Last Updated on 30/07/2026 by Ting Dalton
There’s a reason why millions of tourists flock to Tenerife annually – the weather. With average temperatures of 24 degrees all year round, and pretty much guaranteed sunshine, it’s no wonder the Canary Islands’ favourite is consistently one of the UK’s top winter sun destinations.
Having visited South Tenerife and the resort of Costa Adeje many times, I can confidently say that this sun-soaked destination is the perfect choice for those seeking sun, sea, and an exceptional range of hotels, villas, and family accommodation. Throw in lots of family-friendly attractions, too, including water parks, whale watching tours and lunar-like landscapes at Mount Teide – and you’ve got a great combination for a family holiday.
A guide to the best beaches in Tenerife
Of course, one of the biggest draws to this island is the miles upon miles of sun-drenched beaches. While many of Tenerife’s coastlines have black sand due to the volcanic activity on the island, you’ll also find beaches with golden shorelines.
The strong currents from Atlantic rollers may be great for surfers and strong swimmers (and they are strong, having been taken out by them myself!), but there are family-friendly beaches which have more sheltered bays and calmer waters.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to discover new spots, Tenerife’s diverse coastline offers something for everyone. The combination of year-round sunshine, diverse landscapes from volcanic rocks to soft golden sand, makes Tenerife the perfect choice for your next beach holiday. Here’s an essential guide to the best beaches in Tenerife.
Top family beaches
Playa la Pinta (Costa Adeje)
If you want a little bit of a buzz whilst being able to sun yourself all day, then Playa la Pinta in Costa Adeje is the perfect spot. Flanked by tons of shops and restaurants on the lively promenade, it’s a relatively small beach; however, its waters are protected by the marina, so it’s pretty calm. The kids will adore the floating play area bobbing a few metres from the shore.
This popular spot in Puerto Colón offers water sports and exciting inflatable water games. The shallow waters make it a great place for families, while the nearby beach bar provides refreshments. Parking spots can be found in the nearby parking lot, though arriving early is recommended for this small beach.
El Muelle (Puerto de la Cruz)
Located in the heart of Puerto de la Cruz, El Muelle is a small but charming black volcanic sand beach that’s popular with locals. This authentic spot offers a genuine taste of traditional Canarian beach life, away from the larger tourist beaches.
The nearby man-made complex of Lago Martiánez has large lake-sized lagoons to swim in and a sea dragon in a shallow pool for toddlers. This black volcanic sand beach offers a unique experience with natural pools nearby. The beach is perfect for those wanting to explore Tenerife north and experience the island’s natural beauty away from the busier southern coast.
Playa de las Teresitas
Imagine splashing in the calm waters alongside tropical fish? The enclosed long golden beach of Playa de las Teresitas stretches over a mile long and was built for the residents of Tenerife’s capital Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Take the kids out on the pedalos or go snorkelling in what is regarded as one of Tenerife’s most beautiful beaches.
This stunning artificial beach features white sand imported from the Sahara Desert, creating a perfect place for families. The shallow waters and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot for young children. Located in the fishing village of San Andrés, just a short drive from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, this beach offers free parking and is easily accessible by the number 910 bus. The breakwater protects the beach from strong winds, ensuring calm waters perfect for a family day out.
Playa de Los Cristianos
Protected by Los Cristianos harbour, this popular golden sandy beach has calm waters and plenty of bars, cafés and restaurants to escape to, if the sun gets too hot. Boat trips from the harbour mean you can go dolphin and whale spotting – or if you fancy taking a trip yourself, there are sailing lessons on offer, too.
Located in the south of Tenerife, this beach connects to Playa de las Américas via a lovely promenade. The soft golden sand and lifeguard service make it one of the best Tenerife beaches for families. It’s just a short walk from Los Cristianos town centre.
More amazing beaches to explore
Playa del Duque (Costa Adeje)
This upscale beach in Costa Adeje boasts the finest white sand and is considered the perfect choice for a more refined beach experience. The calm waters and excellent facilities make it an ideal place for families who appreciate a touch of luxury. The southern coast location ensures consistent sunshine, plus my favourite restaurant in Tenerife, La Torre del Mirador, overlooks it.
Playa de las Vistas
Stretching over 700 metres, this Blue Flag beach features stunning white sand beaches and excellent facilities. Located between Los Cristianos and Playa de las Américas, it offers water sports, pedal boats, and giant inflatable play areas. Free parking is available, making it a perfect spot for a family day out.
Playa Fañabé (Costa Adeje)
One of the most popular beaches in Costa Adeje, Playa Fañabé features a long stretch of sand with calm waters protected by breakwaters. The beach offers excellent facilities, including sun loungers, parasols, and various water sports. The nearby promenade has playgrounds and family-friendly restaurants.
Playa Jardín (Puerto de la Cruz)
Designed by César Manrique, this spectacular black sand beach offers a unique experience with its beautiful gardens filled with palm trees. Located on the north coast, it provides a different perspective of Tenerife’s natural beauty, with spectacular views of Mount Teide in the distance.
El Médano
Perfect for families seeking something different, El Médano offers a more authentic Canarian experience. This natural beach is popular with both locals and visitors, featuring consistent trade winds that make it great for water sports. The town has a relaxed atmosphere with excellent restaurants serving fresh seafood.
Playa de la Arena
Located on the west coast near Los Gigantes, this small beach offers fine black volcanic sand and dramatic cliffs as a backdrop. The beach has lifeguard service during high season and excellent facilities. It’s a great place to combine beach time with whale watching trips.
Hidden beach gems
Benijo Beach
For those seeking a wild beach experience, Benijo Beach in northern Tenerife offers dramatic black volcanic sand surrounded by striking volcanic rocks. This hidden gem provides spectacular views but is better suited for experienced swimmers due to stronger currents.
