Surely you are searching for which are the most outstanding beaches of Tenerife. With nearly 400 kilometers of coastline and a climate that invites you to take a dip at any time of the year, exploring its shores is undoubtedly one of the must-do activities on the island. Here we reveal our recommendations!
Whether they are beaches with fine golden sand or of volcanic origin, adorned with palm trees, bathed by crystal-clear waters, with varying wind intensities, equipped with multiple services, or hidden pristine coves… Tenerife offers options for every type of traveler, scattered throughout the island. Since distances can be considerable, the best way to enjoy the top beaches and other attractions is to rent a car. Moreover, booking in advance will allow you to find very attractive rates, and you’ll be pleased to know that the roads are in excellent condition.
Are you wondering what the best time is to enjoy the beaches of Tenerife? The answer is that you can take a dip at any time of the year, as the average temperature hovers around 23ºC. Even in the middle of winter, you can soak up the sun while relaxing in a hammock. However, if you wish to enjoy even warmer weather, the period from June to September is ideal.
Here we will tell you which are the most beautiful beaches of Tenerife, offer some tips for visiting them, and finally, provide a map so you can plan your route through Tenerife. Let’s get started!
1. Playa de Las Teresitas (Santa Cruz de Tenerife)
We begin our tour of the most outstanding beaches of Tenerife with one of the most emblematic: Playa de Las Teresitas. Located in San Andrés, a picturesque village in the municipality of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, it is very popular among both locals and visitors looking to enjoy beaches with golden sand and calm waters.
However, this was not always its appearance. It was necessary to import more than 270,000 tons of sand from the Sahara Desert to replace the originally black volcanic sand that made up Las Teresitas. In addition, a breakwater was built which helps keep the waves minimal on almost any day you decide to visit.
Playa de Las Teresitas is especially frequented by those who value comfort, featuring services and beach bars along the shore. Therefore, it is unlikely to be deserted, especially during the high season and on weekends. It also has a large free parking lot; however, it tends to fill up quickly, so if you don’t plan to arrive early, you might consider taking bus number 910, which connects the center of Santa Cruz with the beach in just 25 minutes.
Depending on your preferences, you might find it interesting to include this visit in a private tour of the eastern part of the island, which also covers a trip through the capital, Anaga, and La Laguna.
2. Playa de La Tejita (El Médano)
Between the vibrant town of El Médano, so appreciated by surfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts, and Los Abrigos, lies Playa de La Tejita, recognized as one of the best beaches in Tenerife. With an approximate length of one kilometer, this beach retains an almost pristine atmosphere. Although at its ends there are some areas with umbrellas and hammocks, the sense of isolation is notable, which encourages many visitors to enjoy nudism.
A particularly attractive detail of this beach is its location in a protected natural area: the Montaña Roja Special Natural Reserve. This enclave is dominated by the imposing reddish volcano that rises at one end, offering you spectacular views throughout your visit.
However, it is important to note that it is located in one of the windiest areas of the island, which can cause discomfort at times. Therefore, it is advisable to schedule your visit when the wind is calmer; for that, you can check apps like Windy or Ventusky.
Remember that in La Tejita you won’t find any restaurants, so it is advisable to bring everything you need to enjoy your day. However, just a few kilometers away is the center of El Médano, where you have a wide variety of dining and leisure options, in addition to other light-sand beaches that usually attract more visitors.
3. Playa de Diego Hernández (Adeje), one of the most pristine beaches of Tenerife
Also known as La Caleta de Adeje (the name you will see on Google Maps), Playa de Diego Hernández stands out as one of the most beautiful and untouched beaches in this area of Tenerife.
With its golden sand and crystal-clear waters, this beach is sheltered by a cliff, which means that you will have to walk between 10 and 15 minutes from where you park your car. The return is made along the same path, so we recommend wearing suitable footwear to avoid slips along the way.
