Contents:
- Welcome to Costa Adeje
- Water Park Wonders
- Playa Paradise
- Marine Magic
- Where to Stay
- How to Get There
Picture this: you’re heading back to your resort after a blissful day at the beach and the sun starts to set, streaking the sky in hues of marigold and crimson. You stop at a pavement café on a quaint side street and enjoy a carajillo while the kids down some fresh orange juice, the scent of cinnamon wafting through the air from the sweet churros being prepared in the kitchen. If this sounds like a slice of paradise and you’re looking for an upscale resort, Costa Adeje could be the perfect destination for your next family holiday!
Welcome to Costa Adeje
You’ll find Costa Adeje on the sun-drenched southern coast of Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands. The town is famed for its laid-back atmosphere and has a reputation for being a hotspot for family-friendly fun.
Whether you’re staying for a few days or a fortnight, there are plenty of activities to get stuck into that’ll keep the whole brood thoroughly entertained. Here are my highlights for a fun-filled trip to Costa Adeje.
Water Park Wonders
Experience the thrills and spills of whizzing down serpentine water slides at Aqualand, known for being the only water park in Tenerife with a dolphinarium. Aqualand’s dolphinarium is home to 10 precious bottlenose dolphins, who are undoubtedly the stars of the show. Learn from the expert trainers how these fascinating creatures live, as you watch them frolicking about and performing tricks up close and personal.
The dolphin show, which was awarded the prestigious title of “best dolphin show in the world” by the International Marine Animal Trainers’ Association (IMATA), runs every day from 3.30pm, so it’s worth getting there nice and early to secure your spot. The show is a dazzling display of the intelligence, strength, and agility of these incredible creatures who can race against each other, soar into the air, and perform aerial acrobatics. Aqualand is committed to the safety and welfare of the mammals and is not only a dolphin sanctuary but also a reproduction centre, hosting the birth of 15 bottlenose dolphins to date.
In addition to the dolphinarium, Aqualand is brimming with rip-roaring rides that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping. If you have a need for speed, check out Kamikaze, a pair of high-speed slides that offer a death-defying drop into the pool below. Twister Racer, a four-slide extravaganza, is a must-visit for those with a competitive streak as you race to see who can get to the bottom first. For the daredevils, try Tsunami, an impressive 21-metre-long slide with a vertiginous descent that will take your breath away.
If, however, action-packed attractions aren’t quite your scene, head to Hydromassage, an open-air spa that features a heated jacuzzi and hydro-massage showers — perfect for an afternoon of unwinding in the Spanish sun. The adults may also enjoy chilling on a sunbed beside the pool or gently floating down Lava River, which takes you through lush vegetation, waterfalls, and even a volcano. If you’re travelling with little ones who would benefit from shallow waters and child-friendly rides, check out the kids’ pool and the heated wave pool.
Another popular attraction in Costa Adeje is Siam Park, Europe’s largest water park. This Thai-themed water park spans 46 acres and was opened by the Princess of Thailand, Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, in 2007.
For the adrenaline junkies, you don’t want to miss Mekong Rapids, a river rapids ride that will see you and the kids hopping in an inflatable rubber raft and winding down a water slide full of twists and turns. Another showstopper is The Vulcano, which involves riding through a water slide plunged in darkness, then plummeting into a “volcano” where you’ll be treated to a sensational laser light show.
If that wasn’t enough, head to Tower of Power, a free-fall water slide that’ll see you nosedive from a height of 28m and reach speeds of up to 80 km/h. The finale is not for the fainthearted, as you’ll finish the ride passing through an aquarium full of sharks, stingrays, and fish.
If you need a break from all these exciting escapades, try bobbing along Mai Thai River, the world’s longest lazy river, which ends with a bubbly jacuzzi. To wrap up your visit, stop by the Floating Market, which will transport you to a traditional Thai village where you can purchase snacks and souvenirs to take back home.
Playa Paradise
There are two Blue Flag beaches to choose from in Costa Adeje. The first is Playa Fañabé, where the amenities have been designed with families in mind. The sloped walkways mean that there’s easy access for pushchairs, and the eateries and kiosks on the promenade offer kids’ menus and can be directly accessed from the beach. The waters are calm and shallow, making the conditions ideal for the little ones to paddle about on the shore, especially if they’re learning to swim. There’s also lifeguards on duty throughout the year, ensuring swimmers’ safety. You’ll find sunbeds and parasols available for hire, as well as locker rooms with showers and toilets, so all the facilities you need are a stone’s throw away from each other.
Contrasting with Playa Fañabé’s dark volcanic sands, Playa del Duque is characterised by its golden, fine-grain sands imported from the Sahara. This protected bay is popular with tourists, so if you’re looking for a bit of peace and quiet, try Playa del Pinta instead. From the palm-lined boardwalk and the bamboo umbrellas to the restaurants serving traditional Canarian tapas, there’s an unmatched air of sophistication and authenticity about Playa del Duque, which you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. There’s nothing like decompressing on a sun lounger in the glorious sunshine while you listen to the waves gently lapping the shore. Make it a reality at Playa del Duque!
Marine Magic
Create memories to last a lifetime by embarking on a catamaran cruise from Costa Adeje. The little ones will delight at the sight of the whales, dolphins, and turtles that populate the island’s tropical waters, which can be observed in their natural habitat through the glass-bottom boats. Most operators have multilingual guides on board, so you can learn about the wildlife around you.
A popular route sets off from the scenic harbour of Puerto Colón and sails along the north-western seafront towards the Los Gigantes cliffs. If you’re lucky, you’ll pass the Teno-Rasca marine strip, a special conservation area home to over 25 different species of cetaceans. In 2021, the Tenerife-La Gomera Marine Area, which encompasses Teno-Rasca, became the first designated Whale Heritage Site in Europe, in honour of the region’s marine biodiversity and commitment to responsible whale watching.
