Spotlight on Tenerife Beaches – Playa de la Arena

Playa de la Arena South Tenerife

Located just an 8-minute drive from the prestigious residential area of Los Gigantes, Playa de la Arena is one of the top beaches in Tenerife for families.  

BEACH: Playa de la Arena, Santiago del Teide

WHERE: Nestled amongst the volcanic rocky outcrops of Puerto de Santiago lies this dreamy shoreline on Tenerife’s west coast. It is centrally located for all the towns in the greater Santiago del Teide municipality and a far cry from the tourist resorts in the south.  

WHY: Playa de la Arena has been a blue flag beach since 1989. This means it continuously maintains exceptional levels of cleanliness for all to enjoy. The 120 meters long stretch of volcanic black sand of this popular beach isn’t just eye-catching, it also soaks up the rays of the sun. This absorbed heat makes the beach a desirable temperature whatever time of the day which is why it is a popular hotspot for families with young children.

Playa de la Arena -A Snorkelling Paradise

It is also one of the best beaches for snorkelling in Tenerife thanks to the volcanic rocks that surround the beach providing lots of hiding spots for marine life. In addition to being a relaxing bolthole for both locals and tourists, this beach offers: 

  • Seafront restaurants and bars offering fresh seafood and other local delicacies 
  • Toilets and Showers
  • A bus stop and taxi rank a the entrance to the beach
  • Parking
  • Blue Flag status 
  • A lifeguard on duty during the day
  • Sunbeds and Parasols for rent 
  • Massages on the beach
  • Very close to neighbouring towns of Los Gigantes and Puerto de Santiago

HOW: If heading to the beach from the TF-1, take exit 87 towards Playa San Juan. Continue on the TF-46 for approximately 6 kilometres. At the roundabout, take the third exit towards Finca la Carrera TF-47 and follow the signs towards Puerto de Santiago until your reach the beach.

SHADE OF THE SEA: Azure Blue

SHADE OF THE SAND: Tannery Brown

Spotlight on Tenerife Beaches – Los Gigantes

Beach of Los Gigantes

When visiting Tenerife don’t miss the chance to see one of its most famous geographical wonders.  A trip to the stunning cliffs of Los Gigantes is a must if you enjoy spectacular views. Located in the south-west of Tenerife, it forms an iconic part of the southern coastline. Plan a fun trip to the beach and discover one of the best family-friendly beaches in Tenerife south.

BEACH: Los Gigantes, Tenerife 

WHERE: In the town of Los Gigantes on the south-west coast of Tenerife, just a short walk from the harbour. 

WHY: If you are in search of breathtaking views, tranquil waters and a fun, family-friendly environment then Los Gigantes is your beach. Grab a towel and head to the town of Los Gigantes. Just a short walk from the harbour you will find a small stretch of sand and gentle turquoise waters, perfect for a day of relaxation. It is the only sandy beach in the town which is one of the many reasons why locals love it. However, despite this, it rarely gets overcrowded which is why it has made its way onto our Tenerife beaches hotlist. In addition to providing a relaxing escape, this beach offers: 

  • One of the best views available of the Los Gigantes cliffs
  • Sun loungers and parasols for hire
  • Toilets
  • Parking close by
  • An urban setting in the centre of the town
  • Easy access on foot from the town
  • Close to key attractions such as Siam Park and the Tenerife South Airport

HOW: Head south on the TF1 until you reach exit 87. Take the TF-46 until you reach a roundabout. At the roundabout take the third exit. At the second roundabout, take the exit onto the TF-47. Continue on the TF-47 until you reach the TF-454 which leads you into the town.


SHADE OF THE SEA: Tibetan Turquoise

SHADE OF THE SAND: Mouse Brown

Spotlight on Tenerife Beaches – Playa Alcalá

Playa Alcalá from the air

Playa Alcalá may be a small 30 meters in size, but it is definitely perfectly formed. Located in the town of the same name, this urban beach offers gentle waters, warm volcanic sand and premium beach facilities for all to enjoy.

BEACH: Playa Alcalá, Guía de Isora

WHERE: Playa Alcalá is located on the west coast of Tenerife in the municipality of Guía de Isora close to Playa San Juan. The beach is overlooked by the Palacio de Isora hotel, a top 5-star destination that adds a feeling of luxury to this small dock. 

