TENERIFE NORTH - MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES
Tourism in Northern Tenerife originated at the end of the 19th century. At the time, it was primarily focused on health tourism, with people seeking relief from lung and skin problems through the healing power of the ocean and the pure sea air. However, mass tourism, as seen in the south, never took hold here. The balance between culture, nature, and tourist infrastructure is much better aligned in this part of the island. For a more authentic experience of the island, this is the place to be.
When it comes to beaches, however, Northern Tenerife is less endowed than the south. While it does feature some of the most beautiful beaches in Northern Tenerife, it is mainly characterized by a somewhat rugged landscape surrounded by untouched nature. An unforgettable experience for those who want to discover Tenerife's natural beauty.
Webcam
Tenerife North – Most Beautiful Beaches
Would you like a preview of the most beautiful beaches in Tenerife North? You can! Several beaches offer a live webcam so you can check the current conditions – from the waves to the beach crowd. Simply click on the icon next to each beach with this symbol to watch live:
TOP 5
TENERIFE NORTH - MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES
PLAYA DE BENIJO
Benijo
Tenerife North – Most Beautiful Beaches
You have to drive quite a distance, but then you'll have something special: Playa de Benijo is definitely one of the most beautiful natural beaches on the island. Located in the far north of the island, this is about the most remote part of Tenerife you can find. To give you an idea: although Santa Cruz de Tenerife, as the crow flies, is only 25 km away, it takes about an hour to reach this beach from the capital. So it's not surprising that this beach isn't very crowded. And that's precisely what makes it attractive. Time seems to have stood still here. Tenerife at its purest!
On Google Maps, it's a bit confusing to find the beach. If you enter Playa de Benijo on the map, you'll get two beaches as a result, both 1 km apart from each other. While the Benijo beach to the west of the village of the same name certainly has its charm, it pales in comparison to the slightly more easterly namesake. A magical experience!
The 300-meter long sandy beach can only be reached via a staircase renovated in 2022, but with a bit of fitness, you'll take about 10-15 minutes to get there.
It concerns a rugged natural beach in a remote area, so don't expect beach clubs, sunbeds, or showers here.
For food and drinks, it's best to bring something yourself. However, I recommend trying to secure a spot in one of the 3 restaurants in the village of Benijo.
PLAYA BOLLULLO
Puerto de la Cruz
Tenerife North – Most Beautiful Beaches
Playa Bollullo is located about 3 km east of the city of Puerto de la Cruz. You can reach it on foot from Puerto de la Cruz, via the beautiful hiking trail Camino a la Playa El Bollulo. Another option is by car, which is a bit more adventurous as the road passes through a narrow path between banana plantations. For €5, you can park your car in the parking lot of Restaurante Bollullo Beach. If you prefer to travel by bus, that's also possible. Bus 376 runs a few times a day between La Orotava and El Rincón, although it's still a 1.5 km walk from the last stop to the beach, or rather, to the beginning of the enormous staircase that leads to the beach. This staircase is not suitable for people with difficulty walking.
Reaching the beach is not easy, which actually only adds to its charm. Like a hidden gem, it is nestled between impressive cliffs and lush vegetation. With its black sand, crystal-clear water, and rolling waves, Playa Bollullo offers a beautiful environment to relax and soak up the sun. However, be cautious while swimming, as the sea can sometimes be rough along the coastline.
On the beach itself, you'll find the cozy beach bar Bollullo Chiringuito, where you can enjoy a refreshing cold beer and some food at a reasonable price. In any case, this beach is definitely worth a visit if you're staying in the vicinity of Puerto de la Cruz.
PLAYA DE LA ARENA
Mesa del Mar
Tenerife North – Most Beautiful Beaches
This beautiful black beach is part of the small tourist resort Mesa del Mar, located in the coastal area of the municipality of Tacoronte.
Playa de la Arena is accessible on foot via a small tunnel from the large parking lot. It is well sheltered, making it pleasant for swimming. Along the beach, there is a beautiful promenade, and facilities such as a lifeguard, toilets, and showers are available. On clear days, you have a magnificent view over the coastline, with the outlines of Teide visible in the distance. The sunset from this beach is also truly spectacular.
It's best to plan your visit during the week. Although there are quite a few free parking facilities, it can be more difficult to find a parking spot on weekends. Alternatively, you can also come by bus. Titsa bus number 21 shuttles daily between Tacoronte and Mesa del Mar.
An extra highlight is the natural swimming pool, located just 250 meters from the beach.
PLAYA JARDÍN
Puerto de la Cruz
Tenerife North – Most Beautiful Beaches
Located on the coast of the lively Puerto de la Cruz, you'll find Playa Jardín. This beach area consists of 3 black sand beaches: Playa del Castillo, Playa Chica, and Playa Punta Brava. As the name suggests, Playa Jardín owes its name to the lush gardens and the eponymous promenade that connects the 3 beaches. The gardens, with beautiful paths and native flora, were designed by none other than the famous sculptor and architect César Manrique. In addition to designing the gardens, he is also responsible for the creation of Lagos Martiánez, an impressive outdoor pool complex located approximately 1.5 km from Playa Jardín (an attractive alternative if you ever want to feel the sand between your toes or if the ocean is too rough for swimming).
The total length of the Playa Jardín area is approximately one kilometer, making it easy to find a nice spot on the beach, even on weekends! There are sun loungers, toilets, and showers available, as well as lifeguards.
In the vicinity of the beach, you'll find plenty of restaurants, beach bars, and supermarkets where you can grab a quick snack or enjoy a full meal. Parking is available nearby, but if you prefer to come by bus, the Titsa bus 381 stops directly at the beach!
PLAYA DE SAN MARCOS
San Marcos
Tenerife North – Most Beautiful Beaches
About 3 km from Icod de los Vinos lies one of the calmest beaches in the north: Playa de San Marcos. This beach is located in a sheltered cove between cliffs and rocks, which naturally protects it from the often rough ocean on the north side of the island.
With a length of 160 meters, the beach consists of black sand and pebbles. It offers amenities such as toilets, showers, beach chairs, and a lifeguard. Along the bay, you can also find a few cozy restaurants, so bringing a picnic is unnecessary.
During weekends and in the summer months, it can get quite busy here. Although there is parking available, it is somewhat limited. On busier days, it may be more practical to use public transportation. The Titsa bus 362 operates daily between the center of Icod de los Vinos and San Marcos Beach.
