Top Things to Do in the Canary Islands after dark
The Canary Islands are world-renowned for their year-round sunshine, pristine beaches, and volcanic landscapes. But once the sun sets, these vibrant islands reveal an entirely different personality — full of energy, culture, cuisine, and entertainment.
Whether you're looking for nightlife, stargazing, romantic dinners, or just something unique, the Canary Islands offer a wide range of after-dark experiences to satisfy every kind of traveller.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top things to do in the Canary Islands after dark, with insider tips for locals, tourists, and expats alike.
1. Sip Cocktails with a View
Start your evening with a rooftop drink or beachside cocktail. The Canary Islands boast countless bars with stunning ocean views. In places like Las Palmas (Gran Canaria) and Costa Adeje (Tenerife), you’ll find stylish lounges where you can unwind as the sky turns orange and purple.
Recommended spots:
- Monkey Beach Club (Tenerife) – Ideal for sunset lovers.
- La Azotea de Benito (Gran Canaria) – Rooftop bar with great vibes and craft cocktails.
2. Enjoy a Tapas Tour
When in Spain, do as the locals do — eat late. A tapas crawl is a quintessential Spanish nighttime activity, and the Canaries are no exception. From fried calamari to papas arrugadas with mojo sauce, the flavours are unforgettable.
Some tapas routes (rutas de tapas) run in towns like La Laguna or Arrecife, where locals and tourists hop between bars, tasting small plates and local wines.
3. Stargazing in Teide National Park
For a more tranquil but magical experience, head to Teide National Park in Tenerife. Recognised as a Starlight Reserve, it offers some of the clearest skies in Europe. After dark, the Milky Way and constellations come into spectacular focus.
There are guided stargazing tours with telescopes and expert commentary, or you can bring a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy the cosmic show on your own.
4. Try Your Luck at a Local or Online Casino
If you're feeling lucky, the Canary Islands have several casinos that come alive at night. From the glamour of Casino de Santa Cruz in Tenerife to the stylish Gran Casino Costa Meloneras in Gran Canaria, these venues offer a mix of slot machines, poker, roulette, and entertainment.
But you don’t even have to leave your hotel room to enjoy a thrilling gaming experience. Many visitors choose to play online at trusted platforms like paddy power, where you can enjoy a wide range of casino games, live betting, and promotions — all accessible via mobile or desktop. It’s a convenient and exciting way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing, especially for those who prefer a relaxed night in.
5. Dance the Night Away in Local Clubs
When it comes to nightlife, the Canary Islands rival Ibiza — especially in the high season. Clubs in Playa de las Américas (Tenerife) and Playa del Inglés (Gran Canaria) are known for their high-energy scenes, international DJs, and themed nights.
Top clubs to check out:
- Papagayo Beach Club (Tenerife) – Beachfront clubbing at its best.
- Chester Meloneras Club & Lounge (Gran Canaria) – Elegant and lively, with an upscale crowd.
- Aqua Club (Fuerteventura) – Popular among locals with a vibrant atmosphere.
6. Catch a Live Music Show or Local Festival
Canarian culture shines through music and dance. Throughout the year, you can catch live flamenco performances, jazz concerts, and traditional Canarian music. Many towns also host evening street festivals, especially during summer and religious holidays.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas are known for their cultural calendars, offering free and ticketed events that continue well into the night.
7. Take a Moonlit Beach Walk
Sometimes, the most memorable moments are the simplest. A moonlit walk along the coast is both romantic and soothing. Black sand beaches like Playa Jardín (Tenerife) and Playa de Famara (Lanzarote) are especially beautiful under the stars.
Bring a torch, a jacket (it can get breezy), and let the sound of the waves accompany your walk.
8. Visit a Night Market
In recent years, night markets have become increasingly popular across the islands. You’ll find them selling everything from handmade jewellery to local street food.
Popular locations:
- Costa Teguise (Lanzarote) – Friday night market with live music.
- Los Abrigos (Tenerife) – Every Tuesday in this traditional fishing village.
These markets are perfect for those who want to shop and snack under the stars.
9. Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tours
Yes, even after dark, some vineyards offer evening tastings. The volcanic soil of the Canary Islands produces unique wines you won’t find anywhere else. Lanzarote's La Geria region is particularly famous for its moonlit vineyard events during certain times of the year.
Even if you can’t join a tour, a wine bar with local selections is always a good idea.
10. Take a Sunset or Night Cruise
Many harbours across the islands offer sunset catamaran cruises, often with dinner, drinks, and live music onboard. Some even stay out after dark, offering stargazing from the sea or nighttime swimming opportunities.
Cruises depart from ports like:
- Puerto Colón (Tenerife)
- Puerto Rico (Gran Canaria)
- Corralejo (Fuerteventura)
It’s a fantastic way to end the day and experience the coastline from a different perspective.
Final Thoughts
The Canary Islands aren't just a daytime destination — when the sun goes down, the islands offer a magical mix of culture, entertainment, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're into dancing, relaxing, or exploring, there's always something to do after dark.
So next time you're visiting, don't retreat to your hotel room at sundown. Step out (or log in) and experience all the vibrant nightlife and unique evening activities the Canaries have to offer.
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