Keep in mind that you will not find any services at this beach, so it is advisable to bring everything you need for a day out. Additionally, at Playa de Diego Hernández it is common to see travelers practicing nudism, although you can also enjoy the company of those who prefer to remain clothed, coexisting in perfect harmony. We suggest checking the tide chart and planning your visit during low tide, since at high tide the beach area is considerably reduced.
If walking isn’t your thing, there are several Tenerife excursions that can bring you to the beach by boat. Such as this catamaran excursion, which includes an appetizer and open bar.
4. Playa El Bollullo (La Orotava)
Playa El Bollullo is located in the municipality of La Orotava, making it the ideal spot to relax after a day exploring the north of the island. It is a pristine and charming beach, with fine black sand, nestled between cliffs dotted with banana trees that enhance the unique landscape of the Orotava Valley.
Accessing it comes with a little challenge: you must park in the paid parking lot located on private property next to the restaurant (3€ per day) and then walk down on foot. At the base of the beach, you will find a lifeguard station and a beach bar with excellent value for money.
It is important to remember that the waves and currents at this beach can be intense, so it is wise to proceed with caution and pay attention to the flag conditions before entering the water.
5. Playa Jardín (Puerto de la Cruz)
If you are looking for a beach in Tenerife with easy access, full of services, surrounded by restaurants and bars, with fine sand and few rocks, Playa Jardín is your ideal destination. In fact, it consists of a group of beaches in Puerto de la Cruz (Playa del Castillo, Playa del Charcón, and Playa de Punta Brava) connected by a charming seaside promenade designed by César Manrique. Be sure to walk along it and enjoy its pathways adorned with native flora; it is especially attractive for families, as it includes children’s play areas.
In addition, it is perfect for a good swim, as its breakwater ensures that much of the beach has gentle waves.
For more details, you can read this post about places to see in Puerto de la Cruz.
6. Playa Cardones (Abades)
Almost off the typical tourist radar, we consider this one of the best beaches in Tenerife. It is located in the small village of Abades, a residential area that has some restaurants and diving centers.
In this spot, you will find a series of beaches and sandy coves sheltered by small hills that invite relaxation. The one we find most interesting is Playa Cardones, accessible on foot from Los Abriguitos, where it is common to see sunbathers practicing nudism. As it is a completely pristine beach, you will not find lifeguards or restrooms, although its waters are usually very calm.
We recommend bringing your snorkeling gear, as the water is generally crystal clear and it is easy to spot stingrays and tropical fish. In fact, it has become a well-known diving spot on the island, so if you’re up for it, you can sign up for an introductory dive.
Just like in El Médano, which is nearby, this area tends to be quite windy, so it is advisable to check the forecast before heading out. Even so, thanks to the small surrounding hills, it is easier to take shelter and enjoy a pleasant day at the beach.
7. Playa de Benijo (Taganana), one of the most photogenic beaches of Tenerife
Another of the most famous beaches in Tenerife and perhaps one of the most photographed is Playa de Benijo, located in the northwest of the island. Completely wild, with volcanic sand and gravel, what stands out the most are its two rock formations: the one of Benijo and La Rapadura, along with the spectacular natural surroundings within the Anaga Rural Park.
Swimming can be challenging due to the waves, so it is important to proceed with caution. Additionally, since there are no services, it is essential to bring everything you need. If you are looking for Tenerife beaches where nudism is practiced, this option also meets your expectations. It is recommended to visit during low tide, as at high tide the sandy area is considerably reduced.
How do you get there? The only option is by car, navigating several curves, but the reward is the impressive landscapes of Anaga you can admire along the way. You will have to park next to the restaurant El Mirador and then walk down a long set of stairs.
If you decide to stay until sunset, you might enjoy one of the most magical spectacles the island has to offer.
8. Playa del Duque (Adeje)
If you are looking to relax and have a wide range of services at your disposal, including bars and restaurants, this Tenerife beach is perfect for you. Located in Adeje, which almost guarantees favorable weather, Playa del Duque has been awarded the Blue Flag, ensuring the quality of both its water and facilities.
