Tenerife is one of those places that feels like it was designed to make you fall in love with it. Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to explore its stunning coastline, and let me tell you—it’s a beach lover’s paradise.
From golden sands to hidden coves, Tenerife’s beaches are as diverse as they are beautiful. So, grab a cold drink, put on your sun hat, and let me take you on a little journey through some of my favourite spots.
One of my most cherished memories is of Playa de Las Teresitas, just outside Santa Cruz. This man-made beach, with its golden sand imported from the Sahara, feels like a slice of the Caribbean in the Canaries. I remember lounging under a palm tree, the gentle sound of the waves lapping at the shore, and feeling completely at peace. It’s the perfect spot for a lazy afternoon, and the backdrop of the Anaga Mountains just adds to the magic.
Then there’s Playa del Duque, in the upscale Costa Adeje area. This beach is all about luxury—think soft golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and a promenade lined with chic cafes and boutiques. I love coming here early in the morning, when the beach is quiet, and watching the sun rise over the Atlantic. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re living in a postcard.
But not all of Tenerife’s beaches are about sunbathing and swimming. One of my most unforgettable experiences was at Playa de Benijo, on the rugged north coast. This wild, black-sand beach is a world away from the touristy resorts, and it’s perfect for those who love a bit of adventure. I remember scrambling over the rocks, the waves crashing around me, and feeling completely exhilarated. The views of the Roque de Benijo rock formation are absolutely breathtaking, especially at sunset.
And let’s not forget Playa de La Tejita, near El Medano. This natural beach, with its golden sand and views of Montaña Roja, is a favourite among locals and windsurfers alike. I love coming here for a long walk along the shore, followed by a fresh seafood lunch at one of the beachside restaurants.
Tenerife’s beaches are as diverse as they are stunning, and each one has its own unique charm. Whether you’re after luxury, adventure, or just a quiet spot to relax, you’re sure to find your perfect beach in Tenerife.
1. Playa Del Duque
Playa del Duque is a beautiful and popular beach located in the south of Tenerife, in the municipality of Adeje.
This magnificent beach is well over 700 metres in length and features golden sand and clean waters.
Getting to the beach is easy enough with adequate public transportation plus there is plenty of parking available nearby.
There are lots of amenities such as sun loungers, toilets, showers, and parasols.
This upscale beach has clear, calm waters perfect for snorkelling to view the diverse marine life.
Parasailing and jet skiing allow you to explore the blue waters from above. Volleyball nets are set up for friendly games and yoga classes are offered on the sand.
Nearby, you can go scuba diving, fishing, or sailing.
On land, the promenade features bike rentals for cruising along the coastline.
The beach also includes a nice promenade with a good selection of eateries, and bars, where you can unwind and take in the scenery while having a meal or a drink.
2. Playa Las Teresitas
Playa Las Teresitas is a beautiful beach located in the north of Tenerife, near the town of San Andres. It is known for its golden sand, crystal-clear water, and stunning mountain backdrop, making it a popular beach on the island.
The beach is easily accessible by car or bus, with a parking lot available for visitors. Amenities include showers, toilets, and changing rooms, as well as several beachside restaurants and bars.
Lifeguards are also on duty during the peak season, ensuring the safety of swimmers and beachgoers.
In terms of water sports, there are several options available including paddle boats or kayaks to explore the bay, or you can take a guided snorkelling tour to discover the nearby underwater landscapes. Additionally, there are several diving schools located nearby if you are looking to explore deeper waters.
One of the unique features of Playa Las Teresitas is its artificial breakwater, which protects the beach from strong currents and waves. This creates a calm and safe swimming environment for visitors of all ages.
» Google Map of Playa de las Terasitas
3. Playa de las Americas
Playa de Las Americas is one of Tenerife's busiest and most popular beaches located in Arona on the south coast of the island.
The beach is nearly a kilometre long, with golden sand, and clear waters that are ideal for swimming and other water activities.
The facilities at the beach are very good and include easy access, parking, showers, toilets, sun loungers and parasols for rent, as well as a selection of beach bars, restaurants, and shops.
There are plenty of water sports activities on offer, including kayaking, paddle boarding, parasailing, banana boat excursions, snorkelling, and scuba diving.
Playa de Las Americas is well known for having a vibrant nightlife with a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants in addition to the beach. There are many shopping centres nearby with posh boutiques and gift shops.
» Google Map - Playa de las Americas.
4. Playa Las Vistas
Playa Las Vistas is one of the most popular and longest beaches in Tenerife, located in the resort town of Los Cristianos in the south of the island.
With its soft golden sand and clear waters, it is a favourite beach spot with locals and holidaymakers alike.
The beach is well-equipped with plenty of amenities, including sun loungers and parasols available for rent, changing rooms, showers, and toilets. Additionally, it is easily accessible, with several entrances and plenty of parking options nearby.
For those looking for some adventure, there are several water sports available at Playa Las Vistas, including jet skiing, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
There are also several bars and restaurants located along the beach, offering delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks.
The beach is also family-friendly, with a designated children's play area and a lifeguard on duty during the day.
Playa Las Vistas is also wheelchair accessible, with ramps leading down to the water's edge and special equipment available for those with disabilities.
» Google Map - Playa Las Vistas.
5. Playa de La Arena
Playa de la Arena is a beautiful black sand beach located on the west coast of Tenerife, in the small town of Puerto de Santiago.
This charming family-friendly beach is surrounded by tall cliffs, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The beach is well-maintained and has a range of amenities to cater to visitors, including sun loungers, parasols, showers, toilets, and changing rooms.
There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops within walking distance, making it easy to spend the entire day at the beach.
The tranquil waters at Playa de la Arena are well are perfect for swimming and snorkelling. If you prefer something more energetic, there are also a number of water sports activities available, including banana boat rides and jet skiing.
Families frequently visit this beach, especially those with young children because the calm waves and shallow seas make swimming here safe.
Wearing sandals or flip-flops is advised to prevent foot burns because the black sand can get fairly hot during the summer.
» Google Map - Playa de la Arena.
6. Playa San Juan
Playa San Juan is a beautiful beach located on the west coast of Tenerife, located in a small fishing town of the same name.
There is an abundance of parking places, the beach is easily reachable by car or public transportation. It also features services including handicapped access and rental sun loungers, restrooms, and showers.
Along the promenade, there are numerous eateries and bars where you can get a tasty meal or a drink and take in the stunning sea views.
As for water sports, Playa San Juan offers a range of activities such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing. You can also take a leisurely boat trip along the coast to explore the nearby caves and hidden coves.
In addition to its natural beauty, Playa San Juan is also known for its lively atmosphere during the summer months.
The beach hosts a number of events and festivals throughout the year, including a carnival in February and a traditional fiesta in July.
7. Playa Bollullo
Playa Bollullo is a beautiful black sand beach located on the north coast of Tenerife, in the municipality of La Orotava. This secluded beach is one of the few remaining natural beaches in Tenerife.
The beach can be accessed via a steep pathway that leads down from the car park.
It is advised to wear sturdy shoes as the path can be rocky and uneven in places. However, the effort is worth it as you are rewarded with stunning views of the coastline.
Playa Bollullo is relatively small in size and has limited amenities. There are no sun loungers or parasols for rent, so you will need to take your own.
There are also no restaurants or bars on the beach, however, there are toilet facilities available for public use.
Despite the lack of amenities, Playa Bollullo is a popular spot for surfers due to the powerful waves that break on the shore. This makes it a great place for experienced surfers to catch some waves, but not recommended for beginners.
The beach is surrounded by cliffs and lush greenery, providing a natural shelter from the wind. This makes it a great spot to relax and unwind in the sun.
» Google Map - Playa El Bollullo
8. Playa Jardin
One of the most well-known beaches on Tenerife is Playa Jardin, which is situated in the north of the island.
The beach is a wonderful location to unwind and take in the island's natural beauty because of the lovely and well-kept plants that surround it.
There are three distinct areas of the black sand beach. With many neighbouring eateries, pubs, and shops, the first part is the busiest and most developed.
The third area is the most remote and serene, while the second section is quieter and less busy.
Playa Jardin offers easy access for visitors with disabilities, with ramps leading down to the sand and a special bathing area with a lift. Lifeguards are also on duty during the day to ensure the safety of swimmers.
Water sports enthusiasts will love Playa Jardin, as there are a variety of activities available such as surfing, kayaking, and snorkelling.
The beach is also a great spot for fishing, with many locals casting their lines from the rocks.
9. Playa Los Cristianos
Playa de Los Cristianos is one of the most well-known and popular beaches located in the town of the same name, on the south coast of Tenerife.
The beach is situated close to the main port and ferry terminal of the town, making it a convenient location for tourists arriving by sea.
The beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing due to its beautiful golden sands and clear seas.
The beach has received the Blue Flag, a distinction that is recognised worldwide as a mark of excellence and cleanliness.
Playa de Los Cristianos offers a range of amenities including showers, toilets, sun loungers, parasols, and changing rooms. The beachfront promenade is lined with numerous bars, and restaurants, offering a range of food options.
There are plenty of water sports opportunities to enjoy including jet skiing, windsurfing, and paddle boarding.
The beach is located in a privileged area close to hotels, apartments, and a number of the island's top holiday resorts.
The town also has a variety of stores, boutiques, and markets to explore, so visitors may also take a stroll through it.
» Google Map - Playa Los Cristianos
10. Playa Torviscas
Playa Torviscas is one of the most popular beaches on the southwestern coast of Tenerife, located in the bustling resort area of Costa Adeje.
The beach is situated between two other beaches, Playa de las Americas and Playa Fanabe, and is easily accessible by foot or car.
