Los Cristianos in southern Tenerife is one of the island’s top resorts. From beautiful beaches to varied shopping and dining plus vibrant nightlife, this resort has so much to offer.
Los Cristianos is one of the most popular places in Tenerife. Once a peaceful fishing village, it has since evolved into a vibrant resort with some of the best beaches on the island. Located in the south, life here centres on the seafront promenade, and after dark it has a festive atmosphere rivalling that of neighbouring Playa de las Américas.
Whether you want to take boat trips to La Palma, El Hierro and La Gomera to fish, dive or explore or would rather enjoy the resort’s plentiful selection of shops, cafes, restaurants, bars and clubs, a break in Los Cristianos offers lots of scope.
If you’re looking for things to do in Los Cristianos, look no further. This guide will introduce you to the finest this resort has to offer, from the best beaches in the area to the top Los Cristianos restaurants and bars to dine and drink in.
Here’s everything you need to know when planning a visit to Los Cristianos, Tenerife.
The Best Time to Visit
As with other resorts in southern Tenerife, Los Cristianos has a subtropical climate that results in warm, sunny weather all year round. You can expect some light rainfall here between October and March. So the key difference between July and November, for instance, is the likelihood of rain and a mild variation in temperature.
While summer is the hottest season, relatively high temperatures can be expected year-round in this part of the island. Between June and September the weather and ocean is warmest, and this peaks in August when visitors can expect around 13 hours of daily sunshine. By contrast, February is the coldest month.
Los Cristianos is busy for most of the year, with visitors flocking here at Easter, in spring and summer and in search of winter sun.
What to Do in Los Cristianos
Beaches in Los Cristianos
For anyone wondering what to do in Los Cristianos, beaches must be close to the top of the list. This is an idyllic resort for beach lovers, with fine sands and warm, calm azure waters. The coastline here is lined with sun loungers and parasols, plus there are plenty of snack bars and showers.
Playa Las Vistas
Blue Flag awarded Las Vistas beach borders Playa de Las Americas, and offers a clean sweep of golden sand. There are water sports facilities and peaceful spots here, while the breakwaters ensure calm swimming conditions ideal for kids. The promenade is lined with shops and cafes and access by car and for those reduced mobility is good.
Location: Google Maps
Playa Los Cristianos
Los Cristianos beach also offers calm, child-friendly waters plus sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and disabled access. There are plenty of eateries and shops on the promenade here too.
Due to its location right near the port, it’s a superb spot for watching ferries coming and going. Our children enjoyed that a lot.
Location: Google Maps
Playa Los Callados
Los Callados beach (Playa El Callao) is Los Cristianos’s sole nudist-friendly beach. It’s less crowded and more rugged than the resort’s other beaches. Do take care when swimming, though, as there can be strong currents and concealed rocks.
This coastal spot is also popular among divers and snorkellers. There’s a good beach bar here for sundowners, and it’s one of the finest places in town for watching the sunset.
Location: Google Maps
Go Whale and Dolphin Watching
Taking a dolphin or whale watching trip is one of the most popular activities to do in Los Cristianos. Bottlenose, Atlantic spotted or striped dolphins and pilot whales are most common, though over 25 species have been seen.
Affordable two hour boat trips can be booked in advance and may include a stop for a swim or picnic. Longer trips of three to five hours are also available, including one board a Viking ship. Some also take in other sights like La Gomera or Los Gigantes.
If you do book locally, do check whether the trip is really for dolphin or whale spotting or is really more of a “booze cruise”.
Hang Out at Monkey Park
Monkey Park is a low-cost attraction near Los Cristianos. There are various creatures here to see in addition to primates, including snakes, reptiles and exotic birds. Children will also love feeding the resident guinea pigs here, and can also be educated regarding animal habits and evolutionary development.
Unlike other destinations, at this park you can actually pass through some of the enclosures the animals inhabit. There’s an emphasis on providing creatures with as close to their natural habitat as possible, so you won’t see any performances at this zoo. It’s a good alternative to bustling Loro Parque.
Monkey Park tickets cost €10 for adults and €5 for kids.
Take a Ferry to La Gomera
La Gomera is under 20 miles west of Los Cristianos, and you can travel from the port here to La Gomera. The trip takes just 50 minutes. This was the first of the Canary Islands to fall under Spanish rule, and is also the least populated.
A lush green landscape, dramatic ravines and a lack of resorts await on La Gomera. Parque Nacional de Garajonay is the star attraction in La Gomera, and there are many hiking trails through the woodland to explore.
