more tourists are choosing Costa Adeje apartments and Costa Adeje villas for their accommodations. Villas offer a sense of romanticism and privacy that many vacationers will pay a premium for. On the other hand, apartments, serviced or not, may not have the full comforts of a five-star hotel but do have the charm of a home away from home, especially when stretching a budget.
Royal Garden Villas & Spa
Set away from the tourist center, getting to this exclusive resort requires a private car because of its location. Overlooking the verdant vastness of the Costa Adeje golf course, this resort features 29 fully furnished villas with their own pools, along with numerous amenities on-site, including a restaurant.Book Now!
Baobab Suites
Just 10 minutes away from Playa del Duque, this high-end hotel offers more spacious rooms in their suites, thus considered by many as luxury serviced apartments. Suites come with a pool or a Jacuzzi and are contemporarily furnished with arresting views of Costa Adeje.Book Now!
Terrazas del Duque
This homey two-phase apartment complex includes a convenient parking space per unit and a pool for the tenants’ use. Only a few minutes downhill walk to the beach, the apartment is a short taxi ride to the bars and restaurants of the tourist center.Book Now!
Dining Options
A hodgepodge of cultures compressed in one upscale territory is sure to elicit some great dining finds. With cuisine options that range from fine dining Italian to budget tapas, Costa Adeje’s dining landscape has all types of food to cater to even the pickiest eater. Quintessential British pubs line many of the streets, but a few niches here and there will reveal authentic Spanish and Canarian cuisine.
Restaurante Jardin Costa Adeje
Situated in the swanky Royal Garden Villas Hotel overlooking Golf Costa Adeje, this restaurant is one of the most romantic in the area for its unique décor and optional al fresco dining experience. If you’re into fine dining and beautiful plating, dress smart because this is the place for you.
Ted Ristobar
A family-owned Italian restaurant situated by the beach, you can expect gorgeous sunset views while sipping good wine. The food here is all homemade and may take a while, considering each dish is made from scratch. Prices are of great value as well for the quality of the food and portions.
Harley’s American Restaurant & Bar
Filled with large portions of mostly American cuisine and its cultural combinations (think burgers and fajitas on one menu), Harley’s is perfect for the whole family. The kids will love the fried comfort food and American-inspired memorabilia, while the adults can have fun at the bar along with the night’s entertainment roster.
Buena Vida 100% Vegan
Located at the Fanabe Plaza Shopping Center, this vegan joint is top-notch as it changes its menu based on the seasonality of local ingredients, so you know you’re always eating fresh. The restaurant also has a bakery that creates gluten-free cakes and desserts to cap off a healthy meal.
How to Reach and Go Around Costa Adeje
From Tenerife South Airport
Tenerife South Airport (TFS) primarily handles international flights. The TITSA bus system links the airport to several locations across the island. Twenty kilometers, or a couple of minutes drive, will get you to Costa Adeje. Vacationers heading to the popular resort town can ride bus numbers 111, 343, 40, and 711, taking at least 30 minutes to an hour depending on the bus line.
If you don’t want to wait and prefer to get to your accommodation the quickest way possible, you can rent a car or take a taxi. Both options can get you to Costa Adeje in at least 12 minutes or so, depending on your ultimate destination, but they are more expensive as expected. TFS is connected to the picturesque coastal community via TF-1, then take exit 74 if you are heading to San Eugenio, 76 for Del Duque, or 76 or 78 for Fañabe.
Travelers have their pick of vehicle rental agencies at the airport, but we recommend booking in advance to save time and money. Cicar has an extensive collection of available rental vehicles. Alternatively, you can book a taxi ahead of time here and pay on arrival.
From Tenerife North Airport
Tenerife North Airport (TFN) connects Tenerife to the other Canary Islands, the Iberian Peninsula, and Europe. TFN is located way up north in San Cristóbal de La Laguna, and is a good hour drive away to Costa Adeje. To reach the seaside town, get on TF-5, then TF-1. Take exit 74 for San Eugenio, 76 for Del Duque, or 76 or 78 for Fañabe.
Holidaymakers can also go by public transport. Bus number 343 goes from TFN directly to Costa Adeje. Another option is to take bus number 20 to Sta. Cruz Exchange, then ride 110 to Costa Adeje. The travel time for both is more than an hour, with several stops spread out along the route.
Taking a taxi is the more expedient and hassle-free, albeit more expensive, choice. You can flag one down on the ground floor of TFN or book an airport taxi transfer in advance.
Getting Around
Since Costa Adeje is a compact coastal town, most residents and visitors get around on foot, strolling from beach to beach while enjoying. Not only is it cost-free, but it also offers the added bonus of convenience, as many of the adjoining promenades are pedestrian-only zones.
Visitors to Costa Adeje can also hop on a bus if they don’t feel like walking around. The local bus service, TITSA, provides convenient access to the area with lines 417, 447, 460, 471, and 477. If you’ll be on the island for more than a day or two and expect to use the public transportation system extensively, a travel card can save you between 30 and 50% on your fare.
