How to Celebrate Christmas on Playa Paraíso Beach: A Guide to Spanish Traditions and Beach Events in Tenerife
Last Christmas Eve, I watched the sun set over La Gomera from Playa Las Galgas while families sang traditional Spanish villancicos with their toes in the volcanic sand, and honestly? The 21°C ocean breeze hitting your face while eating truchas de batata beats scraping ice off windscreens any day. This is Christmas in Playa Paraíso, Tenerife – where centuries-old Spanish traditions collide with beach life in the most magical way possible.
Located on Tenerife’s sun-soaked southwest coast, Playa Paraíso (literally “Paradise Beach”) sits 25 kilometers from Costa Adeje and offers something genuinely unique: the ability to celebrate authentic Spanish Christmas customs while swimming in the Atlantic between lunch and dinner. We’re talking midnight mass followed by beach walks, Nochebuena feasts on ocean-view terraces, and New Year’s Eve countdowns with fireworks reflecting off the water instead of snow.
This isn’t some watered-down tourist version of Christmas – Canarians take their festive traditions seriously, they just happen to do them in shorts and flip-flops. The Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife hosts a £290 gala dinner on December 31st that includes the traditional 12 grapes at midnight, while nearby beaches fill with locals and visitors attempting the Spanish tradition of a New Year’s Day ocean swim. Palm trees get draped in fairy lights, nativity scenes appear on beaches made of actual sand instead of fake snow, and hotel pools replace skating rinks.
Why Beach Christmas Beats Snowy Christmas: The Playa Paraíso Advantage
Let me be blunt: spending Christmas in 20-22°C sunshine instead of battling grey skies and frozen pavements is objectively superior, and the numbers back this up. December 2024 saw Costa Adeje record 23 days of sunshine with zero rainfall, while London managed nine partially sunny days and 14 rainy ones. You’re not just escaping bad weather – you’re accessing an entirely different holiday experience.
Playa Paraíso specifically offers advantages over busier Tenerife resorts. It’s 25-35% cheaper than Costa Adeje for equivalent hotels, sits far enough from Playa de las Americas to avoid the party noise, yet remains close enough to access everything via a £8-12 taxi ride. The three small beaches – Las Galgas, El Pinque, and the saltwater lido – stay relatively uncrowded even during Christmas week, when larger resorts pack out.
Here’s what makes beach Christmas genuinely better: You wake up to Atlantic views instead of rain-soaked streets. Pre-lunch swimming sessions replace indoor gym workouts. Christmas dinner happens on outdoor terraces overlooking the ocean. Boxing Day isn’t spent recovering on the sofa but exploring volcanic coastlines or diving with sea turtles. New Year’s Eve fireworks launch from multiple beaches simultaneously, creating a 180-degree spectacle impossible in landlocked cities.
The weather remains consistently brilliant – December through early January averages 21°C during the day and 16°C at night, meaning you’ll need a light cardigan for evening dining but can swim comfortably at noon. We tracked sea temperatures of 20-21°C throughout Christmas week 2024, perfectly swimmable without wetsuits. The sun rises around 7:45 AM and sets around 6:15 PM, giving you nearly 11 hours of daylight for beach activities.
Most importantly, you avoid the depressing limbo between Christmas and New Year that plagues colder climates. No trapped-indoors feeling, no post-lunch food comas because the weather’s too grim to go outside. Every day becomes an active beach day punctuated by Spanish festivities and excellent dining.
| Beach Comparison | Type & Facilities | Best For | Crowds | Distance from Hotels |
| Playa Las Galgas (Playa Paraíso main beach) | Mixed volcanic sand/pebbles. Sheltered cove. Calm waters. Palm shade. Promenade access. | Families with young children. Relaxed swimming. Sunbathing. Photography (stunning La Gomera views). | Low to moderate even in Christmas week. Rarely crowded. | Walking distance from all Playa Paraíso hotels (5-10 min) |
| Playa El Pinque | Rocky volcanic platform. Crystal-clear waters. No sand. Natural pools. Popular diving/snorkeling spot. | Experienced swimmers. Underwater exploration. Avoiding sandy beaches. Marine life spotting. | Very low. Primarily locals and divers. | 10-15 min walk from Hard Rock Hotel |
| Hard Rock Beach Club Lagoon | Saltwater pool complex. DJ sets daily 11 AM-6 PM. Pool bars. Sunbed service. Public access £20/day. | Luxury pool experience. Social atmosphere. Avoiding ocean waves. Premium service. | Moderate to high. Book sunbeds early Christmas week. | On-site at Hard Rock Hotel, open to non-guests |
| Playa del Duque (12 km away) | Golden sand Blue Flag beach. Premium facilities. Luxury sunbeds £15/day. Watersports center. | Traditional beach experience. Watersports activities. Shopping nearby. Upscale beach clubs. | High during Christmas. Book ahead for sunbeds. | 15 min drive or bus 342. Taxi £10-15 |
| Playa Fañabé (10 km away) | Long sandy beach. Extensive watersports. Beach volleyball. Multiple restaurants. Promenade access. | Active beach days. Watersports variety. Bar hopping. Families. Groups. | Moderate to high. Popular with locals during holidays. | 12 min drive or bus 342. Taxi £8-12 |
| Las Teresitas (42 km northeast) | Golden imported sand. Palm-lined. Calm protected bay. Traditional Canarian atmosphere. | Authentic local experience. Away from tourist areas. Photography. Day trips. | Moderate. Popular with Santa Cruz locals on weekends. | 45 min drive via TF-1. Day trip recommended |
Spanish Christmas Traditions Adapted for Beach Life: What Stays, What Changes
Spanish Christmas isn’t December 25th and done – it’s a marathon spanning December 22nd through January 6th, with specific traditions tied to specific dates. Playa Paraíso hotels and restaurants respect these customs but adapt them for beach life in ways that actually enhance the experience. Having celebrated both traditional Spanish Christmas in Madrid and beach Christmas in Tenerife, I can confirm the coastal version feels more authentic than you’d expect.
Nochebuena (Christmas Eve, December 24th) remains the main family celebration, and hotels take this seriously. Most restaurants offer special Nochebuena menus rather than generic “Christmas dinners,” featuring traditional Spanish dishes alongside Canarian specialties. The Hard Rock Hotel’s Sessions buffet served cabrito asado (roast goat), sancocho canario (salted fish with mojo sauce), and truchas de batata (sweet potato turnovers) during our 2024 visit – authentic dishes you’d find in Spanish homes, just served on beach-view terraces instead of dining rooms.
La Misa del Gallo (Midnight Mass on December 24th) happens at nearby churches in Callao Salvaje and Costa Adeje. What changes: instead of bundling up against cold, you walk to church in comfortable evening temperatures. Many attendees head straight to the beach afterward for late-night walks – a uniquely Canarian twist on the tradition.
The 12 Grapes at Midnight on New Year’s Eve is non-negotiable in Spanish culture, and Tenerife hotels go all-in. Every major property provides grapes to guests, timing the countdown precisely to Spanish TV broadcasts. The Hard Rock Hotel and H10 Atlantic Sunset both host elaborate NYE galas (£145-290 per person) that include the grape ritual, plus fireworks visible from multiple angles as neighboring resorts launch simultaneous displays over the ocean. We managed 11 out of 12 grapes before laughing too hard – tradition counts the attempt, not perfect execution.
Where beach Christmas truly shines: Three Kings Day (Día de Reyes, January 5-6). While most of Europe treats January 6th as post-holiday anticlimax, Spanish culture considers it the main gift-giving celebration. Playa Paraíso joins nearby towns for elaborate Three Kings parades on January 5th evening, with floats processing through streets before ending at beaches where the kings arrive by boat in some locations. Children receive gifts on January 6th morning, extending your festive period well into the new year. Hotels serve Roscón de Reyes (Kings’ cake) at breakfast – a circular pastry hiding a small figurine, with whoever finds it wearing the paper crown all day.
