Alcalá Natural Pools - a small waterfall in a park
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Alcalá Natural Pools

4.6
·893 reviews·Guía de Isora, Spain

Discover Alcalá's stunning natural seawater pools, a vibrant snorkeling haven with abundant marine life and scenic coastal walks.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Best for swimming and snorkeling

CrowdMedium
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Alcalá Natural Pools - a small waterfall in a park

Alcalá Natural Pools

Best Time

Daytime

Best for swimming and snorkeling

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Alcalá's stunning natural seawater pools, a vibrant snorkeling haven with abundant marine life and scenic coastal walks.

4.6
(893 reviews)

"A gorgeous natural seawater 'pool' perfect for swimming and snorkeling with lots of anemones, fish and crabs."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Wear Water Shoes

Sharp rocks and slippery surfaces are common. Protect your feet and enjoy exploring!

🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear

The pools teem with anemones, fish, and crabs – a must-see!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Marine Life

Vibrant Marine Life

Alcalá Natural Pools

Discover a world beneath the waves with numerous anemones, colorful fish, and crabs. Perfect for snorkeling adventures.

Scenic Coastal Walk

Scenic Coastal Walk

Path between Playa San Juan and Alcalá

Enjoy a beautiful 7.4km hike with stunning sea views, palm trees, and access to the natural pools.

Relaxing Seawater Pool

Relaxing Seawater Pool

Alcalá Natural Pools

A gorgeous, man-made natural seawater pool offering a safe and enjoyable swimming experience.

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Planning Your Visit

Accessing the Pools

While some sources mention tape indicating prohibition, many visitors find ways to access the Alcalá Natural Pools. Be prepared for potentially sharp rocks and slippery surfaces. Parking is generally available along the street or nearby, with a short walk to the pools.

What to Bring

Essential for a great visit: sturdy water shoes to navigate sharp rocks and slippery surfaces, and snorkeling gear to explore the abundant marine life. Don't forget sunscreen and a towel for a comfortable experience.

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Best for swimming and snorkeling
Crowd
Medium
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

One of the most beautiful restaurants in Mallorca, complete with a natural pool. Be sure to book a table in advice. #mallorcagram #unlimitedmallorca #mallorcaparadise #mallorca2024 #spain #lovemallorca #turismospain #españa #mallorca #responsibletourism #inspiring #wow #places_wow #tourism #travel #oldtown #myfavoriteplace #nextholiday #fairytale #palmademallorca #mallorcarestaurant
@jfmallorca
68.1K likes • 1.5M views

🥾 Wear Water Shoes

Sharp rocks and slippery surfaces are common. Protect your feet and enjoy exploring! Reddit

🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear

The pools teem with anemones, fish, and crabs – a must-see! Reddit

Summer day trip idea in #NewJersey = a visit to the Highlands Natural Pool in Ringwood 🌊🏊‍♀️ The man-made pool is surrounded by a state forest — with other fun activities like volleyball, ping pong, and grilling. #montclairgirl #montclair #montclairnj #nj #northjersey #newjersey #nj #jersey #thingstodonj #njthingstodo #newjerseythings #naturalpools #naturalpool
@themontclairgirl
27.7K likes • 527.5K views
☀️🌊 Natural pools Tenerife, Alcalá
austejakev
55 likes • 2K views

🚶‍♀️ Coastal Hike Option

Hike from Playa San Juan to Alcalá for amazing views and pool access. Instagram+1

⬆️ Deeper Access

Use the metal ladder towards the ocean for deeper water and avoid shin scrapes. Reddit

🏝️Nestled on the beautiful island of Tenerife, Playa in Alcalá offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. With its crystal-clear waters, natural pools, nice walking ways, it’s a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re snorkeling in the vibrant marine life, soaking up the sun, or enjoying a sunset stroll along the promenade, this hidden gem promises unforgettable mome...
villa.tenerife
22 likes • 259 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Wear Water Shoes

Sharp rocks and slippery surfaces are common. Protect your feet and enjoy exploring! Reddit

🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear

The pools teem with anemones, fish, and crabs – a must-see! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Coastal Hike Option

Hike from Playa San Juan to Alcalá for amazing views and pool access. Instagram+1

⬆️ Deeper Access

Use the metal ladder towards the ocean for deeper water and avoid shin scrapes. Reddit

🅿️ Easy Parking

Parking is usually available along the street or a short walk away. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(893 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Alcalá Natural Pools, calling them a 'gorgeous natural seawater pool' perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The abundant marine life and scenic coastal views are major highlights. Some caution is advised due to sharp rocks and slippery surfaces, and occasional tape indicating prohibition, though most find access easy.

"I loved it, we came back a few times. It had tape around it like it's prohibited to cross it and use it but we've seen others so we went anyway. It has lots of crabs and some bright blue/black fish. The view is also amazing. The rocks are very sharp so be very careful. We swam comfortably in the pool, and there are stairs to climb to the rock across."

Milica

"A gorgeous natural seawater "pool". It's perfect for swimming and snorkeling; there are lots of anemones, fish and crabs. It's pretty shallow and slippery near the larger staircase near the showers, if you walk towards the ocean (facing Los Gigantes) there's a metal ladder that will take you to the deeper part and you won't have to scrape your shins (you're welcome). You can access this pool from the ocean front foot path that runs between La Arena and Alcala. You can park along street and walk to the trail, we parked on TF-47 where there were other cars and walked on a dirt construction driveway to the path."

