Which ocean surrounds Tenerife and the Canary Islands?

Puerto colon tenerife canary islands
The Canary Islands sit in the Atlantic Ocean, very close to the Moroccan west coast

The Canary Islands is an archipelago formed by eight islands: Tenerife - the largest of all, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Gomera - the closest island to Tenerife, La Palma, El Hierro and La Graciosa.

The Canary Islands are located in the Atlantic Ocean, close to the African continent

So, in regards to the question about which sea surrounds Tenerife, the answer is the Atlantic Ocean, of course.

Take care while swimming in Tenerife and the Canary Islands

Even if you are a good swimmer, always be careful while swimming in the ocean. The currents are powerful and tricky and you shouldn't be adventurous in places that are new to you.

Most of the town beaches in Tenerife have lifeguards, who are there to protect you in case anything happens. Always listen to the lifeguards, because they know the ocean well and they know where currents are strong.

Significance of flags Canary Islands beaches:

  • Green flag: Swimming allowed
  • Yellow flag: Swimming allowed, but with extreme caution
  • Red flag: Swimming is forbidden
  • Yellow flag + Red Flag: Swimming is forbidden for children; Adults should swim with caution

Advice for swimming in Tenerife and the other Canary Islands:

  • Wear water shoes - this way you are protected from stepping on jellyfish or hurting yourself by stepping on sharp stones
  • Wear a UV protective T-shirt - especially if your skin is fair
  • Use lots of sun lotion with high UV protection
  • If it's your first time swimming in the Atlantic Ocean or you are not a confident swimmer, choose a beach with a lifeguard and stay close to the shore
  • Most beaches in the south of Tenerife are protected by breakwaters, which don't allow big waves to come close to the shoreline. This is also the case for the major resorts on the other Canary Islands
  • The best beaches for children in Tenerife are in Los Cristianos: Playa de los Cristianos, Las Vistas and even Puerto Colon - this a personal opinion, not the universal truth. Read more in our guide of where to stay in Tenerife if you're coming for a family holiday.
  • Take care while going into the natural rock pools in Tenerife like the ones in Garachico or Los Gigantes - unfortunately, there have been several accidents with people dragged into the sea by big waves, so always take great caution and don't go in when the sea is rough
  • Please be respectful and don't throw plastic bottles, plastic bags or any other waste into the ocean waters - it is important for the survival of marine life and we should all respect the nature around us, even when we are on holiday

FAQ about the ocean surrounding the Canary Islands

What sea surrounds the Canary Islands?

The Canary Islands are surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. So as you can see, the Canary Islands are actually surrounded by an ocean, not a sea.

Is it safe to swim in the ocean in the Canary Islands?

Yes, you can definitely swim in the ocean while on holiday in the Canary Islands. Beaches on the west coast of the islands are generally more dangerous, with strong currents, so be very careful.

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