Whale & Dolphin Watching in Tenerife
The stretch of Atlantic between south-west Tenerife and La Gomera is one of the most reliable places in Europe to see cetaceans. A resident population of short-finned pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins lives here year-round, joined seasonally by other species. Most trips leave from the south-west marinas — Los Cristianos, Puerto Colón in Costa Adeje, and Los Gigantes — so whale watching is primarily a South Tenerife experience. Choose a licensed, responsible operator carrying the 'Barco Azul' (Blue Boat) flag, which marks boats authorised to approach marine mammals under Canarian regulations.
Tuxyso / Wikimedia Commons
- Resident pilot whales and dolphins seen year-round
- Departures from Los Cristianos, Puerto Colón and Los Gigantes (South/South-West)
- Often combined with a swim stop along the Los Gigantes cliffs
- Look for the 'Barco Azul' flag — licensed, responsible operators
Book a whale watching experience
Bookable tickets, tours and activities from our partners.
Los Gigantes: 5-Hr Guided Whale Watching Cruise from Costa Adeje + Lunch
From €61
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Tenerife: 6-Hour Private Sailing Tour to Los Gigantes with Swim, Drink & Tapas
From €850
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Places for whale watching
Attractions and spots across Tenerife connected to this interest.
Good to know
- Where trips leave from
- Mainly the south-west marinas: Los Cristianos, Puerto Colón (Costa Adeje) and Los Gigantes.
- Typical duration
- Shorter trips run around 2–3 hours; all-day sailings are longer. Confirm details with the operator at booking.
- Best conditions
- The south-west coast is sheltered and calm most mornings; afternoons can be breezier.
- What to bring
- Sun protection, water, a light layer and motion-sickness tablets if you're sensitive to swell.
- Responsible viewing
- Choose operators displaying the 'Barco Azul' flag, which are authorised to approach cetaceans under Canarian rules.
Frequently asked questions
- Yes. Short-finned pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins are resident in the waters off the south-west coast and are seen throughout the year, with other species appearing seasonally.