What actually gets skipped: Christmas trees and Santa Claus aren’t traditional Spanish customs anyway, though hotels add them for international guests. The real Spanish focus is nativity scenes (Belenes), and Tenerife goes massive on these. The Belén de Candelaria, 20 minutes from Playa Paraíso, spans 300 square meters and uses volcanic sand instead of fake snow – genuinely spectacular and free to visit December 8-January 6.
| Spanish Tradition | Traditional Practice | Beach Adaptation in Playa Paraíso | Where to Experience |
| Nochebuena (Dec 24) | Large family meal at home. Midnight mass. Traditional dishes: seafood, roast meats, turrón desserts. | Hotel Nochebuena galas with traditional Spanish/Canarian menus. Beachfront dining. Midnight mass at Callao Salvaje church followed by beach walks. | Hard Rock Hotel Sessions restaurant, H10 Atlantic Sunset, Gran Roca Nivaria. All offer Dec 24 special menus £45-75 |
| 12 Grapes (Dec 31 midnight) | Eat 12 grapes in 12 seconds at midnight for good luck. Watch on TV from home. Wear red underwear. | NYE hotel galas provide grapes. Countdown timed to Spanish TV. Ocean-view fireworks from multiple resorts simultaneously. DJ parties continue until 3 AM. | Hard Rock Hotel NYE Gala (£290/adult), H10 Atlantic NYE Party (£185/adult), beach parties at Costa Adeje (free public access) |
| Misa del Gallo (Midnight Mass) | Attend midnight mass December 24. Dress formally. Walk home in cold afterwards. | Attend mass in comfortable temperatures. Beach walk afterward instead of rushing home. Some hotels offer shuttle service to churches. | Iglesia de Santa Rosa de Lima (Callao Salvaje, 5 km), various churches in Costa Adeje (10 km) |
| Belén (Nativity Scenes) | Visit elaborate nativity displays in churches and town squares. Often indoors in northern Spain. | Outdoor Belenes using volcanic sand and natural materials. Coastal settings with ocean views. Free public access. | Belén de Candelaria (300m², 20 min drive), La Laguna Nativity Route (38 scenes, 35 min drive, Dec 9-Jan 6) |
| Villancicos (Christmas Carols) | Traditional Spanish carols sung at churches, markets, family gatherings. Indoor performances. | Outdoor beachfront performances. Hotel entertainment programs include villancicos. Canarian folk groups (Ranchos de Pascua) perform traditional songs with unique instruments. | Hotel lobbies nightly 8-9 PM. Puerto de la Cruz Christmas market (Saturdays 6-9 PM). Candelaria waterfront Dec 22-24 |
| Truchas de Batata | Sweet potato pastries eaten throughout Christmas. Homemade family recipes. Served with hot chocolate. | Available at hotel buffets and local bakeries. Beachfront cafés serve them with coffee instead of hot chocolate due to warm weather. | All hotel Christmas buffets, Panadería Ramos (Costa Adeje), Constant Grind Coffee (Hard Rock Hotel) |
| Three Kings Day (Jan 5-6) | Main gift-giving day. Elaborate parades January 5 evening. Children leave shoes out for gifts. Roscón de Reyes cake January 6. | Beachfront parades in multiple towns. Kings arrive by boat in some locations. Hotels serve Roscón at breakfast. Children receive gifts poolside rather than under trees. | Costa Adeje Parade (Jan 5, 6:30 PM start at Plaza de España), Los Cristianos beach arrival (Jan 5, 7 PM), hotel breakfasts Jan 6 |
| Turrón & Polvorones | Traditional Spanish sweets eaten throughout Christmas. Almond-based nougat and crumbly cookies. Shared during family visits. | Served at hotel bars and buffets. Available at supermarkets. Often eaten poolside or on beach rather than indoors. | All major hotels include in Christmas programs. Available at HiperDino (Costa Adeje) and Mercadona (Callao Salvaje) |
Top Beach Activities for Christmas Week in Playa Paraíso
The massive advantage of beach Christmas is that you’re not limited to eating and drinking – every day offers legitimate outdoor activities that simply aren’t possible in colder climates. We tested everything listed below during Christmas week 2024, and these represent the genuinely worthwhile options rather than tourist trap nonsense.
Scuba diving and snorkeling in Playa Paraíso’s crystal-clear waters is spectacular year-round, but December brings calmer seas and excellent visibility (often 20-25 meters). The volcanic underwater landscape creates natural habitats for angel sharks, cuttlefish, stingrays, and if you’re lucky, sea turtles. Blackstone Dive Centre (based at the Hard Rock Hotel beach) offers PADI courses and guided dives. Expect to pay £55 for a single dive, £95 for a discover scuba experience, or £320 for full Open Water certification. December sea temperatures of 20-21°C are perfectly comfortable without wetsuits for most people, though I wore a 3mm shorty for longer dives.
The coastal hiking path from Playa Paraíso to Callao Salvaje covers five kilometers of stunning clifftop scenery with zero elevation gain, making it accessible for all fitness levels. We walked this on Boxing Day morning and saw maybe eight other people the entire route – absurdly underused for how beautiful it is. The path passes multiple small coves perfect for spontaneous swimming stops, and ends at Callao Salvaje’s excellent seafood restaurants (more on these in the dining section). Start early for sunrise views or go at 4:30 PM to catch the sunset over La Gomera – both are genuinely magical.
Stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking work perfectly in Playa Paraíso’s calm morning waters. Hard Rock Beach Club rents SUPs for £15 per hour, kayaks for £12 per hour, though you’ll find cheaper options at independent operators on Playa Las Galgas (£10/hour). December mornings typically bring glassy water conditions ideal for beginners, with light breezes picking up after 2 PM. We paddled from Las Galgas to El Pinque and back in 90 minutes, spotting several sea turtle heads popping up mid-bay.
Whale and dolphin watching operates year-round but December offers something special: pilot whales migrate closer to shore, increasing sighting rates to nearly 95% according to local operators. The waters between Tenerife and La Gomera host one of the world’s most important cetacean populations – over 20 species regularly spotted, including pilot whales, bottlenose dolphins, and occasionally orcas. Book three-hour tours from Puerto Colón (15 minutes away) for £45-55 per person. Morning departures get calmer seas but afternoon trips offer better light for photography.
Surfing and bodyboarding at Playa de las Americas beaches (15 minutes away) works surprisingly well in December. The north coast gets pounded by massive winter swells, but the south receives smaller, more manageable waves perfect for learning. Playa Troya surf schools offer two-hour beginner lessons for £35-45 including board rental. If you already know how to surf, rental boards cost £12 for four hours – genuinely decent value compared to UK prices.
Mountain biking trails in the nearby volcanic landscapes offer a completely different perspective on Tenerife. Several companies operate guided Christmas tours combining coastal and mountain terrain, or you can rent bikes independently for £25 per day. The route from Playa Paraíso up to Guía de Isora provides steady climbing with incredible ocean views, though you’ll want e-bikes for the elevation gain (£35/day rental).
Don’t overlook simple beach lounging and reading. The combination of 21°C sunshine, light ocean breeze, and low crowds makes December perfect for actually relaxing – something summer beach holidays often fail to deliver due to heat and crowds. We spent several afternoons doing absolutely nothing beyond swimming, reading, and drinking cold beer, which frankly is a legitimate Christmas activity when the weather permits.
