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Travel guide to the best sandy beaches in north and south Tenerife, Spain
Welcome to Tenerife, an island of stunning beaches and fantastic scenery.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day spent tanning in the sun, or an exciting adventure amidst crystal-clear waters and colorful fish, traveling Tenerife holds something for everyone.
If you’re searching for the best beach experience during your trip here, look no further; I’ve rounded up our top picks for the best beaches in Tenerife!
Hey! Don’t forget to grab my free “Tenerife Beach Checklist” below!
Pssst…!!?? You can’t get enough of Tenerife? Have a look at my other posts:
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Table of Contents
Top resources to travel Tenerife
⚘ Avoid tourist traps and get the “Tenerife Like a Local” itinerary for less than 10€. – Get it here
✈ Book cheap flights to Tenerife with Skyscanner
✔ Book tours in Tenerife with GetYourGuide
➳ Find the best hotels in Tenerife with Trivago & holiday rentals with VRBO
❖ Rent a car with the best discounts at DiscoverCars
✎ Never leave without travel insurance. I get mine at HeyMondo. It is easy to set up, cheap, and reliable.
$ Withdraw money without hidden fees and avoid exchange rates with Wise (you’ll get a free card on top!)
Best Beaches in Tenerife South
1. Abama Beach
Abama Beach is a tiny sandy beach located in the south of Tenerife, between the municipalities of Playa San Juan and Marazul.
It’s common knowledge that the south has many of the nicest beaches in Tenerife, and Abama proves that!
The beach is tranquil as a wave breaker has been built so that you can enjoy calm waters and go for long swims.
You can easily spend hours relaxing on the golden sand of Abama Beach. And why not? After all, a relaxing and “no worries” lifestyle is one of the things Spain is known for.
Protected by the cliffs, Abama beach is a popular place to enjoy the best sunsets above the neighboring island of La Gomera.
The beach restaurant is managed by the The Ritz-Carlton, Abama *****, one of the most renowned hotels on the island. That’s why the beach bar at Abama serves such delicious food!
You can reach the beach by leaving your car at the hotel’s car park and walking down for 10 minutes.
How To Get There: It’s strongly advised to visit with a rental car. – Check here the best car rental in Tenerife.
There is also Intercity bus service (from Los Gigantes or Costa Adeje).
2. Fañabé Beach
For me, Fañabé beach is the party beach of Tenerife, and visiting here is one of the top things to do in South Tenerife
It is surrounded by beach clubs playing the finest electro beats while you enjoy a refreshing cocktail. Fañabé is great for people-watching too!
Many of these beach clubs become some of the best nightclubs in Tenerife when the sun sets.
When looking for the most popular beaches in Tenerife south, Fañabé is a must! You can hardly avoid it as it’s located at the heart of Costa Adeje, the bustling tourist hub.
Fañabé is exactly the kind of sandy beach Tenerife is known for.
It’s also just a stone’s throw from Troya beach, which is another coveted beach in Costa Adeje.
Fañabé is awarded the blue flag guaranteeing good water conditions and services like sun loungers, toilets, showers, etc.
Fañabé beach has pale yellow sand… it’s thus not as burning as the volcanic sand beaches. On the promenade, you’ll find a large number of shops and restaurants.
How To Get There: With public transport from any major town in Tenerife or by foot if you are based at one of the hotels in Costa Adeje.
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3. Los Guios – Gigantes Beach, Puerto Santiago
Los Guios beach, located next to the village of Los Gigantes, is one of my favorite places to be when living in Tenerife.
The best of Los Guios beach is the spectacular view on the canyons of Los Gigantes… which are some of the highest in Europe!
Besides the extraordinary beauty of the scenery, Los Guios beach is perfect for families as the waters are generally calm and the sand is black.
The only drawback is that Los Guios beach is located next to the harbor of Los Gigantes which is the departure for many whale-watching excursions.
Thus, (motor) ships come and go while you’re swimming in the sea. However, I still found the water to be very clear.
This beauty of a black beach in Tenerife has without any doubt some of the most spectacular views on the southern coast. Los Guios is definitely one of the best beaches Tenerife south has to offer!
There are many restaurants and shops close to the beach. Several activities like scuba diving are offered.
