Playa Benijo

Black sand and sea stacks of Playa Benijo, at the foot of the Anaga mountains

This is one of the wildest and most spectacular beaches in Tenerife. It lies in the north of the island, within the Anaga mountains nature reserve. To get there, take the TF-11 from Santa Cruz and then the TF-12 towards Taganana–Almáciga.

When you arrive, an extraordinary panorama opens up before your eyes, in a truly unique natural setting. From the beach you can admire Roque Benijo and Roque La Rapadura, two rocky islets rising dramatically out of the ocean.

It is a beach of black volcanic sand and pebbles, popular with water sports enthusiasts. Given its location, far from any town, there is no sun lounger or parasol hire, but nearby there is a chiringuito (beach bar) where you can enjoy local food.

Playa Benijo is busiest in the summer months. At other times of year it is very quiet, ideal for a day away from it all. Let yourself be captivated by the magic of this unspoilt place: you’ll feel cut off from the world, far from chaos and stress, as if time had stood still.

We recommend visiting Playa Benijo at low tide, when the beach is much wider and more enjoyable. High tide considerably reduces the size of the beach, robbing it of some of its charm.

You reach it along a path that starts from the road by the Mirador restaurant, which enjoys a wonderful view over Benijo beach. As the path is a winding mule track, we don’t recommend it for older people or anyone who is not very fit.

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