Cliffs of Los Gigantes and Masca Bay

Verified content· Updated 3 July 2026

Volcanic walls up to 600 metersCalm and clear waters at the footIdeal for sea kayaking and snorkeling

The cliffs of Los Gigantes, in the municipality of Santiago del Teide, are huge volcanic rock walls that reach up to about 600 meters in height and extend along the west coast towards Punta de Teno. The sheltered waters at their feet are usually calm and clear, making the area a classic setting for sea kayaking and snorkeling, with coves like Barranco Seco or the wild beach at the mouth of the Masca ravine. The sea is usually calmer early in the morning.

The coast is publicly accessible; organized tours depart from the port of Los Gigantes.

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Essential information

Accessibility

By car from the south (Costa Adeje/Las Américas) via the TF-1 northbound to the Playa San Juan/Los Gigantes exit and then the coastal road TF-454 (about 30-40 min). Kayak, snorkel, and boat departures leave from the Marina, where there is a paid parking lot that fills up in summer (more spaces in Puerto de Santiago/Playa de la Arena, a 10-15 min walk). Los Gigantes is connected by TITSA bus: line 473 links it with the south (Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje, Las Américas) and line 325 with the north (Icod de los Vinos, Puerto de la Cruz). Access to the nearby Barranco de Masca requires mandatory prior reservation at caminobarrancodemasca.com, with limited spots (access only from Wednesday to Saturday) and return by boat/kayak is also mandatory.

Risk Level

Open sea activity at the foot of high cliffs: sail and dive only with favorable sea conditions, wear appropriate helmet and footwear if descending the ravine, and be aware of possible landslides and currents.