by According to recent statistics, about two thirds of the island’s tourists spend time on one of the more than 100 beaches that frame Tenerife’s 342 kilometer coastline. Like the island itself, these stretches of sand and pebble have many different personalities – from the big and bold to the shy and retiring and from the naturally gorgeous to the cosmetically created.
As well as including some of the biggest and most famous in our top 10, we’ve also added a few hidden gems that are well worth lugging your beach paraphernalia a few extra yards.
For more Tenerife inspiration, see our guides to hotels, restaurants, bars and nightlife and attractions.
Jump to beaches on:
East Coast
Playa de Las Teresitas, Santa Cruz
Probably the most Instagrammed beach of the entire island thanks to the many palm trees sprouting from the golden sand (imported from the Sahara), Playa de Las Teresitas is located in the fishing village of San Andrés, just north of the capital, Santa Cruz . .
How to get there: Take the 110 bus from Costa Adeje to Santa Cruz (1 hour journey), then hop on the 910 for a 20 minute ride to the beach.
Insider tip: There is a whole block of cheap and delicious restaurants nearby. The paella at Marisqueria Ramón is especially recommended.
Playa del Médano, El Médano
If you are into water sports that incorporate any kind of board, Playa del Médano is your place to visit. Thanks to the winds that blow this eastern town, kitesurfing and windsurfing are the two options on this 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) stretch of sand.
How to get there: The 470 bus goes from Los Cristianos to El Médano. Alternatively, take the 111 from the main resorts and then change to the 408 in San Isidro.
Insider tip: The Playa Chica restaurant on the water’s edge is the best spot for cheap mojitos after a hard day sunbathing.
Playa Grande, El Porís
A mixture of sand and pebble stretches are available on this quiet beach that is far from the tourist spots. The beach is small and can be crowded with locals in the summer, but it’s a great place to tan with the Tenerifians.
How to get there: Playa Poris is best reached from exit 39 on the TF-1 motorway. Parking is available right next to the church plaza.
Insider tip: If you are new to surfing, this is one of the best and safest beaches to learn. Bring your own board though as there are no rental facilities here.
Back to the index
South Coast
Playa del Duque, Costa Adeje
At the posh end of Costa Adeje, Playa del Duque is probably the second most photographed beach on the island. Expect golden sand (dredged from the seabed) and plenty of quality restaurants on the boardwalk.
How to get there: If you’re staying in the south, just follow the beautiful promenade path until you see the Casa del Duque, a beautiful private residence on top of the headland by the beach.
Insider tip: Shoppers should visit the swanky Plaza del Duque for designer shopping, or the cute Centro Comercial El Mirador for crafty souvenirs (open on Sundays only).
Playa las Vistas, Los Cristianos
Playa las Vistas provides the complete package for family outings, with a wide range, water sports, shower/toilet facilities, and smooth waves courtesy of the ocean wave. Among the excellent lifeguard facilities for people with disabilities is assisted access to the sea. San Telmo center has many bars and restaurants overlooking the beach.
How to get there: Parking can be challenging, so your best bet is to go on foot or by taxi.
Insider tip: Set your stall out at the southern end for the most angular space; you will be near the beautiful Chiringuito Atlanticus beach bar and restaurant.
Playa Fañabe, Costa Adeje
With soft sand and calm waters, this is a popular choice for families on holiday with children of bucket and spade age. Facilities include lounges, brollies and a variety of water toys from pedalos to parasailing. Behind the beach are a large number of bars, restaurants and shops, as well as children’s play areas.
How to get there: Easily accessible by buses 467 and 471 and with easy access and paid parking.
Insider tip: When the sun starts to set, grab a frosty cocktail and listen to some chilled DJ sounds at one of the three beach clubs.
Playa el Camison, Playa de las América
Centrally located off ‘The Golden Mile’ in Playa de las Américas, this quiet, beautiful beach has calm waters and palm trees. At one end there are pedalos and kayaks, at the other, a fab tiki hut style bar serving food and drinks.
How to get there: Parking can be a pain at this beach so you’re better off walking from your hotel or taking a taxi.
Insider tip: If you want to chill by the sea but are not a fan of sand, there is also a grassy area above the beach.
Back to the index
the west coast
Playa Abama, Guia de Isora
This is one of the nicest beaches on the island with imported soft sand. There is also a quality beach restaurant.
How to get there: Take the 473 from the southern towns, then it’s a nice walk over gardens to 280, steep access steps (resort guests can use the funicular).
Insider tip: You can drive through the resort and down to the beach but just drop off your inflatables et al. You will then have to drive back up, park and walk back down.
Playa La Jaquita, Alcalá
One of the newest beaches in Tenerife, the black sands of La Jaquita Beach in Alcalá are reached by strolling along Alcalá’s scenic promenade. The beach is rarely crowded and is popular with locals for swimming and sunbathing. There is a lifeguard on duty, and toilets, changing rooms and a bar are available.
How to get there: Buses 477 and 473 from the south stop in this fishing village on the west coast. Go to the seafront and follow the promenade north.
Insider tip: The rock pools next to the promenade are also worth a dip.
Playa de Diego Hernández, Costa Adeje
Known locally as ‘hippy beach’ because of the free-spirited travelers who used to live here, this cozy bay favors those in the know… and those in the limelight. If you are sharing with naturalists, it is one of the most beautiful natural beaches on the island.
How to get there: Buses 447, 452 and 467 pass through La Caleta. From there it is a 25 minute undulating walk over hills and scrub.
Insider tip: The village of La Caleta is the food center of the south. Make time for fresh seafood at one of their waterfront restaurants.
Back to the index
For bus timetables see Titsa.com
