Playa de las Américas
Tenerife's premier resort destination - sun, excitement, and endless entertainment
Tenerife's Entertainment Capital
Playa de las Américas stands as Tenerife's undisputed entertainment capital – a purposely-designed resort town that has transformed from humble beginnings into a world-class holiday destination. Unlike the island's historic towns that evolved over centuries, Las Américas was conceived and built specifically for pleasure, resulting in a resort where everything from the golden beaches to the vibrant nightlife exists to delight visitors. With its year-round sunshine, diverse attractions, and energetic atmosphere, it represents modern tourism at its most developed, offering an experience that ranges from family-friendly fun to legendary nightlife, all within a compact, walkable area where the party never stops and the sun almost always shines.
From Barren Coast to Tourism Powerhouse
Pre-Development Era (Before 1960s)
Prior to tourism development, the area that would become Playa de las Américas was primarily arid coastal land with minimal habitation. Unlike other parts of Tenerife with centuries of history, this southwestern coast remained largely undeveloped until the mid-20th century.
Initial Development (1960s-1970s)
Recognizing the potential of Tenerife's year-round sunny climate, developers began transforming the area into a purpose-built tourist destination. The first hotels, artificial beaches, and basic infrastructure were established during this pioneering phase.
Tourism Boom (1980s-1990s)
Following the opening of Tenerife South Airport in 1978, Playa de las Américas experienced explosive growth. This era saw the development of major hotel complexes, entertainment venues, and the area's famous nightlife scene, establishing it as Tenerife's premier resort.
Maturation & Refinement (2000s-Present)
Recent decades have seen Playa de las Américas evolve beyond its party reputation with the addition of upscale hotels, shopping centers, and family attractions like Siam Park. The resort continues to develop with a greater emphasis on quality and diverse experiences.
Top Attractions
Playa de Troya
One of the most popular beaches in the resort, featuring golden sand imported from the Sahara desert. This Blue Flag beach offers excellent facilities including sunbeds, showers, and water sports rentals, all set against a backdrop of swaying palm trees and oceanfront restaurants.
The beach gets busiest between 11am-3pm. For a more relaxed experience, visit in the early morning or late afternoon when you can also catch a beautiful sunset.
Siam Park
Consistently ranked among the world's best water parks, this Thai-themed aquatic paradise features record-breaking slides, a white sand beach with artificial waves, and lush tropical gardens. The Tower of Power, with its 28-meter near-vertical drop through a shark tank, is the signature attraction.
Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the queues, and rent a locker immediately upon arrival as they sell out quickly during peak season.
Veronicas Strip
The epicenter of Playa de las Américas' legendary nightlife, this concentrated entertainment zone features dozens of bars, clubs, and venues playing everything from chart hits to dance classics. The area comes alive after dark with neon lights, music, and revelers from across Europe.
Safari Shopping Centre
Upscale open-air shopping complex featuring designer boutiques, fine dining restaurants, and elegant bars arranged around a central plaza with fountains. By day, it's a shopping destination; by night, it transforms into an entertainment venue with live music and performances.
Golf Las Américas
18-hole championship golf course set in a natural amphitheater with mountain views. This immaculately maintained course features lakes, waterfalls, and palm-lined fairways, offering both challenging play for experienced golfers and a scenic environment for beginners.
Beaches & Coastal Areas
Playa de Fañabé
Pristine Blue Flag beach with golden sand, calm waters, and excellent facilities. Popular with families for its safe swimming conditions and proximity to beachfront restaurants and shops.
Playa del Duque
The most exclusive beach in the area, featuring imported white sand and upscale beach clubs. Bordered by luxury hotels and designer shopping, it offers a more refined beach experience.
Playa de las Américas Central
The original beach in the heart of the resort features darker volcanic sand and good swimming conditions protected by breakwaters. Convenient location near many hotels and restaurants.
Playa de la Pinta
Family-friendly small bay with calm waters perfect for children. Features a playground, inflatable water park in summer months, and easy access to Puerto Colón marina.
Shopping Paradise
Playa de las Américas is a shopper's paradise, with everything from luxury boutiques to bargain markets. The resort features several major shopping centers, each with its own character and specialty.
Siam Mall
Modern shopping center with Thai-inspired architecture featuring over 70 international and Spanish fashion brands, electronics stores, and a large supermarket.
Highlights: Zara, Pull & Bear, Nike, Apple reseller, food court
Safari Centre
Upscale open-air shopping complex in the heart of the resort featuring designer boutiques and luxury goods in an elegant setting with fountains and palm trees.
Highlights: Designer brands, jewelry stores, upscale restaurants, evening entertainment
Parque Santiago Commercial Centres
Series of connected shopping complexes along the beachfront promenade offering a mix of souvenir shops, fashion, electronics, and convenience stores.
Highlights: Beachwear, souvenirs, duty-free electronics, casual dining options
El Mirador
Shopping center focusing on designer outlets and discounted brand-name merchandise, popular with bargain hunters looking for deals on quality items.
Highlights: Discounted designer clothes, sports equipment, perfume and cosmetics
Legendary Nightlife
Playa de las Américas is famous throughout Europe for its vibrant nightlife scene, offering everything from wild party strips to sophisticated lounges and live music venues.
