Playa de Echentive Playa Nueva
A dramatic volcanic beach with black sand, natural pools, and rugged lava formations shaped by a 1971 eruption.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light on rocks
Playa de Echentive Playa Nueva
Best Time
Golden hour light on rocks
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dramatic volcanic beach with black sand, natural pools, and rugged lava formations shaped by a 1971 eruption.
"Awesome place. Black sand, lava, rocks, natural pools. Make sure to bring some footwear for swimming."
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for exploring rocky areas and natural pools comfortably.
🌊 Check Ocean Conditions
Pay attention to flags; currents can be strong. Swim with caution.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Natural Volcanic Pools
Along the rocky edges of the beach
Discover serene natural pools formed by ancient lava flows, perfect for a sheltered dip.
Dramatic Lava Rock Formations
Cliffs and shoreline
Marvel at the rugged beauty of the coastline, shaped by a 1971 volcanic eruption.
Unique Black Sand Shoreline
Beachfront
Experience the striking contrast of fine black sand against the blue ocean waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating to Playa de Echentive
Embrace the Volcanic Landscape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for exploring rocky areas and natural pools comfortably.
🌊 Check Ocean Conditions
Pay attention to flags; currents can be strong. Swim with caution.
🚌 Bus Access Available
Route 23 from Los Canarios offers a convenient way to reach the beach.
📸 Dramatic Volcanic Scenery
Perfect spot for unique photos with black sand and lava formations.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Water Shoes
Essential for exploring rocky areas and natural pools comfortably.
🌊 Check Ocean Conditions
Pay attention to flags; currents can be strong. Swim with caution.
🚌 Bus Access Available
Route 23 from Los Canarios offers a convenient way to reach the beach.
📸 Dramatic Volcanic Scenery
Perfect spot for unique photos with black sand and lava formations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Playa de Echentive's unique volcanic beauty, highlighting the striking black sand, dramatic lava rock formations, and serene natural pools. While the beach's ruggedness and potentially strong ocean currents require caution, the scenic descent and geological wonders make it a memorable experience for many.
"Very beatiful beach. to get to the beach there is a nice stair with steps made from volcanic rocks. most of beach is medium sized pebbles but at the shore there is fine black sand."
TheDingetje123
"Wide black sand and mostly stony beach. One has to pay attention to the flag otherwise it might get risky depending on current/tide. With fins and wetsuit it might be doable but better be careful when trying to swim out. The cliffs to the left are shaped obviously by the flow of the lava many moons ago but can also depending on tide provide some shade. The walk stairs down to the shoreline might take a minute but is rather mild. I enjoyed my several visits here."
Thomas Türling
"Awesome place. Black sand, lava, rocks, natural pools. Make sure to bring some footwear to wear for swimming. We sat and watched huge waves crash on the cliffs but at the same time could go for a swim in the natural pool and sunbath on the rocks shielded from the wind."
Gosia M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive and find parking spots, or take bus line 23 from Los Canarios towards Faro. The bus stop is conveniently located near the stairs leading down to the beach.
Yes, there are designated parking areas near the beach, though they can fill up during busy periods.
A set of stairs, carved from volcanic rocks, leads down to the shoreline, offering a scenic descent.
Absolutely! Bus line 23 is a reliable option for public transport users traveling from Los Canarios.
The stairs are described as a 'mild' descent, making it manageable for most visitors, though it does take a minute.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Playa de Echentive is a natural beach and does not typically have an entrance fee. Enjoy the volcanic beauty freely!
As a natural beach, it's accessible at all hours. However, visiting during daylight is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
No advance booking is necessary as it's a public beach. You can visit spontaneously.
The main consideration is ocean safety; always heed the flag warnings regarding currents and waves.
Yes, it's an excellent destination for a day trip, offering unique geological features and swimming opportunities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The beach features a mix of medium-sized pebbles and fine black sand, especially at the shoreline, a result of its volcanic origins.
Yes, the volcanic rocks and cliffs create several natural pools that are perfect for a calmer swim, especially at low tide.
Swimming can be risky due to currents and tides. Always check the flag system and be cautious. The natural pools offer a safer alternative.
The black sand, dramatic lava rock formations, and natural pools provide stunning backdrops for photography. The cliffs can also offer shade.
Bring water shoes for comfort, sunscreen, water, and a towel. Consider a wetsuit if you plan to swim in the ocean.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light that enhances the volcanic landscape. Early morning can also be less crowded for shots.
The striking contrast of the black sand against the ocean, the unique lava rock formations, and the natural pools create visually dramatic scenes.
The stairs leading down to the beach offer a great vantage point. Exploring the cliffs can also reveal unique angles.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive volcanic landscape. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules before flying a drone to capture aerial views of the unique coastline.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Water shoes are a must for everyone in the family to navigate the rocky areas comfortably and safely. The descent via the volcanic rock stairs is an experience in itself, though it requires supervision for younger children. Packing plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water is essential, as shade can be limited. Consider bringing beach toys for the sand and pools, and be mindful of the ocean's conditions by checking the flags. The unique black sand and lava formations also provide a fun, educational element for curious young minds.
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers & Photographers
Exploring the natural pools during low tide offers a chance to capture serene shots, while the crashing waves against the volcanic cliffs provide dramatic action photography. The stairs leading down to the beach offer a great perspective for wide-angle shots. Visiting during the golden hour in the late afternoon will bathe the volcanic formations in warm, captivating light, making for truly memorable images. Remember to bring sturdy footwear for exploring the rugged terrain and a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the volcanic coastline.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Volcanic Genesis of Playa de Echentive
Exploring these volcanic remnants is a key part of the Playa de Echentive experience. Visitors often remark on the unique texture of the sand, which is a mix of fine black particles and pebbles, a direct result of the volcanic material. The stairs leading down to the beach are themselves carved from this ancient lava flow, adding to the immersive geological journey. For those interested in natural history or simply seeking a landscape unlike any other, Playa de Echentive offers a compelling glimpse into the island's fiery past. The presence of thermal waters in some areas further hints at the geothermal activity beneath the surface, adding another layer of intrigue to this remarkable natural wonder.
Navigating the Waters and Shoreline
For those who do venture into the ocean, wearing water shoes is highly recommended. The shoreline is a mix of pebbles and black sand, and water shoes provide comfort and protection. They are also invaluable for exploring the rocky areas around the natural pools, preventing slips and discomfort. The rugged nature of the beach means that sturdy footwear is beneficial for navigating the terrain, whether you're walking along the shore or exploring the lava formations.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit