Holidaymakers flock to Tenerife for its world-class beaches and year-round sunshine. It’s hard to beat lounging around on the warm sands, cocktail in one hand, ice cream in the other.

But take a closer look and you’ll find this island has so much more to offer beyond the coast. If you fancy a break from the shore, there are plenty of fantastic things to do in Tenerife – here are a few ideas to inspire your next trip.

Check out an incredible volcanic tunnel

Head underground to discover the Cueva del Viento (wind cave) – it’s the largest volcanic tube in Europe and the fifth largest in the world. This otherworldly natural wonder was formed by lava flows from Pico Viejo, next to Mount Teide.

The three-tiered labyrinth of tunnels runs for 11 miles beneath the northern town of Icod de los Vinos. See it for yourself on a guided tour of the caves with an informative commentary in English.

Go whale and dolphin watching

More than 25 species of whales and dolphins can be seen frolicking among the warm waters between Tenerife and its neighbouring island La Gomera. This part of the world is one of the few places where you’re pretty much guaranteed to see these beautiful creatures up close.

Head to the port of Los Cristianos or Los Gigantes and catch one of the boats that depart daily. As you cruise out into the waters, keep your eyes peeled for the splashing of tails.

Stargaze at Teide

Even when the sun goes down, there’s plenty of things to do in Tenerife. The Canary Islands are one of the best places to observe the night sky and within Teide National Park you’ll find the largest solar observatory in Europe.

On a tour of the site, you’ll be able to see sunspots and solar flares through a professional scope and learn how a night scope works. Simply sit back and observe constellations and twinkling stars from almost any part of the park. If you happen to be on the island during August, don’t miss the shooting meteor showers of the Perseids.

Swim in lava pools at Garachico

For an invigorating dip in the Atlantic, take a trip to the lava rock pools at Garachico. They were formed following a volcanic eruption in 1706 and the crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkelling or simply bathing with a view.

Garachico itself is one of the oldest towns in the Canary Islands and was once the wealthiest. Take some time out to wander around the cobbled streets admiring the colourful buildings.

Go bananas at Aloe Park

If you’re bananas about bananas, Aloe Park might be just up your street. Banana cultivation is still prevalent in Tenerife and this site still operates as a commercial plantation. As well as bananas, you’ll see large fields of aloe vera and find out why you should drink the plant extract every morning to keep your body in tip-top condition.

The park also has a museum devoted to farming through the ages and don’t be surprised if you see a few farm animals knocking about too.

Scratch beneath the surface and you’ll find there’s more to Tenerife than its plethora of beaches. Embrace your inner explorer and enjoy epic adventures around the island.