Tenerife is a haven for anyone who loves the water. With its dramatic coastlines, clear waters, and abundant marine life, it’s a prime spot for snorkeling adventures. We’re particularly fond of the Whales and Snorkeling Tour on a Luxury Yacht because it combines marine wildlife with high-end comfort, offering a chance to spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat while enjoying a gourmet onboard experience. Plus, the opportunity to snorkel in remote bays with vibrant fish makes it a memorable day. For a more active outing, the Kayak & Snorkeling, Marine Fauna Watching covers a hands-on approach to exploring Tenerife’s waters, perfect for travelers who want to combine physical activity with marine discovery.
Tenerife’s snorkeling options are diverse, spanning luxury yacht trips, eco-friendly kayak tours, family-friendly scooter adventures, and even underwater freediving lessons. Whether you’re after a relaxing scenic cruise or an active, wildlife-focused experience, our list has you covered.
Below, we introduce the nine best snorkeling experiences in Tenerife, highlighting what makes each one special and helping you decide which fits your style and budget.
1. Tenerife: Whales and Snorkeling Tour on a Luxury Yacht
At number one, this luxury yacht tour offers an elegant way to explore Tenerife’s southern coast. The 3-hour trip is rated 4.9 out of 5 with over 300 reviews, reflecting its popularity. It’s a small-group experience that feels intimate, with ample space to relax and learn from the crew about the marine ecosystem.
The main draw is the chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment, a true highlight for wildlife lovers. The boat itself is spacious, making it comfortable for families or couples. Food and drinks are included, with tapas and unlimited beverages served during the cruise, adding to the luxurious vibe. After whale watching, you’ll get to snorkel in a remote bay with colorful fish, making this tour a perfect blend of wildlife, scenery, and leisure.
Guests praise the personalized service and the relaxed atmosphere—”Michael’s kindness is genuine” and “the food was on another level.” This tour suits travelers seeking a premium experience, with excellent value given the all-inclusive nature and the small-group intimacy.
Bottom line: If you want a classy, wildlife-focused cruise with snorkeling, this is hard to beat.
2. Tenerife: Kayak & Snorkeling, Marine Fauna Watching
Next, the Kayak & Snorkeling tour offers a more active way to explore Tenerife’s waters. For 3 hours, you’ll paddle along the coast from El Palmar and Costa Adeje, discovering marine life and hidden spots that are only accessible by kayak.
This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of exercise and want to get close to nature. The itinerary includes safety briefings, scenic viewpoints, and multiple stops for snorkeling and wildlife viewing, with a particular focus on marine fauna. The tour is rated 4.6 out of 5, with reviews highlighting its friendly guides and the chance to snorkel in crystal-clear waters where colorful fish and marine creatures are abundant.
Participants rave about the eco-friendly approach and the chance to explore at their own pace, making it ideal for adventurous travelers or families with older children. The kayak itself is stable and easy to handle, even for beginners.
Bottom line: This experience combines physical activity with marine discovery and is excellent for those who prefer an energetic, hands-on adventure.
3. Los Gigantes to Teno: Boat trip with snorkeling & drinks
Taking third place, this boat trip covers the scenic coastline between Los Gigantes and Punta de Teno. At just 2.5 hours and rated 4.9 out of 5, it’s a quick, efficient way to enjoy snorkeling and coastal views.
Board a well-reviewed boat with a knowledgeable skipper who points out sights and marine life along the way. The tour includes time at Masca beach, where you can snorkel and swim among vibrant fish, as well as visits to Punta de Teno, known for its rugged cliffs. There’s also a free drink included, making it a relaxed outing.
Guests comment on the friendly guides and the stunning scenery—“the water was perfect for snorkeling, and the views were breathtaking.” This tour is suitable for travelers wanting a shorter trip with a good mix of sight-seeing and underwater exploration. It’s especially appealing for families or couples looking for a balanced experience.
Bottom line: A compact tour offering scenic coastline, snorkeling, and a friendly atmosphere, perfect for a half-day outing.
4. Tenerife: Snorkeling underwater with freediving Instructor
At number four, this freediving and snorkeling session offers a unique blend of relaxation and skill-building. Over 3 hours, you’ll explore Tenerife’s underwater seabed guided by an experienced freediving instructor.
What sets this apart is the inclusion of yoga, stretching, Qigong, and breathing exercises, all designed to help you relax and connect with the underwater world. The instructor guides you through proper breathing and snorkeling techniques, making it suitable even for beginners who want to go beyond basic snorkeling.
Rated 5 out of 5 based on 5 reviews, participants appreciate the calm, professional guidance and the opportunity to see colorful fish and rays. The focus on breathing and relaxation makes it a peaceful, almost meditative experience.
This tour appeals to travelers interested in a mindful approach to snorkeling or those wanting to improve their underwater skills. It’s a good value considering it includes both instruction and snorkeling.
Bottom line: A perfect choice for those seeking a calmer, more educational snorkeling experience with a focus on mindfulness.