Its sand, in shades of white and gray, is complemented by a breakwater that facilitates swimming practically all year round. Here you can rent umbrellas and hammocks, benefit from lifeguard stations, and have access to several parking areas nearby, some of which are free.
As expected, being surrounded by large hotel complexes and shopping centers, the beach tends to be moderately busy even during the winter months.
9. Playa del Socorro (Los Realejos)
Located in Los Realejos, between Puerto de la Cruz and Icod de los Vinos, this charming volcanic-sand beach earns a spot in our selection of the best beaches in Tenerife. It is one of the most accessible in the area and has been awarded the Blue Flag thanks to its excellent services: accessibility for people with reduced mobility, reserved parking, and showers.
Although its length is just 230 meters, it usually remains free of crowds and has a wide parking area. In addition, you can find several kiosks and beach bars nearby so you can enjoy a complete experience.
As with other beaches in the region, the currents can be treacherous, so it is essential to pay attention to the lifeguard indications. This makes it very attractive for surfing and bodyboarding enthusiasts, who can even sign up for a class if they wish to try something new.
Oriented towards the northwest, this beach will reward you with magical sunsets, perfect for ending the day with an unforgettable experience.
10. Playa de Antequera (Anaga)
If you are one of those who seek a bit of adventure and long to discover wild beaches in Tenerife, Playa de Antequera is a must-stop. Located in the Anaga Rural Park, it stands out for its crystal-clear waters and fine sand, while the surrounding landscape is truly breathtaking. It is worth mentioning that you will not find restaurants, lifeguards, restrooms, or other services here, so it is essential to come well-prepared.
How do you get there? You will have to walk a considerable distance, but trekking through the trails of this natural park makes the journey much more enjoyable. Although there are several routes, the easiest option starts from Lomo Las Bodegas, in Chamorga. From that point, you can expect approximately 3 hours of mostly downhill walking, passing through beautiful laurel forests and traditional Canarian houses, until you reach this beach of Tenerife.
If you do not feel like walking, it is also possible to reach it from Las Teresitas by taxi-boat for around €35 per person (round trip), which will take you to paradise in about 20 minutes.
Another alternative to make it less exhausting is to leave your car in Las Teresitas and take bus number 947 to Chamorga, complete the hike to Playa de Antequera, and then be picked up by a taxi. For this, it is ideal to book the boat in advance with companies such as Naútica Nivaria. If you are traveling in a group and have two vehicles, you could leave one in Chamorga and pick it up once you return to Las Teresitas.
11. Playa de los Guíos (Puerto de Santiago, Los Gigantes)
It is true that this beach is not very large, but the impressive views it offers make the list of the best beaches in Tenerife end in the most spectacular way. Located next to the port of Puerto de Santiago, from here you can delight in an uninterrupted panorama of the majestic Los Gigantes cliffs.
It is a comfortable and easily accessible beach, with a sea that is usually calm, since the wind rarely blows strongly in this area and it is protected by the marina. With its dark sand and some rock formations, you also have the option to rent hammocks and umbrellas. In addition, it offers lifeguard services and showers for added convenience.
And while you are here, we recommend taking the opportunity to embark on a sailboat trip around Los Gigantes. The chances of spotting cetaceans specifically, common dolphins and pilot whales are very high, as the channel between La Gomera and Tenerife is home to more than 20 species of these fascinating animals.
Other Beautiful Beaches of Tenerife
Of course, the ones mentioned above represent only a portion of the most beautiful beaches of Tenerife. This is a selection based on our personal experiences, so we recommend that you explore a bit further and choose those that best suit what you are looking for.
Here are some other options that might interest you:
- Playa del Roque de las Bodegas: Located in the Benijo area, it is easily accessible, features fine sand, and is ideal for swimming. It is recommended to visit during low tide.
- Playa de Las Gaviotas: A pristine beach, surrounded by cliffs and located right next to Las Teresitas.
- Playa de Tamadiste: With a stony terrain, its surroundings are truly magical. To reach it, you must hike along the Afur ravine trail (approximately 1 hour), although keep in mind that it often has strong currents.