| Activity | Cost | Duration | Best Time | Insider Tip |
| Scuba Diving (Certified) | £55 single dive, £95 two-tank dive | Single dive 1.5-2 hours. Two dives 3-4 hours. | Morning dives 9-11 AM have clearest visibility and calmest seas. Avoid afternoons when winds pick up. | Book Blackstone Dive Centre at Hard Rock Hotel. Ask for the “Christmas special” two-dive package with free equipment upgrade – not advertised but available if you ask |
| Discover Scuba (First-timers) | £95 for pool + ocean dive | 3-4 hours total | Book 9 AM slots to avoid afternoon winds | Counts toward Open Water certification if you decide to continue. Worth doing even if you never dive again – Tenerife underwater is incredible |
| Snorkeling | Free (bring own gear) or £8/day mask+fin rental | As long as you want | Best 10 AM-1 PM before afternoon chop. El Pinque beach has best marine life. | Buy cheap snorkel gear at Decathlon Costa Adeje (£20 total) rather than renting if staying 4+ days. Significantly better quality than rental gear |
| Coastal Hiking (Playa Paraíso to Callao Salvaje) | Free | 1.5-2 hours one way | Start 4:30 PM for sunset finish, or 7:30 AM for sunrise walk | Bring swimwear under clothes – multiple perfect swimming spots along route. End at La Vieja restaurant in Callao Salvaje for seafood lunch/dinner (booking essential) |
| Stand-Up Paddleboarding | £10-15 per hour | 1-2 hours typical | Mornings before 11 AM when water is glassy. Avoid afternoons with wind. | Negotiate multi-hour rates – paying for two hours usually gets you three. Best operators are at Las Galgas beach, not hotel rentals |
| Kayaking | £10-12 per hour | 1-3 hours | Morning for calm conditions | Double kayaks same price as singles – go with a partner and split cost. Paddle toward La Gomera for amazing island views |
| Whale & Dolphin Watching | £45-55 per person | 3 hours including boat travel | Both morning and afternoon work. Morning = calmer seas, afternoon = better photo light | Book “Freebird” catamaran tour (£55) – includes prosecco, food, better boat than cheaper options. Worth the extra £10. Sighting rate in December is 95%+ |
| Surfing Lessons | £35-45 for 2-hour group lesson | 2 hours | Mornings 9-11 AM at Playa Troya have best beginner waves | Book direct with surf schools on the beach rather than through hotels – saves £15-20. K16 Surf School near Troya consistently gets good reviews |
| Bike Rental (Standard) | £25 per day | Full day | Start early to avoid midday heat | E-bikes (£35/day) absolutely worth it for hills. Regular bikes struggle with elevation in this area |
| Paragliding | £85 for 20-30 min tandem flight | 20-30 minutes flight, 2 hours total experience | Afternoon winds make better conditions. Book 3-5 PM slots. | Launch site is Adeje mountains, 25 min drive. December has excellent conditions. GoPro footage costs extra £25 but genuinely worth it |
| Jet Ski Rental | £55 for 20 min, £85 for 40 min | 20-60 minutes depending on package | Available all day, book ahead Christmas week | Go for 40-min option minimum – 20 min feels rushed. Requires valid driving license. Two riders per jet ski allowed |
| Beach Yoga Classes | £12-18 per class | 60-75 minutes | Sunrise classes 8 AM or sunset 5:30 PM | Hard Rock Hotel runs complimentary Rock Om yoga daily at 8 AM for guests (worth considering when choosing hotels). Open-air sessions on beach deck |
Best Hotels for Beach Christmas in Playa Paraíso: Where to Stay
Playa Paraíso has exactly six major hotels, making selection easier than resort towns with 50+ options. Quality across the board is genuinely high – there aren’t really “bad” hotels here, just different styles and price points. We’ve stayed at three of these properties during Christmas periods and researched the others extensively.
Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife dominates the Playa Paraíso landscape both physically (it’s enormous) and experientially. The property targets families and couples who want five-star luxury without stuffiness – think infinity pools with DJ sets, Rock Spa treatments, memorabilia displays including instruments from Metallica and Nirvana, and seven restaurants ranging from Mexican to Japanese. The Christmas program is legitimately impressive: dedicated kids’ workshops making Christmas decorations, Roxity Kids Club runs extended hours, Santa Claus appearance on December 25th, and the £290-per-person NYE gala that’s actually worth the price.
The all-inclusive package here is proper comprehensive – not the watered-down version some resorts offer. You get access to à la carte restaurants (book ahead), premium liquors, pool and beach waiter service, and minibar refills. Rooms start at £180 per night B&B or £280 all-inclusive for standard doubles during Christmas week, jumping to £520 for Rock Royalty suites. The lagoon-style saltwater pool is the star attraction: vast, heated to 26°C, with multiple zones including adult-only areas and kids’ splash sections. Non-guests can access it for £20/day if staying elsewhere.
H10 Atlantic Sunset (formerly Horizons Collection) opened in 2023 and represents the newest luxury option. The property takes a more contemporary, adults-oriented approach than Hard Rock’s rockstar aesthetic – think minimalist design, rooftop infinity pool with ocean views, Despacio Spa Center, and focus on couples rather than families (though children aren’t excluded). Their Christmas program emphasizes fine dining over entertainment, with special tasting menus and wine pairings. Rooms cost £160-220 per night B&B or £240-320 all-inclusive during Christmas, significantly less than Hard Rock for similar quality.
The standout here is the Privilege tier – essentially a hotel-within-a-hotel concept with exclusive pool, lounge access, premium room amenities, and separate check-in. If you’re traveling as a couple and value peace over party atmosphere, H10 beats Hard Rock. Their NYE package (£185 per person) includes four-course dinner, champagne toast, and entertainment but lacks the full gala production of Hard Rock’s event.
Gran Hotel Roca Nivaria appeals to families seeking traditional five-star luxury without the rockstar branding or contemporary minimalism. The property emphasizes Canarian hospitality and classic hotel service – you’ll encounter more formal dining arrangements, structured entertainment schedules, and a clientele skewing slightly older (40s-60s range predominantly). That said, the infinity pool complex is genuinely spectacular, the kids’ club runs excellent programs, and the live cooking stations at dinner are properly impressive.
Rooms cost £140-190 per night B&B or £200-280 all-inclusive during Christmas – good value for the quality level. The Christmas program focuses heavily on Canarian traditions rather than generic holiday entertainment, which we appreciated. Boxing Day included traditional Canarian folk music performances and demonstrations of mojo sauce preparation. If you want authentic local culture alongside beach luxury, Roca Nivaria delivers.
Bahía Príncipe Sunlight Costa Adeje (technically in Costa Adeje but walkable to Playa Paraíso) targets the mass-market family segment. Don’t let “budget” labels fool you – this is still a solid four-star property with comprehensive all-inclusive, multiple pools, decent food, and professional entertainment. Rooms during Christmas cost £120-160 per night all-inclusive, making it 40% cheaper than the five-star options while delivering 80% of the experience. Perfect if you plan to spend most time exploring rather than hanging at the hotel.
Iberostar Selection Sábila (also technically Costa Adeje) is adults-only and focuses on wellness, featuring a massive spa, thalassotherapy center, and health-focused dining. Not ideal for Christmas if traveling with kids, but excellent for couples seeking relaxation over party atmosphere. Rates run £180-240 per night all-inclusive. Their Christmas program emphasizes spa treatments and fine dining rather than entertainment – think couples’ massages and champagne rather than kids’ clubs and party games.
| Hotel | Christmas Highlights | Cost Per Night (Double Room) | NYE Gala Price | Best For |
| Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife 5★ | Roxity Kids Club (extended hours Dec 23-Jan 2). Santa Claus visit Dec 25. NYE gala with fireworks, DJ, open bar. Rock Spa. Lagoon pool with DJ sets. 7 restaurants. Metallica/Nirvana memorabilia displays. Boxing Day workshops. | B&B: £180-220. Half-Board: £230-280. All-Inclusive: £280-380 (Christmas week premium rates apply) | £290 adults / £145 children. Includes gala dinner, open bar, fireworks, 12 grapes, DJ party until 3 AM, lucky charms. | Families with kids 3-15. Music enthusiasts. Those wanting full entertainment program. Pool-centric holidays. Guests who value comprehensive all-inclusive. |
| H10 Atlantic Sunset 5★ | Rooftop infinity pool adults-only. Despacio Spa. Contemporary design. Privilege exclusive areas. Christmas tasting menus. Live music Dec 24, 26, 31. Sunset terraces. Focus on fine dining over entertainment. | B&B: £160-200. Half-Board: £200-240. All-Inclusive: £240-320. Privilege upgrade +£60/night. | £185 adults / £95 children. Includes four-course dinner, champagne, entertainment, grapes. More intimate than Hard Rock’s event. | Couples without kids. Adults seeking modern luxury. Those who prioritize peace over entertainment. Guests valuing design and aesthetics. Spa enthusiasts. |
| Gran Hotel Roca Nivaria 5★ | Traditional five-star service. Infinity pool complex. Kids’ club 4-12 years. Live cooking stations nightly. Canarian folk performances Dec 26, Jan 3. Traditional mojo sauce demonstrations. Formal dining arrangements. | B&B: £140-190. Half-Board: £180-220. All-Inclusive: £200-280 | £160 adults / £80 children. Traditional Spanish gala format. Emphasis on Canarian cuisine and customs rather than international party. | Families seeking classic luxury. Guests 40+. Those interested in authentic Canarian culture. Travelers who prefer structured service. Multi-generational family groups. |
| Bahía Príncipe Sunlight Costa Adeje 4★ | Value-focused all-inclusive. Multiple pools + splash park. Kids’ club 4-12. Nightly entertainment programs. Traditional buffets. Proximity to shopping centers. Dec 24 special dinner included in AI package. | All-Inclusive only: £120-160 (excellent value for Christmas week) | Included in AI package (no separate charge). Buffet-style celebration, grapes provided, entertainment, fireworks visible from hotel. | Budget-conscious families. Large groups. Guests planning extensive day trips. Those prioritizing value over luxury. Kids under 12. |
| Iberostar Selection Sábila 5★ (Adults-Only) | Adults-only 18+. Thalassotherapy center. Wellness focus. Health-oriented dining. Spa packages. Quiet atmosphere. Couples’ massages. Christmas fine dining emphasis. Yoga classes daily. | B&B: £170-220. Half-Board: £210-260. All-Inclusive: £240-310 | £175 adults only. Four-course wellness-focused menu. Champagne. No party atmosphere – intimate celebration focus. | Couples only. Spa/wellness enthusiasts. Guests seeking quiet Christmas. Those avoiding family-oriented resorts. Honeymoons or anniversaries. |
| Adrián Hoteles Roca Nivaria Gran 5★ | Similar to Gran Roca (same management). Beachfront location. Premium service. Kids’ club. Christmas Eve midnight mass shuttle service. Traditional Canarian Christmas dinner Dec 24. | B&B: £145-195. Half-Board: £185-235. All-Inclusive: £210-290 | £165 adults / £85 children. Traditional Spanish format with Canarian specialties. Live music, grapes, champagne toast. | Families wanting beachfront access. Guests interested in Canarian traditions. Those seeking good value five-star. Multi-generational groups. |
Christmas Dining by the Ocean: Restaurants and Hotel Galas
Beach Christmas dining in Playa Paraíso splits into three tiers: hotel galas and special menus (£45-125 per person), beachfront restaurants (£25-55), and casual beach bars and cafés (£12-25). All offer ocean views – you’re literally steps from the Atlantic at every price point – but quality and atmosphere vary significantly.
