Playa de la Arena
An urban cove of black volcanic sand in Puerto de Santiago, next to the cliffs of Los Gigantes, with a steep shore and waves to watch.
Playa de la Arena
Playa de la Arena is one of the most appreciated black-sand coves in southwest Tenerife. It is located in the heart of Puerto de Santiago, within the municipality of Santiago del Teide, and owes its character to the volcanic geology of the island: fine dark sand that contrasts with the intense blue of the Atlantic and with the cliffs of Los Gigantes, which rise very close by to the north. It is an urban, well-equipped beach of modest size that combines comfort with a natural setting of great visual force.
About 140 metres long and around 40 wide, the beach occupies a sheltered position that makes it a reference point for families and bathers all year round, favoured by the mild, stable climate of southern Tenerife. Its level of services and environmental quality place it among the best beaches on the Santiago del Teide coast.
Black volcanic sand
Playa de la Arena is renowned for its black volcanic sand, characteristic of much of the Tenerife coast. For years it held the Blue Flag, although it lost it in 2020 and no longer appears on the official list, a distinction that the Foundation for Environmental Education grants each season to beaches that meet demanding requirements of water quality, safety, cleanliness and services.
Bear in mind that the dark sand absorbs heat and can reach high temperatures during the central hours of the day, so footwear is recommended for walking to the shore.
Services and surroundings
It is a fully equipped urban beach, designed to enjoy a full day with all comforts at hand.
Surveillance and safety: lifeguard service and municipal cleaning during the season.
Amenities: showers, toilets, changing rooms, bins and sunbed and parasol rental.
Dining: a promenade with bars and restaurants overlooking the sea.
Access: parking nearby and adapted access for people with reduced mobility.
Diving: an area frequented by divers for the richness of its seabed.
Bathing and recommendations
The sea tends to break with force because of the cove's steep gradient and undertow currents have been documented, so you should take extra care and always heed the state of the sea and the flags. On days with heavy seas the swell can break hard on the shore, which drops away steeply; in those conditions take extra care with children and always follow the instructions of the lifeguard service and the bathing flags.
More information on the official Tenerife tourism portal, Webtenerife.
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