Playing golf in northern Tenerife is very different from playing in the south: it is greener and cooler, with more Atlantic scenery and, depending on the area, more humidity or wind. In 2026, the two main courses in the north are Real Club de Golf de Tenerife, in Tacoronte, and Buenavista Golf, in the far north-west beside Teno Rural Park.

Real Club de Golf de Tenerife

Real Club de Golf de Tenerife is in Tacoronte, in a cooler and greener highland area. Tenerife Tourism highlights it as one of the island’s historic clubs. It is a very convenient choice if you are staying in La Laguna, Santa Cruz, Puerto de la Cruz, or northern Tenerife.

  • Location: Tacoronte, northern Tenerife.
  • Atmosphere: classic, green, and highland.
  • Ideal for: players looking for a round in a milder climate close to the metropolitan area.
  • Advice: book a tee time and check the rules for guests, handicaps, and clothing.

Buenavista Golf

Buenavista Golf lies beside cliffs and is framed by Teno Rural Park. Tenerife Tourism describes it as a course designed by Severiano Ballesteros where, on some holes, you feel as though you are playing towards the sea. It offers a more scenic experience and, if you are staying in the south, requires a longer drive.

  • Location: Buenavista del Norte.
  • Atmosphere: ocean, cliffs, and Teno.
  • Ideal for: players who want a special day and dramatic views.
  • Advice: check the wind, restaurant opening hours, buggy hire, and availability before travelling.

How to choose a course

  • If you are staying in Santa Cruz or La Laguna: Real Club de Golf de Tenerife is usually more convenient.
  • If you are staying in Puerto de la Cruz: choose according to whether you prefer proximity or Teno scenery.
  • If you are staying in the south: Buenavista is beautiful, but allow for a long day.
  • If you have companions: Buenavista combines well with Garachico, Los Silos, or Punta de Teno if you organise the day carefully.

The decision is not just about golf. It is about logistics. In Tenerife, an hour’s drive can be part of the plan or the reason you arrive tired at the first tee.

Bookings, equipment, and weather

  • Book your tee time in advance, especially in high season.
  • Ask about hiring clubs, a buggy, a trolley, and practice balls.
  • Check the dress code and handicap requirements.
  • Take a light windbreaker: conditions in the north can change quickly.
  • Check the wind forecast for Buenavista.
  • Allow enough time to arrive without rushing, park, and warm up.

The perfect plan around a round of golf

For the Real Club, you can combine your round with Tacoronte, a guachinche, La Laguna, or a winery. For Buenavista, the best option is a day in the north-west: golf, a relaxed meal, Garachico or Los Silos, and a return journey without rushing.

If you are driving afterwards, be careful with the wine at the nineteenth hole. Tenerife has bends, and bends know nothing about elegant swings.

Frequently asked questions

What are the main golf courses in northern Tenerife?

The main courses are Real Club de Golf de Tenerife, in Tacoronte, and Buenavista Golf, in Buenavista del Norte.

Is it better to play in northern or southern Tenerife?

It depends on your trip. The north has a cooler climate and green scenery; the south is usually drier and has more tourist accommodation and courses close to one another.

Do I need to book to play golf in northern Tenerife?

Yes, it is advisable to book a tee time and check visitor conditions, equipment, buggy hire, handicap requirements, and dress rules.

Do you need a car to get to Buenavista Golf?

It is the most practical option. Buenavista is in north-west Tenerife and requires careful planning of driving times, especially if you are staying in the south.

If you want the freedom to travel between activities, take a look at our guide to exploring Tenerife by car and our summary of what to see in Tenerife.

How to fit this visit into an itinerary

My favourite way to approach these towns and cities is to choose one main visit and two gentle stops around it. This prevents the day from becoming an endless list and leaves you time to walk, eat well, or make a detour if an attractive viewpoint appears.

Park outside the most central area whenever possible and walk in. In historic centres, saving five minutes in the car is almost never worth the narrow streets, one-way systems, and search for a space.

If the day is clear, combine heritage with scenery. If it is cloudy or windy, focus on the historic centre, market, cafés, museums, or restaurants. Tenerife varies greatly from one area to another, and adapting your plans to the weather is usually better than fighting it.