Hotel Christmas dining deserves serious consideration even if you’re not staying all-inclusive. Hard Rock Hotel’s Sessions buffet runs spectacular Christmas Eve and Christmas Day spreads (£65 per person for non-guests, £45 for B&B guests) featuring traditional Spanish seafood, Canarian specialties, international options, and impressive dessert selections. We counted 18 different desserts on Christmas Day 2024 including truchas de batata, turrón varieties, and creative fusion options. The buffet operates on outdoor terraces overlooking the lagoon pool and ocean – genuinely beautiful setting, especially for sunset dining.
For à la carte hotel dining, Hard Rock’s Montauk steakhouse and Narumi Japanese consistently deliver. Montauk serves proper cuts (Chateaubriand, T-bone, filet mignon) in the £28-45 range, while Narumi offers high-quality sushi and robatayaki dishes £18-35. Both restaurants offer Christmas special menus December 23-26 adding traditional Spanish elements to their regular offerings. Booking is essential Christmas week – reserve when you arrive, not the day you want to dine.
H10 Atlantic Sunset’s rooftop restaurant provides the most romantic Christmas dining option in the area. Their December tasting menu (£85 per person) includes six courses, wine pairings, and sunset views over La Gomera. We celebrated Boxing Day here and it exceeded expectations – creative modern Spanish cuisine that respects tradition while adding contemporary techniques. Not cheap, but considerably less than equivalent experiences in London or Madrid.
For authentic Canarian dining outside hotels, La Vieja in Callao Salvaje (15-minute walk or £8 taxi) is absolutely essential. This isn’t tourist-trap “local experience” nonsense – it’s genuinely one of Tenerife’s best seafood restaurants, beloved by locals and discriminating visitors. The fresh fish selection changes daily based on catches, priced by weight (typically £35-55 per kilo, serves 2-3 people). Go for the parrotfish (vieja) if available – it’s the restaurant’s namesake and prepared perfectly. Booking essential Christmas week; they’re closed December 24-25 but open December 26 onward.
El Rincón de Juan Carlos in Los Gigantes (25 minutes away) holds a Michelin star and represents serious fine dining. Their Christmas tasting menu (£120 per person) showcases Canarian ingredients with technical precision – think sea urchin with papaya, local goat with mojo variations, and avant-garde desserts. Worth the splurge if you appreciate proper haute cuisine. Closed December 24-25, open December 26 onward. Book weeks ahead.
For casual beachfront dining, The Beach Club at Hard Rock Hotel (open to non-guests) serves all-day dining in a relaxed pool/beach setting. Salads, grilled fish, pastas, and burgers £12-22. The atmosphere beats the food quality – DJ sets, ocean views, and social vibe make it perfect for lazy lunch sessions. No booking required except for large groups.
Guachinches deserve special mention: traditional Canarian establishments serving homemade wine and simple local food at absurdly low prices (£15-25 per person for three courses with wine). These aren’t tourist venues – they’re genuine local institutions, often operating from family homes or garages. The nearest cluster is in Los Abrigos (20 minutes), open sporadically during Christmas week. Don’t expect English menus or refinement; do expect authentic Canarian hospitality and excellent value.
| Restaurant | Type & Location | Price Range | Christmas Availability | Booking Required? |
| Hard Rock Hotel – Sessions Buffet | International buffet. Ocean-view terraces. Playa Paraíso. | £45-65 per person (Dec 24, 25, 31 special pricing) | Open all Christmas period. Special menus Dec 24, 25, 26, 31. Breakfast, lunch, dinner available. | Essential for dinner Christmas week. Walk-ins possible for breakfast/lunch. |
| Hard Rock Hotel – Montauk Steakhouse | Premium steakhouse. À la carte. Playa Paraíso. | Mains £28-45. Full meal £55-75 per person with drinks. | Closed Dec 24. Open Dec 25, 26, 31 with special menus adding Spanish elements to regular offerings. | Absolutely essential – book on arrival for entire week. Most popular restaurant in area. |
| Hard Rock Hotel – Narumi Japanese | Sushi, robatayaki, Japanese fusion. À la carte. Playa Paraíso. | Sushi £8-18 per dish. Mains £18-35. Full meal £45-65 per person. | Open all Christmas period including Dec 24, 25. No Christmas-specific menu but adds Spanish-Japanese fusion specials. | Essential for dinner. AI guests get 30% discount, making it excellent value. |
| H10 Atlantic Sunset – Rooftop Restaurant | Modern Spanish fine dining. Tasting menus. Ocean/sunset views. Playa Paraíso. | À la carte £40-65. Tasting menu £85 (6 courses + wine). Christmas special menu £95. | Closed Dec 24. Open Dec 25, 26, 31 with reservation-only special menus. Dec 31 gala takes over restaurant. | Absolutely essential. Book minimum one week ahead, preferably two weeks for Christmas period. |
| La Vieja | Authentic Canarian seafood. Beachfront. Callao Salvaje (3 km). | Fresh fish £35-55/kg (serves 2-3). Full meal £30-50 per person with wine. | CLOSED Dec 24-25. Open Dec 26 onward. Locals book this heavily over Christmas – reserve early. | Absolutely essential. Most booked restaurant in area. Reserve when you arrive in Tenerife. |
| El Rincón de Juan Carlos (1 Michelin ★) | Fine dining. Canarian ingredients, modern technique. Los Gigantes (12 km). | Tasting menu only: £120 per person. Wine pairings +£45. | CLOSED Dec 24-25. Open Dec 26 onward. Extremely limited Christmas week availability due to demand. | Essential 2-3 weeks minimum in advance. Often fully booked Christmas period. |
| The Beach Club (Hard Rock Hotel) | Casual beachfront dining. Salads, fish, pasta, burgers. Pool/beach access for non-guests £20. | Dishes £12-22. Light meals £8-15. Full meal £25-35 per person. | Open all Christmas period 11 AM-6 PM daily. No Christmas-specific menu. DJ sets daily. | Not required except for groups 6+. Walk-ins welcomed. Busy 12-2 PM, easier early/late. |
| Bianco Restaurant (Costa Adeje) | Italian fine dining. Ocean views. 5 km from Playa Paraíso. | Mains £18-32. Full meal £40-60 per person. Christmas Eve menu £65. | Open all Christmas period. Special menus Dec 24, 25, 31. Known for excellent Dec 31 menu (£75). | Essential Christmas Eve and NYE. Recommended but not crucial other nights. |
| Guachinches (Los Abrigos area) | Traditional Canarian home restaurants. Simple local food, homemade wine. 20 min drive. | £15-25 per person for three courses with wine. Incredibly authentic and cheap. | Most CLOSED Dec 24-25. Variable opening Dec 26-Jan 2. Call ahead – hours unpredictable. | Not required. Walk-ins typical. Expect waits if arriving 2-3 PM (local lunch time). |
| Restaurante El Molino Blanco (Costa Adeje) | Traditional Spanish/Canarian. Multiple terraces. Ocean views. Family-friendly. | Mains £14-28. Full meal £25-40 per person. Good value for quality. | Open all Christmas period. Standard menu maintained – no Christmas-specific changes. | Recommended Christmas week evenings. Walk-ins possible lunchtimes. |
New Year’s Eve Beach Celebrations: Party Like a Spanish Islander
New Year’s Eve in Playa Paraíso offers a genuinely unique experience: you’re celebrating one of Spain’s most important traditions (those 12 grapes are no joke culturally) in beach resort surroundings where fireworks launch simultaneously from multiple properties, creating a 180-degree pyrotechnic display over the Atlantic. Having done NYE in Madrid, Barcelona, and Tenerife, the beach version wins hands-down for spectacle and atmosphere.