Veronica's Strip
The epicenter of Playa de las Américas' nightlife with dozens of bars and clubs concentrated in one area. Famous for promoters offering deals, lively atmosphere, and partying until sunrise.
Venue Type: Party Zone
Music: Commercial hits, dance, R&B
Papagayo Beach Club
Upscale beachfront venue combining restaurant, lounge, and nightclub elements. Features regular DJ sets, themed parties, and a more sophisticated atmosphere than the Strip.
Venue Type: Beach Club
Music: House, electronic, lounge
Hard Rock Cafe
Iconic global brand offering American cuisine, rock memorabilia, and regular live music performances in a family-friendly environment.
Venue Type: Live Music Venue
Music: Rock, pop, cover bands
Starco Centre
Entertainment complex featuring various themed bars, including Irish pubs, sports bars, and comedy venues. Popular with British tourists seeking familiar atmosphere.
Venue Type: Entertainment Complex
Music: Various, karaoke, live sports
Pirámide de Arona
Large performance venue hosting professional shows like 'The History Show' and occasional concerts by international artists in a theater setting.
Venue Type: Theater & Concert Hall
Music: Production shows, concerts, performances
Where to Eat
Playa de las Américas offers an incredibly diverse dining scene catering to international visitors. From familiar comfort food to authentic Canarian cuisine, the resort's hundreds of restaurants ensure every taste and budget is well-served.
El Molino Blanco
Upscale dining with Spanish and international cuisine
Specialties: Seafood paella, grilled meats, extensive wine list
Thai Botanico
Authentic Thai cuisine in Siam Mall's exotic setting
Specialties: Tom yum soup, green curry, Thai-style seafood
Empire Modern British
Contemporary British dining popular with UK visitors
Specialties: Sunday roasts, steaks, fish and chips with a gourmet twist
Restaurante Sebastian
Traditional Canarian restaurant with local atmosphere
Specialties: Fresh fish, papas arrugadas, rabbit in salmorejo
Bianco Restaurant
Chic Italian venue with seafront terrace
Specialties: Homemade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, Mediterranean seafood
Events & Entertainment
Arona Summer Festival
July/August
Annual electronic dance music festival featuring international DJs and performers. Held in the Olympic Stadium, this event attracts thousands of electronic music fans for a night of cutting-edge sounds and spectacular production.
Tenerife Carnival Parade
February/March
While the main carnival takes place in Santa Cruz, Playa de las Américas hosts its own colorful parade and celebrations during carnival season, bringing the party atmosphere to the resort.
Live Music Weekends
Year-round
Hard Rock Cafe and various venues throughout the resort host regular live music events featuring local bands and international performers, particularly on weekend nights.
Popular Excursions
Whale & Dolphin Watching
Boat trips depart from nearby Puerto Colón to observe the resident pods of pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins that inhabit the waters between Tenerife and La Gomera.
Marina is 5 minutes by taxi
Mount Teide National Park
Explore Spain's highest peak and the otherworldly volcanic landscapes of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Various tours offer hiking, cable car rides, and stargazing experiences.
1 hour drive
Jungle Park
Wildlife park featuring exotic birds, animals, and vegetation in a jungle-like environment. Includes bird of prey shows, sea lion performances, and thrilling zip lines.
10 minutes by car
La Gomera Island
Day trips to this unspoiled neighboring island allow visitors to experience traditional Canarian culture, ancient laurel forests, and the unique whistling language of Silbo Gomero.
Ferry from Los Cristianos (10 min drive)
Family-Friendly Activities
Siam Park
Award-winning water park with slides and attractions for all ages, including a dedicated children's zone called "Lost City."
Aqualand Costa Adeje
Water park featuring dolphin shows, kid-friendly slides, and swimming pools suitable for younger children.
Playa de la Pinta
Sheltered beach with calm waters and an inflatable water park floating offshore during summer months.
Submarine Safari
Underwater adventure aboard a real submarine to observe marine life, departing from nearby Puerto Colón.
Jungle Park
Zoo and adventure park with exotic birds, animals, and shows that appeal to children and families.
Practical Information
Location
Southwestern Tenerife, approximately 17 km from Tenerife South Airport (TFS)
Getting Around
Resort is highly walkable; reliable bus service connects to neighboring areas; taxis readily available; car rental recommended for island exploration
Climate
Year-round sunshine with average temperatures 20-28°C (68-82°F); minimal rainfall (typically brief showers in winter); cooling ocean breezes moderate summer heat
Is It Worth Visiting?
Playa de las Américas delivers exactly what it promises – a vibrant, purpose-built resort experience with excellent facilities and non-stop entertainment. It's ideal for visitors seeking lively nightlife, diverse dining options, quality shopping, and well-maintained beaches all within walking distance. Families will appreciate the water parks and family-friendly attractions, while night owls will find the famous club scene lives up to its reputation. Those seeking authentic Canarian culture or tranquil seclusion might prefer other parts of Tenerife, but for a high-energy, convenient vacation with everything at your fingertips, Las Américas delivers.