Most boat trips offer a stopover, such as near the magnificent cliffs of Masca Bay or the gorgeous natural beach Playa Diego Hernández, where you and the kids can grab lunch and go for a swim. You can soak up the sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean while admiring the majesty of the sea creatures around you. This aquatic adventure is sure to be an unforgettable one.
There’s no doubt that Costa Adeje is a prime resort for families looking for a reasonably active holiday but also a chance to lounge on the beach. Whether you’re whooshing down water slides or wandering along the waterfront, Costa Adeje’s star attractions are bound to keep everyone entertained. Once you’ve decided what’s on the agenda, it’s time to start thinking about accommodation.
Where to Stay
Atlantic Holiday Hotel: If you’d like easy access to the beach, Atlantic Holiday Hotel is the resort for you. Playa de Abajo is only 100 m away, and Playa Las Galgas is 0.8 miles from the complex. Guests have access to a solarium and two pools which are heated in the winter. Rooms are complete with modern decor and equipped with a TV, kitchenette, and free WiFi. Meanwhile, the onsite restaurant Sea Soul serves local cuisine and offers stunning sea views.
Villa Namaste: This rustic property is located less than a mile away from Playa de Fañabé and Playa de Torviscas, putting you right in the heart of the action. Relax with a glass of cava and take in the magnificent vista of the sun setting behind the mountains from the patio. Guests can enjoy paddling in the outdoor swimming pool, working out in the fitness centre, or challenging the kids to a game of table tennis. The property also comes with a terrace, barbecue facilities, and free private parking.
Residencias Sol Paraiso: This stylish property is only 750 yards away from Playa El Pinque and less than five miles away from various local attractions, including Teide National Park and El Duque Castle. A well-stocked minimarket is available at the apartment for your comfort and convenience. It’s all about the little luxuries at Residencias Sol Paraiso, with a fully equipped kitchen, a flat-screen TV, and a walk-in shower. Guests can also enjoy the great outdoors in the open-air picnic area next to the apartment.
How to Get There
The most straightforward way to get to Costa Adeje is to fly to Tenerife South Airport (TFS) and pre-book a transfer with Shuttle Direct to your accommodation. Several carriers offer direct flights to Tenerife South, including Qatar Airways, Jet2.com, easyJet, Ryanair, TUI, British Airways, Iberia, and BA Euroflyer. The cheapest month to fly is in March, and the flight to Tenerife South takes approximately four and a half hours from the UK. There are over 350 flights a week, so you’re bound to find an affordable option to suit your travel needs.
Overview
UK to TFS: 4 hours 32 minutes
TFS to Costa Adeje: 19 kilometres
Shuttle Direct transfer time: 14 minutes
Types of Transfer
It’s fair to say that each traveller is unique and has their own ideal budget and logistical requirements. That’s why at Shuttle Direct we offer you a host of options so that every traveller’s needs are catered for.
Taxi: When travelling by airport taxi, Tenerife South to Costa Adeje will be an easy and effortless journey. Gone are the days of hanging about in a taxi queue for transportation. By pre-booking with Shuttle Direct, a taxi will be ready and waiting for you upon landing. With our punctual service, you can guarantee that your taxi will arrive at the airport on time, and our offering of service with a smile will start your holiday the right way.
Shuttle bus: If your priority is value for money, transfer from Tenerife South Airport to Costa Adeje by shuttle bus. Although this isn’t a door-to-door service, the cost savings make this option particularly desirable. You’ll meet at a prearranged location at the airport and then hop aboard a clean, modern shuttle bus and be transported to a drop-off point in the centre of Costa Adeje, which will be near your accommodation.
Private transfer: With a private transfer from Tenerife South Airport to Costa Adeje, your journey will be hassle-free. Our helpful and experienced drivers know the best route to get you to your destination as quickly and safely as possible. This luxury service is reasonably priced and means that you can save the bulk of your holiday budget on what matters. A friendly, professional driver will simply meet you inside the terminal and drop you off at the doorstep of your accommodation.
Minibus transfer: If you’re travelling with a large group, such as extended family, a minibus transfer from Tenerife South Airport to Costa Adeje is the most efficient option for you. Instead of your party travelling in separate taxis, which would rack up your travel costs significantly, the larger capacity vehicle means that everyone can ride in the same minibus and bring along their luggage. This is especially handy if you’re travelling with multiple buggies and need extra space to accommodate them.
Choosing the Right Transfer
When deciding which option to choose for your airport transfer, the consideration comes down to cost and convenience, and which one you value more. Only once this decision is clarified can you find the best option to suit your needs.
Cost: If you’re focused on saving money, then your best bet is to opt for a shared shuttle bus. Because the cost is split between multiple passengers, a shuttle bus is cheaper than a private service. Even though you won’t be delivered to the door of your accommodation, you won’t be out of pocket by the end of the ride either!
Convenience: If you’d prefer to have your own space and you’re prepared to pay a little extra for it, then go for a private transfer or a minibus transfer, which offer you door-to-door convenience. While the costs are slightly higher, you’ll have the luxury of travelling alone without stops or delays along the way.
About Shuttle Direct
At Shuttle Direct, we’re incredibly proud of our reputation for being market leaders in reliable airport transfers to and from a long list of destinations all over the world. From economical shuttle buses to high-end private transfers, we’ve got options to suit the whims of every kind of traveller. When you choose Shuttle Direct, logistical nightmares become a thing of the past. Book with us today and we’ll make your journey comfortable and pleasant every step of the way.