How To Get There: With public transport from Costa Adeje or Icod de los Vinos or with a rental car. – Check here the best car hire in Tenerife.
4. Playa La Arena Beach
Las Arenas is the main beach of the municipality Puerto Santiago, in the southwest of Tenerife.
It’s larger than Playa Chica and perfect for families, making it the perfect base for people looking for great things to do with kids in Tenerife. The area is also home to some of the best hotels for families in Tenerife.
It’s awarded the blue flag for its fabulous water quality and services. It has black volcanic sand.
My favorite thing about Playa Las Arenas is the view to the neighboring island La Gomera. Sunset is just stunning here!
There are several restaurants and shops on the promenade close by. Thus, you can easily spend an entire day on Las Arenas beach. A range of diving clubs offer scuba diving courses.
How To Get There: With public transport from Costa Adeje (lines 473 and 493) or with a rental car. – Check here the best car rental in Tenerife.
5. La Tejita
One of the best beaches in south Tenerife is La Tejita. It is quiet, secluded and covered in red volcanic rock, which makes it very unique. On Tenerife, sandy beaches are everywhere, but the red volcanic rock is very special.
La Tejita is right next to the Montaña Roja Nature Reserve, so the view alone makes it one of the most beautiful beaches in Tenerife. The mountain also provides the beach with some privacy.
This privacy means it is one of the rare, hidden beaches in Tenerife, but it also means it is often used by nudists!
This beach is perfect for snorkeling and surfing, making it one of the best beaches in Tenerife for adventures!
How To Get There: It’s strongly advised to visit with a rental car. – Check here the best car rental in Tenerife.
6. Playa del Duque
Playa del Duque is a beach for those who enjoy the finer things in life.
As one of the most exclusive south Tenerife beaches, guests enjoy private sunbeds and other facilities.
If relaxing at Playa del Duque doesn’t make you fall in love with the sandy beaches in Tenerife, I don’t know what will.
There are also many things to do in Costa Adeje if you love water sports. For example, take a snorkeling class with a world-class instructor!
For the full 5-star treatment, stay at one of the top resorts in Costa Adeje, where Playa del Duque is located.
The resorts are top class with panoramic sea-view restaurants and boutique shopping centers.
If you’re looking for nice beaches in Tenerife, you can’t go wrong with Playa del Duque!
How To Get There: It’s strongly advised to visit with a rental car. – Check here the best car rental in Tenerife.
7. Las Vistas Beach, Arona
Las Vistas Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Tenerife south, and in fact in all of Tenerife. Because of this, it is also one of the busiest. Get there early to avoid the crowds!
This beach is lined with restaurants, shopping complexes and ice cream sellers for those hot summer days.
This may be one of the best beaches on Tenerife, but everyone needs a break from sandy beaches, and luckily Las Vistas Beach is near Tenerife Royal Gardens.
How To Get There: It’s strongly advised to visit with a rental car. – Check here the best car rentals in Tenerife.
8. El Medano Beach
With its fine grey sand and volcanic cone Montaña Roja, El Medano beach is one of Tenerife’s most scenic beaches.
El Medano is the beach par excellence for watersport lovers. Due to its windy conditions and small waves, it is the hot spot for kite surfers and windsurfers alike.
El Medano even hosted a number of international wind- and kitesurfing competitions.
However, El Medano is also well suited if you’re looking to spend a day on the beach with the family.
Indeed, the part which is closer to the town of Granadilla de Abona has much gentler waves and along the promenade, you have several bars, restaurants, and shops.
If you are looking for nice beach pictures in Tenerife, el Medano is particularly scenic due to its beautiful, dark blue water and emblematic rock.
On top, El Medano Beach is awarded the blue flag which guarantees ideal swimming conditions and top-quality services.
How To Get There: It’s strongly advised to visit with a rental car. – Check here the best car rental in Tenerife.
There is also Intercity bus service (from Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje).
Book here your surf, kite and windsurf lesson in Tenerife
9. Playa de Puerto Santiago
Puerto Santiago beach near Los Gigantes is “my” beach for quick swims during lunchtime, thus it will always hold a special place in my heart. It is also known as “Playa Chica”. Due to its tiny size and local charm, it’s definitely one of the best beaches in Tenerife.
With black sand, Puerto Santiago beach is very small and sheltered in a little bay.