The easiest way to experience La Gomera in a day is to book an organised tour, as this includes transport to get you around the island. If you don’t mind a two-and-a-half hour ferry ride, then a day trip to La Palma is also an option.
Play a Round of Mini Golf
A fun game of mini golf is an ideal family activity. Oasis mini golf (location) is a good choice as the 18-hole course is attractively priced and highly rated. Some of this course is more challenging than it may first appear!
For die-hard mini golf fans, it’s worth heading to ViVO Mini Golf Treasure Island in Playa de Las Americas.
Climb Chayofita Mountain
Conquering Montaña Chayofita is popular among visitors to southern Tenerife. During winter in particular a steady stream of visitors can be seen climbing to the summit. It’s a lot closer to the resorts than Mount Teide National Park, and offers stupendous views over the coastline and Roque del Conde.
The walk isn’t too challenging, and is easier earlier in the day before the sun gets too hot. Sturdy footwear such as trainers is sufficient. You can use this map for the 9.7km loop trail from Los Cristianos to the top of La Chayofita and back. The route takes about two hours and 20 minutes to complete.
Stock Up at Los Cristianos Market
The local market opens every Tuesday and Sunday from 9 am to 2 pm, and is one of the top places to visit in Los Cristianos for all sorts of items, including second-hand finds. You can pick up anything here from souvenirs and gifts to clothing, accessories, cosmetics, leather goods and homeware. Rare items like antiques and vinyl records may even be snapped up.
Los Cristianos market can be found near the Arona Gran Hotel (location). Be aware of the risk of theft before you visit, as it’s crowded. Also, if you want to purchase fake designer goods, be prepared to haggle for the best price. If you can, arrive early to beat the rush.
Try Go-Karting
Karting Club Tenerife is under five miles from Los Cristianos, and offers free bus pickup from your hotel in southern Tenerife. There are three circuits and five types of kart here, and regular events are held. During your visit you can also play billiards or scalextric, or dine at the on-site restaurant.
More Activities in Los Cristianos
If you’re looking for something different to do or other things to see in Los Cristianos, why not try the following?
Kayak Safari with Snorkelling and Sea Turtles
This three to four hour tour by kayak takes in the El Palmar cliffs and includes snorkelling. You may also have the chance to spot sea turtles.
Fly with a National Champion Paraglider
For two hours, you can safely fly over ravines, canyons, mountains and the coastline with a Spanish Paragliding champion. Five pictures to take home are included.
Teide National Park Night Sky Star Safari & Dinner
Watch the sunset and stargaze at Teide National Park, which is among one of the best places for viewing stars in the whole world.
Where to Eat, Drink & Party
Eating out in Los Cristianos can be one of the great pleasures of staying in this resort. There are lots of good places to eat in Los Cristianos, plus a good range of bars and clubs for those seeking lively nightlife.
Restaurants
El Ventorrillo
Traditional Canarian food made with extra love. This is THE place if you want to experience the local cuisine in all its glory. One of the best restaurants on the island, in our opinion.
El Burgado
If you crave steak or seafood or wish to try Spanish food then El Burgado is an excellent choice. The best dishes to order include the fillet steak, paella, mussels, garlic prawns and Canarian potatoes.
Pizzeria Daccapo
A very nice Italian place. Huge portions, great prices and the food is really amazing. We recommend booking a table in advance because it can get really busy.
Oro di Napoli
Another amazing Italian restaurant not to be missed. Come here for their authentic Neapolitan pizza because arguably, it’s the best in the whole of Tenerife. The reservation is a must.
Star of Bengal
The Star of Bengal is one for those who adore Indian food. This eatery offers great value for money and a range of curry house favourites. Dishes are freshly prepared and there’s lots of choice for vegetarians.
Restaurante Emperor
For those seeking Chinese or vegan food, The Emperor is one of the finest options in town. Options like the spring rolls, curries, ribs and crispy chilli beef all come highly recommended and the service is superb.
Olive Garden Deli
For generous portions and a range of crowd-pleasing dishes, come to Olive Garden Deli. You can have anything here from a selection of UK and American breakfasts to fish and chips, a burger or a full Sunday roast. They say that you’ll find the best full English breakfast on the island here.
Mercado la Pepa
This is the perfect place to come with kids in Los Cristianos as there’s a large playground close to the dining tables. This is more of a food court than a restaurant, with different outlets serving Asian, Spanish and Mexican specialities and more.
Cafes
Pistachio Coffee Brunch
This place is an absolute hidden gem for those looking for fresh, healthy and modern food. With meat or meatless, with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options, this laid-back eatery caters for everyone’s needs. Smoothie and Buddha bowls, burgers, pancakes and fantastic coffee are what you can expect at Pistachio.
