When it comes to destinations that are the perfect mix of fun in the sun and dancing in the dark, you can’t beat Playa de las Americas. This popular paradise, located in Tenerife, is a favourite among students and young adults – and you don’t have to look very hard to see why. It suits a variety of youthful travellers, whether you’re a beach bum who just wants to catch that perfect tan, a party animal looking to rave the night away or an adrenaline junkie dying for a thrill.
If You’re Looking to Relax…
…the beach is the place to be! The most popular in Playa de las Americas (and perhaps the most well known in all of Tenerife) is Playa de Troya. The sand here is fine-grained, gorgeous and golden, and there are large areas filled with sun loungers for those who just want to stretch out, soak up the rays and listen to the crystal-clear waves lapping against the shore. If all that relaxation causes you to work up an appetite, have no fear – you needn’t bring snacks with you as you’ll find the seafront is filled with a high selection of tasty restaurants.
Top Tip: If you’re worried about getting burned, set up camp under a sun lounger that comes with a parasol.
If You’re Looking for Adventure…
…you’ll find it at Siam Park, a Thai-inspired waterpark. Adrenaline junkies will have their pick of heart racing thrills. Here are some of my top recommendations for anyone who wants to get their pulse pounding:
- The Vulcano – You and three mates will be seated in clover-shaped tubes as you race down a pitch-black waterslide before falling into a volcano where you will witness a laser light show.
- Tower of Power – This one is definitely not for the faint of heart. Fly down this extremely tall slide (you could reach speeds of 80 kilometres per hour!), and finish your journey by passing through an aquarium filled with rays and sharks.
- Singha – This water rollercoaster will have you sailing around curve after curve in 14 different directions… do you think you can handle it?
If You’re Looking to Party…
…you have definitely come to the right place. Playa de las Americas is known as the party capital of Tenerife for very good reason. You’ll find literally hundreds of venues, from bumping nightclubs to buzzing beach bars. The main area for nightlife is along the beach and in the centre of town, where you can find popular joints such as Linekers Bar (a pub popular with British tourists), Tramps (known as the King of Clubs), Sax Bar (the best place for live music) and much, much more.
Top Tip: The true party animals will want to head to Veronica’s strip, an area that is open all night and is perfect for anyone looking for cheap booze, drinking games and a markedly younger crowd.
Where to Stay
Hotel-Apartamentos Andorra – These apartments are an optimum choice for a group of friends travelling together. The rooms have got a well-equipped kitchen with all the trimmings for when you’re too hungover or sunburnt to be bothered to go anywhere for a meal. If you’d rather not stay in, you can take advantage of their bars, restaurant or swimming pool. Venture further afield and you’ll be smack dab in the middle of a high selection of restaurants, shops and bars – all within a five-minute walk of Hotel-Apartamentos Andorra.
Catalonia Oro Negro – This hotel is one of the top picks in the area for many. It features a large outdoor swimming pool, bars that provide evening entertainment, a buffet breakfast and a restaurant where you can have your lunches and dinners. Plus its location is fantastic – it’s very close to the city centre. You won’t be wanting for much at Catalonia Oro Negro.
How to Get There
From the UK, a flight to Tenerife South Airport (TFS) is just over four hours – so indulge in a tipple or two on the plane to pass the time. Thankfully that’s the longest leg of the journey. Once you touch down, you can get from the airport to Playa de las Americas in just 20 minutes.
Taking an airport shuttle to your accommodation will be your easiest (and most reliable) option. If you pre-book with Shuttle Direct, your driver will be waiting for you as soon as you touch down. I’d recommend choosing a shared transfer – not only will it be a bit less expensive, you might even meet some other travellers you can hang out with throughout your holiday.
Overview
- UK to TFS Flight Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- TFS to Playa de las Americas Distance: 19 kilometres
- Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 20 minutes
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct provides reliable, efficient and affordable airport transfers all across the globe. For more information or to book a ride, check out our website or get in touch with our knowledgeable team members.
