Updated in 2026. Tenerife’s beaches do not resemble one another, and that is part of their appeal. On the same island, you can move from a family beach with light-coloured sand to a volcanic cove, from a promenade with restaurants to a wild stretch of sand where the Atlantic speaks rather loudly.
This guide is organised by area and type of trip so that you choose not merely “the most famous beach”, but the one that suits your day: children, a couple, surfing, sunset, easy swimming, a beautiful photograph or a road trip.
Beaches in the metropolitan area and Anaga
1. Las Teresitas
Las Teresitas, in Santa Cruz, is one of the most convenient beaches for families: broad, protected by a breakwater, with light-coloured sand and very close to San Andrés. Go early if you want to park without driving around, and climb to the viewpoint if you want the classic photograph.
2. Benijo
Benijo is pure scenery: sea stacks, black sand, the Anaga road and sunsets that look invented. It is not the best place for a calm swim. Look at the sea, respect the access points and do not descend if conditions are unclear.
3. Almáciga
Almáciga combines a surfing atmosphere, wild coastline and Anaga’s remote character. It is ideal for looking, walking and experiencing a less tourist-oriented Tenerife. Exercise the utmost caution if swimming.
Beaches in northern Tenerife
4. El Bollullo
El Bollullo, near La Orotava, is a black-sand beach with plenty of character. Access requires some walking and the sea can be rough, but the surroundings are beautiful. Wear comfortable footwear and do not descend carrying enough belongings to establish a campsite.
5. Playa Jardín
In Puerto de la Cruz, Playa Jardín combines volcanic sand, a promenade and gardens bearing the design influence of César Manrique. Always check the flags and bathing notices because conditions in the north change quickly.
6. Martiánez
Martiánez Beach has pebbles, black sand and an atmosphere linked to surfing. If you want an easy swim, you may prefer Lago Martiánez; if you want to see another side of Puerto de la Cruz, it is an interesting stop.
7. El Socorro
El Socorro, in Los Realejos, is a beach much loved by surfers and fans of black sand. Beautiful, open and full of character. For families with young children, check the sea before deciding.
8. San Marcos
In Icod de los Vinos, San Marcos is a sheltered bay with nearby restaurants. It is a good option to combine with the dragon tree, the centre of Icod or a route through Garachico.
Beaches in the south and Costa Adeje
9. Playa del Duque
Playa del Duque is convenient, well maintained and very practical if you are staying in Costa Adeje. Light-coloured sand, a promenade, services and a quiet atmosphere. Ideal for anyone who wants a beach without giving up nearby restaurants and shops.
10. Fañabé and Torviscas
These beaches work very well for families and travellers who want convenience. A seafront promenade, sunbeds, restaurants and an easy combination of swimming, lunch and a relaxed afternoon.
11. Las Vistas
In Los Cristianos, Las Vistas is one of the most convenient beaches in the south: light-coloured sand, a broad promenade and services. If you are travelling with children or people who want easy access, it is usually a safe choice.
12. Los Cristianos
Los Cristianos Beach has an urban, harbour atmosphere. It is not the wildest, but it is very practical if you want to combine a swim, walk and ferry connections.
13. La Tejita
La Tejita, beside Montaña Roja, is one of the most special natural beaches in the south. Broad, open and frequently windy. It is beautiful for walking, sunbathing and enjoying a sense of space. Check the sea before swimming.
14. El Médano
El Médano means beach, wind, surfing, cafés and a local atmosphere. The area beside the town is usually more family-oriented; towards Montaña Roja, it becomes more open and natural. It is one of the best beaches if you want somewhere with a life of its own.
15. Playa Chica
Also in El Médano, Playa Chica has a sheltered, seafaring character. It is a good place for a straightforward swim when the sea is calm and for watching activity around the small jetty.
Beaches and coves in the west
16. Playa de la Arena
In the Puerto de Santiago area, Playa de la Arena stands out for its black sand and convenient tourist surroundings. It is a good stop if you are visiting Los Gigantes or Alcalá.
17. Alcalá
Alcalá has natural pools, small bathing areas and a pleasant promenade. It is less intense than Costa Adeje and very good for an unhurried afternoon.
18. Playa San Juan
Playa San Juan combines a beach, harbour and restaurants. It is an easy plan for eating beside the sea and walking along the west coast.
Beaches in the east and south-east
19. Radazul
Radazul is convenient for swimming, snorkelling and activities close to the metropolitan area. It has a more local character and is practical if you are between Santa Cruz and Candelaria.
20. Candelaria
The Candelaria coast lets you combine swimming, a walk and a visit to the basilica. It is not always the most beach-oriented option for an entire day, but it is a very complete stop.
21. Puertito de Güímar
Puertito de Güímar is a quiet area for walking, eating and swimming when the sea permits. It is a good choice if you want a Tenerife frequented more by residents.
Which beach to choose for your trip
- With children: Las Teresitas, Las Vistas, Playa del Duque, Fañabé and Torviscas.
- For photographs: Benijo, La Tejita, El Bollullo, Playa Jardín and Montaña Roja.
- For surfing or wind: El Médano, Almáciga, El Socorro and Martiánez.
- For sunset: Benijo, Los Gigantes, Alcalá, La Caleta and Playa San Juan.
- For easy swimming: Las Vistas, Las Teresitas, Playa del Duque and sheltered areas when the flag permits.
Three-day beach route
Day 1: Las Teresitas and Anaga, with stops at viewpoints. Day 2: Costa Adeje, Playa del Duque, Fañabé and La Caleta. Day 3: El Médano, La Tejita, Los Abrigos and sunset on the west coast if you still have the energy.
Safety on Tenerife’s beaches
Tenerife Tourism recommends taking particular care in coastal areas with waves or currents, and following signs, flags and lifeguard services. Vanessa’s translation: if the sea is rough, do not negotiate with it. Swap swimming for a walk, photograph or meal with a view.
Frequently asked questions about Tenerife’s beaches
Are there more black-sand or light-sand beaches?
Tenerife has many volcanic, black-sand beaches, but also beaches with light-coloured sand, particularly in the south and at Las Teresitas.
Which is the most beautiful beach in Tenerife?
It depends on your taste. Benijo is spectacular for scenery, Las Teresitas for convenience, La Tejita for nature and Playa del Duque for services.
Is it a good idea to tour the beaches by car?
Yes, if you want to compare the north, south and Anaga. Distances are not enormous, but the type of road and parking vary greatly by area.
To complete the day without jumping from one search to another, you can also save our guide to the best beaches in Tenerife and, if you fancy a more volcanic route, our selection of black-sand beaches in Tenerife.
