Paradise found! The best beaches in Tenerife, north to south

The Canary Islands are not called the ‘Fortunate’ islands for no reason. The varying microclimates create an all-year-round springtime climate. This means that every day is a beach day. Or, nearly! However, Tenerife beach holidays are best enjoyed in the summer months when temperatures are at their highest. Despite this, Tenerife is still a popular winter sun destination. If you plan to visit Tenerife in the winter, be sure to stay on the southern coast where temperatures are hotter. The north is best enjoyed in late summer, once the school holidays are over. 

The south of the island is ideal for families. The shallow waters and yellow sandy beaches offer a textbook perfect example of island life. These beaches are easily accessible and are often situated in front of Tenerife’s luxury hotels. Kick back and relax and combine your beach days with fun local activities, all within a stone’s throw from some of the best sunbathing spots on the island. Cool off in the revitalising topaz waters and let the restorative power of the ocean leave you feeling renewed. Discover the best beaches in Tenerife South and float away on a sun cream-scented daydream. 

Let’s start off our tour of the best beaches in Tenerife in Adeje, the heart of Tenerife’s southern coastline. This blue flag beach is a firm favourite amongst the locals in Adeje. It is a far cry from the overcrowded resorts that have been marred by the effects of tourism. La Enramada is a natural paradise created by the gentle erosion of volcanic rocks. The result? A secluded cove that is sheltered from the winds and small enough to ever get too crowded. At certain times of the year join bodyboarders in their quest for the perfect waves. 

Or simply, enjoy the calm of the gentle ebb and flow of the waves close to shore. What makes this beach stand out is its proximity to one of Tenerife’s top hotels, the Royal Hideaway Coral Suites Tenerife. Since the beach doesn’t offer dining facilities, visitors can enjoy a top gastro experience at the hotel led by the island’s top chefs. La Enramada also scores points for being close to the famous water park Siam Park as well as the Costa Adeje 27 Hole Golf Course making it easy to mix up your day with lots of fun things to do.

Staying in Adeje, you will find the picture-postcard beach of El Duque. Now, if you are looking to top up your tan and indulge in a spot of luxury shopping, Playa El Duque is for you. This premium beach, often known as the best beach in Costa Adeje, offers everything a beach lover can dream of. Feel the heat of the ivory-coloured sand as you walk towards the gentle turquoise waters. This picturesque setting feels like paradise and it is easy to understand why it is one of the best beaches in Tenerife. Playa El Duque is a blue flag beach for all the family to enjoy. Take a gentle stroll along the promenade to discover the independent boutiques, world food restaurants and eight other beaches. While enjoying the beach, be sure to reserve a sunbed and parasol for maximum comfort. It is also worth noting that the beach is close to Adeje’s protected natural and historic areas of interest such as the Barranco de Infierno, a hike through deep gorges, waterfalls and caves where the Guanches once lived. Casa Fuerte (Fort House) is also a stone’s throw from the beach and its historical ruins of the original fortress that protected Tenerife from pirate attacks are well worth a visit.

Just a short drive from Adeje is the famous area of Playa Las Americas and Los Cristianos, the home of tourism on the island. If you find yourself in the town of Los Cristianos, you must visit Las Vistas Beach, another blue flag beach and the best beach in Tenerife for watersports. And, this time it is one of the 12 beaches on the island that offers disabled access. But, this beach is a mix of contrasts. Not only does this golden stretch of sand provide all the trimmings for a relaxing day at the beach. It also attracts a crowd of watersports enthusiasts, eager to catch their next thrill. That being said, the waters here are calm. 

Playa de la Vistas Tenerife is protected all year round by breakwaters and is ideal for children. Visitors can also access volleyball nets, parasol rentals and a tourist information office. It is high on the list of the best beaches in Tenerife thanks to its beauty and charm. Sunbathing complete? Why not head to the nearby town of Los Gigantes to marvel at the incredible cliffs that dominate the landscape of this small, traditional fishing town? From there you can enjoy a range of watersports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkelling or whale watching in a protected stretch of Ocean full of sea life.

The south of Tenerife can often have a reputation for being overrun by tourism. Yet, the reality is that there are still plenty of spots loved by the locals. Playa de la Arena, located just a stone’s throw from Barceló Santiago- Adults Only is such a place. The 120-meter-long, black sand paradise has been a blue flag beach since the 80s which means that exceptional levels of cleanliness and safe swimming are guaranteed. Thanks to its strategic location, off the main tourist drag, this corner of heaven offers visitors a sustainable alternative for their escape to the sun. Until recently this beach was a firm favourite amongst locals alone but word has spread and now it is a popular choice for those wanting to experience a more rugged side to Tenerife’s southern coastline. The calm waters make it an ideal place for a quick dip to cool off from the sunbaked beach. More active beachgoers will love snorkelling as the volcanic rocks surrounding the bay attract a wealth of sea life to discover.

