It's likely that when you think of the Canary Islands, you picture yourself on a beautiful, sandy beach with an icy, tropical drink in your hand. Until recent years, the perfect island vacation was something many people only dreamed of. Thanks to mass tourism and the popularity of affordable vacation packages, island getaways are becoming a yearly event for millions of people.

Cruise companies and airlines have made efforts to make travel more affordable. Low-cost airlines offer flights from several areas in Europe to the Canary Islands, the Balearic Islands and other parts of Spain. Budget travel agents often partner with low-cost airlines to build affordable vacation packages for their clients.

The Canary Islands are volcanic in origin and comprised of several islands. One of the most popular vacation islands is Tenerife. Millions of visitors flock to Tenerife each year for the nightlife, beaches and family fun. With a wide variety of sporting events, restaurants, resorts and theme parks, Tenerife offers something for everyone.

Affordable Resorts on the South Coast of Tenerife

Costa Adeje is one of the quieter resort areas on the southern coast of the island. It is close to all amenities, shopping and the beach, yet far enough away from the main hub of excitement to allow peaceful relaxation. Shops offer a wide variety of tourist necessities, along with souvenirs at duty-free prices. Costa Adeje has a wide variety of accommodation for casual tourists, as well as those looking for an extended island vacation.

Playa de las Americas has the busiest nightlife of any resort on the southern coast of the island. Many nightclubs, bars and restaurants play host to a variety of live performances every night. On the strip, it is very easy to move from bar to bar to find the types of music, drinks or entertainment you are looking for. The party lover will be at home at Playa de las Americas.

Los Cristianos has been hosting tourists since the 1950s. Even though it is an older resort town, Los Cristianos maintains its quiet charm and sophisticated style. It is often referred to as a great spot for family vacations due to its small-town appeal and quiet beaches. The resort began as a fishing village and still holds a love of big-game fishing today. Many locally-owned fishing boats leave nearby docks each day. Tourists often find a new love and respect for fishing to be an unexpected part of their island vacation.

Affordable Attractions on the North Coast of Tenerife

Mount Teide National Park covers more than 130 square kilometers and offers an up-close and personal view of the plants and wildlife native to the Canary Islands. Visitors may hike to the summit or take a cable car. Mount Teide is the world's third largest volcano and is the highest peak on the island. The second highest peak is Pico Viejo and it's also accessible to the public.

Aqualand Costa Adeje is the only dolphinarium on the island. Water slides, inner tubes and other great water attractions await adrenaline junkies at Aqualand. The park also offers a great opportunity to observe dolphins swimming at a depth of five meters and performing for spectators.

Siam Park is the largest water park in Europe and is located in Adeje on the southern coast of Tenerife. It is near the resorts at Costa Adeje, Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos. The water park consists of several water rides, as well as an amphitheater and a sea lion pool.