Sarah Wahltinez

"Easy parking is available just a short walk away. There are afew natural pools in the area."

giovanni santini

What People Like

Gorgeous natural pools
Abundant marine life
Scenic coastal views

What People Dislike

Sharp rocks
Slippery surfaces

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach the Alcalá Natural Pools by car, with parking available along the street or a short walk away. Many visitors also enjoy the scenic 7.4km coastal hike from Playa San Juan to Alcalá, which offers beautiful sea views and palm trees along the way. InstagramReddit+1

While specific bus routes aren't detailed, Tenerife generally has a good public bus network. Checking local bus schedules for routes serving Alcalá would be advisable. Reddit

Yes, a popular option is the coastal walk from Playa San Juan to Alcalá, approximately 7.4km, offering scenic views. Instagram+1

Parking is often available along the street near the promenade or on TF-47. Some visitors have noted walking on a dirt construction driveway to reach the path. Reddit

Access involves navigating potentially sharp rocks and slippery surfaces. While some tape may indicate prohibition, many visitors access the pools. Stairs and ladders are available for entry and exit. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Alcalá Natural Pools are generally accessible to everyone and do not require tickets. They are located in front of a resort but are not private. Reddit

While some tape may suggest prohibition, visitors commonly use the pools. It's advisable to be cautious of sharp rocks and slippery surfaces. Reddit

As natural pools, there are no set opening hours. They are accessible during daylight hours for swimming and exploration. Reddit

No, there is no entrance fee for the Alcalá Natural Pools. They are a natural attraction open to the public. Reddit

Yes, the natural pools are open to everyone, not just resort guests. You can access them from the oceanfront footpath. Reddit

🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling to see marine life like anemones, fish, and crabs, and relaxing by the natural seawater pool. The surrounding area also offers beautiful walking paths. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The pools are known for their abundant marine life, including anemones, fish, and crabs, making it a great spot for snorkeling. Reddit

Yes, there are facilities available, including a cafe and snack bar, beach chairs, and umbrellas for rent. Reddit

The pools are natural seawater pools, generally shallow and clear. Be mindful of slippery surfaces, especially near staircases. Reddit

You can expect to see a variety of marine life, including numerous anemones, colorful fish, and crabs in and around the pools. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the natural pools with the ocean backdrop, the vibrant marine life while snorkeling, and the scenic coastal views during the hike from Playa San Juan. The late afternoon light offers beautiful golden hour photography opportunities. Instagram+3

It's advisable to use a waterproof camera or ensure your phone/camera is protected from water, as the area can be wet and slippery. Reddit

Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour lighting for photography. Daytime provides clear water for underwater shots. Instagram+1

Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in coastal and residential areas before flying. Instagram

The contrast between the rugged rocks, the clear blue water, and the diverse marine life offers unique underwater photography possibilities. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Alcalá Natural Pools can be a fun spot for families, especially for snorkeling and exploring the shallow waters. However, parents should be extra vigilant due to the sharp rocks and slippery surfaces. Bringing sturdy water shoes for children is essential to prevent injuries. Reddit

While the pools themselves are a natural attraction, the nearby promenade offers amenities like cafes and snack bars, which can be convenient for families. The coastal walk from Playa San Juan is also an option, but consider the length (7.4km) and suitability for younger children. InstagramReddit+1

🚶‍♀️ Active Travelers & Hikers

For active travelers, the coastal hike from Playa San Juan to Alcalá is a must-do. This 7.4km trail offers spectacular sea views and a pleasant walk along the coast, leading directly to the natural pools. It's a great way to combine exercise with exploring the island's natural beauty. Instagram+1

Once at the pools, the natural terrain provides a unique environment for exploration. While not a strenuous activity, navigating the rocky areas and enjoying the snorkeling opportunities can be very rewarding. The accessibility via the oceanfront footpath also makes it easy to incorporate into a day of coastal exploration. Reddit

🐠 Snorkelers & Nature Lovers

Alcalá Natural Pools are a paradise for snorkelers. The clear waters are rich with marine life, including a variety of anemones, fish, and crabs, offering an exciting underwater spectacle. Reddit

Nature lovers will appreciate the raw beauty of these natural seawater formations. The surrounding coastal landscape, with its volcanic rocks and ocean vistas, adds to the serene and natural atmosphere. The hike from Playa San Juan also provides opportunities to observe coastal flora and fauna. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Natural Pools

The Alcalá Natural Pools are a series of natural seawater pools carved into the volcanic coastline of Tenerife. These pools offer a unique swimming and snorkeling experience, teeming with marine life such as anemones, fish, and crabs. Visitors often describe them as a 'gorgeous natural seawater "pool"' perfect for a refreshing dip. Reddit

Access can sometimes be a point of confusion, with some areas potentially taped off. However, many travelers find ways to enjoy the pools, noting that they are not private and are accessible from the oceanfront footpath. Be prepared for sharp rocks and slippery surfaces, making water shoes highly recommended. Reddit

For those seeking deeper water, a metal ladder is available towards the ocean, providing access without scraping your shins. The pools are situated in a beautiful area with nice walking ways and are a highlight for many visiting Tenerife. InstagramReddit

The Coastal Hike to Alcalá

A highly recommended activity is the scenic coastal hike from Playa San Juan to Alcalá. This approximately 7.4km trail offers breathtaking sea views, passes by charming palm trees, and leads you directly to the natural pools. It's described as a 'cute little hike' with 'sea views, palm trees, natural pools and a bunch of great spots for food and drinks.' Instagram+1

This walk is not just about the destination but also the journey. The path provides a wonderful way to experience the coastline of Tenerife, making it a perfect day trip for those who enjoy moderate activity combined with stunning natural beauty. It's a fantastic way to discover different facets of the island's coastal charm. Instagram+1

Along the route, you'll find opportunities to stop for refreshments, adding to the overall enjoyment of the trek. It's an ideal way to combine exercise with sightseeing, culminating in a relaxing dip in the natural pools. Instagram+1

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