If San Blas isn’t sandy enough for you, head to the town of El Médano, just 10 minutes from the Tenerife South airport and you will find the golden sandy shoreline of Playa de La Tejita next to the Red Mountain (La Montaña Roja). This is one of the best beaches in Tenerife for its picturesque landscapes and safe bathing conditions. However, it is worth noting that access to the beach is not for those with reduced mobility. Yet the beach has made a name for itself amongst water sport enthusiasts and is a popular hangout for windsurfing and kiteboarding fans due to its steady winds. If watersports are not your thing but you still crave a more authentic day at the beach, head to the far end of the beach where you can find the famous Chiriguito Pirata, a beach hut serving up delicious tapas dishes that taste divine washed down with an ice cold beer. La Tejita offers a more laid-back and less crowded atmosphere compared to some other beaches in the area. And, once you are done at the beach, the town centre of El Médano is a buzzing place to enjoy an evening stroll and a sundowner in one of its many bars. 

Looking for a more natural coastline? Venture to the north of the island to enjoy a different perspective on the best beaches in Tenerife. The island’s northern coast may appear rugged at first glance, but don’t let that put you off. There are many hidden coves to explore in addition to the chic inner-city beaches. Experience the magic of the exotic Tenerife black sand and enjoy a unique island beach experience. 

When exploring the north, there is no better place to start than the island’s capital, Santa Cruz. This city is home to the beach you see in the holiday brochures. Las Teresitas Beach Tenerife is a white sand beach located just a stone’s throw from the city centre. This beach is a must-visit if you are visiting Santa Cruz and it is one of the best beaches in Tenerife for families. This is because this beach is protected by breakwaters creating perfect swimming conditions.

Paddleboarding and snorkelling are also popular on this beach. But, what makes this beach a trendy hangout is the string of kiosks that line the length of it. Freshly poured mojitos, delicious ice creams and traditional Canarian food are just some of the tempting treats on offer. However, one thing that all beachgoers must know is that the sand is imported from the Sahara. Hence, the pristine white colour. Thanks to the proximity of this beach to the islands’ capital, Santa Cruz, it is easy to combine a day exploring the city with a day at the beach. 

If you are keen to see the volcanic beaches of the north, it's time to discover Playa Benijo, a secluded and wild beach framed by striking cliffs and rock formations. Drive out of Santa Cruz and head through the picturesque Anaga mountains until you reach this unspoiled gem. Benijo, one of the nicest beaches in Tenerife, invites you to connect with nature and it only reveals its raw beauty to those intrepid enough to venture to its ebony black shores. It is worth noting that while this beach is one of the best beaches in Tenerife, parking and access to the beach itself is not for the faint-hearted. With that being said, it is best to avoid this beach on weekends when everyone is looking for a parking spot. Once you are on this beach, however, be prepared for a truly magical experience where nature is the protagonist. After a day of beachcombing, savour a traditional Canarian meal at a local guachinche, a rustic eatery serving delicious regional dishes.

Still in the north of the island, head towards Puerto de la Cruz on the northern highway and make sure to stop off at Playa El Socorro in Los Realejos. Over the years, it has earnt a name for itself as being one of the best beaches in Tenerife for surfers. But, its extreme sport reputation doesn’t stop there. It is also an enclave for trail-runners who travel from far and wide to participate in the 040 route. This trail leaves from El Socorro and ends at the dizzying height of 4000 metres on the peak of El Teide. While this beach is not hidden completely, it certainly is off the beaten track. Its rugged coastline gives it a wild edge but it is complete with all the amenities for a comfortable day on the beach. Admire the dramatic backdrop of rugged cliffs as you watch experienced surfers catch impressive waves. For those seeking adventure, nearby hiking trails offer the chance to explore the stunning Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Just make sure to visit in the summertime for maximum sunshine. 

Continue along the northern highway in search of the best beaches in Tenerife and head to Puerto de la Cruz which rivals Santa Cruz with its black sand city beach. Stop off along the way in traditional Canarian towns such as Tacoronte to visit local vineyards and sample Canarian wine. Or, head straight to one of the best beaches in Puerto de la Cruz, Playa de Jardin - an exotic black sand beach in Tenerife. It is one of three beaches that was designed by Canarian artist Cesár Manrique. Its name translates to garden beach and it is easy to see why. Surrounding the ebony black sand is a luscious garden full of tropical plants, rocky caves and waterfalls. It is also one of the top beaches in Tenerife North for watersports and has a designated section for surfers. But, did you know? Author Agatha Christie visited these shores in 1927 to recover from severe depression. The warmer climate and fresh sea air quickly brought her back to health and even inspired future works. Can you imagine what she would think of Puerto de la Cruz now?  

If you haven’t had your fix of wild, untouched beaches then swap Puerto de la Cruz’s Playa Jardín with the rugged, hard-to-reach El Bollullo. Despite the difficult access, ask any local and this beach will be listed on their list of nice beaches in Tenerife. Known for its black volcanic sand and pristine waters, this beach offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking tranquillity during their Canary Island escape. Embark on a scenic coastal hike down to the beach to witness breathtaking vistas and once on the jet-black sand, simply bask in the natural splendour that surrounds you. Swimming here is a revitalising experience but it is best to keep an eye on the swell since the currents can sometimes be very strong. And, once your day at the beach has come to an end, grab some traditional food at the beach restaurant before heading back into the city of Puerto de la Cruz to explore its enchanting corners such as Parque Taoro, a beautiful park overlooking the city.