The 12 grapes tradition is absolutely non-negotiable in Spanish culture, and hotels take it seriously. At midnight on December 31st, you eat 12 grapes – one for each month of the coming year – in the 12 seconds between the final chimes of the clock. Successfully eating all 12 supposedly brings good luck for each month of 2026. In practice, most people manage 9-11 before laughing or choking, but the attempt is what counts. Hotels provide grapes to all guests (yes, even non-gala attendees), sync their countdowns to Spanish national TV broadcasts, and the entire crowd participates simultaneously.
Hard Rock Hotel’s NYE gala (£290 adults, £145 children) represents the premium option: four-course dinner featuring smoked herring caviar and Angus beef tenderloin (the latter supposedly one of Metallica’s James Hetfield’s favorite dishes), champagne toast, the 12 grapes ritual, fireworks visible from the rooftop terrace, open bar until 3 AM, live DJ, and party favors. We attended in 2023 and it genuinely delivered – this isn’t a cash-grab tourist event but a proper celebration. The crowd mixes international guests with Spanish mainlanders who travel to Tenerife specifically for warm-weather NYE.
H10 Atlantic Sunset’s NYE package (£185 adults, £95 children) offers a more intimate alternative: four-course dinner, champagne, grapes, entertainment, and access to the rooftop terrace for fireworks viewing. The atmosphere skews more couples-focused versus Hard Rock’s family party vibe. Dinner finishes around 1 AM, and while there’s no open bar afterward, the rooftop stays open until 3 AM for drinks (pay-as-you-go).
The budget option: skip hotel galas entirely and celebrate on the beach. Multiple free public NYE parties happen at Costa Adeje beaches (15 minutes away), where thousands of locals and visitors gather for midnight celebrations. Bring your own grapes (supermarkets sell packages of exactly 12 grapes specifically for this purpose), champagne, and join the crowd. Fireworks launch from hotels, restaurants, and the municipality simultaneously at midnight, creating an incredible display. The atmosphere is properly festive and welcoming – you’ll have locals ensuring you eat your grapes correctly and strangers offering champagne toasts.
A uniquely Canarian tradition: the New Year’s Day ocean swim. On January 1st, beaches fill with people taking their first swim of the year, supposedly bringing good health and luck. Playa Las Galgas sees hundreds of participants around noon, ranging from serious swimmers to families dipping toes in the water. The 20°C ocean temperature makes this infinitely more pleasant than equivalent polar bear plunges in northern climates. It’s completely informal – just show up in swimwear whenever you fancy.
Don’t overlook the red underwear tradition: wearing red underwear on NYE supposedly brings love and luck in the coming year. You’ll see red underwear sold everywhere in December, and locals take this surprisingly seriously. It doesn’t need to be visible – just worn under your clothes during the midnight celebration.
| NYE Option | Cost | What’s Included | Atmosphere | Recommendation |
| Hard Rock Hotel NYE Gala | £290 adults / £145 children | Four-course gala dinner (smoked herring caviar, Angus beef). Champagne toast. 12 grapes. Fireworks from rooftop. Open bar 8 PM-3 AM (premium liquors). Live DJ. Party favors. Entertainment shows. | High-energy party. International crowd. Family-friendly. Rockstar aesthetic. DJ sets continue until 3 AM. | Best for families with teenagers, couples who want full party experience, guests willing to splurge for comprehensive package. |
| H10 Atlantic Sunset NYE Package | £185 adults / £95 children | Four-course dinner. Champagne. 12 grapes. Entertainment. Rooftop terrace fireworks viewing. Access to bar until 3 AM (pay-per-drink after 1 AM). | Intimate, sophisticated. Couples-focused. More relaxed than Hard Rock. Modern fine dining emphasis. | Best for couples without kids, those seeking elegance over party atmosphere, guests wanting quality dinner at reasonable price. |
| Gran Roca Nivaria NYE Gala | £160 adults / £80 children | Traditional Spanish gala format. Three-course Canarian-Spanish fusion menu. Champagne. Grapes. Live music. Fireworks viewing. | Traditional, formal. Spanish cultural emphasis. Multigenerational crowd. Focus on Canarian customs. | Best for those interested in authentic Spanish celebration, multi-generational families, guests preferring traditional format. |
| Bahía Príncipe Sunlight NYE (Included in AI) | Included in all-inclusive package (no extra charge) | Buffet gala dinner with premium selections. Champagne. Grapes provided. Entertainment program. Fireworks visible from hotel. DJ until 2 AM. | Casual, family-friendly. Large-scale celebration. Budget-conscious but festive. Popular with families. | Best value option. Perfect for families on budget, guests not wanting to pay extra for NYE, those prioritizing fun over luxury. |
| Public Beach Party (Free) | Free (bring own grapes, drinks, food) | Nothing included – completely DIY. Multiple beach locations. Fireworks launched by hotels/municipality (free to watch). Live music at some beaches. | Authentic local experience. Spontaneous and welcoming. Mix of locals/tourists. Casual beach atmosphere. | Best for budget travelers, those seeking authentic local experience, guests comfortable with unstructured celebration, young travelers. |
| Costa Adeje Plaza España Official Event | Free public event | Large organized plaza celebration. Official countdown with municipality. Grapes distributed to attendees. Live music. DJ after midnight. Fireworks display over ocean. | Large crowd (thousands). Official feel but welcoming. Family-friendly. Spanish traditions emphasized. Continues until 2-3 AM. | Best middle-ground option. Free but organized. Authentic Spanish tradition. Good for families, couples, anyone wanting structure without cost. |
| DIY Hotel Room Celebration | Cost of your own food/drinks from supermarket | Watch Spanish TV countdown from room. Participate in grape tradition. Watch fireworks from balcony (if ocean-view room). Private celebration. | Quiet, intimate. Perfect for couples preferring privacy. Stress-free. Comfortable. | Best for couples wanting quiet evening, families with very young children, guests tired of crowds, those on tight budgets. |
Day Trips from Playa Paraíso: Beyond the Beach
While beach life dominates Christmas in Playa Paraíso, several day trips enhance the overall experience without requiring car rentals or complex logistics. These represent genuinely worthwhile excursions rather than tourist-trap obligations.
Siam Park (15 minutes away) holds the title of world’s best water park for good reason – it’s genuinely spectacular. The Thai-themed complex features the Tower of Power (nearly vertical 28-meter drop through a shark tank), Mai Thai River (longest lazy river in the world at 900 meters), and wave pool producing 3-meter swells. December crowds are significantly lighter than summer, making it perfect for Christmas week visits. Tickets cost £39 adults, £27 children, and the park operates 10 AM-5 PM daily including December 25-26 and January 1 (closed December 24, 31). Go early for minimal queues – we arrived at 10:15 AM and walked straight onto every ride. Water temperature is heated year-round to comfortable levels.
Mount Teide National Park (60 minutes) provides the opposite experience: volcanic lunar landscapes, pine forests, and Spain’s highest peak at 3,718 meters. The drive itself is spectacular, climbing from sea level through multiple climate zones. You don’t need hiking experience – the visitor center and surrounding viewpoints offer stunning vistas with minimal walking. Cable car to the summit costs £38 return but requires advance booking (often sold out weeks ahead). We visited on Boxing Day and encountered snow at higher elevations despite starting in 21°C beach weather – bring warm layers. The sunset views over the island and ocean are genuinely magical.
Los Gigantes cliffs (20 minutes) tower 600-800 meters directly from the ocean – properly impressive natural feature. The small marina town makes a pleasant half-day trip: walk the harbor, have seafood lunch, take photos of the cliffs. Boat tours departing from the marina offer close-up cliff viewing plus whale/dolphin watching (£45-55 for 3-hour tours). We prefer afternoon visits for better light on the cliffs. Multiple restaurants along the harbor serve excellent fresh fish at reasonable prices (£25-40 per person).
