Beaches

Golden sand, black sand and natural lava pools - and which ones the locals actually use.

Playa de las Teresitas

The famous golden beach near Santa Cruz, made with sand from the Sahara. Calm water behind a breakwater, good for children. Go early at weekends - locals fill it by midday. Parking is free but tight; the bus from Santa Cruz stops right there.

Playa del Duque (Costa Adeje)

The smartest southern beach: soft pale sand, loungers, beachfront restaurants. Prices match the postcode. Perfect for a comfortable beach day with everything on hand.

Playa de Fanabe & Playa de Troya

The practical middle: wide, clean, lifeguarded, with shops and cafes behind. Where most Adeje holidaymakers end up most days.

El Medano

A long natural beach by a small town, famous for wind and kite surfing. Less manicured, more soul. Great for a day away from the resorts.

Playa Jardin (Puerto de la Cruz)

Black volcanic sand with gardens behind it, designed by Cesar Manrique. Dramatic and beautiful; the sea can be lively.

Natural pools: Garachico & Bajamar

Lava-rock pools filled by the tide on the north coast. Free, unforgettable, and best on calm days - if waves are breaking over the rocks, stay out.