Playa de las Teresitas is an iconic golden sand beach, with sand imported from the Sahara, located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It's known for its calm waters and family-friendly atmosphere. An artificial breakwater protects it, creating a natural pool ideal for swimming.
Ask AI about this beach
Instant answers about Playa de las Teresitas
🐙 Did you know...?
La medusa "inmortal" puede revertir su ciclo vital y rejuvenecer. Es el único animal conocido con esta asombrosa capacidad biológica.
About this beach
Table of contents
Introduction
From the moment we set foot on Playa de las Teresitas, in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, we know we've arrived at a special place. It's not just another beach; it's a canvas of golden sand, imported directly from the Sahara in the 1970s, which contrasts wonderfully with the turquoise blue of its waters. Situated at the foot of the imposing Anaga Massif, this beach represents the essence of Canarian tranquility and beauty, offering a perfect refuge for those seeking to disconnect.
What makes Las Teresitas truly unique is its formidable breakwater. This strategically placed stone barrier not only protects the coast from Atlantic currents but also creates a vast natural pool of serene, shallow waters. It's an idyllic spot for families, couples, and anyone longing for a day of relaxation under the Canarian sun, away from the hustle and bustle, yet with all amenities within reach. We are looking at one of the island's most photographed and beloved beaches, and for very good reasons.
How to Get to Playa de las Teresitas
Getting to Playa de las Teresitas is quite straightforward, making it an accessible destination for all visitors to Tenerife. Its proximity to the capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, is one of its great advantages.
By Car
If we're coming from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the journey is short and direct. We need to take the TF-11 road towards San Andrés. The road runs along the coast and offers us spectacular views of the port and the city before reaching the beach. There is a large free parking area along the entire beach, making it easy to find a spot, even on busy days. We recommend arriving early in the high season to secure a good spot.
By Public Transport
For those who prefer not to drive, public transport is an excellent option. The TITSA bus company operates several lines connecting Santa Cruz de Tenerife with Playa de las Teresitas and the village of San Andrés. Lines 910 and 945 are the most common and drop us off just steps from the sand. It's a frequent and comfortable service, ideal for forgetting about the car.
By Taxi
From any point in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, taking a taxi is a quick and comfortable alternative, especially if we're loaded with umbrellas and coolers. The cost is reasonable given the short distance.
The Sand and Water
The sand of Playa de las Teresitas is, without a doubt, its most distinctive and captivating feature. We are faced with fine, golden sand, with an almost ochre tone that shines under the sun. As mentioned, this sand is not native to Tenerife; it was brought from the Sahara desert in the 1970s to create what is now one of the most successful and beautiful artificial beaches in the Canary Islands. Its soft texture is a delight for the feet, inviting long barefoot walks along the shore.
As for the water, it is one of the biggest attractions of this beach in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Thanks to its imposing breakwater, the waters of Las Teresitas are exceptionally calm, almost like those of a swimming pool. The absence of strong currents and waves makes it incredibly safe, especially for young children or those who are not comfortable in the open sea. The waters are crystal clear, with a pleasant temperature year-round, perfect for a relaxing dip or for swimming without worries. The entry into the sea is very gentle and gradual, which further increases its suitability for families and people with reduced mobility.
Services and Facilities
Playa de las Teresitas is excellently equipped to ensure our visit is as comfortable and pleasant as possible. It's a beach that cares for its visitors, offering a wide range of services that cover all needs.
Among the essential services, we have:
- Showers and Toilets/WCs: Distributed along the beach, clean and well-maintained, perfect for freshening up or changing after a swim.
- Lifeguard Service: During the bathing season, the beach has a team of professional lifeguards who ensure everyone's safety, providing great peace of mind, especially if we're with children.
- Umbrellas and Sunbeds: For those who prefer not to carry their own equipment, there are rental points for umbrellas and sunbeds at reasonable prices, allowing us to enjoy the sun in total comfort.
- Chiringuitos and Restaurants: Several chiringuitos dot the sand, offering refreshing drinks, ice creams, and snacks. Furthermore, in the nearby village of San Andrés, just a few minutes away, we find an excellent selection of restaurants to sample local cuisine, especially fresh fish.
- Parking: As already mentioned, the large free parking area is a major plus, eliminating the stress of finding a parking spot.
- Full Accessibility: Las Teresitas is a benchmark for accessibility. It has ramps and walkways that facilitate access to the sand for people with reduced mobility, as well as adapted toilets and, on occasion, even assisted bathing service. This allows us to say it is a truly inclusive beach.
- Children's Play Area: For the little ones, there are children's play areas where they can have fun and burn off energy outside the water.
- Equipment Rental: It's possible to rent equipment for water activities like paddle surfing or kayaking, adding a touch of adventure to a relaxed beach day.
Best Time to Visit
One of the great advantages of Tenerife and, by extension, of Playa