Tenerife

Tenerife is the year-round pick. Sitting off the coast of Africa, it holds its warmth through the winter as well as the summer, so it works for October half-term and Easter as much as for August. The polished south-west around Costa Adeje is the family heartland.

Why it works for families

The reliability is the draw: you're buying near-certain sunshine whatever the month. Costa Adeje is purpose-built for families, with smart beachfront resorts, real on-site waterparks and one of Europe's best animal-and-water parks a short hop away.

Where to stay

Costa Adeje. The upmarket south-west base. Manicured beaches, strong family resorts and the easiest access to the big parks.

Los Cristianos & Las Américas. Livelier and better value, with long sandy beaches and a busy promenade the kids will enjoy.

The north & Teide. Greener, more Spanish and dramatic. Mount Teide is a genuinely memorable day trip above the clouds.

Beaches

Costa Adeje's beaches are well-kept and family-friendly, some with imported golden sand and calm, roped swimming areas. Elsewhere you'll find the Canaries' natural dark volcanic sand.

Waterparks & days out

Siam Park in Costa Adeje is regularly rated the best waterpark in the world, and Aqualand sits nearby, on top of the on-site splash pools at many resorts. Loro Parque adds animals to the mix.

When to go

Any month. Summer is hot and busy; the real magic is reliable winter and shoulder-season sun when the rest of Europe is cold.

Quick tips

• Best bet for October half-term or Easter sun without a long-haul flight.
• Costa Adeje for polish, Los Cristianos for value, both with good beaches.
• Siam Park is worth a full day, so build the holiday around it.