It’s located in the heart of the traditional fisher village and you’ll have beautiful views on the neighboring island of La Gomera.
In the summer, Puerto Santiago beach can be a bit crowded, there are only a few sun umbrellas.
On the 23rd of June, the San Juan bonfires are celebrated here. It’s a great opportunity to mingle with the locals and enjoy local traditions.
When visiting Puerto Santiago, you can’t miss enjoying some of the best Canarian food on the island in restaurants like La Pergola or The Fisherman’s Inn. Both of them are some of my favorite restaurants in Tenerife.
How To Get There: With public transport from Costa Adeje (lines 473 and 493) or with a rental car. – Check here the best car rentals in Tenerife.
10. Playa de las vistas
Playa de las Vistas in Tenerife is one of the best beaches in the Canary Islands.
Situated on the southwest coast and with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, it’s an amazing spot for those looking to kick back and relax.
The soft, golden sands run for miles, making a perfect backdrop for long strolls, swimming, or sunbathing. It also has terrific onsite amenities such as restaurants and bars, so you can hang out there all day if you want!
11. Playa La Caleta, Adeje
La Caleta’s beach is a laid-back paradise waiting to be discovered! This stunning spot boasts crystal-clear water for swimming and snorkeling, plus an array of smooth pebbles on the shore.
It’s located in the village of La Caleta in south Tenerife and is less busy than its neighboring towns.
Escape from it all at this tranquil retreat – perfect for a peaceful day by the sea.
Best Beaches in Tenerife North
12. Benijo Beach, Anaga
This is without any doubt for me the best beach on Tenerife! Benijo Beach, in north Tenerife, is my favorite beach on the island for several reasons.
It’s quite secluded and mostly visited by locals only.
With its towering rocks and dramatic cliffs, you can hardly find any beach that is more scenic than Benijo Beach.
It’s nature at its finest and the sunsets are some of the best you can have on Tenerife. Without any doubt, it must figure high on any top beaches in Tenerife list.
However, you need to be careful if you’re up for a swim. The waves and tides can be very strong! When visiting Benijo beach, it’s all about rather playing in the waves, not about actual swimming.
Yet another aspect that makes Benijo Beach a highlight of your visit to Tenerife is the numerous fish restaurants located close to the beach.
Some of them offer breathtaking views over the ocean and the rocky coast. All while you’re enjoying the freshest fish and seafood.
How To Get There: It’s strongly advised to visit with a rental car. – Check car rental deals here
Book here a north Tenerife rural park excursion
13. El Bollullo, Puerto de la Cruz
El Bolullo is another, rather secluded beach that will particularly lure nature lovers.
It’s set close to Puerto de la Cruz and La Orotava and boasts black, volcanic sand (which can heat up a lot during summer).
The dramatic cliffs create a sublime scenery. El Bolullo is the perfect escape from the city if you’re seeking a calm beach to relax.
However, as on many beaches in Tenerife’s north, you need to be careful while swimming. The waves and tides can be quite strong.
The beach can be reached on a 45 minute walk through the banana plantations or by leaving your car at the El Bolullo restaurant. There are sun loungers for hire.
When looking for secluded beaches in Tenerife, El Bolullo is definitely a must. It’s also one of the top things to do in Puerto de la Cruz.
Book here a north Tenerife rural park excursion
How To Get There: It’s strongly advised to visit with a rental car. – Check car hire rates here
Alternative: walking the coastal path from Puerto de la Cruz, which is a 30-35 minutes’ walk.
14. Masca Beach
Masca Beach is probably the most secluded beach in Tenerife…. and probably one of the hardest to reach too!
It can only be reached via boat from Los Gigantes harbour or by hiking down the Masca gorge, which is one of the best hikes in Tenerife. But that only adds to its value!
However, be aware that the Masca hike ending at Masca beach is featured in all Tenerife guides!
On top, it’s considered to be one of the top things to do when traveling to Tenerife.
Thus, depending on the season, Masca can be crowded. I personally recommend visiting Tenerife in October.
There are no facilities at the beach, only a guy selling drinks from his portable freezer.
But anyway Masca beach is the perfect refreshment after hiking down the spectacular canyon.
It’s also considered to be one of the main natural beaches in Tenerife.
Even though the Masca hike is touristy, I can only recommend it.
The village of Masca, nestled among the dramatic canyons of Los Gigantes, had no access to paved roads until the 60s and preserved its original charm.
Hiking down the gorge from Masca village to Masca beach is a unique experience that will leave you in awe of Tenerife’s nature.
Because of this, Masca Beach is definitely one of the best beaches in Tenerife for anyone who loves the outdoors!
How To Get There: It’s strongly advised to visit with a guided tour as it’s the most convenient way. These tours include pick up and drop off at your hotel.
If you go by rental car, you’ll need to leave your car in Santiago and take a taxi to Masca village. Once you hiked down Masca gorge and got transferred to Los Gigantes marina (don’t forget to book your boat taxi in advance in an agency), you’ll need to take another taxi up to Santiago again.
Unless you hike down Masca gorge and hike it all up again!
Book here your guided hike through the Masca gorge
15. Las Teresitas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Las Teresitas, the most famous beach in Tenerife north of the island, is one of the legendary beaches of Tenerife. It is considered as being the main beach of the capital of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
The golden sand of Las Teresitas beach has been imported from the Sahara and the palm trees create great scenery for a day at the beach.
Waters are calm and there are many food stalls serving traditional Canarian food.
This Santa Cruz Tenerife beach is the perfect place to spend a day at the beach, be it alone, with your kids or with friends.
On Sundays, Las Teresitas is very popular among the residents of Santa Cruz and salsa music is played during the afternoons. Be ready for a little dance!
How To Get There: With public transport from Santa Cruz de Tenerife or with a rental car. – Check car hire in Tenerife here
Book here a north Tenerife rural park excursion
16. Playa Martianez, Puerto de la Cruz
Playa Martianez is very unique on Tenerife because of its black sand beach. Tenerife may be full of sandy beaches, but the black volcanic sand makes this one extra beautiful.
It is very popular with surfers, and there is a surf school on the beach. If you want to learn how to surf on the north Tenerife beaches, this is the perfect beach!
Although it is near the famous Playa Jardin, Playa Martianez is one of the most hidden beaches Tenerife has to offer.
How To Get There: It’s strongly advised to visit with a rental car. – Check here the best car rental in Tenerife.
Book here a north Tenerife rural park excursion
17. Antequera Beach, Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Antequera is one of the north Tenerife beaches, and most secluded. It remains one of the most hidden beaches in Tenerife because it is difficult to get to on foot.
It is about a four-hour hike, and not an easy one. Alternatively, the beach can be reached by boat.
But if you can get to Antequera beach, it is worth it because this might be the nicest beach in Tenerife!
The views are stunning and the water is so clear you can see the sandy bottom!
How To Get There: It’s strongly advised to visit with a rental car. Check here the best car rental in Tenerife.
Book here a north Tenerife rural park excursion
18. Playa Jardin, Puerto de la Cruz
Playa Jardin in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife is a beach like no other. Surfers from around the world flock to this picturesque stretch of sand, which is situated in the subtropical part of the island and surrounded by a lush landscape.
Depending on the tide, visitors can enjoy an array of activities such as swimming, snorkeling and bodyboarding.
But sunbathers need not worry; with its glorious Atlantic waves and far-reaching views of Los Realejos Bay, Playa Jardin is one of Tenerife’s best spots for an afternoon lounging.
19. Playa de las Gaviotas, Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The crystal clear waters of Playa de las Gaviotas, in Tenerife, will leave you feeling like you’ve stepped into a tropical paradise!
Its beautiful golden sand is great for sunbathing, while the lively bars and restaurants nearby enable you to enjoy the atmosphere and soak up some culture too.
It’s a popular spot with surfers due to its strong waves, especially in autumn and winter. Don’t forget to bring your camera – it’s photoshoot worthy!
20. Playa de Almáciga
This tranquil and pristine beach tucked away in Anaga Rural Park is a paradise!
With its mesmerizing black sand, turquoise waters, and spectacular surroundings, this hidden gem will transport you to an oasis of tranquility.
Here’s a guide on what to wear in Tenerife, especially when you are visiting the beaches.
Basic Travel Information to Visit Tenerife
How to get to Tenerife
By airplane to Tenerife South Airport or Tenerife North Airport. – Check here the cheapest flights to Tenerife South or flights to Tenerife North airport.
