Playa de Las Teresitas
A stunning 1.5km beach with imported golden Sahara sand, calm turquoise waters, and a dramatic mountain backdrop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Playa de Las Teresitas
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning 1.5km beach with imported golden Sahara sand, calm turquoise waters, and a dramatic mountain backdrop.
"Absolutely beautiful beach and a must-visit in Tenerife!"
🚗 Easy Parking & Access
Ample free parking available, plus frequent public buses from Santa Cruz.
🐠 Explore the Breakwater
Discover the 'mysterious' side behind the breakwater for unique underwater finds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Golden Sahara Sand
Miles of imported golden sand create a unique, tropical feel against the dramatic mountain backdrop.
Calm, Turquoise Waters
Protected by a breakwater, the sea here is tranquil and shallow, perfect for swimming and families.
Mountain Views
The Anaga Mountains provide a stunning, rugged backdrop to this picturesque beach.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds
Sahara Sand & Calm Waters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Parking & Access
Ample free parking available, plus frequent public buses from Santa Cruz.
🐠 Explore the Breakwater
Discover the 'mysterious' side behind the breakwater for unique underwater finds. +1
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The imported sand can get very hot; bring shade or rent loungers/umbrellas.
🌊 Calm Waters for All
The reef makes the sea calm and shallow, ideal for families and relaxed swimming.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Parking & Access
Ample free parking available, plus frequent public buses from Santa Cruz.
🐠 Explore the Breakwater
Discover the 'mysterious' side behind the breakwater for unique underwater finds. +1
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The imported sand can get very hot; bring shade or rent loungers/umbrellas.
🌊 Calm Waters for All
The reef makes the sea calm and shallow, ideal for families and relaxed swimming.
🍹 Beachfront Bites
Enjoy fresh seafood and drinks at the convenient beach bars.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Playa de Las Teresitas for its unique golden Sahara sand, calm turquoise waters perfect for families, and stunning mountain backdrop. The convenience of ample parking and accessible beach bars adds to its appeal. Some find it a bit crowded during peak times, and the breakwater can make the sea feel less exciting for experienced swimmers.
"Very nice beach, easily accessible, with a large parking lot. Bars/restaurants and toilets right on the beach. Thanks to the breakwaters and the gradual entry into the water, it is also suitable for families with small children.
The disadvantage is the larger number of visitors, in the season it is really a lot of people"
Jan Tolar
"However original I would like to be, it is an excellent beach. It is not natural, but it fits the coastal view perfectly. I was amazed that despite being a super fancy beach with tons of parking and easily accessible from a vibrant capital, it’s really laid-back and relaxed, with lots of natural shade, enough facilities for everyone, etc. The sea bottom is empty, but the ships waiting in the roadstead on the horizon compensate for that."
Krzysztof Nosek
"Very nice big beach with lots of space and nice yellow sand. Can get a bit windy due to its openness and the sea is cut of by a reef which makes the water quite calm and unexciting however it’s perfect for a chill time!"
Mike
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Playa de Las Teresitas is easily accessible from Santa Cruz. Public buses, particularly line 910, run frequently and take about 10-15 minutes. Many visitors also opt for a taxi or drive, as there is a large, free parking lot available.
Yes, Playa de Las Teresitas is well-signposted and a prominent landmark on the northern coast of Tenerife, just outside Santa Cruz. Its distinctive golden sand makes it easily recognizable.
While possible, it's a considerable walk from Santa Cruz. Taking a bus or taxi is generally more convenient and quicker, especially if you have beach gear.
There is a large, free parking lot directly adjacent to the beach, which is a major convenience for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Public buses are a very popular and efficient way to reach the beach from Santa Cruz, making it accessible for everyone.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Playa de Las Teresitas is a public beach and there is no entrance fee. You can enjoy the sand and sea for free.
As a public beach, Playa de Las Teresitas is accessible at all hours. However, facilities like restrooms and beach bars will have their own operating times.
No booking is required for general access to Playa de Las Teresitas. It's a public space open to everyone.