One of the most notable features of Playa Torviscas is its golden sands and calm waters, making it a perfect destination for swimming and sunbathing.
There are a range of amenities, including sun loungers, parasols, showers, and changing rooms. The beach is wheelchair accessible, with ramps leading to the water.
In addition to swimming and sunbathing, Playa Torviscas is also a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts. Here, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including jet skiing, banana boat rides, parasailing, and paddleboarding.
There is also a diving centre, where you can explore the colourful underwater world of Tenerife.
There are plenty of restaurants and bars along the beach, serving a range of international and local cuisine. From seafood to tapas, visitors can enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
In the evening, the beach becomes a hub of activity, with live music, entertainment, and nightlife options.
Best Beaches in Tenerife South
Here are some of the top beaches in south Tenerife:
- Playa de las Vistas - A golden sand beach in Los Cristianos known for its calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling. It has many amenities like restaurants and showers.
- Playa de los Cristianos - Also in Los Cristianos, this long golden beach has soft sand and is ideal for families. The calm waters are great for trying water sports.
- Playa de las Americas - A popular beach with golden sand, a lively promenade, and a range of water activities available to rent. Good for surfing.
- Playa del Duque - A picturesque refined beach near Costa Adeje with soft golden sand and clear waters. More private and secluded.
- Playa de Fanabe - Golden sands backed by hotels and the Fañabé marina. Ideal for those who enjoy amenities and leisure.
- Playa del Camisón - A black sand beach near Playa de las Américas known for its strong waves and surfing scene.
- Playa de Troya - A long stretch of golden beach perfect for walking and swimming, with some rocky sections.
Best Beaches in Tenerife North
With a mix of golden and black sand beaches situated in quaint fishing villages and nature reserves, North Tenerife offers diverse beaches to suit all the family. Here are some of the top beaches in north Tenerife:
- Playa de las Teresitas - Known for its soft golden imported sand, this beach near Santa Cruz is popular for swimming and sunbathing. It has beachside cafes and restaurants.
- Playa de las Gaviotas - Near Las Teresitas, this black sand beach has excellent facilities like showers and a children's playground area.
- Playa de Bollullo - A small, picturesque black sand beach surrounded by cliffs in the Orotava region. No amenities but great for nature lovers.
- Playa de Benijo - This black sand beach is located in lush Anaga Rural Park. The roaring waves make it ideal for bodyboarding and surfing.
- Playa de los Patos - A tranquil, clothing-optional beach tucked away in Anaga Park. Difficult to access but worth it.
- Playa de Santo Domingo - A quiet, laidback beach popular with locals. Great for relaxing, walking, and fishing.
- Playa de San Marcos - Known for its golden sand imported from the Sahara and its outstanding natural scenery with an offshore island.
Best Beaches in Tenerife For Families
With their sandy beaches, gentle waves, water sports, and ample amenities, these beaches allow families to enjoy the sea, sand, and sun safely.
Here then are some of the top family-friendly beaches in Tenerife:
Playa de Los Cristianos - A long golden sandy beach with very calm, clear waters perfect for children. There are playgrounds, restaurants, and water sports rentals to keep families entertained.
Playa de las Vistas - This golden sand beach in Los Cristianos has shallow waters for swimming and lots of amenities like showers, cafes, and water sports activities.
Playa del Duque - A refined beach in Costa Adeje with calm, clear waters. The nearby promenade has kid-friendly restaurants and ice-cream shops.
Playa de las Americas - A vibrant golden beach with a lively, family-friendly promenade. Older kids can enjoy activities like surfing and jet skiing.
Playa de Los Troya - This long golden beach near Costa Adeje has shallow areas perfect for toddlers. There are also beach clubs and restaurants nearby.
Playa de la Tejita - A wide golden sandy beach near El Medano, popular for its bathing pools formed by black rocks that keep the water calm for young children.
Where Are The Sandy Beaches in Tenerife
There are stunning sandy beaches found all around the coast of Tenerife:
- On the south and southwest coast, the beaches are prized for their soft golden sand. Popular examples include Playa de Las Americas, Playa de Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje beaches like Playa del Duque, and Playa de la Tejita. These are the most popular beaches on the island and where most of the best holiday resorts are found.
- In the northeast, Playa de Las Teresitas near Santa Cruz is famous for its golden imported sand from the Sahara Desert. Nearby Playa de Las Gaviotas also has soft golden sand.
- The northwest coast also boasts golden sand beaches like the remote Playa de Teno and the picturesque Playa de San Marcos near Icod de Los Vinos.
- The north has quiet black sand beaches like Playa de Santo Domingo and the sheltered coves of Anaga Rural Park.
- Along the wilder northern coast, you'll find dark grey sand beaches tucked between rocky cliffs, like Playa de San Juan in Buenavista.
- In the southeast, beaches like shallow Playa La Jaquita near Alcala have a mix of dark sand and pebbles.