WHY: Since the beach is strategically located on the doorstep of a Tenerife beachfront hotel, Playa Alcalá is impeccably clean and well cared for. Be sure to arrive early to this beach to grab a place on the sand as it very quickly fills up, especially in the summer months. The beach has a very low-key, relaxed vibe which makes it a great destination for families.

Playa Alcalá Amenities

A boardwalk stretches out across the black sand and a water chair is available for disabled visitors. Above the beach, a small bar offers a shady spot to cool off after a day in the sun. The beach is also a famous destination for sea turtles and they are commonly seen not too far from the shore so be sure to bring your snorkel. Playa Alcalá also offers: 

  • Foot showers, sun loungers and parasols
  • Beach Bar offering tasty snacks
  • A picturesque hike taking you to Los Gigantes
  • Easy transport links by bus to surrounding areas

HOW: If arriving from the TF-1, take the TF-1 until you reach exit 87 to Playa San Juan, TF-46. Continue on the TF-46 until you reach a roundabout. Take the third exit titled Finca la Carrera TF-47and follow the signs for Playa Acalá. 

SHADE OF THE SEA: Turquoize Blue

SHADE OF THE SAND: Mink Brown

Spotlight on Tenerife Beaches – Playa San Juan

playa-san-juan_tenerife-south

If you are in search of a quiet, family-friendly beach away from the crowds, then Playa San Juan should be on the top of your list. The dark sandy coastline and gentle waters lure more locals than tourists to this beach, making it a must visit for those living close by. 

BEACH: Playa San Juan in the town of Playa San Juan

WHERE: Located in the town of Playa San Juan which doesn’t have any tourist hotels so this beach is great if you want to avoid the crowds. 

WHY: If your experience of Tenerife beaches has been the overcrowded, overcommercialized beaches in the resorts of Tenerife south, then this beach offers the perfect respite from it all. Firstly, this beach is not your typical white sand paradise as seen in the holiday brochures.

The beach of Playa San Juan boasts dark volcanic sand which soaks in the heat of the day – perfect for sunbathing. However, for those who prefer to spend the day on a lounger, prices start as low as 7,50€ for two loungers and a parasol. Sea buggies are also available to assist those who do not feel confident to bathe in the ocean unassisted. This beach really does tick all the boxes and perhaps the icing on the cake is the promenade lined with laid-back cafés and bars offering the perfect vantage point to take in the views and let the world pass by.

Of course, it is also connected to the town which offers: 

  • A buzzing local market open on Wednesdays
  • Seafront bars offering live music on Friday and Saturdays
  • A wide range of sporting activities such as diving, sailing and hiking
  • Close to neighbouring towns like Los Gigantes

HOW: From the TF1 highway, take the exit towards TF47 Playa San Juan/Puerto Santiago/Los Gigantes. At the roundabout, use the 3rd exit to stay on the TF47 and follow the signs for Playa San Juan. 

SHADE OF THE SEA:  Bombay Sapphire Blue
SHADE OF THE SAND: Chia Seed

Spotlight on Tenerife Beaches – Playa Abama

playa-abama_west-tenerife-beaches

When in the south of Tenerife, a trip to the sunkissed cove of Playa Abama is a must. An exclusive enclave for those in search of paradise, this beach offers peace and relaxation in spades.

BEACH: Playa Abama, located in front of the Abama Hotel

WHERE: Guía de Isora in the west of Tenerife. This beach is managed by the Hotel Abama so head towards the hotel and you will end up at Playa Abama if you follow the long path and stairway down to the sand.

views-of-playa-abama_tenerife-beaches

WHY: Hidden between the cliffs of the Guía de Isora coastline lies the secluded cove of Playa Abama. It has long been seen as a chic and exclusive place to soak up some rays and enjoy the tranquil waters that sparkle in the sunlight. The beach was built by the Hotel Abama to use by its guests, but it can be accessed by the public via a winding track and stairway.

