Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
Snorkellingling in Tenerife means swimming on the surface with a mask, a snorkel and sometimes fins, looking at volcanic seabeds, seagrass meadows and fish. You can do it from the shore in sheltered bays in the south or on guided trips, from the beach or from a boat. In some areas you may see turtles, although it is never guaranteed.
This page helps you choose between going on your own or with a guide, get to know the usual spots and know how to behave in the water.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Watching the seabed while swimming on the surface |
| Usual areas | El Puertito (Adeje), Abades, Palm-Mar and Los Cristianos, Las Galletas, La Caleta |
| Formats | On your own, guided trip from the beach, from a boat or combined with kayaking |
| Length of a guided trip | Around 1–2 hours. Depends on the provider |
| Permit | No permit is needed to snorkel |
| Wildlife | Rocky-seabed and seagrass fish; turtles possible, not guaranteed |
| Protection | Part of the south-west coast lies within the Teno-Rasca Marine Strip SAC (ZEC) |
| Price | Depends on the format, the duration and the equipment |
Usual areas
| Area | What it offers | Note |
|---|---|---|
| El Puertito (Adeje) | Small, sheltered bay with seagrass meadows | Very busy; best early in the morning |
| Abades | Sheltered bay, easy entry from the beach | Quiet atmosphere |
| Palm-Mar and Los Cristianos | Low cliffs and coves, often by kayak | See kayak and snorkelling |
| Las Galletas | Sheltered town beach | Good for practising |
| La Caleta | Rocky seabed | Also a diving area |
On your own or with a guide
| Aspect | On your own | With a guide |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | Your own or hired | Included |
| Safety | Up to you | A guide watching over you and choosing the spot |
| Area | From the shore | Can reach better spots by kayak or boat |
| Interpretation | None | Explanation of species and habitats |
| Who it suits | Experienced swimmers | Beginners, families, children |
What happens on a guided trip
- Meeting on the beach or at the port.
- Equipment and briefing: how to breathe through the snorkel and clear your mask.
- Snorkellingling in an area chosen according to sea conditions.
- Return.
Turtles and wildlife: how to behave
- Do not touch or chase turtles or other animals.
- Do not feed them.
- Do not step on or pull up the seagrass meadows (sebadales): they are a protected habitat.
- Keep your distance and let the animals move freely.
Part of the south-west coast belongs to the Teno-Rasca Marine Strip SAC (ZEC Franja Marina Teno-Rasca), with rules on navigation, anchoring and underwater activities.
Who it suits
- Beginners who can swim.
- Families with children, preferably with a guide.
- Anyone who wants to see marine life without diving.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Anyone who cannot swim or is not comfortable in open water: a guided trip with a life jacket may be an option, but ask.
- Days with swell: visibility drops and the risk increases.
How to choose well
- From the beach, a kayak or a boat?
- Which spot, and why?
- Is equipment included? Mask, snorkel, fins, life jacket, wetsuit.
- Do you need to be able to swim?
- How many people per guide?
- What happens if the sea is rough?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Mask and snorkel | Included | Sizes |
| Fins | In some offers | — |
| Life jacket or wetsuit | In some offers | If needed |
| Guide | Included | Language |
| Transport | In some offers | Area |
Safety
- Never snorkel alone.
- Do not go further out than you can comfortably swim back from.
- Watch out for boat traffic near ports.
- Water-resistant sun protection or a rash vest.
Weather and sea
- Mornings are usually calmer in the south.
- After a swell, visibility stays poor for days.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure.
- Format: beach, kayak or boat.
- Duration.
- Equipment and transport.
What to bring
- Swimwear and towel.
- A rash vest and water-resistant sun protection.
- Water shoes if the entry is rocky.
- Your own mask, if you have one that fits well.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Snorkellingling combined with kayaking | Kayak and snorkelling in Tenerife |
| Going deeper | Try dive |
| Seeing the seabed without getting wet | Glass-bottom boat |
| Learning to hold your breath and dive down | Freediving course |
Frequently asked questions
Where can you snorkel in Tenerife?
In sheltered bays in the south such as El Puertito, Abades, Palm-Mar, Las Galletas or La Caleta.
Do you need a permit?
Not for snorkelling.
Do you see turtles?
It is possible in some areas, but not guaranteed.
Do you need to be able to swim?
It is highly recommended. Some guided trips accept participants with a life jacket; ask about it.
Is it better with a guide?
For beginners and families, yes: the guide chooses the spot and keeps watch.
Can I touch the turtles?
No. They must not be touched, chased or fed.