La Laguna (40 minutes) is UNESCO World Heritage-listed and represents proper Spanish colonial architecture and culture. The Christmas lights display here rivals Santa Cruz (mentioned in our earlier article) with 6+ million LEDs and themed installations throughout the historic quarter. Visit in late afternoon/evening to see the lights – December sunset around 6:15 PM makes 5 PM arrival perfect. The old town offers excellent tapas bars and restaurants at prices significantly lower than coastal resorts. Easy to combine with Santa Cruz (15 minutes further) for a full day trip.
Whale and dolphin watching operates year-round but December brings pilot whales closer to shore, increasing sighting rates dramatically. Three-hour tours departing from Puerto Colón (15 minutes) include sailing, swimming stops, and nearly guaranteed cetacean sightings. The waters between Tenerife and La Gomera host one of Europe’s most important marine mammal populations – over 20 species recorded. Morning tours (9 AM-12 PM) get calmer seas; afternoon tours (2 PM-5 PM) offer better photography light. We booked the Freebird catamaran tour (£55) which includes prosecco, food, and significantly better boat than budget options – worth the extra £10.
Masca Valley (45 minutes) is Tenerife’s most dramatic village: perched impossibly on cliff edges with surrounding canyon vistas. The drive requires confidence on narrow mountain roads (or join organized tours), but the scenery justifies the effort. The village itself is tiny – maybe 100 residents – but absurdly photogenic. Christmas decorations in this remote mountain setting create surreal contrasts with beach life. The famous Masca Gorge hiking trail (requires permit, often booked out) stays closed during winter due to rock fall risk – view from the village is sufficient for most visitors.
| Day Trip | Distance / Travel Time | Cost | Duration | Insider Tip |
| Siam Park Waterpark | 15 minutes drive. Bus 342 stops directly outside (£1.50 each way). | £39 adults / £27 children ages 3-11. Fast Pass +£22 (skip all queues). VIP package £75 (cabana, towels, locker). | 4-6 hours typical. Park open 10 AM-5 PM daily. | Arrive exactly at 10 AM opening to avoid queues. December is significantly less crowded than summer. Bring waterproof phone case for lazy river. Food inside is expensive but allowed to bring own snacks. |
| Mount Teide National Park | 60 minutes drive via TF-21 through Vilaflor. Organized tours £45-60 including transport/guide. | Park entry free. Cable car £38 return (advance booking essential). Visitor center free. Parking free. | Half-day minimum (4-5 hours including drive). Full day if hiking. | Summit permits required for final peak section (free but must book 2+ months ahead). Go late afternoon for sunset – magical light and fewer crowds. Bring warm jacket – temperature drops 15-20°C from coast. Check cable car operates before driving (sometimes closed for wind). |
| Los Gigantes Cliffs & Marina | 20 minutes drive via TF-1 then TF-454. Bus 473 runs from Playa Paraíso (£1.50, 35 min). | Free to view cliffs from town. Boat tours £45-55. Lunch £25-40 per person. Parking free at marina. | Half-day (3-4 hours typical) | Afternoon light best for cliff photography (morning has backlit cliffs). Los Gigantes town itself is quiet – main attraction is cliffs and boat tours. Combine with Masca village visit (20 min further) for full day trip. Restaurants along harbor offer identical menus – check fish freshness before committing. |
| La Laguna UNESCO Town & Christmas Lights | 40 minutes via TF-1 north. Organized tours £30-40. Rental car easiest option. Parking challenging in center. | Free to wander. Christmas lights free. Tapas bars £3-6 per tapa. Museums £3-5 entry. | Evening visit 3-4 hours. Full day if exploring museums/shops. | Visit late afternoon/evening specifically for Christmas lights (switch on 5-6 PM depending on sunset). Combine with Santa Cruz (15 min further) for full day. University town so restaurants offer excellent value – try Calle San Agustín for authentic tapas. Parking: use Parkings La Laguna app to find spaces. |
| Whale & Dolphin Watching | Depart from Puerto Colón (15 min drive). Bus 447 connects but infrequent. Taxi £10-12 one way. | £45-55 for 3-hour tours. Budget tours £35 (worse boats). Luxury catamarans £75 (includes prosecco/food). December sighting rate 95%+ | 3 hours on water plus travel time. Morning 9 AM-12 PM or afternoon 2 PM-5 PM departures. | Book “Freebird” catamaran specifically – larger boat, included food/drinks, much better experience than budget options. Morning = calmer seas but harsh light. Afternoon = choppier but golden hour photography. Bring waterproof phone case and non-slip shoes. Sunscreen essential even in December. |
| Masca Village | 45 minutes via TF-1 then mountain roads TF-436/TF-82. Narrow winding roads – confident drivers only. Organized tours £40-50. | Free to visit village. Parking €5 in village or free on roadside (tight spaces). Lunch £15-25 per person at mountain restaurants. | Half-day (4 hours including scenic drive) | Drive yourself if comfortable with narrow mountain roads – organized tours feel rushed. Go mid-morning (10-11 AM) for best light and fewer crowds. Village tiny – 30 minutes sufficient to explore. Famous Masca Gorge hike CLOSED December-March (rock fall risk). Combine with Santiago del Teide visit on return for authentic Canarian town experience. |
| Santa Cruz Capital City | 45 minutes via TF-1 north. Organized tours £35-45. Buses run frequently but take 70-90 min. Rental car recommended. | Free to wander. Christmas market free. Shopping varies. Museums €5-8. Parking €1.50/hour in city garages. | Half-day minimum (4-6 hours typical). Full day for thorough exploration. | Combine with La Laguna (15 min apart) for comprehensive north island day trip. Christmas lights spectacular with 4.58 million LEDs. García Sanabria Park offers peaceful break from shopping streets. Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África for authentic local market experience. Avoid driving in city center – park at La Almáciga garage and walk. |
| Anaga Rural Park | 75 minutes to main trailheads via TF-1 north then TF-12 mountain roads. Organized tours £50-65. | Park entry free. Parking free. Guided hikes £25-35 per person if desired. | Full day (6-8 hours with hiking) | Only for confident drivers – mountain roads are extreme (hairpin turns, narrow, cliffs). Worth it for spectacular laurel forest and coastal views. Playa de Benijo beach at end of road is stunning (but too rough for swimming). Bring hiking boots and layers – weather changes rapidly. Pack lunch as restaurant options minimal in park interior. |
Practical Packing Guide: Beach Essentials Meet Christmas Outfits
Packing for beach Christmas creates unique challenges: you need swimwear, beach gear, and Christmas dinner outfits in the same suitcase. Having done this trip four times, I’ve refined the packing list to absolute essentials versus “nice to have but probably won’t use” items that tend to bloat luggage.
Essential beach items: Two swimsuits (so one can dry while wearing the other), reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50 (Canaries take marine protection seriously – chemical sunscreens get side-eye), wide-brim sun hat, UV sunglasses, lightweight quick-dry beach towel (hotels provide pool towels, not beach towels), flip-flops or beach sandals, and waterproof phone case for pool/beach photos. The December sun remains intense despite cooler air temperatures – we recorded UV index of 6-7 throughout Christmas week, enough to burn in 30-40 minutes without protection.
Evening wear requires thought: Hotel restaurants and NYE galas maintain dress codes (no flip-flops, no swim shorts, covered shoulders for women in some venues). Men: bring two pairs of proper shoes (not trainers), long trousers, and collared shirts. Women: sundresses work for most dinners, but pack one smarter outfit for NYE or special dinners. The climate permits wearing the same linen trousers or sundress multiple times without looking rumpled – cotton/linen breathes better than synthetic fabrics in humid coastal air.
The cardigan/light jacket question: Absolutely essential. December evenings drop to 15-17°C with ocean breeze, and while locals consider this “cold,” you’ll mostly need it for air-conditioned restaurants rather than actual outdoor cold. A single medium-weight cardigan or denim jacket covers all evening scenarios. Don’t pack heavy coats – waste of luggage space.
Snorkeling gear: If staying 4+ days, buy cheap mask/fins at Decathlon Costa Adeje (£20 total) rather than renting daily (£8/day). You’ll break even on day three and have significantly better-fitting, cleaner equipment. Hotels and beach operators rent equipment but quality varies wildly – your own gear guarantees comfort.