Eco Eco Brunch & Café
A very cosy place with many vegan and gluten-free options. Smoothies, bowls, vegan cakes, everything is delicious and made with high-quality ingredients here. The staff are very friendly and welcoming.
Best for Pastries – Pasticceria Lista
This bakery close to the harbour is the best place in town for Italian-style desserts and freshly-baked pastries such as croissants and cakes. The coffee is also very good.
Best for Ice Cream – Il Gelato del Mercato
For many this is the number one place in Los Cristianos when it comes to sweet treats. There are some incredible gelato flavours to sample.
Best for Waffles – Oops Bubble Waffle Cafè
Also close to the promenade is Oops Bubble Waffle cafe. The ice cream, waffles and light meals served here are all freshly made on the premises.
Nightlife
Claddagh
Claddagh is top among Los Cristianos nightlife spots for those seeking the craic. It’s run by an Irishman, has a great atmosphere and overlooks the sandy beach.
The Attic Rooftop Bar
The well-priced cocktails, soundtrack and welcoming staff are all good reasons to count this place among the best bars in Los Cristianos.
Casablanca Disco Bar
To drink, party or even learn salsa skills head to Casablanca disco bar. The drinks, music and vibe are all among the island’s best.
The Wild Side
For nightlife in Los Cristianos with a stunning sea view you cannot beat The Wild Side. It’s the perfect place for cocktails at sunset.
Shopping in Los Cristianos
Passarela Oasis Shopping Center
All sorts of shops in Los Cristianos can be found here on Avenue San Francisco. The range of eateries also spans cafes, bars, fast-food joints and fine dining restaurants.
There’s a Dialprix supermarket here, plus a ‘La Pepa’ food court on the rooftop.
Location: Google Maps
C.C. Parque Santiago 6
The biggest shopping centre in the region can be found on Avenida Chayofita. It’s home to high street brands like H&M, as well as an al fresco food court. This two-floor centre tends to be less crowded than other Tenerife shopping malls.
Location: Google Maps
C.C. San Telmo
San Telmo Shopping Centre is right by Las Vistas beach and only five minutes’ walk from Los Cristianos harbour. The structure itself is worth a look for the Spanish-style architecture, and there are sea views from the entire mall.
Location: Google Maps
Grocery Shopping
For buying fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy, produce, baked goods and more, it’s worth checking out local supermarkets. Options include the large Mercadona inside the C.C Parque Santiago 6 shopping centre, SuperDino on Av. Penetracion street and Dialprix located on the ground floor of the Passarela Oasis Shopping Centre.
Best Places to Stay
Best – Spring Arona Gran Hotel: Adults Only
This adults-only four star hotel in Los Cristianos is ideal for adults seeking a peaceful and romantic break. There are stunning sea views from the property, and Playa Los Cristianos is only 12 minutes away on foot.
Spring Arona Gran Hotel offers a wealth of upmarket amenities, including spacious outdoor swimming pools, a spa, a snack bar, two restaurants, bars, a nightclub and a full entertainment programme. Rooms come with private balconies for making the most of the ocean panoramas.
Best – Boutique Hotel H10 Big Sur: Adults Only
This top-drawer four star property is even closer to Playa Los Cristianos, which is a seven minute walk away. It offers boutique-style accommodation in a glorious tropical garden setting. The hotel boasts a full-service spa, a large outdoor terrace, a poolside bar and a range of restaurants.
Guests staying here can use the steam room, sauna and other spa facilities for free, and delicious buffet style meals are served for breakfast and dinner daily.
Best for Families – Paradise Park Fun Lifestyle Hotel
The best option in Los Cristianos for families with small children is Paradise Park Hotel. This 4-star property offers contemporary-styled rooms with all the amenities you need. The location is excellent, right in the heart of the resort.
The hotel has five outdoor swimming pools with a separate “Funattic” rooftop adults-only pool area (with a bar!). There is also a spa centre “Sparadise” offering all kinds of massages, treatments and jacuzzis.
Paradise Park boasts 2 restaurants and 4 bars with half-board or all-inclusive service. Entertainment is also top-notch during the day and evening. Children will love a kids’ club with plenty of activities and a team of animators entertaining them.
Mid-Range – Hollywood Mirage: Excel Hotels & Resorts
Hollywood Mirage is a four-star Los Cristianos hotel for families and couples. While the resort’s beaches are around a mile away, a free shuttle service is supplied for guests. Accommodation here is spacious, with a lounge area in each room. Some also have kitchenettes.
