The Best Charcos and Natural Pools in Tenerife
When the heat hits and the midday sun gives no respite, the people of Tenerife have a plan that never fails: the charcos. These natural pools, formed where lava met the sea, offer a calm, crystal-clear swim right where the open ocean breaks with force. They are the local alternative to the busiest beaches, and in summer they become the best refuge for the whole family. Here is a guide to Tenerife's best charcos, area by area, with the practical tips that make the difference between a perfect dip and a scare.
What is a charco (and why it is the perfect summer plan)
A charco is a natural pool of volcanic origin: the lava rock forms a barrier that holds in the seawater and shelters it from the swell. The result is a sheet of calm, often turquoise water where you can swim at ease even when the open sea is rough. In the north of the island, where black rocky coastline abounds and sand is scarce, the charcos are the most authentic way to take a swim. Unlike a beach, there is no undertow or strong current here when the sea is calm, and almost all of them are free with open access: just you, the rock and the water. Local trick: on weekdays and early in the morning you will have them almost to yourself; on July and August weekends they fill up fast.
Did you know? If you look at the wet rock of any charco, you will see reddish crabs scurrying at full speed: this is the Moorish crab (Grapsus adscensionis). They are lightning fast, cling to vertical stone as if glued to it, and can even regrow a lost leg. They also do an important job cleaning the coast of algae and debris. Harmless and fascinating to watch, especially for the little ones.
The best charcos in the north of Tenerife
The north is the kingdom of the charcos. The volcanic coast and the rough north-western sea have shaped some of the most beautiful natural pools in the archipelago.
Charco de La Laja (San Juan de la Rambla)
One of the most photographed charcos in Tenerife, and with good reason. At Charco de La Laja, in San Juan de la Rambla, the sea flows in between the dark rock to form a pool of clean water with the waves breaking just behind. It is small and modest, with no major facilities, but its seafaring scenery is hard to forget, especially at sunset.
Charco del Viento (La Guancha)
At Charco del Viento, in La Guancha, black volcanic sand meets a sheltered natural pool. A corner many visitors never find and which the locals guard almost like a secret. Access is by track; comfortable footwear recommended.
El Caletón de Garachico
Impossible to talk about Tenerife's charcos without naming El Caletón, in the lovely town of Garachico. These natural pools were born from the lava of the 1706 eruption and today form a natural bathing spot with steps and adapted access, right in the historic centre. Combining a swim here with a stroll around Garachico is one of the best plans in the north.
Charco Los Chochos (Buenavista del Norte)
Wilder and more remote, Charco Los Chochos, in Buenavista del Norte, rewards those seeking peace and quiet facing the Teno massif. Do not expect facilities: people come here for nature in its purest state. Always check the sea conditions before climbing down.
Bajamar and Punta del Hidalgo
In the north-east, beside the Anaga mountains, Bajamar and Punta del Hidalgo have equipped natural pools, with walls that shield them from the swell and sunbathing areas. They are perfect for families and among the few in the north with services nearby. Tacoronte adds corners such as Mesa del Mar and El Pris for those who want to keep exploring.
What about the south of Tenerife?
The south is a land of sandy beaches more than charcos: sunshine, calm seas and golden or black sand rule here. Even so, there are exceptions such as the Piscinas Naturales Los Abrigos, in Granadilla de Abona, a fishing village with natural pools and a reputation for good fresh fish. If your plan is the south, you may be more interested in our guide to the best beaches in Tenerife.
Practical tips for enjoying the charcos
A charco is safe and calm… if you pick the right moment. These tips will save you trouble:
Watch the tide. This is the most important thing. At low or mid tide the charco is sheltered and calm; at high tide with a heavy swell, waves can surge in and become dangerous. Check the day's tide table before you go.
Check the sea conditions. The north coast is rougher than the south. If there is a coastal warning or a big swell, leave the charco for another day. The AEMET maritime forecast tells you at a glance.
Bring water shoes. Volcanic rock is slippery and there are sometimes sea urchins. A pair of water shoes will save your swim.
Getting there. Many charcos are reached by car along tracks, and parking fills up early in summer; set out early. The TITSA bus network connects the main towns of the north.
Pick your hour. Early morning or late afternoon means fewer crowds and gentler sun. With the recent heatwaves, stay hydrated and avoid midday (12 to 5 pm).
Care for the environment. Use reef-friendly sun cream, take your litter with you and respect the wildlife of the pools: they are fragile ecosystems.
When to go? The charcos can be enjoyed all year round, but summer is their best moment: the northern sea is usually calmer and the mild water invites you in. In winter, north-westerly swells can close them for days, so in wave season it pays to have a plan B. And if you go with children, choose the equipped ones (Bajamar, Punta del Hidalgo or El Caletón), with walls, steps and shallower areas.
The coast, while the mountains rest
At the height of summer, with the heat bearing down and mountain trails often closed due to fire risk, the coast is Tenerife's best plan. And among all its options, the charcos have something special: the calm of a pool with the force of the Atlantic one step away. Choose your day well, respect the sea and enjoy. Want more ideas for getting around the island? Take a look at our Tenerife agenda and the islas24 guides.