That being said, the main tourist hub can all be found close to Tenerife South Airport. – Check airport transfer to your hotel.
How to get around Tenerife
I highly recommend renting a car. Whereas public transportation is more or less reliable in the southern part of the island. It can take a long time to get from South Tenerife to Northern Tenerife.
The best way to explore Tenerife’s beaches, especially those in the north part of the island, is by renting a car.
Northern Tenerife is a gem itself and particularly if you want to do trips to Mount Teide, a rental car is the best way to go. – Check here the cheapest car rentals in Tenerife.
Where to stay in Tenerife
The question should rather be, where not to stay in Tenerife? Every part of the island has its very own particular charm.
Roughly said, the northern part of Tenerife is great for hikers, outdoor activities in Tenerife and pristine nature lovers.
I recommend the south of the island such as Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos or Los Gigantes for those who are looking for beach holidays and all the facilities of a tourist hub.
It’s no secret that you’ll find many of the best beaches in South Tenerife!
Read more about where to stay in Tenerife, including the best spa hotels in Tenerife, the best family hotels in Tenerife, and the best all-inclusive, Adults-Only hotels in Tenerife.
Book here the best holiday rentals in Tenerife
Tenerife beaches: Black or golden sand?
There are even beaches for every taste: party beaches, secluded beaches and those for water sports lovers.
Some even have the characteristic, black volcanic sand. This is my very personal list of the best beaches in Tenerife… in my opinion! I remain open to all your suggestions!
In total, I have traveled 3 times to Tenerife, Spain so far. Altogether I stayed on the island for 5 months for work and travel. Read more about where to stay in Tenerife based on my experiences.
Public transportation works well in the south. However, I wouldn’t consider it as an option if you want to visit the north of the island as connections are infrequent and very slow.
Although you will find some of the best beaches in south Tenerife, you really can’t miss the North of Tenerife. It’s home to some of the most scenic beaches and the most dramatic cliffs.
Best Beaches in Tenerife Map
Before You Go: Top Tips for your Trip
- You’ll snap tons of photos and I love to take my GoPro in order to shoot even in extreme situations.
- Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and hiking sandals when traveling to warm countries. Consider trying some of these eco-friendly vegan hiking boots.
- Sunscreen is key! I always take with me my eco-friendly sunscreen by Thinksport.
- I always carry a light rain jacket, just in case. Pack smart with these organic cotton clothing companies.
- Be environmentally friendly and get one of these awesome backpacks made from recycled materials.
- Get in the mindset with these amazing wilderness survival books.
- Travel insurance is essential! If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, travel is protected against all odds with HeyMondo.
To make the most of your trip, I recommend Lonely Planet Tenerife
Short FAQ about Tenerife Beaches
What are the beaches like in Tenerife?
The beaches in Tenerife are beautiful, sandy and great for relaxing. Some are exclusive, some are hidden!
What are the best beaches in Tenerife for families?
Some of the beaches are more family friend then others (some of them are nudist beaches!). Los Guios and La Arena are particularly great for families.
What are the best beaches in Tenerife for snorkeling?
There are many great beaches in Tenerife for snorkeling, but two of the best are La Tejita and Playa del Duque.
And if you can’t get enough of Tenerife beaches, have a look at my web story about the best beaches in Tenerife.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
Canary Good Vibes
Thursday 17th of December 2020
Such a fantastic blog! Thank you for letting me know about the tour. I wanted to learn more about Visiting Tenerife and Canary Islands.
Paulina
Friday 25th of October 2019
Hello dear, many thanks for your kind comment. Indeed I miss it a lot! The people are so kind, the food amazing and the weather is just a dream! There are still many places that were not invaded by mass tourism such as the north or Los Gigantes. Fanabé is quite touristy, I hope you can go back someday and enjoy the other side of Tenerife. Let me know when you need tips!
Alexandra Wrigley
Monday 19th of August 2019
I've visited Tenerife a few times a year when I was young. It was my go-to family holiday destination. I went that frequently I had a disliking to the island. However, you've proved my perception wrong. The only beach I'd visited here was Fañabé. There are some gorgeous beaches on that list that look like they're not filled with tourists. You're making me have wanderlust again! I bet it must have been dreamy to visit a different beach each weekend. Do you not miss it?