SerpApi.Org
Spain has come out particularly well in TUI Musement’s latest ranking of the best European islands for water sports, with several destinations placed in the top 10.
TUI Musement analysed search data across more than 500 European islands, looking at interest in activities including surfing, diving, kayaking, sailing, kitesurfing, snorkelling and windsurfing. The resulting ranking highlights just how dominant Spain’s islands are when it comes to water sports demand.
Spain’s strong showing in the top 10
Spain features prominently in the top tier of the ranking, with five islands listed among the 10 best European islands for water sports.
Tenerife: year-round surf and volcanic dive sites
According to TUI Musement’s analysis, Tenerife is described as one of Europe’s favourite destinations for surfers, thanks to its mild year-round climate and wide variety of surf spots. It comes second in TUI's ranking, just behind Malta.
The island’s volcanic landscapes and marine biodiversity also support strong interest in diving and snorkelling. Diving sessions in Abades Bay are highlighted as a popular way to explore Tenerife’s volcanic seabed.
Other key locations include Playa de las Américas for surfing, El Médano for windsurfing and kitesurfing, and Montaña Amarilla for snorkelling.
Lanzarote: steady winds and underwater attractions
Fourth in the ranking, behind Madeira, Lanzarote stands out for its volcanic landscape and steady winds, which attract those interested in surfing, snorkelling and diving. TUI Musement notes that the island offers activities for all levels.
Specific sites mentioned include Playa de Famara for surfing, Papagayo for kayaking, Los Ajaches for snorkelling and the underwater Museo Atlántico for diving.
Mallorca: Mediterranean coves and coastal excursions
In the Mediterranean, Mallorca combines beaches and natural landscapes with a broad range of water sports. At number five in the ranking, its emerald waters and hidden coves drive interest in snorkelling, kayaking and coastal excursions.
Highlighted locations include Sant Elm and Cala Varques for kayaking, as well as Dragonera Island and La Victòria Nature Reserve for snorkelling.
Fuerteventura: leading wind and kite destination
Fuerteventura is described as one of Europe’s top destinations for windsurfing and kitesurfing and tops both categories in the TUI Musement rankings. The island’s miles of sandy beaches and reliable winds underpin this demand.
Key spots include Sotavento for windsurfing, Flag Beach for kitesurfing, Corralejo for surfing and El Cotillo for snorkelling. It is also regarded as one of Europe’s most iconic surfing destinations.
Ibiza: number nine in the TUI ranking
Spain’s presence in TUI Musement’s top 10 also extends to the Balearic Islands, with Ibiza ranked ninth. Beyond its nightlife reputation, TUI Musement highlights Ibiza’s blue Mediterranean waters and the UNESCO-protected Posidonia seagrass meadows, which create an ecosystem suited to scuba diving and snorkelling.
The ranking points to several key locations for water sports on the island. Ses Salines and Es Figueral for snorkelling, Es Vedrà is best for divers, and Cala Xarraca and Es Figueral are recommended for kayaking.
Spain’s position in the wider European context
While Malta ranks first overall in the TUI study, Spain’s presence across multiple islands in the top 10 underlines its strong position in the European water sports market.
With five islands listed, Spain is one of the most represented countries in TUI Musement’s analysis of search trends across more than 500 European islands.
Stay in the know about living in Spain as a foreigner—get our weekly newsletter for the latest travel, legal, and lifestyle news.
