It is no secret that the bright blue sea, which surrounds the Island of Tenerife -the largest of the Canaries- is an invaluable asset in the summer months as temperatures rise. Boasting white, sandy beaches in the south, to beaches covered in dark sand which could be mistaken for charcoal in the north, Tenerife’s shorelines are as versatile as they are diverse. Home to natural pools encapsulated by rock, Tenerife invites visitors to spend their days splashing around in its authentic oases.
Below, there is a compilation of beaches to suit every occasion:
- The secluded beach of Benijo, overlooking the Roques de Anaga, is ideal for experiencing the spectacular sunsets and the local gastronomy in a unique way.
- Bollullo beach, located in the north of Tenerife, has black sand and wild scenery. Perfect for disconnecting and enjoying the sound of the waves, this beach will make visitors immerse themselves in the natural beauty around them.
- The Duque beach, located in Costa Adeje, is characterised by the grey and golden tones of its fine sand. Next to the promenade, and very close to the beach, visitors will find a wide variety of restaurants and exclusive shops.
- Playa Jardín, with black volcanic sand, is located in a setting with landscaped areas and promenades designed by the famous Canarian architect César Manrique, in Puerto de la Cruz.
- Las Teresitas beach is the capital’s beach par excellence. With golden sand and calm waters, it is perfect for families looking for fun and comfort on the sand. Visitors can also enjoy water activities such as snorkelling or paddle surfing.
- The beach of El Médano has a sporty and carefree atmosphere, being the main place to practice wind sports in Tenerife, making it a favourite spot for windsurfers and kite surfers.
The coast of Tenerife also offers its visitors natural swimming pools that allow bathers to enjoy the seawater in a more sheltered environment.
- The natural pools of Bajamar are located next to a small cove of fine, clear sand. These pools offer a quiet bath in fresh water next to the sea. There is a small lighthouse, which has become an icon of the place.
- The natural pool of La Jaquita, with views of the ocean and the silhouette of the island of La Gomera on the horizon, guarantees a lovely quiet swim in a natural environment very close to the cliffs of Los Gigantes.
- The natural pool of El Pris merges with the sea on days when the tide is high, creating the illusion of bathing in the open sea sheltered from the currents. This is also the perfect place to enjoy a small feast of fresh fish.
What’s more, Tenerife also has natural puddles. The exuberant natural splendour of these volcanic rock formations is complemented with clear waters that are safe for visitors to enjoy. Some of the most attractive are:
- The Charco de La Laja, in San Juan de la Rambla, is so wide that it becomes an authentic swimming pool with calm waters on days of low tide and low swell. Some of the activities available include snorkelling or discovering crabs among the rocks.
- El Caletón, in Garachico, is made of a set of natural pools formed from volcanic eruptions that offer a surprising and safe environment for the whole family to enjoy.
- The Charco de Los Chochos, in Los Silos, is a calm and crystalline pool ideal for swimming and snorkelling while enjoying an impressive natural environment. There are also small puddles around it, such as Charco de La Araña or Charco de Don Gabino.
- The Charco de Don Gabino, in Los Silos, has a large solarium and transparent waters ideal for watching the fish.
- Finally, the charco del Viento, in La Guancha, is a volcanic area of crystalline waters with differentiated bathing areas, which can be reached by crossing the typical banana plantations. The views of Teide are also an impressive perk.
There is no better way to explore the wide variety of water-based offerings in Tenerife than via an island road trip.