While hopping on and off busses is pretty simple in Costa Adeje, getting on a taxi is quicker and easier. Cab stands are abundant all across town. Guests of hotels and apartments can also usually make reservations at the front desk.
Hiring a car is perhaps the best option if you plan to explore attractions beyond Costa Adeje. The coastal community is home to a plethora of vehicle rental agencies. In addition, travelers can find great deals by booking online. Some businesses may even offer discounts if you book in advance.
Practical Travel Tips
- It’s possible to get discounts when you book attractions or services online.
- Buy tickets in advance to get potential discounts and fast-track your way through long lines.
- It’s often better to get to attractions early in the morning to avoid large crowds.
- Take advantage of the free shuttle or bus service provided by many tourist hotspots to save money on transportation. Pickup and drop-off are usually at the hotel or various accessible locations.
- Research or call ahead to find out if your destination allows guests to bring their own food and/or drinks.
- Confirm height or age limits when traveling with kids before purchasing tickets or lining up.
- Remember to put on some sunscreen!
- Don’t forget to pack footwear suited to the variety of vacation pursuits you have planned.
Costa Adeje Map
Why Costa Adeje Is So Popular
As the newest resort town, the older locations of Los Cristianos and Las Americas seem weathered compared to the modern hotels and entertainment options that Costa Adeje offers. Despite the heavy tourism, the territory features true hidden gems and must-visit experiences.
Costa Adeje has proven that it is more than just frolic and sun but can be a learning ground as well as an opportunity to experience some of the luxuries life has to offer, whether it’s sleeping on Egyptian cotton sheets or a thrilling water slide like no other. In the end, it is these tourist-driven attractions and establishments that fuel Costa Adeje and what brought it from a sleepy fishing town to one of the hottest vacation destinations in the world.
FAQs
What is Costa Adeje known for? ›
The area's rugged beauty, clean beaches, all year round sunshine, ample facilities and good selection of restaurants, makes the Costa Adeje aperfect holiday destination for families.
What is Costa Adeje in Tenerife like? ›Costa Adeje is a perfect resort for couples, families and beach lovers. It has everything that anyone would desire for a beach holiday. It is a purpose-built attractive, clean resort with excellent blue flag beaches, with bars and restaurants lining the traffic-free beach promenade.
Is Costa Adeje worth visiting? ›Costa Adeje is in the south of Tenerife and is one of the island's most popular destinations. It has one of the best entertainment offerings in Tenerife, with excellent restaurants and top-rate hotels. What's more, there are many popular places here like Siam Park or the Barranco del Infierno.
What is the difference between Adeje and Costa Adeje? ›Costa Adeje simply means Adeje's coast, Adeje being the municipality which administers the area. Playa de las Américas, on the other hand, is part of neighbouring Arona municipality.
What is the nicest part of Costa Adeje? ›Playa de Torviscas and Playa Fanabe are much nicer; they are also the bigger beaches in this area with some more upscale sun loungers, Balinese beds and beach clubs. In addition, you will find many snack places next to the beach, and fun things for the kids like mini-golf and even a daycare and “play-care” centre.
Is Costa Adeje a party place? ›When it comes to clubs, the Costa Adeje nightlife is bound to get you up and dancing all night long. There are venues playing music to suit virtually every taste, from dance and techno, to reggae and rock. For a night out that'll have you feeling like an A-list celebrity, head on down to the Faro Chill Art Bar.
How far is Costa Adeje from airport? ›Costa Adeje is one of Tenerife's newest and most classy holiday destinations. The resort is located 18 kms away from Tenerife South airport, and 80 kilometers away from Tenerife North airport. Transfers cover the distances in 15 and 60 minutes, respectively.
How far is Adeje from airport? ›The distance between Tenerife South Airport and Costa Adeje is 20 km, and the trip takes 27 minutes by car. The resort is 81 km away from Tenerife North airport and the travel time is 53 minutes. Buses are the only public transportation option on the island.
Is Costa Adeje windy? ›Tenerife South is less windy than the eastern coast, so staying in Los Cristianos, Las Americas, Costa Adeje, Playa San Juan, Playa Paraiso, La Caleta or Caleta Salvaje will be considerably less windy than El Medano, Punta del Hidalgo or Bajamar for example.
Is Costa Adeje big? ›The municipality of Adeje is located in the south-west of the Island and covers a surface area of 105.94 km2 (40.9 sq miles), making it Tenerife's sixth largest municipality.
Which month is best for Tenerife? ›
Average monthly temperatures
For the highest temperatures the best time to visit Tenerife is between June and September although the sub tropical climate offers sunshine throughout the year and winter months are equally popular with visitors.
Areas to Avoid
Because of its volcanic background, most beaches in Tenerife are volcanic with black sand which can be hot under the feet. If you're after a traditional sandy beach head to Los Cristianos and leave the southern resorts alone. Playa la Arena is also notorious for pickpockets.