There are fabulous views over the coastline from this glamorous resort. Hotel facilities include three outdoor pools, a sizable terrace with sun loungers, squash courts, a gym and a beauty salon and spa. A kids club keeps four to 12-year-olds happy, and a buffet breakfast is served here daily.
Mid-Range – Klayman Olivina Aparthotel
This aparthotel offers a great location in Los Cristianos with nice self-catering facilities such as a coffee machine, kettle, microwave, refrigerator and more.
Rooms are spacious with nice balconies but lack air conditioning (there are fans, though). A fantastic rooftop pool with great views of mountains and the ocean and a nice rooftop bar. There is also a gym on the property.
Budget – Paloma Beach Apartments
Featuring a stunning pool area, Paloma Beach complex offers spacious self-catering holiday apartments with gorgeous balconies and views at affordable prices. Good location with supermarkets, bars and restaurants within walking distance. There is also an on-site bar by the pool.
Every apartment is equipped with a kitchenette which includes a refrigerator, hob, microwave, kettle, toaster and other amenities.
There is also a children’s playground and an outdoor exercise area for adults.
Budget – Ona Los Claveles
Ona Los Claveles aparthotel features a nice heated swimming pool and a tennis court. It’s a perfect choice for those looking for an affordable yet comfortable stay in Los Cristianos. The location of the complex is great with lots of great shops and restaurants around. You’ll have to walk 20 minutes to Playa Los Cristianos beach, though.
Every unit is spotlessly clean and equipped with an air conditioner and a small kitchen for self-catering. If you will opt for a two-bedroom apartment, you’ll absolutely love the large sun-soaked terrace that comes with it.
The whole area around the complex is really well maintained. There is also a bar on-site, by the pool and a children’s playground.
Getting Around
Tenerife South to Los Cristianos
There is a direct bus route between Tenerife South Airport and Los Cristianos. Bus 111 takes 20 minutes to travel from the airport to Los Cristianos. Bus tickets cost around €3.20. Alternatively, take a taxi which will take about 16 minutes and costs €22-25.
Los Cristianos to Siam Park
There is a free shuttle bus service to Siam Park from Los Cristianos. This double-decker bus runs every hour from 9:30 to 18:00 – except from 13:30 – 15:30. The bus stops at C.C. Pasarela Shopping Mall and the Hotel Sol Arona Tenerife. Check the schedule here.
Alternatively, you can take bus 467 and 342, to Siam Park. This trip will take about 15 minutes and costs €1.45.
Los Cristianos to Teide
To get to Pico de Teide from Los Cristianos, catch bus 342. The journey takes about one hour and 30 minutes and costs around €7.60.
Map of the Best Things to Do in Los Cristianos
TENERIFE ESSENTIALS
To explore Tenerife to the fullest and at your own pace, we highly recommend renting a car. Our favourite place for car rental is the RentalCars website. It allows you to compare different providers and pick the best deal. You also get the best protection and flexibility for booking terms.
The unmissable top attractions in Tenerife are: Siam Park (tickets here), Loro Parque (tickets here) and Teide National Park (cable car tickets + transfer).
We also recommend taking at least one guided tour. Our favourite place for booking tours in Tenerife is GetYourGuide.
Top 3 excursions on the island:
- A whale and dolphin watching (pick by location: Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje, Los Gigantes).
- Stargazing in Teide National Park
- Kayaking and Snorkeling with Turtles
Our favourite websites for accommodation in Tenerife are: Booking.com (for hotels) and VRBO (for apartments and holiday homes).
The best hotels for families with kids (in our opinion):
Luxury: GF Victoria (Costa Adeje) or Bahia Principe Fantasia (Golf del Sur)
Mid-Range: Spring Hotel Bitácora (Playa de las Americas) or Iberostar Bouganville Playa (Costa Adeje)
Budget: GF Isabel (Costa Adeje) or Paradise Park Fun Lifestyle Hotel (Los Cristianos)
The best adults-only hotels:
Luxury: Iberostar Grand El Mirador (Costa Adeje) or Gran Melia Palacio de Isora (Alcalá)
Mid-Range: Tigotan Lovers & Friends (Playa de las Americas) or Iberostar Selection Sábila (Costa Adeje)
Budget: Barceló Santiago (Puerto de Santiago)
Top hotels for everyone:
Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Abama or Bahia del Duque (Costa Adeje)
Mid-Range: Hard Rock Hotel (Playa Paraiso) or Dreams Jardin Tropical Resort & Spa (Costa Adeje)
Budget: Alexandre Hotel Gala or Olé Tropical Tenerife (both Playa de las Americas)
