Playa de las Gaviotas

Playa de las Gaviotas

A few minutes from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, but with the feeling of being in another world, Playa de las Gaviotas is a black-sand cove wedged at the foot of the cliffs of the Anaga Massif. It belongs to the San Andrés area and is very close to the well-known Playa de las Teresitas, though its character could not be more different: here there is no promenade or rows of bars, but a volcanic beach tucked between rock walls that keeps its wild essence intact. It is one of those Tenerife beaches that reward those seeking calm and a striking landscape, far from the tourist bustle.

The sand is very fine and dark in colour, almost black, and contrasts with the intense blue of the Atlantic. The cove is about 250 metres long and around 40 wide, a generous size for such an isolated corner. The setting, dominated by the crags of Anaga, gives it a dramatic air that makes it one of the most photographed black sands of the northeast of the island.

How to get there and parking

It is easily reached by car via the road that leaves San Andrés towards Igueste, with an esplanade set up as free parking right next to the cove. The spaces are limited (fewer than fifty), so on weekends, public holidays and the central hours of summer it is best to arrive early: the space fills up quickly. There is also access by public transport to the vicinity.

Services

• Parking: a free esplanade next to the beach, with limited spaces.

• Lifeguards: a rescue service with seasonal hours (wider in the summer months).

• Bins: a basic provision, with a municipal cleaning service.

• Naturism: it is a cove where bathing without clothing is traditionally tolerated, without being an official nudist beach.

As an isolated spot, do not expect sunbeds, beach bars or major facilities: what it offers is nature, calm and a swim with views of the cliffs.

Safety in the water

Although the swell is usually moderate, the waters of Las Gaviotas can have currents, as is common on the open beaches of the Anaga coast. It is not a protected natural pool, so the state of the sea changes with the wind and the tide. Bathe with caution, watch children at all times, do not move away from the shore when there is a heavy sea and always respect the instructions of the lifeguard service. It is also worth finding out about possible temporary closures due to the risk of landslides on the cliffs surrounding the cove.

Why visit it

Las Gaviotas is the perfect option if you are looking for one of the most authentic virgin beaches near the Tenerife capital: black sand, imposing cliffs and a calm atmosphere that invites you to disconnect. You can find more information on the official tourism portal Hola Islas Canarias and on the page of the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Town Council.