Generally, there are no specific entry restrictions for individuals. However, local regulations regarding noise or group activities might apply.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy on the beach. There are also beach bars available for purchases.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim in the calm waters, sunbathe on the golden sand, enjoy water sports like snorkeling, or simply relax. The unique underwater landscape behind the breakwater is also a point of interest for exploration. +2
Yes, it's highly recommended for families. The breakwater creates calm, shallow waters perfect for children to play safely.
The beach offers amenities like showers, restrooms, loungers, and umbrellas for rent. There are also several beach bars and restaurants.
Yes, snorkeling is possible, especially around the breakwater where marine life can be found. Some visitors have documented interesting underwater discoveries. +3
It can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and during peak season. Weekdays and early mornings offer a more peaceful experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several beach bars and restaurants lining the promenade, offering a variety of food and drinks, including fresh seafood.
You can find local specialties, fresh seafood, tapas, snacks, and refreshing drinks like mojitos.
Reviews suggest that the prices at the beach bars are generally good, offering good value for the location and quality.
Absolutely! Bringing your own picnic is a great option, and there's plenty of space to spread out.
While seafood is prominent, many beach bars offer tapas and salads that can cater to vegetarian or vegan preferences. It's best to check menus or ask staff.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the golden sand against the Anaga Mountains, the calm turquoise waters, and the palm trees. The breakwater area also offers unique perspectives.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant colors of the sand and water are still striking.
Yes, the clear, calm waters are great for underwater photography and videography, especially around the breakwater where marine life can be found. +2
Generally, photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other beachgoers' privacy.
The contrast between the imported golden sand, the deep blue sea, and the rugged green mountains of Anaga creates a visually stunning scene.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing sun protection as the imported sand can get hot. Renting loungers and umbrellas can provide much-needed shade. The nearby Anaga Mountains also offer scenic views that can be enjoyed from the beach, adding to the overall family-friendly experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
Public buses from Santa Cruz are also an affordable way to reach the beach. Focus on enjoying the natural beauty and the free amenities rather than paid activities for a cost-effective visit.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
It's also a good base for exploring the northern coast of Tenerife, with easy public transport links to Santa Cruz and other nearby areas. The scenic mountain backdrop provides a beautiful setting for contemplation or photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Origin of Las Teresitas Sand
The imported sand has significantly altered the beach's character, making it a unique attraction. While some purists might lament its artificial origin, the result is a visually striking and highly functional beach that has become a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike. The fine, warm sand is perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles, contributing to its family-friendly reputation.
This transformation also brought with it a distinct aesthetic. The golden hue of the sand, coupled with the clear, calm waters protected by a breakwater and the dramatic backdrop of the Anaga Mountains, creates a picturesque scene that many find reminiscent of tropical paradises. It’s a testament to how landscape engineering can create beloved public spaces.
Underwater Exploration: Beyond the Shoreline
TikTok videos showcase the exploration of this submerged landscape, revealing various marine life and even some unexpected finds buried in the sand. Visitors have documented seeing fish, and other sea creatures, highlighting the ecological value of this protected area. The depth of the water varies, with some areas reaching significant depths where unique underwater formations can be observed.
For those interested in snorkeling or diving, Playa de Las Teresitas offers a unique opportunity to explore an accessible underwater ecosystem. It’s a reminder that even seemingly ordinary beaches can hold hidden wonders, encouraging visitors to look beneath the surface and appreciate the marine biodiversity that thrives just offshore.
The Protective Breakwater: Calm Seas for All
This calm environment makes Playa de Las Teresitas exceptionally suitable for families with young children. Parents can relax knowing that their little ones can play in the water without the risk of strong waves or sudden drop-offs. The gradual entry into the sea further enhances its safety and accessibility for swimmers of all ages and abilities.
Beyond its safety benefits, the breakwater also contributes to the beach's serene atmosphere. The absence of rough waves means that the water is often clearer and more inviting for leisurely swimming and water activities like paddleboarding or simply floating. It transforms the beach into a peaceful oasis, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit