Weather Lowdown
Spring is a great time to visit the small purpose-built resort of Playa Paraiso in Tenerife if you want to escape the crowds of the peak seasons during summer and winter. While the average temperature in April remains the same as March at 19ºC (66ºF), the average low temperatures begin to climb to a warm 16ºC (61ºF) so, bearing in mind that this includes night time temperatures, you may want to start thinking about air conditioning.
Although the temperatures are becoming more constant this month, it does tend to be wetter than the previous months with a spike in rainfall to 22mm from just 15mm in March. That being said, the rainfall is likely to fall over just 4 days with only an 8% chance of rain but when it does come it is likely to be in short, heavy showers so it's a good idea to keep an eye on the local weather forecast to make sure you don't get caught out in a downpour.
The good news is that there is still a 42% chance of a sunny day with 11 sunshine hours a day at this time of year and when the sun does shine the temperature can reach an average high of 22ºC (72ºF). Not surprisingly the average daily temperature tends to climb steadily through the month with the warmest average temperatures of 21ºC (70ºF) most likely after the 20th of the month. The chance of experiencing a cloudy day this month is just 7%.
The seawater temperature also begins to rise this month to a lovely warm 20ºC (68ºF), making it the perfect time to try out some of the water sports on offer including snorkelling around the rocky coast line and catching a glimpse of the many turtles, dolphins and other sea creatures which live around the island.
Where to Stay
April is the perfect month to pamper yourself with a luxurious spa holiday in the sun at the Sheraton La Caleta Resort & Spa just up the coast from Playa Paraiso. With its extensive 1,800sq meter spa area which includes extensive treatment rooms, thermal pools, sauna, steam bath and health club, not to mention the hotel's three swimming pools, this is a truly indulgent option.
For a more basic option in the heart of nearby Adeje, why not rent your own apartment like the Apartamento Paraíso Del Sur with its private balcony with sea views. The apartment, which is located on the beachfront, comes with access to a communal pool and sun terrace.
Another great option in Adeje is the Mediterranean-style H10 Costa Adeje Palace located on the beach at La Enramada. All the rooms here have either a balcony or terrace, many overlooking either the ocean or one of the hotel's three pools. There are several eating options here from a buffet restaurant to gourmet dining and even a poolside café.
Things to Do
Getting close to the extraordinary wildlife at Jungle Park in Costa Adeje is an amazing experience. Spend the day watching the fascinating bird shows involving parrots and rare birds of prey, or walk through the primate area before exploring the big cats which include white lions and tigers, jaguars and leopards. The really brave may even want to try a bobsleigh ride through the park on a super-fast wheeled bob which hurtles down a metal track.
If you do get caught in an April shower why not head out of the rain to the Cueva-Shrine de Chinguaro, believed to be the cave-palace of King Guanche of Menceyato de Güímar. Historians believe the cave was a place of worship even before Christianity was brought to the island and it is considered a great archaeological find.
Hit the Beach
If you're looking for the perfect surfing/windsurfing/kite surfing beach then take a trip down the coast to Playa del Médano. Home to annual World Kite Surfing Championship, the beach has become a popular hangout with the cool young surfer crowd. If the average sea temperatures of 20ºC this month can't tempt you into the water then you can just watch the show of surfers and kite surfers from the beach.
Those looking for a quiet beach on the southeast coast then take a trip along the coast from Playa Paraiso to the resort town of Puerto Santiago. The small black volcanic sand beach here tends to be quiet as there are no facilities or water sports but that means you get less people so the pay off could be a good one if you're looking for a little peace and quiet away from the crowds.
Eating & Drinking Out
For a relaxed family meal out in Playa Paraiso try the local family-run La Fuente with tasty tapas and lovely fresh pizzas. Located at the top of the hill close to the Bahia Principe Hotel, this is also a friendly bar serving freshly prepared Sangria.
Those who don't mind travelling a bit further afield for a gastronomic treat should definitely try the one-Michelin starred El Rincón de Juan Carlos in Los Gigantes. Awarded his Michelin star just last year, chef Juan Carlos creates delicious local delicacies like cochinillo negro using the very freshest, local ingredients.
The Eldon House Pub has become a bit of an institution in the resort, offering a genuine British pub experience on the sunny west coast of Tenerife. There is good British grub from fish and chips to a full roast on Sundays but the quality is good and the atmosphere warm and inviting. Come along in the evening and experience a range of pub entertainment from quiz nights to karaoke.
