The 10 Best Beaches in Tenerife for an Unforgettable Coastal Experience

Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, is famous for its diverse landscapes, year-round sunshine, and breathtaking beaches. Whether you’re looking for golden sand, volcanic black shores, or secluded coves, the island has something for everyone.

In this guide, we explore the 10 best beaches in Tenerife, highlighting their unique features and what makes them worth visiting.

1. Playa de Las Teresitas – A Family Paradise with Golden Sand

🌍 Location: Near Santa Cruz de Tenerife
🏖 Best for: Families, sunbathing, and swimming

Playa de Las Teresitas is one of the most iconic beaches in Tenerife. Unlike most of the island’s beaches, which have volcanic black sand, this golden-sand beach was created with sand imported from the Sahara. The calm waters and palm-tree-lined promenade make it an ideal spot for families and those looking for a relaxing beach day.

Why visit?
✅ Calm waters thanks to a breakwater
✅ Close to Santa Cruz, easy access
✅ Stunning mountain backdrop

2. Playa del Duque – Luxury and Crystal-Clear Waters

🌍 Location: Costa Adeje
🏖 Best for: Relaxing, luxury seekers

Located in Costa Adeje, Playa del Duque is known for its upscale atmosphere, fine golden sand, and crystal-clear waters. The beach is surrounded by luxury resorts, fine dining restaurants, and exclusive shops, making it a top choice for those looking for a high-end beach experience.

Why visit?
✅ Clean, well-maintained beach
✅ Luxury amenities and sunbeds
✅ Calm waters, ideal for swimming

3. Playa de Benijo – Wild Beauty and Spectacular Sunsets

🌍 Location: Anaga Rural Park
🏖 Best for: Photography, nature lovers, surfing

Playa de Benijo is a hidden gem on the wild northeast coast of Tenerife. With its dramatic black sand, strong waves, and impressive rock formations, it is a paradise for photographers and adventure seekers.

Why visit?
✅ Stunning sunset views
✅ Unspoiled natural surroundings
✅ Perfect for experienced surfers

Tip: There are no lifeguards or facilities, so bring your own food and drinks!

4. Playa de Los Cristianos – A Classic Holiday Destination

🌍 Location: Los Cristianos
🏖 Best for: Families, accessibility, water sports

One of Tenerife’s most tourist-friendly beaches, Playa de Los Cristianos offers calm waters, a lively promenade, and plenty of restaurants and bars nearby. The beach is also a hub for boat trips, whale watching, and ferry rides to other islands.

Why visit?
✅ Great for families and seniors
✅ Lots of activities and excursions
✅ Accessible for people with mobility issues

5. Playa de El Médano – Windsurfing and Bohemian Vibes

🌍 Location: El Médano
🏖 Best for: Windsurfing, kitesurfing, relaxed atmosphere

If you love water sports, Playa de El Médano is the perfect spot. Known as the windsurfing and kitesurfing capital of Tenerife, this beach has a cool, laid-back vibe with surf schools, beach bars, and an alternative crowd.

Why visit?
✅ Strong winds for perfect surfing conditions
✅ Bohemian town with cool beach bars
✅ Beautiful long sandy beach

6. Playa de La Tejita – A Peaceful Escape

🌍 Location: Near El Médano
🏖 Best for: Nature lovers, peace seekers

Just a short walk from El Médano, Playa de La Tejita is a wild and unspoiled beach, offering a tranquil escape from the crowds. It’s also known for Montaña Roja, a striking red volcanic mountain at one end of the beach.

Why visit?
✅ Less crowded than other beaches
✅ Stunning natural setting
✅ Popular with nudists and nature lovers

7. Playa de Antequera – A Hidden Gem

🌍 Location: Accessible only by boat or hike
🏖 Best for: Adventurers, hikers

One of the most secluded beaches in Tenerife, Playa de Antequera is only accessible via a challenging hike or by boat. Its remote location and untouched beauty make it a dream for those who want to escape civilization.

Why visit?
✅ Perfect for solitude and relaxation
✅ Amazing hiking experience
✅ No crowds, just pure nature

8. Playa de Bollullo – A Black Sand Surfing Paradise

🌍 Location: La Orotava
🏖 Best for: Surfing, dramatic landscapes

Playa de Bollullo is a stunning volcanic black sand beach, surrounded by cliffs and banana plantations. It’s one of the best places in Tenerife for surfing, though the strong waves make it less suitable for inexperienced swimmers.

Why visit?
✅ One of the most beautiful black sand beaches
✅ Great surf conditions
✅ Quiet, with a local feel

9. Playa Jardín – A Garden by the Sea

🌍 Location: Puerto de la Cruz
🏖 Best for: Families, easy access

Designed by the famous César Manrique, Playa Jardín is surrounded by lush tropical gardens, waterfalls, and volcanic rock formations. The beach itself has fine black sand and is popular among families and tourists staying in Puerto de la Cruz.

Why visit?
✅ Beautiful surroundings
✅ Good facilities and restaurants nearby
✅ Calm waters, good for swimming

10. Playa de Abama – A Secluded Luxury Beach

🌍 Location: Near Guia de Isora
🏖 Best for: Relaxation, couples

Playa de Abama is a small, exclusive beach protected by natural cliffs. It’s known for its calm turquoise waters and golden sand, making it a romantic getaway for couples. The beach is partly managed by a luxury resort, but it’s open to the public.

Why visit?
✅ Hidden and quiet, perfect for relaxing
✅ Clear, calm waters for swimming
✅ Exclusive feel without large crowds

📌 Final Thoughts: Which Tenerife Beach is Right for You?

• For families: Playa de Las Teresitas, Playa Jardín, Playa de Los Cristianos
• For surfing: Playa de Benijo, Playa de Bollullo
• For relaxation: Playa del Duque, Playa de Abama
• For adventure: Playa de Antequera, Playa de El Médano

No matter what kind of beach experience you’re looking for, Tenerife has it all. From golden shores to black volcanic sands, these 10 beaches offer something unique for every traveler.