Tenerife

Costa Adeje resorts: Tenerife's best beaches and waterparks at your doorstep

Some of the finest resorts in Costa Adeje for amazing sun-soaked holidays for both families and adults-only.

The south and north of Tenerife couldn’t be more different. While the landscape in north Tenerife is is impressively dramatic with natural parklands, hiking trails and an abundance of flora and fauna, the south is made up of more luxurious resorts, sun-kissed white sandy coastlines and a buzzier atmosphere. In my experience, I have always preferred to base myself in the southwestern tip of Tenerife. For one, the weather is always more favourable but I’ve also fallen in love with the upmarket resort of Costa Adeje.

Why? Because if you’re looking for family-friendly beaches, an abundance of stellar restaurants, as well as thrilling waterparks and attractions on your doorstep, then Costa Adeje boasts them all, and in a more nuanced setting unlike Costa Adeje’s more energetic neighbours, Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas. Put simply, it’s an excellent destination for a holiday in the sun. And with the north easily accessible by car, it’s still easy to explore the region that lies north of Mount Teide National Park and immerse yourself in pure Canarian culture.

The best beach in Costa Adeje is Playa Del Duque, and surrounding it is a veritable feast of luxury hotels that stand shoulder-to-shoulder on the horizon. So the only difficult task is actually narrowing down the options. So let me lend a helping hand by rounding up the best Costa Adeje resorts. From family resorts to all-inclusive options to luxurious spa hotels, the area has them all, and all within walking distance to the shopping mall and the laid back vibes of La Caleta’s seafront eateries, my go-to destination whenever I’m in Tenerife.

A romantic hideaway and adults-only luxury close to Adeje beach

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Looking for five-star plus? Be part of the beautiful crowd at the Iberostar Grand Hotel Salomé and soak in the beachfront location, as well as the sophisticated minimalist interiors. White shines bright, with understated suites each with superb ocean views, private spa tubs and separate living areas.

But it’s the personal butler service that really makes you feel pampered here. After checking-in with a glass of bubbles, all the unpacking is taken care of, while you explore your new surroundings – of which there are two pools and several restaurants, that also offer an all-inclusive dining option.

Admire the seascape as you chow down on traditional pan de cristal bread with cured ham and grated tomato at breakfast. Then stroll over to the hotel’s Spa Sensations and try the Hydrowellness circuit which includes a Finnish sauna and waterfalls.

Iberostar Grand Salomé

Top rated
Costa Adeje
8.9 Excellent (236 reviews)

Beachfront colonial-style family hotel in Costa Adeje

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With its enviable location right on the sands of Playa Del Duque, the Gran Tacande Wellness is an impressive colonial-style mansion – a nod back to the past with classic architecture framed by green palm trees and sea views to die for.

For those families looking to truly enjoy a blissful beach holiday, parents can relax by one of four pools – stretch out underneath the cabanas and watch the kids play. Or if alone time is required, children will love to make new friends in the kids’ club run by a team of experts who have tons of activities on offer.

While deluxe rooms are bright and open-plan, it’s the Gold Level accommodation which takes the luxe scale up a notch. Sink into your own private hydromassage bathtub as well as have exclusive access to the San Sebastián Exclusive Plaza which has a private infinity pool, whirlpools and Bali beds for Gold guests, and drinks and snacks served all day. If you can bear to tear yourself away, the Spa Vitanov offers up dreamy wellness rituals and calming reiki sessions, too, to ensure extra indulgence for the mind, body and soul.

Gran Tacande Wellness & Relax Costa Adeje

Top rated
Adeje
9.1 Excellent (1991 reviews)

A Costa Adeje resort showcasing contemporary glamour

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Venture through the glass sliding doors of the Royal Hideaway Corrales and be greeted by the distinctive black volcanic rock walls with a smattering of modern design which takes its inspiration from the surrounding landscape of Coste Adeje and the island’s marine corals.

Sleek, without being flashy, the Royal Hideaway is the sum of two parts. The adult-only section is in the Corrales Beach portion, while families are welcomed at the Corrales Suites – made up of designer apartments with kitchens, and some with their own private pools.

What both are not lacking are magical hotspots by the pools – of which there are several – to sit back, relax and drink in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic and beyond. Throw in a top spa, kids club, and attentive concierge services it makes for an ideal choice.

