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If you’re looking to escape the cold this winter, you’ll love the island of Tenerife, a dream destination for digital nomads in Europe. Let’s face it, being a digital nomad is a little bit like being a snowbird. As soon as it gets a little cooler, you start looking for places with more sunshine and warmer temperatures in the hopes of finding an eternal summer.
Considered the jewel of the Canary Islands, this Spanish oasis located off the coast of Morocco boasts a heavenly setup for remote work. Tenerife has an ideal climate, so you can practically guarantee a perfect day in the sun any time of the year. The island is also home to many stunning beaches, a laid-back vibe, and stunning scenery. What’s not to love?
Digital nomads will enjoy Tenerife’s endless entertainment options. So dust off your backpack from the back of your closet, grab your laptop, and get ready for a new adventure that won’t disappoint!
This guide will provide you with all the information you need to set up in Tenerife as a digital nomad.
Why do digital nomads love Tenerife in the Canary Islands?
With 12 hours of sunshine a day and a temperature that rarely drops below 15 degrees Celsius, there is no doubt that Tenerife is one of the best destinations to settle for a few months. Where else can you find year-round warm weather, breathtaking landscape, vibrant cities, and a lower cost of living than the rest of Europe?
Whether it’s exploring spectacular volcanic landscapes or soaking up the sun on beautiful tropical beaches, there’s plenty to keep even the most hyperactive digital nomad busy. Umm… yes, please!
Plus, with a reliable internet connection that allows for seamless Zoom meetings, you’ll have no problem staying connected with the rest of the world! Because of the benefits it offers, it is easy to see why Tenerife is a haven for digital nomads from around the globe.
Where to stay in Tenerife as a digital nomad?
Tenerife is divided into two distinct regions, the north and the south, separated by the Teide Volcano National Park.
Both sides offer something unique, so it all comes down to personal preference and the type of experience you’re after. In the north, the climate is cooler, the vegetation is lush, and the villages are small, authentic, and have an old-world charm. In addition to having some of the most beautiful beaches on the island, such as Playa de las Teresitas and Playa Jardín, it also offers many hiking trails, such as those found in the Anaga Rural Park.
If you’re looking for an almost guaranteed warmer climate, then head south! You can expect beautiful sunny days (even in winter!) as well as more touristy towns within the area (which have better infrastructure).
Here are four cities to explore as a digital nomad in Tenerife:
Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Amongst the list of places to visit in Tenerife, Santa Cruz, the capital city of Tenerife, should be high on the list for those seeking an urban adventure. Digital nomads flock here to immerse themselves in Spanish culture and experience the city’s cosmopolitan vibe and exciting nightlife. Plus, there are plenty of coworking spaces in the area, such as Workeamos Coworking, Espacio Kernel Cowork & Cooperate, Coworking Nomad and Ingenio Coworking Space.
If you’re in the mood for a little beach relaxation, head to Playa de Las Teresitas, which is only 30 minutes away from the city by bus. In contrast to the island’s other black-sand volcanic beaches, this beach is renowned for its white sand, which was imported from the Sahara desert. Definitely worth checking out!
For a mini-escapade, head to San Cristóbal de la Laguna, a beautiful colonial town and UNESCO World Heritage Site just outside of Santa Cruz.
The airport of Tenerife Norte is conveniently located nearby, as is a port with frequent ferry services to Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and major European cities.
Puerto de la Cruz
Digital nomads who prefer the beach atmosphere will love this charming little town known as Tenerife’s ‘tourist capital’! Puerto de la Cruz offers many activities, such as surfing lessons at Playa Martiánez, excursions to the Teide volcano (the highest volcano in Spain), as well as delicious seafood restaurants. If you have time between meetings, don’t forget to check out Playa Jardin, one of the island’s most impressive black-sand beaches.
The best part is that there are plenty of affordable accommodation options throughout the area, so it is easy to stay connected while you are having fun in the sun! Hostelworld ranks Puerto Nest Hostel as one of the best hostels on the island, offering a little workspace and complimentary breakfast on the rooftop!
El Médano
Are you an adrenaline junkie? If so, you’ll LOVE the small town of El Médano, located right next to Tenerife Sur airport. With a wide range of activities, including world-class water sports, it is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whatever your level of experience, you will have the chance to surf, kitesurf, windsurf or try out a hydrofoil board. Many schools are also available for those interested in learning any of these sports.
The vibe here is relaxed, and there are plenty of lovely little shops and cafes to work in. If you’re looking for a breathtaking view of El Médano, consider taking a hike up Montana Roja in your free time. Then head to the other side of the mountain to enjoy Playa de la Tejita, a sandy beach sheltered from the wind where swimwear is… optional!
Los Cristianos, Las Americas et Costa Adeje
Those looking to be in the centre of the action should head to the southwest side of the island, one of the most popular destinations in Tenerife for digital nomads! Here you’ll find beautiful beaches with crystal clear waters, such as Playa de las Vistas, Playa Duque and Playa Diego Hernandez, as well as plenty of bars, cafes and restaurants to explore. The nightlife in the city is especially vibrant, so it’s a perfect place to hang out and let loose after a long day of work.
Los Cristianos is considered one of the most lively towns in Tenerife. The town offers easy access to public transport, excellent coworking spaces, and a wide range of services that allow you to be connected and productive at any time.