- Playa Los Patos: It is located near Playa El Bollullo but remains completely untouched.
- Playa Abama: One of the few golden-sand beaches in Tenerife. Although access can be a bit tricky unless you are a guest of the neighboring hotel (which has a funicular), the reward is a strip of blonde sand and transparent waters.
- Playas de Montaña Pelada: A group of untouched coves near El Médano. A short walk is required, but without major complications.
- Playa de Montaña Amarilla: Perhaps not considered a beach in the strict sense, as it is a rocky area, but it is ideal for snorkeling and enjoying an impressive landscape, enhanced by the golden-toned volcanic formations.
Where to Stay in Tenerife
Being one of the most touristy islands in the Canary Islands and a favored destination for Europeans looking to escape the cold, Tenerife offers an incredibly vast range of accommodations. As you may have noticed, the island is quite large. Although it has a highway that almost encircles the entire island, you could spend up to an hour and a half driving from one end to the other, and much more if you decide not to rent a car, since the frequency of buses is quite irregular.
Therefore, to fully enjoy the beaches of Tenerife, it is crucial to choose the area that suits you best based on its proximity to the ones you are most interested in. Generally, during the winter months, the weather is better in the south, so a safe option is to stay on the coast that extends approximately from El Médano to Los Gigantes.
In summer, when the heat is felt throughout the island, it is more a matter of time or personal preference, depending on the other activities you have planned. In general terms, if you only have 3-4 days on the island, we suggest staying in the north and looking for accommodations in places like Puerto de la Cruz, La Orotava, or Garachico.
If you have more time or prefer to focus on enjoying the beaches, you could split your stay between the north and the south, or stay directly in the south by choosing hotels along the stretch from El Médano to Los Gigantes. The warmest and least windy area is usually the one extending from Los Cristianos to Costa Adeje, where you will also find beachfront hotels and even all-inclusive options.
Finally, if you plan to travel to Tenerife during the high season, we recommend making your reservations in advance to secure better prices. Remember that the beaches of Tenerife are very attractive to travelers from different countries, which keeps demand high even in the colder months.
Below are some accommodation options in the north of Tenerife:
- Hotel Puerto Palace: Located in Puerto de la Cruz, it stands out for its excellent value for money.
- Hotel Botánico y Oriental Spa Garden: Also in Puerto de la Cruz, it is one of the best in the city and perfect for those who want to treat themselves.
- Hotel LIVVO La Quinta Roja: Located in Garachico, ideal if you want to enjoy a dip in its natural pools or explore some of the beaches mentioned in this guide.
And here are some hotel options in the south of Tenerife:
- Vincci Selección La Plantación del Sur: Without a doubt, one of the best hotels for enjoying the island’s beaches. Located in Fañabé, this 5-star hotel, decorated in a colonial style, will give you the peace you are looking for.
- Klayman Diamond Aparthotel: Located in Los Gigantes, it offers wonderful views while you enjoy its pool.
- Luxury Apartament Calle Pizarro Tenerife: With sea views and right next to the impressive Playa de La Tejita, one of the most beautiful beaches in Tenerife.
This is just a small sample; find the hotel that best suits your needs and offers the best prices by searching on Booking.
For more information, you can read this post about where to stay in Tenerife.
How to Get to Tenerife
If you can’t wait any longer to discover the most beautiful beaches of Tenerife, you need to start searching for flights right away. The island has two airports: Tenerife North (very close to La Laguna) and Tenerife South (next to El Médano). The key is to book flights in advance, as there are low-cost airlines like Vueling or Ryanair that fly to both at very economical prices. At both airports you will find car rental offices, which is the best way to explore the island and, of course, enjoy its beaches.
Map of the Best Beaches of Tenerife
To help you get your bearings and, above all, plan your route through the best beaches of Tenerife, here they are marked on a map:
Ready to discover the most beautiful beaches of Tenerife? The good news is that you can enjoy them all year round, thanks to the mild climate of the Canary Islands. If you’d like to make any suggestions, feel free to leave a comment.
