TRAVEL GUIDES DIRECTORY: TENERIFE HOLIDAY

BEACHES

The volcanic nature of the island of Tenerife indicates that it has few natural beaches. Those that exist are characterized by black sands from the island's volcanic rock foundations. The demand for tourist sun-bathing space, however, has led to the creation of resorts and man-made beaches, with golden sand having been imported in some areas.

Playa de las Americas

This sprawling resort is situated on the south west coast of Tenerife and is packed with high-rise hotels, apartment blocks and tourists. Sun, sand and sangria are all here! A vast choice of bars and restaurants and the some of the best nightlife in the Canary Islands as well. Playa de las Americas is the most famous tourist area, the pulsating heart of Tenerife. You will find plenty of small lovely beaches, protected by long breakwaters to stop the man-made sand banks from being washed away. An area with a large number of tourists, always count on meeting a considerable crowd on the beaches. All beaches are just a footstep away from each other and all kinds of water sports are available. This famous black beach and nightlife is a tourist Mecca, especially to northern Europeans and youngsters.

Playa de Los Cristianos

Firstly has the original beach in the port and secondly the - Playa de las Vistas joining Los Cristianos and Las Americas. Popular for its soft yellow expanse, those looking for a quieter resort can stay here. Only forty five minutes transfer from Sur Reina Sofia Airport. The artificial beaches are very nice and it has a wonderful harbor that offers fishing trips, pleasure cruises, glass bottom boats, diving excursions and ferries to La Gomera. Los Cristianos tends to attract a slightly older destination, but has managed to keep a little of its original architecture and atmosphere as a quaint fishing village. Year-round sunshine and a vast array of pubs, clubs, shops and restaurants are here. The nearby AquaPark Octopus is also must for any family. Tenerife Zoo and the Eagles Park are also within easy reach of Los Cristianos.

Playa de las Terasitas

Located north of Santa Cruz, this was extended in 1973 by bringing in golden sand from the Sahara desert, palm trees for shade and very popular. A small beach resort, it is perfect for families with children.

Playa de Los Gigantes

Located at the west coast of Tenerife, it is good for sunbathing and has soft sands. Although small for the size of the town, it is very lovely when one looks at the surrounding incredible landscape. Named after the imposing cliffs ( the giants ), you can see these cliffs up close by getting a boat, which are for hire from the marina.

Playa de las Galletas

At the island's southern extreme, has great hotels and sports installations. It is mostly stony, with one small, sandy beach.

Playa de El Puertito

A black sand beach with one small bar and no pretensions to be a tourist resort.

Fanabe

Located south, is perfect for sunbathing, with its soft, yellow sand, showers and other facilities. It is intended to attract the upscale tourist clientele to the island.

Torviscas

It is an expansive, golden sandy beach with its marina, beach bars, volleyball and waters sports available. Situated just below the Torviscas market place, with great views of the island of La Gomera in the distance. After soaking up the sun, you can head to the Moonlight Bar and watch the beautiful sunset over La Gomera.

Playa del Roque

Another wonderful beach of black sand.

Playa de las Caletillas

Another centre of international tourism, three marvelous small bays close to Candelaria.

Puerto de la Cruz

It is an old fishing port and is one of Spain's major attractions. Remarkably remaining unscathed, you will find here bars and restaurant, shops and even a casino! One of its charms is its traditional Canarian style homes and of course the beaches with fine black shingle. Playa de Jardin is good and child friendly. Divided into three different stretches of beach, the one with the finest sand is Playa de Punta Brava, the others are Playa del Vastillo and Playa del Charcon. All of them have changing rooms, showers and toilets, sun beds, restaurant and bars, beach services and water sports.

Playa de San Juan

Located West, is a lovely blue flag beach of soft, black sand.

Lago de Martianez

Although not strictly a beach, the sheer size and beauty of this multi-pool complex is also an attraction.

Playa de El Medano

It is a small coastal resort, in the south of Tenerife, only 7km from Sur Reina Airport and 20km from the main southern resorts, Playa de las Americas and Los Cristianos. A lovely long natural beach which starts in the village and stretches to Montana Roja, it is a favorite among wind and kite surfers.

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