Tenerife’s Southern Region Celebrates Four Decades as the Island’s Leading Tourist Destination

The southern region of Tenerife is proudly celebrating its remarkable 40-year journey as the island’s primary tourist hub. This transformation began in 1986 when the area surpassed Puerto de la Cruz, which had long been the favored holiday destination during the 1960s and 1970s. The shift in tourist preferences not only reshaped the landscape of Tenerife but also significantly impacted its economy and international reputation.

The Evolution of Tourism in Tenerife

The transition in visitor preferences has led to profound changes in the island’s economy, coastline, and global standing. The year 1986 is widely recognized as a pivotal moment when the southern region began to thrive. With an abundance of modern hotels and purpose-built resorts, coupled with its reputation for nearly year-round sunshine, the area steadily attracted a growing number of tourists.

While the northern part of the island had traditionally been cherished for its temperate climate and cultural charm, the south emerged as a beacon of a new wave of mass European tourism. In 1986, Tenerife welcomed approximately 1.98 million tourists, with over 962,000 choosing to stay in the southern region. This marked a significant milestone, as it was the first time that the visitor ratio shifted in favor of the south, highlighting its burgeoning appeal.

Infrastructure Growth and Economic Investment

The rise of the southern region was not a mere coincidence; it was bolstered by substantial infrastructure advancements that laid the groundwork for its success. The establishment of the southern motorway and the inauguration of Reina Sofía Airport created a new international gateway, facilitating the arrival of charter flights from various parts of Europe. This connectivity was crucial in attracting tourists who sought the sun-soaked beaches and vibrant atmosphere of the south.

Private investments played a vital role in this transformation as well. In the 1960s, visionary Catalan entrepreneurs Rafael Puig Lluvina and his son Santiago embarked on a bold initiative to develop the previously uninhabited land that would eventually evolve into Playa de Las Américas. Today, this area is recognized as one of the globe’s most prominent resort destinations, a testament to the foresight and ambition of its early developers.

Understanding the Factors Behind the Southern Surge

Experts attribute the south’s remarkable success to its favorable climate and diverse offerings. Initially, Puerto de la Cruz thrived due to its mild weather, but as tourism trends evolved, travelers increasingly sought destinations characterized by abundant sunshine and a wide range of leisure activities. The southern region provided a compelling mix of stunning beaches, contemporary accommodations, expansive promenades, thrilling water parks, and a vibrant nightlife scene, making it an irresistible choice for many vacationers.

In contrast, the northern area faced geographical constraints that limited expansion opportunities and slowed the renovation of older hotels. As tourist expectations grew and resort models changed, more visitors began to favor the southern coastal towns, drawn by the promise of modern amenities and a lively atmosphere.

Local governments in Adeje and Arona were quick to respond to the rising demand for tourism infrastructure. With the backing of developers, their urban planning initiatives facilitated major tourism projects that significantly boosted hotel and apartment capacities. Popular centers such as Playa de Las Américas, Los Cristianos, and Ten-Bel experienced rapid growth during the 1970s and 1980s, transforming the landscape and economy of the southern region.

Today, the legacy of this development continues to shape Tenerife’s identity. The south’s ongoing success is a result of strategic foresight, infrastructure investment, and adaptability to global tourism trends. As discussions surrounding sustainability, carrying capacity, and the future of tourism on the island become increasingly integral to Tenerife’s character, the landmark year of 1986 remains a significant reference point in the island’s tourism narrative.

Key points

• The southern region of Tenerife has been the island’s primary tourist hub for 40 years.
• In 1986, the area surpassed Puerto de la Cruz in tourist numbers for the first time.
• Infrastructure advancements, including the southern motorway and Reina Sofía Airport, were crucial to this transformation.
• Private investments, particularly in Playa de Las Américas, played a significant role in the region’s development.
• The southern region’s appeal lies in its favorable climate, modern amenities, and diverse leisure activities.
• Local governments supported urban planning initiatives to accommodate the growing tourist demand.
• Discussions on sustainability and tourism’s future are now central to Tenerife’s identity.