5. Radazul: Family-Friendly Jet Snorkeling Tour
Ideal for families, this underwater scooter tour provides a fun, accessible way to explore Radazul’s clear waters. Rated 5 out of 5 from three reviews, it’s a perfect activity for kids and adults alike.
Using underwater thrusters, participants can cover more ground and see more marine life without requiring advanced swimming skills. The tour lasts 3 hours and includes all necessary equipment and guidance, making it easy for families to join in.
Reviews highlight the activity’s safety, simplicity, and enjoyment—“We loved the underwater scooters—they made snorkeling so much more fun!” It’s best suited for families with children over the age of 8, or anyone wanting a playful, beginner-friendly snorkeling experience.
Bottom line: A safe, lively way for families to experience Tenerife’s marine environment with minimal effort.
6. Abades: Tenerife Turtles and Rays Snorkeling Trip
This snorkeling trip out of Abades offers a chance to swim with sea turtles and rays. Rated 4.7, it’s a half-hour longer at 1.5 hours, and focuses on a specific type of marine encounter.
The trip takes you to a spot where turtles and rays are often seen, with time to jump in and explore the volcanic underwater landscape. The small group size and knowledgeable guide make for an intimate experience, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.
Customers mention the opportunity to see the marine life up close—“Swimming with turtles was unforgettable,” and the guides are praised for their local knowledge. This tour appeals to travelers eager for a targeted marine wildlife experience, especially those wanting to see turtles and rays in their habitat.
Bottom line: A specialized trip for fans of marine creatures, combining snorkeling with a chance to meet some of Tenerife’s iconic sea animals.
7. Tenerife: Alcalá Guided Snorkeling Tour
This guided snorkeling tour in Alcalá is perfect for those who want to explore Tenerife’s underwater world with expert help. It’s rated 5 out of 5 from two reviews, reflecting its quality and focus.
The tour includes a wetsuit, fins, and a guided exploration of the coastal waters, where you can see octopus, starfish, and other fascinating marine life. The 2-hour experience is suitable for beginners and those familiar with snorkeling, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights about the local marine ecosystem.
Guests appreciate the small group size and the chance to observe sea creatures in their natural habitat while learning about the environment. The tour is ideal for travelers who want an educational yet accessible underwater experience.
Bottom line: A great option for those seeking a guided, educational snorkeling adventure with a focus on local marine species.
8. Teno to Masca: Boat trip with snorkeling & drinks
This boat trip follows the scenic route between Punta de Teno and Masca, rated 4.8. It’s a 2-hour trip with snorkeling and sightseeing, perfect for travelers short on time but wanting a taste of Tenerife’s coast.
The trip includes stops at Masca Beach for swimming and snorkeling, as well as photo opportunities at the cliffs. The knowledgeable skipper shares local stories, and a complimentary drink is included. Reviewers highlight the stunning views and the chance to see marine life while relaxing on the boat.
This tour is best suited for those who want a quick, scenic experience with light snorkeling—ideal for families or couples who prefer a relaxed pace.
Bottom line: An excellent short trip combining scenery, marine life, and easy snorkeling.
9. Snorkeling in a Volcanic Bay
Rounding out the list, this volcanic bay snorkeling provides a more intimate, less touristy experience. It’s rated 4.3, with only three reviews, but those reviews highlight its unique landscape and marine diversity.
Exploring Los Abrigos’s volcanic formations, you’ll see starfish, colorful fish, and volcanic rocks. The tour is 1.5 hours, with a professional instructor guiding you through the underwater landscape. Participants receive a photo report of their experience, making it perfect for memorable keepsakes.
This trip appeals to those interested in geology and marine biology alike, seeking a quieter, more specialized snorkeling adventure.
Bottom line: For travelers wanting to combine volcanic scenery with marine life, this offers a peaceful, educational outing.
How to Choose the Right Snorkeling Experience in Tenerife
When selecting your ideal snorkeling trip, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For a luxurious wildlife experience, the luxury yacht offers unmatched comfort and wildlife viewing. If you prefer a more active approach, the kayak tour gives you the chance to paddle along the coast and explore at your own pace.
Families or beginners might enjoy the underwater scooter tour for its ease and fun factor, while wildlife lovers will appreciate the Turtles and Rays trip. For those seeking a mindful experience, the freediving session combines relaxation techniques with underwater discovery.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date. Also, check the weather and sea conditions, as calmer waters greatly enhance the snorkeling experience.
Final Thoughts
Tenerife offers a broad spectrum of snorkeling options, whether you’re after a high-end wildlife cruise, a lively family activity, or a quiet underwater exploration. For a luxurious day with a good chance of whale sightings, the Whales and Snorkeling Tour is hard to beat. If you prefer something more energetic, the kayak adventure provides a hands-on way to discover marine life.
For wildlife enthusiasts, the Turtles and Rays trip is a must, while those interested in mindfulness and skill improvement should consider the freediving experience.
No matter which you choose, booking early and checking the weather will ensure your Tenerife snorkeling adventure is smooth and memorable. Dive in and enjoy exploring this vibrant underwater world — it’s well worth it.