Playa de las Teresitas | Tenerife

Information

Landmark: Playa de las Teresitas
City: Tenerife
Country: Canary Islands
Continent: Europe

Playa de las Teresitas, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Europe

Playa de las Teresitas is an artificial beach located in the village of San Andrés, situated on the northern coast of Tenerife, Canary Islands. It is characterized by its golden sand and calm waters, protected by an offshore breakwater.

Visual Characteristics

The beach features approximately 1.5 kilometers of golden-white sand, contrasting with the typical black volcanic sand found elsewhere on the island. The water is a clear turquoise, maintained calm by a substantial offshore breakwater. Numerous palm trees are planted along the beach, providing natural shade. The beach is backed by the foothills of the Anaga mountains.

Location & Access Logistics

Playa de las Teresitas is located 7 kilometers northeast of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, in the village of San Andrés. Access is primarily via the TF-11 road, which runs directly alongside the beach. A large, free parking area is available parallel to the beach. Public transportation is provided by TITSA bus lines 945 and 946, which connect directly from the Santa Cruz de Tenerife bus station.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The beach was constructed in the 1970s. Its original black volcanic sand was replaced with approximately 270,000 tons of white sand imported from the Sahara Desert. An artificial breakwater was simultaneously constructed offshore to mitigate strong ocean currents and create a sheltered swimming area.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can engage in swimming in the consistently calm waters, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. Paddleboarding and kayaking are also popular activities due to the sheltered conditions. Designated areas are available for children's play.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The beach provides public restrooms, showers, and changing facilities. Numerous palm trees offer natural shade. Several beach bars, known as chiringuitos, are located along the sand, offering food and beverages. 4G and 5G cell phone signal is generally strong across the area. Lifeguard services are operational during peak hours.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit for photography and fewer crowds is during the morning hours on weekdays. The climate in Tenerife is mild year-round, making the beach accessible in any month. The calm waters are consistent regardless of tide due to the breakwater.

Facts & Legends

The importation of Saharan sand was a significant logistical undertaking, involving multiple ship voyages to transform the coastline. The offshore breakwater is a defining feature, ensuring the beach remains one of the calmest swimming locations on the island, a deliberate design choice to enhance its appeal.