If you’re looking for a destination that offers relaxation, warm weather, and beautiful beaches then most people would recommend Tenerife. But what if you’ve already been there and are looking to go somewhere new? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Read on and discover 5 travel destination alternatives to Tenerife.
Marbella, Spain
A vibrant coastal town located in the South of Spain, Marbella boasts a large number of beautiful sandy beaches, a charming Old Town, and an exciting nightlife.
Marbella’s beaches are some of the most stunning along the Costa del Sol area, offering golden sands, clear waters, and a vibrant atmosphere. Some of the most popular beaches are Playa de Cobapino and Playa de la Fontanilla. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a watersport adventure, Marbella’s beaches have something for everyone.
The coastal town’s city center is known as the Old Town or Casco Antiguo. It is a beautiful, well-maintained area full of small laneways and beautiful bougainvillea. The liveliest area in Marbella’s Old Town is Plaza de los Naranjos, a tiny little square full of shops, restaurants, cafes and bars. In Marbella’s Old Town you can spend many afternoons and evenings either perusing one of the many shops or enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the many cafés.
As previously mentioned, Marbella is known for an exciting nightlife. There are plenty of excellent bars and nightclubs in Old Town and along the beaches of Marbella. The most popular area for a night on the town is, without a doubt, Plaza de los Naranjos. The square sometimes comes alive after sun set with music and dancing.
Madeira, Portugal
Located off the coast of Africa, near Morocco, Madeira is a small Portuguese island. Similar to Tenerife, Madeira boasts a tropical climate with a mountainous landscape. Whether you are looking for a relaxing holiday on the beach or an adventurous one, Madeira has something for everyone.
The unique thing about Madeira’s beaches is that they are quite diverse. They range from the black pebble sort to golden sand, coppery sand and even black sand. Whichever you prefer, know that the sand beaches of Madeira are the ideal area to relax, tan and have a nice swim. The most popular beaches on the island are Ponto do Sol, Praya Formosa and Praia do Porto do Seixal.
Much like in Tenerife, Madeira offers not only the possibility of a relaxing beach holiday but also an adventurous one. If you like exploring nature, then you’ll love the hiking opportunities on Madeira. You can hike on of the island’s 200 levadas (former irrigation channels now used as walking trails). One of the most popular is the PR 6 Levada das 25 Fontes which takes you past stunning waterfalls.
Crete, Greece
The largest and most populous of the Greek islands, Crete is a vibrant place packed with breathtaking beaches, beautiful ancient ruins, and an exciting nightlife. Much like with Tenerife, many people travel to Crete for the sun, sea and sand.
Did you know that Crete is considered to have some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece? If you’re looking for some fun in the sun on a white sandy beach then you’ll love Crete. The island boasts many stunning beaches. Some of the most popular are Balos and Elafonissi. Balos is a wonderful beach in the city of Chania with crystal clear Caribbean-like waters. Elafonissi is even more beautiful with soft white and pink sand and cedar trees along the coastline. You’ll feel like your in paradise.
If you’re interested in a bit of history in-between moments of soaking up the sun, then head to the city of Heraklion. There you’ll find more of the major sites like the Palace of Knossos, which is full of remnants from the Minoan civilization.
For those that like to party, you’ll be happy to know that Crete has a vibrant nightlife. Options range from laid-back taverns to lively nightclubs. In cities like Heraklion and Chania, you’ll find trendy bars and clubs that stay open until the early hours of the morning.
Boracay, Philippines
An island in the Western Visayas of the Philippines, Boracay is one of the most popular in the country and for good reason: white sandy beaches, awesome watersports, and a vibrant nightlife. If a relaxing beach holiday is what you are looking for, then you need to visit Boracay.
The island boasts many amazing beaches, though the crown jewel is White Beach. Famous for its impossibly soft white sands, turquoise waters, and breathtaking sunsets. After sunset, you can watch the area transform into a vibrant place of music and dancing. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, then avoid White Beach and head to Diniwid Beach. It is smaller than White Beach but beautiful, nonetheless.
Beyond the beaches, Boracay has an eye-watering amount of activities available to keep your days full of adventure. You can either dive into the crystal-clear waters by the beaches or go paragliding, windsurfing, paddleboarding or even kayaking. It is highly recommended to give the sunset cruises a try, they offer a magical end to any day.
Boracay’s nightlife is bursting with clubs, bars and unique themes spots on the beaches. From the lively beats at White Beach to the laid back tunes of Bulabog beach, Boracay has something for everyone.
Siargao, Philippines
Located in the Southeastern corner of the Philippines, Siargao is a tropical paradise famous for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, amazing waves and exciting nightlife. Whether you are looking to enjoy a relaxing vacation like one would in Tenerife, surf some waves or simply explore the beautiful nature the island has to offer, Siargao has something for everyone.
Much like Tenerife, Siargao has a variety of amazing white sand beaches. While there are many in the General Luna area (a coastal town on the island), the best ones are up north. Pacifico beach is significantly quieter and less crowded. The same can be said about Alegria beach, which is near the northernmost tip of the island. At Alegria you can find one of the island’s best swimming spots.
If you want to do something more than simply lay on the beach and tan, you can try surfing. Siargao island is considered the best surfing spot in the country. It’s very easy to find lessons. Simply walk to Cloud 9 beach and there you’ll find a plethora of surfboard hire and surf lesson options available.
Fun fact: Siargao is often referred to as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines.”
While Siargao is a laid-back surfer’s paradise during the day, the island comes alive when the sun goes down. Whether you prefer sipping cocktails to live music or doing tequila shots until the early hours to house music, Siargao has some of the best nightlife in the Philippines.
Similar to Tenerife yet different
If you are looking for a destination that combines the beauty of the Canaries with the tranquility of a secluded island, these 5 travel destination might be the perfect choice for you. Try somewhere else than Tenerife and venture to any of these 5 travel destinations for a truly unforgettable vacation.