The Canary Islands are a seven-island archipelago, each with its own distinct personality and charm. For digital nomads, the choice often comes down to the two most populous islands: Tenerife and Gran Canaria. However, smaller islands like Lanzarote and Fuerteventura shouldn’t be overlooked. Let’s look at the region of islands as a whole first, and then dive into each island (PRO TIP: use the table of contents to skip to the island you want to see!).
Why Digital Nomads Love The Canary Islands
The Beaches Are Pretty Cool
How are the beaches in Tenerife?
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is famous for its diverse beaches ranging from golden to volcanic black sand. Playa de Las Teresitas is one of the most popular beaches on the island. Located near the capital city Santa Cruz, it boasts golden sand brought in from the Sahara. This beach can get quite busy during the high season (July to September), but you can still find a quiet spot during the weekdays.
If you prefer a more dramatic setting, Playa Jardín with its black sand and beautifully landscaped surroundings is a must-visit. The low season, from November to March, is a good time to visit for those who prefer a quieter atmosphere.
How are the beaches in Gran Canaria?
Gran Canaria is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the archipelago. Playa de Maspalomas, with its vast dunes, is a sight to behold. It’s highly popular year-round, but it’s especially crowded during the high season.
For a more secluded experience, head to Playa de Güi Güi. Reaching this beach is an adventure in itself, involving a challenging hike or a boat ride. Visiting during the low season is recommended if you’re looking for solitude.
How are the beaches in Lanzarote?
Lanzarote offers a unique beach experience with its volcanic landscapes and clear waters. Playa Blanca is a family-friendly beach with calm waters and golden sand. Its popularity peaks during the high season.
Playa de Papagayo, located in a protected natural area, is a series of coves with crystal clear waters. It’s less crowded during the low season, making it a perfect time for a peaceful beach day.
How are the beaches in Fuerteventura?
Fuerteventura is renowned for its stunning, extensive beaches. Corralejo Natural Park has miles of white sand dunes that will make you feel as if you’re in the Sahara. Its popularity remains high throughout the year.
Cofete Beach, on the other hand, is a remote and largely untouched beach offering spectacular views. Its isolated location means it’s less crowded, even during the high season.
Remember, even during the low seasons, the Canary Islands enjoy warm temperatures, making it pleasant to visit the beaches anytime. Just ensure to check local weather conditions before planning your beach day.
The Tech Scene is Sprouting
The Canary Islands have a thriving tech scene. Startups are sprouting, coworking spaces are popping up, and tech events are becoming more frequent. This vibrant community offers plenty of opportunities for networking and collaboration.
The Cost of Living is Really Low
Compared to many parts of Europe and the US, the cost of living in the Canary Islands is relatively low. You can enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank.
The Lifestyle is Laid Back
With stunning beaches, warm weather, and a laid-back lifestyle, the Canary Islands offer a unique work-life balance. After a day of work, you can surf, hike, or simply relax on the beach.
The Advantages of The Canary Islands for Digital Nomads
The Climate
The Canary Islands are known as the ‘Islands of Eternal Spring‘ for their pleasant climate year-round. With an average temperature of 22°C, it’s comfortable to work outside or take a beach break any time of the year.
The Community
The Canary Islands have a growing digital nomad community. You can find fellow nomads to share experiences, exchange ideas, or simply socialize.
You can use our app to find ACTIVE digital nomad communities on Slack, Facebook, and WhatsApp.
The Internet Speeds
With high-speed internet widely available, you won’t have to worry about staying connected. Plus, being in the same time zone as the UK and Ireland, and just an hour behind most of mainland Europe, makes communication easier for remote work.
The Challenges for Digital Nomads in The Canary Islands
The Language Barrier
While Spanish is the official language, English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. However, learning a bit of Spanish can make your stay smoother and help you connect with the local community.
Finding Accommodation
While there’s a wide range of accommodation options, finding the perfect place can take time and effort. It’s advisable to book a temporary place first and then explore on the ground.
Local Regulations
Like any destination, the Canary Islands have their own regulations. Make sure you’re aware of visa requirements, tax regulations, and any local laws that could impact your stay.
But Which Island Is Best For Digital Nomads?
Tenerife: The Bustling Island
What should you expect to pay?
- Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in the city center: €600-€800 per month. Outside of the city center, this can drop to around €500-€600.
- Food: A meal at an inexpensive restaurant: €10-€15. Monthly groceries: €200-€300.
- Transportation: Monthly public transport ticket: €45-€50. Taxi, normal tariff per km: €1.
- Internet: Basic (10 Mbps, unlimited data, Cable/ADSL): €30-€40 per month.
Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, offers a vibrant city life alongside beautiful beaches and mountains. Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital, is a bustling hub with a thriving tech scene. Co-working spaces such as Coworking in the Sun provide not only workspace but also networking opportunities and workshops for digital nomads.
In terms of lifestyle, Tenerife is hard to beat. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking in the Teide National Park or a beach lover who relishes the island’s beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone.
As for cost of living, it’s reasonably affordable. You can expect to pay around €600-€800 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. Eating out is also quite inexpensive, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing around €10.
Where should you stay?
Gran Canaria: The Miniature Continent
What should you expect to pay?
- Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in the city center: €600-€800 per month. Outside of the city center, you can find places around €500-€700.
- Food: A meal at an inexpensive restaurant: €10-€15. Monthly groceries: €200-€300.
- Transportation: Monthly public transport ticket: €40-€50. Taxi, normal tariff per km: €1.
- Internet: Basic (10 Mbps, unlimited data, Cable/ADSL): €30-€40 per month.
Gran Canaria is often referred to as a ‘miniature continent’ due to its diverse landscapes, ranging from sandy beaches to green mountains. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the capital, is known for its digital nomad scene. Co-working spaces such as Soppa de Azul and ReStation are popular among digital nomads.
The lifestyle in Gran Canaria is laid-back yet stimulating. The island offers a rich cultural scene, with festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions happening throughout the year. The island is also a paradise for surfers, with world-class surfing spots.
The cost of living in Gran Canaria is similar to Tenerife. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center will set you back about €600-€800 per month. The cost of eating out and general expenses are also quite affordable.
Where should you stay?
Lanzarote and Fuerteventura: The Tranquil Islands
What should you expect to pay?
- Rent: A one-bedroom apartment in the city center: €500-€700 per month. Outside of the city center, this can drop to around €400-€600.
- Food: A meal at an inexpensive restaurant: €10-€15. Monthly groceries: €200-€300.
- Transportation: Monthly public transport ticket: €40-€50. Taxi, normal tariff per km: €1.
- Internet: Basic (10 Mbps, unlimited data, Cable/ADSL): €30-€40 per month.
If you prefer a quieter, slower pace of life, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are worth considering. These islands offer a relaxed lifestyle, beautiful landscapes, and a close-knit community of digital nomads. Co-working and co-living spaces like Hub Fuerteventura provide a great environment for work and socializing.
While the cost of living on these smaller islands can be slightly higher due to fewer options, the tranquility and unique beauty they offer can be worth the extra cost.
Where should you stay?
My Experience With Tenerife
I remember when I first arrived in Tenerife. As a digital nomad, I was looking for a place that offered a good work-life balance. I was immediately drawn to the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. The co-working space I joined was filled with like-minded individuals from all over the world, and it quickly became my second home. However, what I loved most about Tenerife was the ability to disconnect after a long day of work. Nothing beat the feeling of unwinding on a beautiful beach with the view of Mount Teide in the distance.
Conclusion
Choosing the best island in the Canary Islands ultimately comes down to personal preference. Each island has its unique charm and advantages. Tenerife and Gran Canaria offer a bustling city life and a vibrant tech scene, making them perfect for those who crave a stimulating environment. On the other hand, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura provide a more relaxed, tranquil lifestyle, ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life and a close-knit community.
When choosing your island, consider what factors are most important to you. Is it the tech scene? The cost of living? The lifestyle? Or perhaps it’s a combination of these factors. Once you’ve identified what matters most, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect Canary Island for your digital nomad adventure.
To end with, here’s a tip from a fellow nomad: don’t be afraid to try out different islands before settling on one. Each island has its unique vibe and charm, and the beauty of being a digital nomad is that you have the freedom to explore and discover which one suits you best.
FAQs
What’s the best time to visit the Canary Islands?
The Canary Islands have a pleasant climate year-round, making them a great destination any time of the year.
Do I need to speak Spanish to live in the Canary Islands?
While Spanish is the official language, English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. However, learning some Spanish can enhance your experience.
What’s the internet speed like in the Canary Islands?
High-speed internet is widely available in the Canary Islands, making it ideal for digital nomads.
What are the visa requirements for digital nomads in the Canary Islands?
EU citizens can stay indefinitely, while non-EU citizens can stay for up to 90 days without a visa. For longer stays, a visa is required.
What’s the cost of living in the Canary Islands?
Compared to many parts of Europe and the US, the cost of living in the Canary Islands is relatively low.
Where are the WhatsApp groups for digital nomads in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, or Fuerteventura?
You can use Nomad Grab’s app to find those social groups. Inside of the app, you will be able to filter by country, city, and then by your interests to find the invite link to the group of your choosing.
