Free walking tours in Costa Adeje and what to see

Must-sees

Costa Adeje is the resort area of the municipality of Adeje, in the south of Tenerife. A promenade runs along the coast and links its main beaches. The best known are Fañabé, Torviscas and Playa del Duque, with golden sand and facilities. Further north, La Caleta keeps the feel of a fishing village, with fish restaurants facing the sea.

Many whale-watching boats leave from Puerto Colón, the marina. Tropical pilot whales live all year round in the waters off the south-west of the island, and dolphins are often seen. Inland, the old town of Adeje has the church of Santa Úrsula and the Casa Fuerte. From there starts the Barranco del Infierno trail, which must be booked in advance.

Free tours and guided visits

There are few free walking tours in Costa Adeje. The odd guided walk is offered around the old town of Adeje, but trips are the norm. The most popular is the boat trip to see pilot whales and dolphins, often with a stop for a swim below the Los Gigantes cliffs. Trips to Teide National Park, with stops at viewpoints, are also very common, as are those that continue to Masca and the north of the island. If you like walking, there are guided hikes through the Barranco del Infierno and on trails in the south.

How long to spend

Costa Adeje is a place to stay for several days. Four or five give you plenty of time. Spend one on the beaches and the promenade, another whale watching, one on Teide and another in Masca or the north. If you have time left, do the Barranco del Infierno early in the morning.

Where to stay

The area between Fañabé and Playa del Duque is the most convenient: you have the beach, the promenade and restaurants on foot. Torviscas and Puerto Colón are very close to the boats and livelier. If you want peace, La Caleta is smaller and quieter. For trips around the island it is worth hiring a car or booking one with hotel pick-up.