Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, remains a top holiday destination for British travellers even as it faces new environmental, political, and tourism challenges. From shifting travel patterns to wildfire recovery and local government action on overtourism, the island continues to make headlines across UK media.
In this in-depth report, we explore the latest Tenerife news — from tourism developments to community updates — and what they mean for holidaymakers and residents alike.
Tenerife’s Enduring Pull for British Travellers
Tenerife has long been a favourite among British holidaymakers. According to the UK’s Office for National Statistics, over 2.1 million Brits visited the Canary Islands in the past year, with Tenerife accounting for the majority of those trips.
Affordable flights, warm weather, and year-round sunshine make the island irresistible, particularly for families escaping the British winter. However, behind the postcard-perfect beaches lies a growing debate over sustainability, tourism limits, and local livelihoods.
UK-based travel companies have also reported a surge in Tenerife bookings for 2025. Jet2 and TUI both noted a 12% rise in demand compared with 2024. This renewed interest follows the island’s recovery from last year’s devastating wildfires and ongoing concerns about overtourism.
Wildfire Recovery: The Island’s Ongoing Battle with Nature
Tenerife faced one of its worst wildfires in recent memory during summer 2024, with more than 14,000 hectares of forest affected. Local authorities have since focused on restoration projects in the Teide National Park and the surrounding mountain areas.
The Canary Islands Government announced in early October 2025 that reforestation work was progressing faster than expected. Volunteers, environmental groups, and local students have joined in efforts to replant native pine trees and restore biodiversity.
Officials also implemented stricter fire prevention measures this year. These include restricted hiking routes during dry months and increased monitoring by drones. The initiative aligns with the island’s push to protect its fragile ecosystem from future disasters.
For British tourists planning to hike or explore Tenerife’s interior, these restrictions mean checking local alerts before setting off remains essential.
Tourism Protests and Calls for Sustainable Travel
Tenerife’s growing tourism numbers have sparked local protests, particularly around the southern resorts of Costa Adeje and Playa de las Américas. Residents argue that rising visitor numbers have driven up rent prices and stretched public services.
In April 2025, thousands took to the streets demanding limits on hotel development and restrictions on short-term rentals. The movement gained international attention, including coverage by several UK outlets.
The Canary Islands Government responded by proposing a new sustainable tourism law, set to be debated in November. The law aims to regulate tourist accommodation, prioritise local housing, and introduce eco-tax options similar to those in Balearic Islands.
For UK travellers, this could mean a slight rise in accommodation costs in 2026, but also cleaner beaches, better infrastructure, and more sustainable travel experiences.
Airport Upgrades and Easier Travel from the UK
To accommodate growing demand, Tenerife South Airport (Reina Sofía) has begun a £340 million modernisation project. The expansion includes new boarding gates, upgraded terminals, and improved accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility.
Airlines like Jet2, Ryanair, and British Airways have announced additional flights from London, Manchester, and Birmingham for the 2025–26 winter season.
At Birmingham Journal, travel analysts noted a significant spike in UK travellers opting for Canary Islands getaways over traditional European destinations such as Portugal and Italy.
This shift reflects growing concerns about unpredictable European weather, which often makes Tenerife’s reliable climate an easy choice for British families and retirees alike.
British Community and Expats in Tenerife
Tenerife has one of the largest British expat populations in Spain, estimated at over 25,000 residents. Many have settled in areas like Los Cristianos and Costa del Silencio, where British shops, pubs, and services are common.
However, recent tax and healthcare regulations post-Brexit have created challenges for some expats. Local community groups have been working closely with the British Consulate in Santa Cruz to ensure access to medical care and legal guidance.
UK celebrities and public figures are also frequently spotted on the island. Recently, entertainer Peter Andre shared his family’s Tenerife holiday, highlighting its family-friendly resorts and relaxed atmosphere. Similarly, comedian Jimmy Carr mentioned the island in an interview about performing abroad, praising its cultural mix and welcoming locals.
Environmental Action and the Push for Green Tourism
Environmental sustainability has become central to Tenerife’s long-term tourism strategy. The island’s government has introduced electric public buses, solar-powered streetlights, and incentives for hotels to adopt green practices.
The Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, now limits daily visitors to preserve its delicate ecosystem. Tourists are encouraged to book online permits in advance.
