Beaches in North Tenerife
The north of Tenerife attracts fewer beach holidaymakers than the south, which has more sunshine and most of the island’s large tourist resorts. In return, northern Tenerife offers greener landscapes, historic towns and some of the island’s most striking volcanic beaches. Many have dark sand and a more natural setting, although the Atlantic waves can be stronger than at the sheltered beaches in the south.
Puerto de la Cruz is the main holiday resort in the north, while Las Teresitas near Santa Cruz is the region’s best-known pale-sand beach. This guide also covers several smaller beaches along the northwest coast and on the eastern side of Tenerife, north of the main southern resorts.
Puerto de la Cruz and El Bollullo
Puerto de la Cruz is the largest holiday resort in northern Tenerife and one of the island’s classic tourist destinations. Its coastline combines black volcanic beaches with seafront promenades and large seawater swimming pools. Playa Jardín is the best-known beach area, while the impressive Costa Martiánez complex offers several pools in a beautifully designed setting.
Only around 1 km east of Puerto de la Cruz, El Bollullo offers a completely different beach experience. This natural black-sand beach lies below steep cliffs and is reached by a path with steps. Its undeveloped setting makes it one of the most attractive natural beaches in northern Tenerife and we love spending a day on El Bollullo.
Santa Cruz and Las Teresitas
Santa Cruz de Tenerife does not have a large beach close to the city centre. Instead, visitors can swim and relax at Parque Marítimo César Manrique, an extensive complex with several pools, sunbathing areas and restaurants.
About 6 km northeast of Santa Cruz is Las Teresitas. Located beside the fishing village of San Andrés, it has a long and wide stretch of pale golden sand lined with palm trees. Breakwaters protect the beach from the waves, creating calm swimming conditions that make Las Teresitas particularly popular with families.
The beach has sun loungers, parasols, showers and several beach bars. It is also one of the favourite beaches of people living in Santa Cruz and can become busy at weekends and during public holidays.
Playa San Marcos and Las Arenas
Farther west, Playa San Marcos lies on the coast below Icod de los Vinos. The sheltered, shell-shaped bay has black volcanic sand and is better protected from the Atlantic waves than many other beaches in northern Tenerife. Restaurants with sea views line the promenade, and the calm setting makes the beach popular with families.
Even farther west is Playa de las Arenas, close to Buenavista del Norte and the mountains of Teno. This smaller beach has a mixture of black sand and pebbles, surrounded by a more rugged and natural landscape. A promenade leads past small coves and volcanic pools, and the area is particularly attractive around sunset.
The east coast south of Santa Cruz
South of Santa Cruz, the beaches become smaller and have a more local atmosphere. At Radazul, Playa de la Nea is sheltered by breakwaters, creating calm water for swimming. The beach is close to the marina and is mainly used by local residents and visitors staying in the surrounding area.
Farther south, Puertito de Güímar has a compact urban beach of black sand and pebbles. Stone breakwaters provide protection from the waves, making it a good choice for families. The promenade is particularly pleasant in the evening and has several restaurants serving fish and other local dishes.
