Insider’s Selection: Top 10 Tenerife Beaches by Local Experts
This Tenerife beach guide is written by locals who live and work on the island. We don’t recycle information or copy generic lists. These are the best beaches in Tenerife based on real experience, local knowledge, and years of helping visitors enjoy the island properly.
Some people prefer something different than beaches, and we get it. Tenerife also has amazing natural pools (charcos) where you can chill and swim in a more unique setting. Just be smart: always follow local guidelines and check sea conditions. These spots can be dangerous when waves are high, and every year people get caught out by unexpected swell. If it looks rough, skip it and choose a safer spot that day.
Below you’ll find an interactive Tenerife beaches map showing the exact locations of our top picks, from white sand beaches in South Tenerife to volcanic black sand beaches in the north.
Best Beaches of Tenerife – White & Black Sand
Tenerife offers one of the most diverse coastlines in Europe. Thanks to its volcanic origin, the island is famous for its black sand beaches. At the same time, you will also find beautiful white sand beaches in Tenerife, especially in the south, where the water is often calm and the resort areas are close by.
Top 10 Beaches in Tenerife
- Playa del Duque (Costa Adeje)
- Playa de Torviscas (Costa Adeje)
- Playa de Los Cristianos (Los Cristianos)
- Playa Diego Hernández (near La Caleta)
- Playa de Abama (near Guía de Isora)
- Playa de Las Teresitas (Santa Cruz)
- Playa de La Tejita (El Médano)
- Playa de Los Guíos (Los Gigantes)
- Playa Jardín (Puerto de la Cruz)
- Playa de Benijo (Anaga area)
7 Best White Sand Beaches in Tenerife
Playa del Duque
One of the most beautiful and upscale white sand beaches in South Tenerife, located in Costa Adeje near luxury resorts and five-star hotels.
The water is often clear and calm, but waves can sometimes become powerful, so do not underestimate the sea.
You may see beach vendors offering towels, massages, or drinks. Some visitors enjoy the lively vibe, others prefer quieter beaches, but overall it is a top pick if you want comfort and easy access.
Playa de Torviscas
A wide, relaxed beach in Costa Adeje, close to the harbour and the main resort areas.
It is popular with families and groups, and you often see people playing beach volleyball.
Many visitors come here after a whale watching tour or a private boat trip.
Playa de Los Cristianos
Las Vistas in Los Cristianos is a favourite for both tourists and locals. The beach is large and social, perfect for a full afternoon by the sea.
You can also combine it with activities like kayaking or diving.
Playa Diego Hernández
Also known as Hippie Beach or Spaghetti Beach, this is one of the most remote beaches in Tenerife. Access is not easy, and the vibe is very natural and alternative.
Expect caves along the coast and a strong nudist presence. You can also spot this coastline during the jet ski safari.
Playa de Abama
Many people think this beach belongs to the Ritz-Carlton Abama, but it is public and accessible to everyone. The hotel simply helped make access easier.
This is a great choice if you want calm water and a quieter beach with fewer vendors. Parking can be very difficult and there is a steep walk down, so it is better for a full beach day rather than a short visit.
Playa de Las Teresitas
The OG local beach in North Tenerife. It is a man-made white sand beach, but it is spacious, relaxed, and very easy to enjoy.
You will find food trucks, proper bars, and a very local vibe. Santa Cruz is not highly touristic, which keeps this beach authentic.
Playa de La Tejita
Located in El Médano near Montaña Roja, this is a top spot for active beach days.
It is especially popular for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
3 Best Black Sand Beaches in Tenerife
Playa de Los Guíos (Los Gigantes)
A dramatic black sand beach beneath the cliffs of Los Gigantes, with one of the best beach views in Tenerife.
Want more local tips for this area? See our Los Gigantes guide here.
Playa Jardín (Puerto de la Cruz)
An iconic black sand beach in Puerto de la Cruz with Teide views and a great town vibe nearby for food and drinks.
Playa de Benijo
A wild, scenic beach near Anaga Rural Park. It looks incredible, especially at sunset, but conditions can change fast. Best visited at low tide and only when the sea is calm.
Map of the Best Beaches in Tenerife
Use our
interactive Tenerife beaches map to plan your route and quickly see the best beach locations across the island.
This is a simple way to compare areas like Costa Adeje, Las Américas, Los Cristianos, El Médano, Santa Cruz, Puerto de la Cruz, and the Anaga coast.
If you are planning activities during your stay, it is always smart to compare first.
Club Canary is known for premium service and local expertise in organizing
whale watching tours,
boat rentals,
jet ski safaris,
quad tours, and
water sports.
Tenerife Beaches and More
From volcanic black sand beaches to calm white sand bays, Tenerife’s coastline offers something for everyone.
Scroll down to grab our free island guide packed with local tips. Your legendary trip starts here.
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