The Canary Islands are a group of islands located in the Atlantic Ocean, off the coast of Africa. They are a popular tourist destination, known for their beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and warm climate. May is a great time to visit the Canary Islands, as the weather is warm and sunny, but not too hot. There are also many festivals and events taking place in May, so there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are nine of the best things to do in the Canary Islands in May:
1. Visit the Teide National Park
The Teide National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is home to Mount Teide, the highest mountain in Spain. The park is a great place to go hiking, biking, or simply take in the stunning scenery. There are also many opportunities to see wildlife, such as the Barbary sheep and the Canary Island lizard.
2. Relax on the beaches
The Canary Islands are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The beaches are white sand, and the waters are crystal clear. There are many different beaches to choose from, so you can find one that is perfect for you. Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax, you will find the perfect beach in the Canary Islands.
3. Explore the towns and villages
The Canary Islands are home to many charming towns and villages. The towns are filled with whitewashed houses, cobblestone streets, and traditional Canarian architecture. There are also many churches, museums, and historical sites to explore. Be sure to visit the town of La Laguna, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. Go whale watching
The Canary Islands are a great place to go whale watching. The waters around the islands are home to a variety of whales, including sperm whales, pilot whales, and dolphins. There are many boat tours that offer whale watching trips. You can also see whales from the shore, if you are lucky.
5. Visit the Timanfaya National Park
The Timanfaya National Park is a volcanic national park located on the island of Lanzarote. The park is home to a variety of volcanic landscapes, including lava flows, volcanoes, and craters. There are also many hiking trails in the park, so you can explore the park at your own pace.
6. Go surfing
The Canary Islands are a great place to go surfing. The waves are consistent, and there are many different surf spots to choose from. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, you will find the perfect waves in the Canary Islands.
7. Try the local cuisine
The Canary Islands have a unique cuisine, which is influenced by Spanish, African, and Latin American flavors. There are many traditional dishes to try, such as papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes), mojo sauce, and gofio (a type of cornmeal). Be sure to also try the local wines, which are made from grapes grown on the islands.
8. Go shopping
The Canary Islands are a great place to go shopping. The islands are home to many duty-free shops, so you can find great deals on a variety of goods. You can also find many local souvenirs, such as pottery, textiles, and jewelry.
9. Get active
The Canary Islands are a great place to get active. There are many opportunities for hiking, biking, swimming, and surfing. You can also go horseback riding, rock climbing, and paragliding. If you are looking for a more relaxed activity, you can go for a walk along the beach or play a round of golf.
Culture
The Canary Islands have a rich culture, which is influenced by Spanish, African, and Latin American traditions. The islands are home to many traditional festivals and events, such as the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, which is one of the largest carnivals in the world.
Best Months to Visit
The Canary Islands can be visited year-round, but the best months to visit are May and June. The weather is warm and sunny during these months, but not too hot. There are also many festivals and events taking place during these months.
Nearby Transportation
The Canary Islands are well-connected by air and sea. There are several airports on the islands, and there are also regular ferry services between the islands and mainland Spain.
Local Food
The Canary Islands have a unique cuisine, which is influenced by Spanish, African, and Latin American flavors. There are many traditional dishes to try, such as papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes), mojo sauce, and gofio (a type of cornmeal).
Best Hotels
There are many great hotels in the Canary Islands. Here are a few of the best:
- The Ritz-Carlton, Abama
- The Hotel Botánico
- The Hotel Las Palmas
- The Hotel Santa Catalina
- The Hotel Tigaiga
Conclusion
The Canary Islands are a great place to visit for a relaxing beach vacation or an active adventure. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from stunning beaches and beautiful scenery to charming towns and historical sites. Be sure to add the Canary Islands to your travel list!