The most popular beaches on the island

The volcanic nature and evolution of Tenerife have created just a few 'natural' beaches on the sea front, all of a fine black shingle or sand. The dramatic increase of tourism and demand for public beaches has been met by huge investments.

High quality, man made beaches are now plentiful. These are mainly around the major tourist resorts. Most have good access, meet stringent European standards of cleanliness and most offer shower facilities, sun beds, shades and water-sports.

You can also enjoy amazing excursions such as boat trips and jet skiing which depart from the coastline on a daily basis. Whale and dolphin watching prove to be very popular as this can be a once in a lifetime opportunity for many. There are also daily ferry crossings to the neighbouring islands of La Gomera, La Palma and El Hierro. If that isn´t exciting enough you can also have a go a parasailing. You can be towed along behind a motor boat and enjoy stunning views of the interior of the island and the rugged coastline.

Los Gigantes Coved, black sand beach, west Tenerife, small town with harbour San Juan Coved, black sand, sloping, west Tenerife, small town with good snorkelling.

Fanabe new developing area, yellow sand beach, showers, sun beds and shades, water-sports, south Tenerife.

Torviscas Yellow grey sand beach, showers, shallow waters, sun beds and shades, near marina, restaurants, bars, south Tenerife.

Playa de las Americas, La Troya Grey sand beach off stunning views from the Tenerife sea front, sun beds and shades, showers, water-sports, centre of town, several different surf breaker coves, shallow waters, rollers on occasions, restaurants, shops, South Tenerife

Los Cristianos Harbour, white grey sandy beach, shallow water, sea wall protected, sun beds and shades, restaurants, bars, boats, water-sports, south Tenerife.

Candaleria Small black shingle beach, sloping to deeper water, often roller waves, centre of village, restaurants, east Tenerife.

Santa Cruz, Terasitas beach Large golden imported sand beach, shallow waters, well protected, kiosks, natural shade from some trees, and few restaurants nearby, north Tenerife.

Puerto de la Cruz, black fine shingle beach, sloping to deeper water, roller waves, restaurants, bars, next to salt-water lido, North Tenerife

El Medano Famous, flat, open, with good winds and very flat beach. Although windy, it is not too choppy, making it an excellent all year windsurfing competition site. El Medano has already hosted the world championships. Facilities include, Wind surfing club, hire and instruction. East Tenerife.