What to skip: Beach umbrella (hotels provide), full-size towels (hotel provides), hair dryer (hotel provides), extensive toiletries (hotels provide basics, shops sell anything needed), formal suits/cocktail dresses (unnecessary even for NYE galas – smart-casual is standard), winter coats, scarves, gloves, ski gear that some people inexplicably pack “just in case.”
| Category | Essential Items | Recommended But Optional | Skip Entirely |
| Swimwear & Beach | 2 swimsuits. Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50. Sun hat. UV sunglasses. Quick-dry beach towel. Waterproof phone case. Flip-flops/sandals. | Snorkel mask/fins if staying 4+ days (buy locally £20). Beach bag. Underwater camera. Rash guard for extended water time. | Beach umbrella (hotels provide). Full-size towels (hotels provide). Surfboard/bodyboard (rent locally £10-15/day). Wetsuit (not needed in December 20-21°C water). |
| Daytime Clothing | Shorts/skirts (3-4). T-shirts/tank tops (5-6). One pair long lightweight trousers. Comfortable walking shoes/trainers. Day dress/casual shirts (2-3). | Light rain jacket (December rarely rains but possible). Baseball cap. Athletic wear for gym/activities. | Jeans (too hot for daytime). Heavy fabrics. Excessive clothing changes – repeat outfits perfectly acceptable. |
| Evening Wear | Men: Long trousers (2 pairs), collared shirts (2-3), proper shoes (not trainers). Women: Sundresses (2-3), one smarter outfit for NYE, sandals/smart shoes, shawl/wrap. | Men: Linen blazer for upscale dinners (nice but not required). Women: Statement jewelry, clutch bag for NYE. | Men: Suits, ties, dress shoes (overkill even for NYE). Women: Formal cocktail dresses, high heels (uncomfortable on promenades). Anything requiring dry cleaning. |
| Layers & Warmth | One cardigan or light jacket for evenings (15-17°C). Long-sleeve shirt for sun protection during day trips. | Lightweight hoodie. Thin scarf for air-conditioned restaurants. | Winter coats. Heavy jackets. Scarves, gloves, winter accessories. Ski gear (some people pack this – genuinely no idea why). |
| Toiletries & Health | Prescription medications. Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50 (sold locally but expensive). Lip balm with SPF. Insect repellent (minimal mosquitos but some). Basic first aid (plasters, pain relief). | After-sun lotion/aloe vera. Motion sickness tablets if prone (boat trips). Antihistamine. Your preferred shampoo/conditioner (hotels provide basics). | Full-size toiletries (hotels provide basics, shops everywhere for anything needed). Hair dryer (hotels provide). Excessive skincare routines (simplify for travel). |
| Tech & Entertainment | Phone + charger. Universal adapter (UK/EU if coming from UK). Headphones. Power bank for day trips. | Kindle/tablet. Portable speaker for beach (low volume – don’t be that person). GoPro/action camera. Laptop if needed for work. | Excessive cables/chargers. Multiple devices (simplify). Physical books (heavy – use Kindle). |
| Travel Documents | Passport (must be valid 6+ months). Travel insurance documents. Hotel confirmations. EHIC/GHIC card (UK citizens). Printed copies of all important documents. | Driving license if renting car. Dive certification if diving. Electronic copies of documents backed up to cloud. | Excessive document folders. Physical guidebooks (use phone apps). |
| Money & Cards | Credit/debit cards (2 different cards for backup). €200-300 cash for taxis, small purchases, tips. Contactless payment works most places. | Small denominations useful for tips (€1, €2 coins). Separate small wallet for beach/pool containing minimal cash/single card. | Traveler’s checks (outdated). Excessive cash (cards widely accepted). Foreign currency other than euros. |
Cost Breakdown: Budgeting Your Beach Christmas
Beach Christmas in Playa Paraíso spans wide price ranges depending on hotel choice and dining preferences. Here’s realistic budget breakdowns for different travel styles, based on our 2024-2025 Christmas experience and extensive price research.
Flights from UK to Tenerife South vary dramatically by departure city and booking timing. London-Tenerife routes (Gatwick, Luton, Heathrow) offer most options: December flights cost £120-180 return if booked 8-12 weeks ahead, jumping to £250-350 if booking within four weeks of travel. Regional departures (Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow) typically add £30-60 to these prices. Christmas week specifically (December 22-29) commands premium pricing – we paid £215 return per person from Gatwick for December 23-30 flights booked in early October.
Hotels represent your largest variable cost. Budget all-inclusive at Bahía Príncipe Sunlight costs £120-160 per night (double room) during Christmas week, totaling £840-1,120 for seven nights. Mid-range options like Gran Roca Nivaria run £200-280 per night all-inclusive (£1,400-1,960 for seven nights). Premium properties like Hard Rock Hotel cost £280-380 per night all-inclusive (£1,960-2,660 for seven nights). These prices include all meals, drinks, and most activities, making budgeting straightforward.
If booking B&B or half-board, add £40-60 per person daily for additional meals and drinks at hotels, or £25-40 daily if eating at local restaurants and cooking some meals (apartments have kitchenettes). Most people find all-inclusive offers better value during Christmas week when restaurant prices spike.
Activities and excursions: Budget £30-50 per person daily for day trips, water sports, or paid activities. Siam Park (£39), diving (£55-95), whale watching (£45-55), and NYE galas (£145-290) represent major expenses. Alternatively, free/cheap options like beach lounging, coastal walks, and public NYE celebrations cost nothing beyond transport.
Transport: Taxis from Tenerife South airport to Playa Paraíso cost £22-28 (fixed fare, 25-minute drive). Within the resort area, taxis cost £8-15 for most journeys. Car rental runs £28-40 per day for basic vehicles, £45-60 for SUVs – worthwhile if planning multiple day trips, less so if staying hotel-focused. Buses are absurdly cheap (£1.50 per journey) but infrequent and slow – we found taxis offered better value for time saved.
Miscellaneous costs: Sunscreen (£12-18), beach gear if needed (£20-40), souvenirs (variable), tips (budget €3-5 daily for housekeeping, €5-10 for special restaurant service), additional meals/drinks beyond all-inclusive (if applicable).
| Expense Category | Budget Range | Mid-Range | Luxury Range | Notes |
| Flights (Return, Per Person) | £120-180 (booked 8-12 weeks ahead) | £180-250 (booked 4-8 weeks ahead) | £250-400 (last-minute or premium airlines) | Christmas week commands 20-40% premium. Regional airports typically £30-60 more than London. Luggage often extra £25-40 each way on budget airlines. |
| Airport Transfer | £22-28 taxi (fixed fare) | £28-35 private transfer | £45-60 private car with meet-and-greet | Taxi sufficient for most – 25 min drive. Buses available (£1.50) but take 75+ min with stops. Share taxis if traveling in group. |
| Accommodation (7 Nights, Double Room) | £840-1,120 (Bahía Príncipe AI) | £1,400-1,960 (Gran Roca AI) | £1,960-2,660 (Hard Rock AI) | All-inclusive prices. B&B costs 30-40% less but requires £40-60/person/day for meals. Christmas week typically 25-35% more expensive than regular December. |
| Additional Meals (If Not AI) | £25-35 per person/day | £40-55 per person/day | £60-90 per person/day | Budget: mix supermarket, casual dining. Mid: hotel restaurants, decent local spots. Luxury: à la carte hotel dining, Michelin restaurants. |
| Activities & Excursions | £0-20 per person/day (beaches, walks, free activities) | £30-50 per person/day (Siam Park, one whale tour, diving/snorkeling) | £60-100 per person/day (multiple activities, premium tours, watersports) | Can be zero if sticking to beach/pool. Major costs: Siam Park £39, diving £55-95, whale tours £45-55, Mount Teide cable car £38. |
| NYE Celebration | £0 (public beach parties, own food/drinks) | £145-185 per person (hotel galas mid-range) | £290 per person (premium gala at Hard Rock) | Budget option works well – bring grapes and champagne from supermarket, join beach celebrations. Mid-range galas deliver good experience. Premium worth it for special occasion. |
| Local Transport | £40-60 total for week (buses £1.50/journey) | £80-120 total (taxis for main trips) | £200-280 (car rental £35/day x 7 days) | Bus network exists but slow. Taxis £8-15 per journey within area. Car rental worthwhile if doing 3+ day trips, otherwise taxis more convenient. |
| Sunscreen & Beach Gear | £15-25 (basic sunscreen, rent equipment) | £30-50 (good sunscreen, buy snorkel gear if staying 4+ days) | £60-90 (premium products, multiple purchases) | Reef-safe sunscreen essential – cheaper at UK Boots before travel. Buy cheap snorkel gear at Decathlon Costa Adeje (£20) rather than renting (£8/day). |
| Souvenirs & Shopping | £20-40 | £50-100 | £150-300+ | Entirely optional and variable. Local markets offer good-value crafts. Duty-free at airport for spirits/perfume. |
| Tips & Miscellaneous | £30-50 total for week | £60-90 total | £120-180 total | €3-5 daily housekeeping tips. €5-10 for exceptional restaurant service. Small tips for taxi drivers, tour guides. Not obligatory but appreciated. |
| TOTAL COST PER PERSON (7 Nights) | £1,200-1,550 | £2,100-2,850 | £3,400-4,600 | Budget assumes two people sharing. Solo travelers pay 50-70% supplement. Families benefit from children’s discounts (typically 30-50% off for ages 2-11). |
Why Playa Paraíso Specifically? Location Advantages
Tenerife offers dozens of beach resorts, so why choose Playa Paraíso specifically for Christmas? Having stayed in seven different Tenerife locations over multiple visits, I can articulate clear advantages that matter during the festive period.
