Tenerife’s nightlife is as diverse as the island itself. In the south, there are legendary British party streets that stay open until dawn. In the north, there’s a laid-back Spanish nightlife scene featuring tapas and sherry. In Santa Cruz, you’ll find urban terraces and cultural events. In La Laguna, there are university-style craft bars.
Contents
- The Canarian Rhythm: When the Evening Begins
- The South: Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos
- “The Strip” in Verónicas
- Costa Adeje: An Elegant Evening
- Puerto de la Cruz
- Santa Cruz: City Life in the Capital
- La Laguna: The University Scene
- Shows and dinner shows
- Casinos
- Best Places to Watch the Sunset
- Carnival
- FAQ
Canarian Rhythm
Dinner at 9:00 p.m. is normal; at 7:00 p.m. is suspiciously early. Bars start filling up after 11:00 p.m., clubs after midnight, and the real party gets going between 1:00 and 2:00 a.m. On “The Strip,” the party goes until 5:00–6:00 a.m.
South: Las Américas and Los Cristianos
Los Cristianos: bars by the harbor, sunsets with ferries. A more relaxed atmosphere for couples. Good seafood restaurants by the harbor.
"The Strip" in Veronicas
Veronica's Strip (Avenida de las Américas) is the island’s most famous nightlife street. Hundreds of bars and clubs, bright signs, and barkers. Key venues:
- Linekers Bar —a British sports bar showing soccer on big screens
- Tramps Nightclub — a long-standing fixture on the scene, featuring commercial pop music
Cocktails €3–6. Open until 5:00–6:00 a.m. Club cover charge €5–15. The Starco area—a more mature alternative with Latin music.
Costa Adeje: An Elegant Evening
Five-star hotels, fine-dining restaurants, quiet terraces overlooking the sea. Restaurants at the Hard Rock Hotel and Bahía del Duque. Close around midnight.
Best Places to Watch the Sunset
- Los Higanes / Puerto de Santiago — the sun setting behind the cliffs; one of the most dramatic sunsets
- Mirador de la Paz (Teide) — sunset over a sea of clouds (car required)
- Los Cristianos Promenade — sunset over the harbor
- Garachico — the sea and cliffs at sunset
Carnival
The February carnival in Santa Cruz — three weeks of nonstop festivities. Every evening features parades, shows, and murga performances until late at night. Hotels are booked a year in advance. From the southern resorts, take the tram or bus.
FAQ
Which area is best for nightlife? Clubbing—Veronicas Strip. A cultural evening—Santa Cruz/La Laguna. A romantic dinner—Costa Adeje/Los Higanes.
Is it safe to walk around at night? Generally, yes. Standard precautions: don’t leave your belongings unattended, and watch your pockets in the carnival crowds.
When do the clubs open? Officially 10:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m., but in reality, people start showing up after midnight. Peak hours are 1:00 a.m.–4:00 a.m. They stay open until 5:00 a.m.–6:00 a.m.
Is there a dress code? Not on the Strip. In Costa Adeje and at the casinos, it’s business casual. Casinos: a passport is required.