Additionally, coastal clean-up initiatives have expanded, with volunteers collecting over 15 tonnes of waste from beaches this year alone. This movement echoes the UK’s growing awareness of sustainable tourism, where responsible travel choices are increasingly valued.
Entertainment, Events, and Cultural Highlights
Tenerife’s cultural calendar remains packed as ever. The Santa Cruz Carnival, one of Europe’s largest, is already preparing for its 2026 edition. Tourism authorities expect record attendance after 2025’s return to full capacity post-pandemic.
The island has also become a hotspot for international film production. Actor Lewis Pullman was recently linked to a new sci-fi project being filmed in the island’s volcanic landscapes — further boosting Tenerife’s reputation as a creative hub.
For motorsport enthusiasts, the Canary Islands Rally continues to draw British spectators, many of whom are also fans of events like the British Grand Prix back home.
Local Economy and Employment Updates
Tourism accounts for around 35% of Tenerife’s GDP, according to Spain’s Ministry of Industry and Tourism. As the island rebounds from pandemic-era losses, job opportunities in hospitality and construction are increasing.
The island’s unemployment rate has dropped to 15.8%, the lowest since 2008. The government attributes this to infrastructure investments and eco-tourism projects.
Still, challenges remain. Rising property prices, driven partly by short-term rentals, have placed pressure on locals. Economists in the Canary Islands are calling for stricter housing controls to maintain community balance.
Flights, Safety, and Travel Advice for UK Visitors
The UK Foreign Office continues to rate Tenerife as a safe destination, but recent months have seen reminders about staying alert in crowded tourist areas. Petty thefts and scams occasionally target distracted holidaymakers, particularly around beaches and nightlife zones.
British travellers are advised to take out comprehensive travel insurance, as healthcare can be expensive without proper coverage.
Flights between the UK and Tenerife remain frequent, with average travel times of four to five hours. Most UK airports now offer multiple daily services to both Tenerife North and Tenerife South airports.
Tenerife’s Weather: Reliable Sunshine Amid Climate Concerns
Tenerife’s climate continues to attract sunseekers, offering average temperatures of 24°C in October. However, the island has experienced occasional heatwaves in 2025, linked to the wider climate crisis.
Meteorologists at Spain’s AEMET agency warn that rising sea temperatures could increase storm risks in coming years. As a precaution, the government is updating its emergency response systems and promoting water conservation measures.
Despite these challenges, the island’s tourism appeal remains undiminished. For most UK visitors, Tenerife continues to represent both relaxation and adventure in equal measure.
The Human Side: Community, Culture, and Resilience
Beyond beaches and resorts, Tenerife’s people remain its greatest strength. Local festivals, family-run businesses, and community spirit define daily life.
Following the wildfires, volunteers across the island — including British expats — rallied to support affected families. Donations and charity events raised over €1.2 million in aid, showing a powerful bond between locals and visitors.
As one resident told Spanish media, “Tenerife isn’t just a destination; it’s a home shared by the world.”
Final Thoughts
Tenerife’s story in 2025 is one of resilience and reinvention. From wildfire recovery and tourism protests to sustainability drives and cultural revival, the island stands at a crossroads between preserving its identity and embracing modern tourism.
For British travellers, Tenerife remains both familiar and fresh — a place where natural beauty, local culture, and a shared sense of community coexist. Whether visiting for a week of sunshine or a long-term escape, Tenerife continues to capture the imagination of millions across the UK.
FAQs: Tenerife News and Travel Updates
1. Is Tenerife safe to visit right now?
Yes. Tenerife is considered safe for tourists, with stable political conditions and a strong police presence in tourist areas.
2. What are the latest travel restrictions for Tenerife?
There are currently no COVID-related restrictions for UK visitors. Standard passport and insurance requirements apply.
3. How is Tenerife recovering from last year’s wildfires?
Recovery work is ongoing. Reforestation and environmental restoration projects are progressing well, supported by local volunteers and government aid.
4. Are there protests affecting tourism in Tenerife?
Occasional demonstrations occur but rarely disrupt travel. They focus mainly on sustainability and housing issues.
5. When is the best time to visit Tenerife?
The island enjoys good weather year-round. However, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.