Playa de la Tejita
Located near El Médano, this natural beach offers a more secluded experience with beautiful dunes and consistent trade winds. It’s an ideal spot for those wanting to escape the crowds while still having good access.
Playa de los Guíos (Playa de los Gigantes)
Situated beneath the dramatic Los Gigantes cliffs, this small beach offers an unforgettable setting. The black sand and towering cliffs create a spectacular backdrop, making it perfect for photos and a unique beach experience.
El Veril (Costa Adeje)
Hidden away from the tourist crowds and close to La Calata, El Veril offers one of Tenerife’s most photogenic beach experiences. Famous for its distinctive stone stacks carefully balanced by visitors over the years, this unique spot combines natural beauty and some of the best vantage points to watch the sun set.
Beach safety
When visiting Tenerife’s beaches, always check for lifeguard service, especially when travelling with children. The southern coast generally offers calmer conditions and warmer temperatures, while the north coast provides more dramatic scenery with stronger Atlantic currents.
Many beaches offer Blue Flag certification, indicating high standards for water quality and safety. At low tide, some beaches reveal natural pools perfect for young children to explore safely.
Getting around
Most beaches offer free parking, though spaces can be limited during high season. The efficient bus system connects major beaches, with routes to popular destinations like Playa de las Teresitas (bus number 910) and other southern beaches. Many beaches are just a short walk from nearby accommodations, particularly in resort areas like Costa Adeje and Playa de las Américas.
FAQs for Tenerife beaches
Which is the best beach in Tenerife for families?
Playa de las Teresitas consistently ranks as the top family beach. Its imported golden sand, artificial breakwater creating calm waters, extensive free parking, and full facilities make it perfect for families. The shallow waters and lifeguard service provide excellent safety for children.
Are Tenerife beaches safe for swimming?
Most beaches we’ve recommended are safe, especially those with Blue Flag status and lifeguard services. Protected beaches like Las Vistas, Fañabé, and Los Cristianos have breakwaters that calm the Atlantic waters.
What’s the difference between the north and south Tenerife beaches?
South Tenerife beaches (Costa Adeje, Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas) offer calmer waters, more sunshine, and better facilities. North coast beaches (Puerto de la Cruz, Anaga region) feature more dramatic scenery, black volcanic sand, and can be windier. However, it’s here you’ll experience authentic Canarian charm.
Do I need to pay for parking at Tenerife beaches?
Free parking is available at most beaches, including Las Teresitas, El Médano, and Playa de la Arena. Popular southern beaches like Fañabé and Los Cristianos may have paid parking during peak season. Arrive early (before 10am) for the best parking spots.
Are there water sports available at Tenerife beaches?
Absolutely! El Médano is world-renowned for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Costa Adeje beaches offer jet skiing, parasailing, banana boats, and diving. Fañabé Beach features a floating inflatable water park perfect for older children.
What should I know about Tenerife’s black sand beaches?
Black volcanic sand is completely natural and safe, formed by the island’s volcanic activity. It retains heat well, staying warm in cooler months but becoming very hot in summer afternoons. The contrast with blue waters creates stunning photography opportunities. Beach shoes are recommended.
Which Tenerife beaches have the best facilities?
Blue Flag beaches like Las Vistas and Fañabé offer the highest standard of facilities. Expect clean toilets, showers, sunbed rental, beach bars, and accessibility features. Playa de las Teresitas combines excellent facilities with spectacular natural beauty.
Can I visit multiple beaches in one day?
Yes! Southern beaches are close together – you can easily visit Las Vistas, Los Cristianos, and Fañabé in one day via the connecting promenade. Allow 30-45 minutes driving between different coastal areas. El Médano is just 5km from the airport, making it perfect for arrival/departure days.
Are Tenerife beaches suitable for toddlers?
Many beaches are excellent for toddlers. Playa de las Teresitas offers the safest conditions with its protected lagoon-like setting. Las Vistas and Los Cristianos have gentle entry points and shallow areas. Always bring sun protection and stay hydrated – the UV is strong year-round.
What’s the best time of day to visit Tenerife beaches?
Early morning (8-11am) offers the best parking and cooler sand. Late afternoon (4-7pm) often has the most pleasant conditions as trade winds create comfortable temperatures. Avoid midday (11am-3pm) when UV rays are strongest, especially with young children.
Do I need beach shoes in Tenerife?
Beach shoes are highly recommended for most Tenerife beaches. Black volcanic sand gets extremely hot, rocky areas can be sharp, and many beaches have pebbled entry points. They’re essential for exploring natural pools and volcanic rock formations.
Which beaches offer the best sunset views?
West coast beaches like Playa de la Arena, El Veri and La Caleta offer spectacular sunset views over the Atlantic. Benijo Beach in the Anaga Mountains provides dramatic sunset photography with its towering cliffs as a backdrop.
Are there beaches suitable for disabled visitors?
Several beaches offer excellent accessibility. Las Vistas and Fañabé have wheelchair access, adapted toilets, and ramps to the beach. Playa de las Teresitas provides disabled parking close to the sand. Most Blue Flag beaches maintain high accessibility standards.
What’s the water temperature like year-round?
Tenerife enjoys warm ocean temperatures averaging 18°C in winter and 24°C in summer. The southern waters tend to be slightly warmer than the north. Even in January, many visitors find the water comfortable for swimming, especially children who adapt quickly.
Can I walk between different beaches?
Yes! The southern coast has an excellent promenade connecting Los Cristianos, Las Vistas, and parts of Costa Adeje. You can walk from Alcalá to Playa La Arena on the west coast. However, beaches on different sides of the island require a car.
Comments are closed.