Must-Visit Water Parks in Tenerife

Siam Park is regularly voted the best water park in the world and is undoubtedly the European leader in aquatic fun. The site is huge and big enough to contain Siam Beach, an enormous wave pool creating the largest artificial waves on the planet, and dozens of other rides. A dizzying network of waterslides, including the nearly vertical Tower of Power, tempts adrenaline junkies, while the Lost City is best suited for younger visitors who will revel in its waterfalls, mini slides and bridges. Adults of all ages can appreciate this stunning Thai-themed park, which has won numerous awards and continues to attract thousands of visitors every year. There is a free bus service from Los Cristianos, Playa de las Americas and Costa Adeje, or you can park there all day for just €4 (£3.60).

Though not as large as Siam Park, Aqualand competes with its neighbour with cheaper entrance tickets, an unforgettable dolphin show and more rides for younger children. Formerly known as Octopus Aquapark, Aqualand has had significant investment and renovation in recent years and now covers a vast area with waterfalls, spectacular rides, terraces for sunbathers and amusement areas for toddlers. Perhaps the water park’s greatest attraction is the dolphin show. Watch 11 bottlenose dolphins and their dedicated trainers regale and educate guests with their impressive physical and mental prowess every day at 3:30pm. The show is both fascinating and entertaining and has won several international awards. The park is open every day of the year from 10am to 5pm (and until 6pm in July and August). There’s a free shuttle service from Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos.

El Lago Martiánez is not your typical water park. It was designed by Canary Island artist and architect César Manrique, with contributions from other creative minds such as Wilhelm Reich, and the result is a unique blend of art and leisure. The complex is adjacent to the sea and includes an array of seven swimming pools with floating islands, thundering waterfalls and immaculate gardens, adorned with beautiful mosaics and sculptures. If you fancy a brief respite from the sea views and poolside relaxation, Lago Martiánez is named after its huge onsite, artificial, saltwater lake, fringed with beaches and gardens. In total the site covers 100,000sqm (1,076,391sqft), and you could easily fill an entire vacation here. El Lago Martiánez is the central attraction of the cosmopolitan town Puerto de la Cruz. It is located beside Playa de Martiánez, a black-sand beach, and is easily accessible from the town. Children may be disappointed by the lack of slides, but most adults will appreciate the tranquility and charm of El Lago Martiánez.