Playa de la Arena Tenerife
Tenerife's Playa de la Arena captivates with its striking black volcanic sand, offering a unique and visually dramatic beach experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Playa de la Arena Tenerife
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tenerife's Playa de la Arena captivates with its striking black volcanic sand, offering a unique and visually dramatic beach experience.
"This beach with volcanic sand is truly magical. The dark, soft sand feels unique and creates a striking contrast with the turquoise water."
Hot Sand Alert! :hot_pepper:
The black sand gets very hot under the sun. Wear sandals or water shoes to protect your feet.
Sun Lounger Deal :moneybag:
Rent sun loungers and umbrellas for a full day for around 5€. Great value for comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Black Volcanic Sand
Experience the unique feel and striking contrast of dark, soft sand against turquoise waters. A photographer's dream!
Natural Pool
Adjacent to the main beach
Discover a calm, natural pool offering a safer swimming option, especially for families or those wary of stronger waves.
Sunset Views
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the ocean. Perfect for a romantic evening.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Black Sand Magic
Relaxation and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hot Sand Alert! :hot_pepper:
The black sand gets very hot under the sun. Wear sandals or water shoes to protect your feet.
Sun Lounger Deal :moneybag:
Rent sun loungers and umbrellas for a full day for around 5€. Great value for comfort.
Sea Can Be Lively :ocean:
The sea can be strong, especially on the sides. Supervise children closely.
Capture the Contrast :camera:
The black sand against the blue water is incredibly photogenic. Don't miss sunset shots! 
Tips
from all over the internet
Hot Sand Alert! :hot_pepper:
The black sand gets very hot under the sun. Wear sandals or water shoes to protect your feet.
Sun Lounger Deal :moneybag:
Rent sun loungers and umbrellas for a full day for around 5€. Great value for comfort.
Sea Can Be Lively :ocean:
The sea can be strong, especially on the sides. Supervise children closely.
Capture the Contrast :camera:
The black sand against the blue water is incredibly photogenic. Don't miss sunset shots!
Nearby Dining Options :fork_and_knife:
Plenty of restaurants and shops are right by the beach for convenient meals and drinks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa de la Arena is praised for its unique black volcanic sand and stunning contrast with the blue sea, making it a magical and photogenic spot. Visitors appreciate the cleanliness, available amenities like loungers and toilets, and the nearby dining options. Some note the sea can be strong and the sand gets very hot.
"Very nice beach of black volcanic sand. Super clean with a lifeguard on duty and personnel taking care of the beach.
You can rent sun loungers and umbrellas for 5€ each for the whole day (until 6:30 pm in the summer and 5:30 pm in the winter).
There is also a building with toilets and changing rooms. There used to be shower rooms inside but they're not functional anymore. There are still 2 showers on the beach to rinse off the sand and salt.
There are also several restaurants and a supermarket close by."
Jonathan Rasson
"This beach with volcanic sand is truly magical. The dark, soft sand feels unique and creates a striking contrast with the turquoise water. It’s clean, peaceful, and perfect for relaxing or taking unforgettable photos. A must-visit spot in Tenerife!"
Oleksandr Kaliberda
"A super nice beach. The sea can be a bit strong for kids, so keep that in mind, especially on the beach sides where the waves and whirlpools are stronger. The black sand can get crazy hot if the sun is beating down on it. Take care. Besides that, it is one of my favorites. You will also find restaurants and shops right on top of the beach and many parking areas. It's not so full of tourists."
JC “GdB” GdelB
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Playa de la Arena is located in Puerto de Santiago, within the municipality of Santiago del Teide in southern Tenerife. You can reach it by car, with several parking areas available nearby. Public buses also serve the area, making it accessible via public transport.
Yes, there are many parking areas available close to the beach, which is convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Playa de la Arena is a well-known beach in the south of Tenerife and is generally easy to find, especially if you are in the Puerto de Santiago area.
Yes, public buses frequently run to Puerto de Santiago, which is where Playa de la Arena is located, making it accessible without a car. Check local bus schedules for routes and times.
From Los Cristianos, you can take a public bus (e.g., line 473) which will take you directly to Puerto de Santiago, near Playa de la Arena. Driving is also an option, taking approximately 40-50 minutes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Playa de la Arena is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the sand and sea for free.
As a public beach, Playa de la Arena is accessible at all times. However, lifeguard services and rental facilities typically operate during daylight hours.
Yes, you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas for a fee, usually around 5€ each for the entire day.
There is a building with toilets and changing rooms. While some showers may not be functional, there are still outdoor showers on the beach to rinse off sand and salt.
No, booking in advance is not necessary for visiting Playa de la Arena itself. You can rent loungers and umbrellas on the spot.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the light is soft and creates a magical atmosphere. The contrast of the black sand against the blue water is stunning at any time, but especially with dramatic lighting.
The unique black volcanic sand provides a dramatic backdrop that contrasts beautifully with the clear turquoise waters and white foam of the waves. It's a visually striking location.
The entire beach offers great photo opportunities. The natural pool area also provides a unique angle. Don't forget to capture the sunset over the ocean.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with local authorities or the municipality of Santiago del Teide before flying a drone to ensure compliance with any restrictions.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the beach and the ocean. A polarizing filter can help enhance the colors of the water and sky. A drone can offer unique aerial perspectives.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several restaurants and cafes located right on top of the beach or very close by, offering a variety of dining options.
You can expect a range of options, including local Canarian cuisine, seafood, and international dishes. Some restaurants offer stunning sea views.
Yes, there is a supermarket conveniently located near the beach, perfect for picking up snacks, drinks, or picnic supplies.
Absolutely! With a supermarket nearby and beautiful surroundings, it's a great spot for a picnic. Just remember to clean up after yourself.
Canaryfoodies on Instagram recommended @laquintadelarena for delicious dishes and good wine, mentioning their ensaladilla and milhojas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
+1 The golden hour around sunrise and sunset provides the most magical light for capturing breathtaking shots. Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the expanse of the beach and the powerful waves, or a drone for aerial perspectives of this unique landscape. The natural pool also offers interesting compositional opportunities. Remember to be mindful of the sun's intensity on the sand and the sea conditions when planning your shots.🧘♀️ Relaxation Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Black Sand Beaches
+1This distinctive sand not only makes for stunning photographs but also contributes to the beach's unique atmosphere. It's a reminder of Tenerife's volcanic origins and adds an exotic feel to the coastal landscape. For those seeking a different kind of beach experience, Playa de la Arena's black sand is a major draw, offering a memorable and visually dramatic setting for relaxation and exploration.
Navigating the Waters and Amenities
For comfort, sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent, providing a shaded spot to relax for the day. While the beach has facilities like toilets and changing rooms, some of the showers may not be operational. However, there are still outdoor showers available on the beach itself, perfect for rinsing off salt and sand after a swim.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit