Las Teresitas Beach

San Andrés, Santa Cruz

Golden sand brought from the Sahara in 1973Calm waters protected by a breakwaterAbout 1,300 m long and 80 m wide

Las Teresitas beach is the most iconic in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and is located next to the fishing village of San Andrés, about 7 km north of the capital. It is an artificial beach: in 1973 its original black sand and rock coves were covered with golden sand brought from the Sahara desert. A breakwater parallel to the coast reduces the waves and keeps the waters calm, making it ideal for families.

With about 1,300 meters in length and about 80 meters wide, it is lined with palm trees and offers extensive services. Next to the beach is the Castle or Tower of San Andrés, an old artillery fort declared a Site of Cultural Interest.

Gallery

Aerial view of the golden sand and breakwater of Playa de Las Teresitas in San Andrés, Tenerife. — dronepicr (CC BY 2.0)

Playa de Las Teresitas and the North Atlantic Ocean seen from the Mirador de Las Teresitas, Tenerife. — dronepicr (CC BY 2.0)

Panorama of Playa de Las Teresitas and the village of San Andrés with the Anaga mountains in the background. — Defisch (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Anchored fishing boats beside the palm trees of Playa de Las Teresitas, Tenerife. — Jules Verne Times Two (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Essential information

Accessibility

It is accessible by car from Santa Cruz via the San Andrés road (about 7 km) and has ample free parking next to the beach; there is also access by bus.

Risk Level

Although the breakwater keeps the waters calm, it is advisable to swim in the supervised areas and follow the lifeguard service instructions.