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One of the wonders of the Canary Islands that tourists just keep coming back for are its stunning beaches. As well as incredible landscapes, with forests to the north and the peaks in the centre of the island, fabulous beaches are tucked away all over Tenerife where you can relax, get your sea fix and have some fun. 

In this post, we’re taking a look at 5 Tenerife beaches you absolutely must visit, from the north to the south of the island. 

Playa del Tamadite

Tamadite beach is in the north of the island, in Anaga Rural Park. It’s a little-known gem, and hard to access – but that only makes this virgin black sand beach all the more magical. You can get there two ways. You can go via Barranco de Afur, a ravine with a path surrounded by greenery which leads to the beach. Don’t forget to wear the right footwear! Alternatively, you can get there from the village of Taganana. It’s a longer route by distance – a 10km round trip rather than a 6km round trip if you go via the ravine – but it’s an easier path from the village, and you can also take in the breathtaking views of the north Tenerife coastline.

Playa El Bollullo

Let’s stay in the north of Tenerife and head to El Bollullo beach. This wild and untamed beach has incredibly fine black sand that contrasts with the blue of the Atlantic Ocean, bathing Orotava Valley. The 300 metre-long beach has a small cove, and another wider stretch of beach where you can relax, sunbathe, and listen to the waves crashing against the rocks. The great thing about these beaches is that they’re not overrun with tourists. And because they’re practically unknown, they’re the perfect place for a quiet day on the beach – whether you’re in a couple, on your own or with family. Another attraction is the beach bar, serving great food with stunning sea views. 

El Bollullo isn’t just about the beach. The road you take after coming off the Tenerife north motorway takes you all the way to the coast, lined with banana trees on both sides of the road until you get to the cliffs. You can leave your car in one of the private car parks close to the beach, and go the last stretch on foot via an easy path with panoramic views.  

Playa de los Guíos

Now let’s head from the north to Tenerife’s west coast, to one of the islands most-photographed landscapes: Los Gigantes cliffs. Guíos beach, located at the foot of these magnificent cliffs, has the black sand so typical of the island, giving you a taste of the island’s volcanic past. Unlike the beaches in the north, the water is much calmer here. Perfect for taking a refreshing dip and enjoying the waves. The ramp down to the beach makes for easy accessibility for all, especially for people with reduced mobility and pushchairs. It’s a family-friendly destination with a range of large hotels, and one of the island’s most touristy areas.

Playa de El Médano

The famous El Médano beach is ready and waiting for you in the south of Tenerife. This one is especially popular among wind and watersports fans. This untamed beach holds a Blue Flag, proof of its high quality surroundings and water, and is unique thanks to almost two kilometres of golden sand and the red mountain watching over swimmers, surfers and windsurfers. The El Médano landscape is unique on the island. The colour of the sand contrasts beautifully with the blue of the water and reddish hues of the surrounding countryside. It’s super easy to get to this beach. You can get there via the TF-1 south motorway. Take the exit to El Médano and you’ll find a spacious car park that takes you almost to the beach. You’ll also find beach bars with toilets, hammocks made for relaxing and sunbathing, and showers for the comfort of swimmers and surfers.

Playa de Las Teresitas

Without a doubt one of the most distinctive beaches on the island. Why? It’s got golden sand! This enclave in the north of the island is completely different to other beaches we’ve looked at, because it’s in fact artificial. In 1970, sand was brought here from the Sahara to replace the characteristic black sand of Tenerife beaches. 

Las Teresitas beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island thanks to its proximity to the capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife. There’s more than a kilometre of fine golden sand, bathed in crystal clear waters and surrounded by a gorgeous mountainous landscape. One of the best things about Las Teresitas is the sheer number of restaurants you’ll find on the beachfront, serving the best of Canary Island cuisine. And whether you’re on your way, or leaving for the day, you have to stop off at the panoramic viewpoint at the top of the mountain to see this beautiful beach from a totally different perspective.

Categories: Canaries, Travel Tips, Lifestyle, Tenerife