Luxury sun loungers are available for a fee and the vibrant 5*restaurant that is nestled inside the cove, really sets Playa Abama apart from other beaches in the area. Enjoy clear, turquoise blue waters and very few waves on this family-friendly Tenerife beach which is popular amongst expats as well as locals. As well as being a textbook-perfect beach, it also scores points for being close to: 

  • Abama Golf Course
  • The historical town of Guía de Isora, an ‘Asset of Cultural Interest’
  • The Chio Recreational Area Picnic Spot
  • Isora Confectioners Sweet Shop 
  • Local restaurants such as Plazale Pizzeria or Casa Gusto

HOW: From the TF1 highway, take the exit towards TF47 Playa San Juan/Puerto Santiago/Los Gigantes. At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto the TF47 and follow this road for just over 8km. The Abama Hotel will appear on your right. Parking is available via the hotel. Playa Abama is not suitable for those with mobility issues. 

SHADE OF THE SEA: Capri Blue

SHADE OF THE SAND: Ice Cream Cone

Luxury 3 Bedroom Penthouse Apartment For Sale In Playa de la Arena, Tenerife

Balcony in a Playa La Arena Penthouse

The island of Tenerife is a hotspot for those seeking that perfect work/life balance. It is strategically located off the shore of Africa which means that it is graced with eternal springlike weather, especially in Tenerife South, the epicentre of tourism on the island. The south of the island offers textbook perfect golden sand beaches, breathtaking sunsets and some of the best villas for sale in Tenerife. It is the place to be if you dream of waking to the sound of the ocean and enjoying countless days of sunshine a year. It has never been easier to live in paradise and this contemporary three-bedroom, two-bathroom luxury loft is just waiting to be your future island bolthole. Don’t miss out on this Tenerife Property for Sale!

Dream About Tenerife Apartments By the Sea

Lush and tranquil, this family apartment is located in Playa de la Arena, one of Tenerife’s most sought after locations. Having been recently renovated, this home is a premium Tenerife property for sale located in the luxury Residential Playa Arena complex, a private residence combining other Tenerife apartments which enjoy exclusive access to three shared pools and other leisure facilities. 

Discover Premium Tenerife Property for Sale

Comprised of 3 bedrooms in total, this penthouse apartment offers dazzling panoramic views of the Atlantic ocean and the luscious paradise of La Gomera island. Enjoy an effortlessly luxurious living space that stretches across two storeys to maximise comfort and style. On the lower level, a spacious open plan lounge invites you to relax and rest while a separate kitchen complete with a wine fridge offers the perfect space to savour locally sourced produce, grown just a stone’s throw from the home. Two double bedrooms can also be found sharing the first-floor space, one of which is the master suite complete with an ensuite bathroom. A family bathroom completes the first-floor layout and an open plan, an internal staircase leads out onto the upper level which features an additional bedroom and an impressive private roof terrace that encompasses the property and offers spectacular views and boundless entertaining opportunities. The international Tenerife airport is just a short drive from the property and the home is conveniently located close to local amenities and the best things to do in Tenerife South. 

Buying a Property In Tenerife

Stand out features of this Tenerife property for sale include: 

  • Situated in a gated private complex offering a sense of security and safety
  • Three outdoor swimming pools are available for use
  • Look out onto a share luscious green garden and enjoy nature all year round
  • The private roof terrace offers privacy and the perfect place to enjoy al fresco dining. 
  • Playa de la Arena black sand, blue flag beach is on the doorstep
  • Private parking and even the car can be purchased with the property
  • The area has a Walk score of 76 making this one of the most accessible neighbourhoods in Tenerife, full of local dining options and good schools.

Live In Playa de la Arena- Tenerife

Playa de la Arena offers a sleepy hideout from the brash tourist resorts that Tenerife has become famous for in recent years. Located in the municipality of Santiago del Teide, close to the town of Puerto de Santiago, Playa de la Arena has become one of the islands most famous scuba diving spots and its maritime charm has won the hearts of locals and tourists alike. 
As well as being a favourite amongst beach lovers, Playa de la Arena is close to some of the best hotels in Tenerife south as well as the impressive volcano, Mt. Teide. Los Gigantes cliffs and the tropical valley of Masca are just a short drive from the area and offer incredible views of the island – perfect for a day-long hike.