Tenerife's south is where the island banks on sunshine — drier, warmer and reliably bright while the north sits under cloud. The resorts of Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos string along this coast, and the beaches range from manicured golden sand to wild Atlantic bays, with Mount Teide rising behind it all.
Costa Adeje: the resort beaches
Around Costa Adeje the beaches are groomed and golden, with calm water and every comfort to hand. Playa del Duque is the smartest, backed by upmarket hotels and beach clubs; Playa de Fañabé and Playa de Troya run on either side, joined by a long seafront promenade lined with restaurants. This is easy, comfortable beach-going for families.
El Médano and La Tejita: the wild side
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A short way east, the landscape opens up at El Médano, a natural town beach swept by the trade winds that has become one of Europe's best windsurfing and kitesurfing spots — the sky full of sails on a breezy day. Next to it, beneath the Montaña Roja, La Tejita is a long, undeveloped stretch of golden sand for those who prefer their beaches without the high-rises.
Las Teresitas: golden sand in the north
Worth the drive across the island, Las Teresitas near Santa Cruz is the great exception to Tenerife's volcanic black sand — its golden sand was shipped in from the Sahara, and a breakwater keeps the water calm and shallow. Backed by palms and a green mountain, it is a local favourite at weekends.
Getting there
Tenerife South airport (TFS) is the one most visitors use, around twenty minutes from Costa Adeje and right next to El Médano. A private transfer takes you straight from arrivals to your hotel, no waiting around for a connection. Book a Tenerife transfer or see our private transfers in Costa Adeje.
