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Los Cristianos harbour, Tenerife

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Los Cristianos beaches

On one of Europe's most famous holiday islands, Tenerife, Los Cristianos is a resort that caters to all types of traveller, from families looking for a relaxed beach holiday with all the facilities to couples seeking some sunny romance and young travellers in search of a party. More laid-back and less bustling than the neighbouring resort of Playa de Las Américas, Los Cristianos is built around an old fishing village. As part of a 16km (10-mile) stretch of resorts, which includes Playa de Las Américas and Costa Adeje to the north, Los Cristianos has plenty to see and do and is blessed with year-round sunshine, making it a perfect holiday destination at any time.

Beach

The signature sandy beach at Los Cristianos is Playa de Los Cristianos, a sweeping stretch of sand that is laced with sun loungers and plenty of space to unfurl your towel and relax. Playa de Las Vistas is another beach option, lying between Los Cristianos and Playa de Las Américas.

Beyond the beach

Visit Los Cristianos's neighbouring resorts: Playa de Las Américas is the busiest resort on Tenerife with all the facilities to go with it and a legendary nightlife scene, while sophisticated Costa Adeje offers a choice of classy restaurants. Burn off some holiday calories with a hike up Montana Gauza, a peak that opens up sweeping views of southern Tenerife.

Family fun

Los Cristianos is an excellent resort for families with a choice of beaches that are well suited to younger holidaymakers and plenty of family-friendly restaurants. Kids and big kids alike can enjoy a choice of two water parks: Aqualand Costa Adeje has myriad pools, slides, waterfalls and dolphin shows; while Oriental-themed Siam Park is full of white-knuckle rides and a 3m-high artificial wave where you can get surfing lessons.

Exploring further

February is the time to head for Santa Cruz, Tenerife's capital, for the colourful spectacle of Carnaval (www.carnavaltenerife.com), when the streets throng with revellers deep into the night and holidaymakers are welcome. The Teide volcano (accessible by cable car or on a long hike) makes for a thrilling day trip as the views from Spain's highest mountain are sweeping, while there are also whale-watching trips from Los Cristianos.

Splashing out

Enjoy the lap of luxury at the lavish 5-star hotel Gran Hotel Melia Bahia del Duque in Costa Adeje. Even if you are not staying, you can relax in one of the eight restaurants dotted around the expansive grounds and soak up the ocean views.

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