Las Americas, a popular tourist destination, is only a 15- to 20-minute walk away from Los Cristianos and features a great selection of restaurants, nightlife venues, and shops. It is also one of the most popular surfing spots on the island.
A more quiet area is Costa Adeje, with its luxury hotels and large expat community. You’ll love the vibe at La Tortuga Hostel, which is great for solo travellers.
Whichever part of Tenerife appeals to you most as a digital nomad, there’s bound to be something that will suit your style just right!
Comment se trouver un logement à Tenerife?
Finding a place to stay in Tenerife that works for you shouldn’t be too challenging because there are many options available to suit a wide range of budgets and preferences. Hostels, Airbnbs and hotels offer everything from basic accommodation to luxury suites with all the latest amenities. In addition, several long-term rental flats are available on the island if you plan to stay longer than a few weeks.
Many co-living apartments have also sprung up in Tenerife in recent years. Coliving is an ideal solution for digital nomads looking for a flexible, all-in-one solution that fits their lifestyle. Here are some coliving options in Tenerife:
- Nine Coliving in Orotava
- The Point Surf club in Playa de las Americas
- Ikigai Coliving in Puerto de la Cruz
- Taoro Coliving in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Maraya Coliving in the countryside around Candelaria
- Amarilla Coliving in the mountains near Puerto de la Cruz
- Palma Coliving in Costa Adeje
How to get around in Tenerife?
Tenerife is one of the best-served islands in the Canary Islands. Using the TITSA green bus system is a safe and easy way to get around the island, with public transport being the most popular option. Even the Teide Volcano National Park is accessible by bus! It makes planning treks on your days off so easy!
There is so much to see and do on this beautiful island, so if you want to explore it at your own pace (and if your budget permits), hiring a car might just be the best option for you.
However, you’re unlikely to find a rental car with an automatic transmission in Europe, so if you’re planning on renting a car, be sure you can drive a manual car.
How much does it cost to live as a digital nomad in Tenerife?
The cost of living in Tenerife, a European destination where prices are in euros, may seem daunting at first, but you can easily find ways to make it work for your budget.
Buying local produce and cooking most of your meals at home will lower your food costs. In the same way, you can drastically reduce your costs if you use public transportation to get around. Finally, you will pay much less for a room in a shared flat if you plan on staying longer.
Examples of costs in Tenerife:
- A pint of beer at Los Cristianos on the beach: 2€ (CA$2,90)
- A dorm room in a hostel in Puerto de la Cruz:from 28€/night (CA$41)
- A bus ride to Teide National Park: 4,10-8,15€ (CA$5,35-10,60)
- Dinner at a restaurant in El Médano with a glass of wine: 12-15€ (CA$15,50-20)
- Groceries for a week at Aldi or Super Dino: about 25€ (CA$32,50)
According to Nomadlist, you should budget around €1,893/month (CAD$2,465) to live in Tenerife as a digital nomad, staying in a studio in the city centre and eating out 3x/day.
Which visa allows you to be a digital nomad in Tenerife?
As a digital nomad in Tenerife, you have several options depending on your age and the length of your stay:
- For a stay of less than three months, regardless of age: no visa is required, as it is part of the Schengen area.
- If you are a Canadian between 18-35 years old: the Working Holiday Visa allows you to travel and work in Spain for one year (12 months).
What to do in Tenerife? The best activities for digital nomads
Due to its year-round temperate climate, Tenerife is ideally suited for outdoor activities such as surfing, road and mountain biking, hiking, and mountain climbing.
The island also has beautiful beaches, perfect for taking a break and enjoying the sun. Playa Diego Hernandez, a lovely beach tucked away at the end of a short (15–20 minute) hike, is a local’s favourite.
Many water activities are also available, including boat trips, sailing trips, and whale watching. Divers can also enjoy scuba diving on the island, with several dive centers offering day trips and half-day excursions.
Watching the sunrise from the top of the Teide volcano is a truly unique experience you won’t want to miss. You can do this on your own or as part of a guided tour, but it is advised that you go with a guide because the trek lasts 5–6 hours and starts in the middle of the night.
Additionally, the Teide Volcano National Park offers a wide variety of hikes appropriate for hikers of all skill levels. Route 3 leads you from Mirador Llano de Ucanca to Félix Méndez to Roque Cinchado to La Catedral. This short, spectacular hike only takes about two hours.
The island is home to a variety of cultural landmarks, such as Masca, a charming old town with cobbled streets and breathtaking mountain views.
Resources for digital nomads in Tenerife
There are several Facebook groups for digital nomads in Tenerife where you can ask questions and connect with others who have already experienced life on the island. Here are a few that you may find helpful when planning your trip:
- Digital Nomads Community Tenerife
- Tenerife Remote Workers & Digital Nomads
- Tenerife Digital Nomad Community South and North
- Tenerife South – Digital Nomad – Remote Workers – Entrepreneur – Community
There you have it: the ultimate digital nomad guide to Tenerife! If you are searching for a beautiful beach destination with perfect weather year-round, a place with plenty of outdoor activities to keep you occupied, or just a place to relax and work on your tan, Tenerife will not disappoint.
Whether you’re travelling for pleasure or working remotely, make sure you have travel insurance before you go!
Discuss travel insurance options for Tenerife with soNomad
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