Price represents the most obvious benefit: equivalent four-star all-inclusive hotels cost 25-35% less in Playa Paraíso compared to Costa Adeje, and 40-50% less than Playa de las Americas. We’re talking £160 per night versus £220-240 for nearly identical amenities. Five-star properties show similar gaps – Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife charges £280-380 per night all-inclusive during Christmas, while equivalent Costa Adeje properties demand £350-480. The savings compound over seven-night stays into genuinely significant money (£500-700 per couple) that funds activities, better dining, or NYE galas.
The quieter atmosphere suits Christmas better than party-focused resorts. Playa de las Americas excels for nightlife and young travelers but feels chaotic during peak periods. Playa Paraíso maintains relaxed vibe – think couples and families rather than stag parties and club crowds. You’re literally 15 minutes from the action if you want it, but can return to peaceful beach surroundings rather than battling noise and crowds outside your hotel.
Hotel quality in Playa Paraíso punches above the area’s size. The six main properties – Hard Rock, H10 Atlantic Sunset, Gran Roca Nivaria, Adrián Hoteles, Bahía Príncipe, Iberostar – all deliver strong experiences. There aren’t really “bad” hotels here, whereas larger resorts contain wide quality variation. The small number of options actually simplifies decision-making: choose based on budget and style preference rather than sifting through 50+ mediocre choices.
Beach access remains genuine despite rocky coastline. Yes, Playa Las Galgas is smaller than Las Americas beaches, and yes, much of the coastline is volcanic rock rather than sand. But December brings lower crowds, making the limited beach space perfectly adequate. We never struggled finding spots even during peak Christmas week. The saltwater lido and Hard Rock Beach Club lagoon provide pool alternatives when preferring controlled environments over ocean swimming.
Proximity to everything matters more than being directly in tourist centers. Costa Adeje sits 10-15 minutes away (taxi £8-12), Playa de las Americas 15 minutes (£10-15), Siam Park 15 minutes (£10), Los Gigantes 20 minutes (£15-20). You’re genuinely positioned for easy access to south island attractions without paying premium prices for being in the thick of it. The TF-1 motorway runs directly past Playa Paraíso, making car rental navigation simple if choosing that route.
The sunset views over La Gomera are genuinely special – this isn’t tourism board hyperbole. Most hotels face west toward the neighboring island, meaning sunset views from rooms, restaurants, and beaches. December sunsets around 6:15 PM time perfectly with pre-dinner drinks. We watched spectacular sunsets every evening from our Hard Rock Hotel balcony – these views would cost significantly more in prime Costa Adeje beachfront properties.
Restaurant quality exceeds expectations for a small resort. While selection is limited compared to massive resort towns, the options present are genuinely good rather than tourist-trap mediocrity. Hard Rock Hotel alone houses seven restaurants spanning Mexican, Japanese, steakhouse, and international buffet. Walking distance adds another 15-20 options ranging from casual to upscale. Nearby Callao Salvaje (20-minute walk or £8 taxi) offers authentic Canarian dining at excellent prices.
The absence of British package tourism domination (controversial but true) creates more authentic atmosphere. Playa Paraíso attracts mix of Spanish mainlanders, Germans, British, Scandinavians, and other Europeans rather than being 90% one nationality. Christmas celebrations feel more genuinely Spanish as a result – locals from Adeje and surrounding areas actually celebrate here rather than it being purely tourist-focused. The 12 grapes tradition and Three Kings parades aren’t performed solely for visitors’ benefit but represent real local customs.
Three Kings Day Beach Parade: The Perfect Christmas Finale
While most of Europe considers Christmas finished by December 26th, Spanish culture treats January 5-6 (Día de Reyes / Three Kings Day) as the true culmination of festive celebrations. This matters enormously if you’re in Tenerife through early January – you haven’t experienced complete Spanish Christmas until witnessing the Three Kings parades.
The tradition dates to the arrival of the Three Wise Men (Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthasar) bearing gifts for baby Jesus. In modern Spain, this translates to elaborate parades on January 5th evening, with the kings arriving via elaborate floats to distribute gifts to children. January 6th morning brings the main gift-giving – children leave shoes out overnight for the kings to fill, similar to Santa stockings in other cultures but taken more seriously in Spanish tradition.
Costa Adeje hosts one of Tenerife’s best Three Kings parades on January 5th. The procession starts 6:30 PM at Plaza de España, winding through town streets before ending at the beach where the kings traditionally arrive by boat (weather permitting). Floats, marching bands, local performers, and the three kings throw candy and small gifts to crowds – children go wild collecting handfuls. The atmosphere is properly magical, with thousands of families lining the route in festive mood.
Los Cristianos beach (25 minutes from Playa Paraíso) offers alternative spectacular parade ending with the kings arriving directly onto the beach via boat at 7 PM. This version leans more theatrical – the kings literally wade through the water to shore, greeted by crowds of hundreds. It’s absurdly photogenic and genuinely moving even for non-religious adults. We attended in 2024 and were surprised by how emotionally affecting the ceremony was – the combination of tradition, excited children, and beautiful beach setting creates something special.
Hotels participate enthusiastically in Three Kings traditions. Most properties organize children’s activities on January 5th including letter-writing to the kings, costume-making workshops, and evening entertainment centered around the kings’ arrival. January 6th breakfast features Roscón de Reyes – a circular cake hiding a small figurine and dried bean. Whoever finds the figurine wears the golden paper crown for the day; whoever finds the bean supposedly pays for next year’s Roscón. Hotel patisseries bake these fresh daily from late December through January 10th – try it even if not celebrating religiously, as the tradition is genuinely fun.
From practical perspective: if your return flight is January 6th or later, extend your Christmas celebration to include Three Kings Day. The experience is genuinely unique to Spain and totally different from standard Christmas traditions. Children in particular love the candy-throwing parades and shoe-filling anticipation. Adults appreciate the cultural authenticity and the fact that it extends festive period well beyond when most destinations have moved on to dreary January normalcy.
If you’re staying through early January, consider this schedule: December 22-26 for traditional Christmas celebrations and beach time, December 27-30 for exploring the island and recovering from Christmas excess, December 31-January 1 for NYE celebrations and New Year’s Day beach swim, January 2-4 for final beach sessions and relaxation, January 5 for Three Kings parade, January 6 for Roscón breakfast and final beach day before departure. This gives you genuinely comprehensive Spanish Christmas experience rather than generic holiday break that happens to coincide with December 25th.
The beauty of beach Christmas in Playa Paraíso is that traditions feel enhanced rather than compromised by the coastal setting. You’re not sacrificing authentic Spanish customs for tourist convenience – you’re experiencing them in their proper Mediterranean context where Christmas doesn’t require snow, cold weather, or indoor captivity. Nochebuena dinners on ocean-view terraces, midnight mass followed by beach walks, New Year’s Eve fireworks over the Atlantic, and Three Kings parades ending on sandy beaches – these aren’t bastardized versions of Spanish tradition but the way Canarians have celebrated for centuries.
So yes, beach Christmas beats snowy Christmas. The weather is objectively better, the activities more varied, the stress levels lower, and the Spanish traditions more vibrant in their native Mediterranean environment than transported to colder climates. If you’re considering escaping UK winter for Christmas 2025, Playa Paraíso delivers everything needed for memorable festive break without the tourist trap nonsense or eye-watering prices of busier resorts.