Is Weed Legal in Tenerife?

Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is famous for its beaches, nightlife, and laid-back atmosphere. But when it comes to cannabis, it’s important to understand that weed is not legal in Tenerife, though private use and possession of small amounts are decriminalised.

Spain’s cannabis laws apply to Tenerife, and while the island may feel relaxed, enforcement is still taken seriously—especially in public spaces and with tourists. Here’s what you need to know before lighting up.

Is Cannabis Legal in Spain?

Cannabis is not fully legal in Spain, but the country has a unique and often misunderstood legal framework. National law applies to all regions, including Tenerife.

Here’s how it works:

• Private use and cultivation for personal use are decriminalised

• Public use or possession is illegal and punishable with fines

• Cannabis clubs are legal for Spanish residents under strict rules

• Selling or trafficking cannabis is a criminal offence

What’s Legal (and What Isn’t) in Tenerife

✅ Tolerated:

• Adults (18+) can consume cannabis in private (e.g., in your home or a private residence)

• You can possess a small amount for personal use in private spaces

• Growing a few plants at home for personal use is tolerated if not visible to the public

• Cannabis clubs operate legally for Spanish residents

❌ Illegal:

• Smoking in public spaces, including beaches, streets, parks, or hotel balconies visible to the public

• Possession in public, even small amounts, can lead to a fine between €601 and €30,000

• Selling, gifting, or sharing cannabis—even casually—is a criminal offence

• Tourist access to cannabis clubs is not legally permitted

Cannabis Clubs in Tenerife

Tenerife has a number of private cannabis clubs, particularly in the southern resorts like Playa de las Américas and Costa Adeje. These clubs operate under the national model:

• Non-profit, private member associations

• Members must be over 18, invited, and Spanish residents

• Clubs grow cannabis collectively and distribute it to members for personal use

• No public advertising or walk-in access allowed

Tourists are not legally allowed to join, even though some clubs bend the rules. Doing so puts both the club and the visitor at legal risk.

Medical Cannabis in Spain

Spain does not yet have a full medical cannabis system like Germany or Canada. However:

• Certain cannabis-based medications, like Sativex, are approved for limited use (e.g., multiple sclerosis)

• Prescriptions must be written by a Spanish doctor

• Raw cannabis, oils, and flowers are not legally prescribed or sold in pharmacies

• Tourists cannot bring medical cannabis into Spain, even with a prescription from abroad

So while discussions are ongoing, medical access remains minimal.

CBD in Tenerife

CBD (cannabidiol) is legal in Tenerife and across Spain if:

• It contains less than 0.2% THC

• It is sold as a cosmetic or food supplement, not as a medicine

You’ll find CBD oils, balms, and gummies in local health shops, pharmacies, and even tourist areas. However, CBD flowers can still be mistaken for cannabis by police, so they’re best avoided in public.

Penalties for Cannabis Offences in Tenerife

Police do issue fines to tourists, especially in busy or public areas. If you're caught with weed on the beach or in a rental car, you could be fined on the spot.

Can Tourists Use Cannabis in Tenerife?

Technically, no. There’s no legal route for tourists to buy or use cannabis in Spain. While enforcement in Tenerife can be more relaxed than in mainland cities, tourists still risk:

• Fines for public use or possession

• Trouble with hotel management or landlords

• Legal issues if caught trying to join a cannabis club without meeting requirements

• Being targeted by illegal street dealers, who may sell low-quality or unsafe products

Future Outlook

Spain is currently discussing reform to cannabis laws, especially for medical use. Several political parties support broader decriminalisation or legalisation, but progress is slow.

For now:

• Private use is tolerated

• Public use is not

• Cannabis clubs are legal—but only for residents

Tenerife, like the rest of Spain, follows this national framework, even if local enforcement may feel more relaxed in tourist areas.

In Summary:

• Weed is not legal in Tenerife, but private use and possession are decriminalised

• Public use or possession can result in fines over €600

• Cannabis clubs exist, but tourists cannot legally join

• Medical cannabis access is very limited

• CBD is legal, provided THC is below 0.2%

Tenerife may be chilled out, but the cannabis laws are real—use privately and stay discreet, or you could face fines and legal trouble.