Located at the more exclusive end of Costa Adeje, Playa del Duque is an elegant beach of white sand, lined with luxury hotels and upmarket restaurants. A rock jutting into the sea cuts the beach off from the main resort area, which adds to the air of exclusivity. (It's also the best looking beach in the area.)
Are there mosquitoes in Costa Adeje? ›The risk for mosquito activity is high.
Is Costa Adeje black sand beach? ›Beaches are Costa Adeje's raison d'être. Swathes of sand sweep all the way along the littoral. You will find the dramatic natural volcanic black sand often augmented with a flurry of starched white sand shipped in from the Sahara just across the water.
Does Costa Adeje have a strip? ›Costa Adeje has two blue flagged beaches to choose from. Playa Fañabe, a dark volcanic strip, and Playa del Duque, where the golden sand has been imported from the Sahara.
Can you drink tap water in Adeje? ›Yes, all public tap water in the Canary Islands is drinkable unless the local authorities state otherwise. The tap water adheres to the same strict standards as the water in Germany, Sweden, UK or France.
What food is Tenerife known for? ›- Mojo. It is a sauce paired with almost every meal, including the famous wrinkled potatoes (Papas Arrugadas). ...
- Goat Cheese. ...
- Fish and Sancocho Canaria. ...
- Ropa Vieja Canaria. ...
- Papas Arrugadas (Wrinkled Potatoes) ...
- Conejo al salmorejo (rabbit stew) ...
- Gofio. ...
- Arroz a la Cubana.
Costa Adeje is a coastal part of a town and municipality in the southwestern part of the island of Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands, and part of the province of Adeje, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain.
What ocean is Costa Adeje on? ›Water temperature in Costa Adeje in Atlantic Ocean now.
Which part of Tenerife is the most beautiful? ›
La Laguna, the most beautiful town
Many guidebooks and visitors consider La Laguna to be the most beautiful town in all of Tenerife. This historic town with its beautiful architecture is an accessible day trip out of Puerto de la Cruz or Santa Cruz the capital today.
Re: Which Costa Adeje beaches are white/yellow sand? Del duque beach is the only one with light sand. All of the natural beaches are black.
Is Costa Adeje big? ›The municipality of Adeje is located in the south-west of the Island and covers a surface area of 105.94 km2 (40.9 sq miles), making it Tenerife's sixth largest municipality.
Which month is best for Tenerife? ›Average monthly temperatures
For the highest temperatures the best time to visit Tenerife is between June and September although the sub tropical climate offers sunshine throughout the year and winter months are equally popular with visitors.
Areas to Avoid
Because of its volcanic background, most beaches in Tenerife are volcanic with black sand which can be hot under the feet. If you're after a traditional sandy beach head to Los Cristianos and leave the southern resorts alone. Playa la Arena is also notorious for pickpockets.
Although the weather is normally good in Tenerife in Sepember, I would say the weather in Turkey is hotter. Length of flight times are around the same, although depending who you fly with you may get a better time of flight with one or the other.
What is the coldest month in Tenerife? ›Despite January being the coldest and wettest month of the year in Tenerife, it is still a good month to visit the island if you are looking for winter sun.
How far is Costa Adeje from airport? ›Costa Adeje is one of Tenerife's newest and most classy holiday destinations. The resort is located 18 kms away from Tenerife South airport, and 80 kilometers away from Tenerife North airport. Transfers cover the distances in 15 and 60 minutes, respectively.
What is the warmest side of Tenerife? ›Tenerife is a system of micro-climates, meaning that certain areas have fairly predictable weather year round. For the warmest weather possible, the obvious choices are the area around Playa de Las Americas/Los Cristianos in the south all the way up the south-western coast to Los Gigantes and Playa Santiago.
Is Costa Adeje windy? ›Tenerife South is less windy than the eastern coast, so staying in Los Cristianos, Las Americas, Costa Adeje, Playa San Juan, Playa Paraiso, La Caleta or Caleta Salvaje will be considerably less windy than El Medano, Punta del Hidalgo or Bajamar for example.
Are there mosquitoes in Costa Adeje? ›
The risk for mosquito activity is high.
Can you drink tap water in Adeje? ›Yes, all public tap water in the Canary Islands is drinkable unless the local authorities state otherwise. The tap water adheres to the same strict standards as the water in Germany, Sweden, UK or France.
Does Costa Adeje have a beach? ›Costa Adeje beaches
Playa del Duque is often considered to be the main beach in Costa Adeje. The beach is located in a small bay, where it is relatively protected. It has fine-grained, golden sand and the water is crystal-clear. The largest and most populated of the three beaches is Playa Fañabé.
Located at the more exclusive end of Costa Adeje, Playa del Duque is an elegant beach of white sand, lined with luxury hotels and upmarket restaurants. A rock jutting into the sea cuts the beach off from the main resort area, which adds to the air of exclusivity. (It's also the best looking beach in the area.)
Does Costa Adeje have a strip? ›Costa Adeje has two blue flagged beaches to choose from. Playa Fañabe, a dark volcanic strip, and Playa del Duque, where the golden sand has been imported from the Sahara.