Sample Michelin-starred gourmet cuisine such as fried brioche, cod brandade and caviar, from the infamous Padrón brothers one evening, and then devour deliciously creamy gelato with the children the following day from the hotel’s own ice cream bar.

Escape the grind and wallow in Royal Hideaway’s simple but elegantly comfortable surrounds and feel like you’re on the deck of a magnificent ship. If you fancy a wander, then the small fishing village of La Caleta is just a short stroll away.

Royal Hideaway Corales Suites

Top rated
Costa Adeje
9.8 Excellent (890 reviews)

Superior Costa Adeje resort with panoramic views

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While the Meliá Jardines de Teide doesn’t command a prime position next to Playa Del Duque itself, its vantage point above the beach means it has commanding views across the coastline and to the mountains. It’s still only 10-minutes walk away, while Siam Park, a favourite for adrenaline-loving thrill-seekers, is practically around the corner.

Recently renovated, and still excellent value for money, the Hotel Melia exudes a stylish and contemporary ambience, white, greys, pewters and pops of copper adorn the interiors extending to the pristine rooms for both functional and fresh vibe.

For those who want to be apart from the main crowd, The Level is where it’s at! From private breakfasts and exclusive areas and pool, The Level guests are treated to that extra special touch. Families who want a luxurious break without blowing are fortune are also very welcome at Hotel Meliá – with a kids pool, playground and mini-club there is much to satisfy them. And if you opt for the all-inclusive Costa Adeje package, ice cream, as well as alcoholic beverages for mums and dads, are on tap! Win-win.

Melia Jardines Del Teide - Adults Only

Top rated
Costa Adeje
8.6 Excellent (6509 reviews)

A sub-tropical oasis close to La Caleta

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The opulent elegance of old-school charm provides guests at the Sheraton La Caleta Resort with a true sense of calm. While its distinguishing features are the rusty coloured turrets and columns that make up the exterior, it’s the plush palms that pepper the grounds alongside sumptuous tropical gardens that provide an idyllic escape for those wanting pure and unfettered sun-worshipping, particularly by the impressive pools.

There really is no need to leave the confines of the Sheraton La Caleta, what with so much to do on the doorstep – from high-octane basketball and Playstation terminals for kids to a high-spec gym and mini-golf for those looking to move away from the sunloungers. The Eutonos Spa guarantees sublime relaxation – perhaps surrender to a full-body massage while listening to the waves crashing in the distance.

Great for families are the themed-dinner evenings with excellent fare being served up at a dizzying number of food stations. For those looking for more exotic delights, watch as the chefs prepare sashimi at Kamakura Japanese Grill or enjoy the gorgeous views of La Gormera over a spot of light lunch at the poolside Vivace. Meanwhile, just a few minutes away are the fantastic seafood restaurants of La Caleta.

Tivoli La Caleta Resort

Top rated
Adeje
9.0 Excellent (5264 reviews)

This modern Costa Adeje hotel offers private spa areas for families

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It may not be right on the beach, but the GF Victoria is just a stone’s throw away. Look behind the modern glass exterior of the GF Victoria and discover a hidden terracotta facade overlooking an immense pool area set out over different levels which look out towards neighbouring island La Gomera. There is oodles of space for both adults-only guests and families without them having to mingle.

The gargantuan lobby manages to combine both streamlined areas for kids and grown-ups, including the ultra-chic buffet restaurant which has a separate see-through glass play area so parents can enjoy their nosh in relative peace. But that’s what makes the GF Victoria so unlike other hotels in Costa Adeje. Of course, the kids club is a given, but not only does the hotel have a separate family spa, but climbing parks, wave pools and motor racing simulators – so much to entertain little ones.

Adults are treated to impeccable service throughout the hotel, with access to the luxurious award-winning spa, and a peaceful Japanese garden. But it’s the overhanging pool right up on the fifth floor that will grant you the pleasure of enjoying the most spectacular sunsets. Grab a cocktail at the Zambra Sky Bar and feel like you’re floating in the air. This really has the wow-factor.

GF Victoria

Top rated
Costa Adeje
9.3 Excellent (287 reviews)