The Ultimate Playlist for your Canary Island Holiday

What could be better than kicking back on a sandy stretch on the Canary Island of your choice, margarita in hand? Enhancing your beachy break with a sun-soaked playlist, of course! Whether you prefer laid-back reggae roots or feel-good pop, funk and soul, this playlist has it all. There are even some upbeat dancey numbers to make that transition from beachside to barstool an effortless one.

So, listen along, and be sure to let us know if we’ve missed anything!

Bakermat – Vandaag (One Day)

The irresistibly jazzy hook on Vandaag dovetails seamlessly with soundbites from Martin Luther King Jr’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech to create a great intro to the playlist that is both relaxed and lively, all at the same time. Whether you’re stretched out on a beach in Tenerife with your headphones on, or still trying to fit your suncream in your suitcase, Bakermat’s Vandaag is great place to start.

The Kingsmen – Louie Louie

Everyone’s heard this absolute classic from The Kingsmen – and although you might not be able to place exactly where you know it from, there’s no doubting where it belongs… on the beach, baby!

Toots and the Maytals – Pressure Drop

Another pillar of the reggae scene, Toots brought the genre into the mainstream by combining it with elements of ska and pop. The result? An absolute delight. Just you try and listen to this song without smiling… just you try.

Buena Vista Social Club – Candela

This group of previously unheard-of Cuban musicians was discovered in the nineties by American guitarist Ry Cooder, who collaborated with them to produce one world-famous album and movie. Bring the sounds of Cuba to the Canaries with this timeless classic.

Marlena Shaw – California Soul

Maintaining the golden oldie theme, Marlena Shaw’s summery hit from 1969 packs as much power and punch today as it did on its original release. Transport yourself from the Canaries to California’s world-famous coast with a little imported soul!

Manu Chao – Bongo Bong

Aiding the seamless transition from reggae, funk and soul to more modern pop and alternative rock is half-French, half-Spanish, fully amazing musical maestro, Manu Chao. King of the bongo and queen of the mambo meet for bongo bong rhythms guaranteed to get those toes a-tapping.

Modest Mouse – Float On

Everyone’s favourite feel-good hit of summer 2004 is just as inspirationally chilled out one decade on. Dive into the crystalline Canary waters and let your worries wash away from you – float on, alright!

Crystal Fighters – Plage

“Plage” is the French word for beach… need we say more? This instant classic from electronic folk hippies is sure to energise and unwind in one fell swoop.

Röyksopp – Happy Up Here

No-one does upbeat optimistic anthems quite like Norwegian electro-rockers Röyksopp. Revel in the genius of this simplistic but soul-stirring tune which will have you stirring from your beach coma and reaching for your next exotic cocktail.

Caribou – Odessa

Equally apt for kicking back in a hammock or letting your hair down in a beach boogie, this dance-fuelled number is great for squeezing in a siesta or getting the party started… but if you’ve been partaking of the local liquor liberally enough, you’ll more than likely opt for the latter.