Tenerife is known for many reasons but it is not renowned for its beaches. The islands volcanic nature means that the majority of beaches are rocky and steep and those that are sandy are made up from black, volcanic sand, which, although is as soft and fine as sand from idyllic postcard paradises across the globe, is somehow a lot less attractive due to its dark colour.

In the early 70's a massive investment was made by the local government to change this. Over 4 million sacks (around 100,000m³) of white sand from the then Spanish owned Sahara Desert was imported to Tenerife and placed along a two mile stretch at the base of some large cliffs and the tiny fishing village of San Andrés about 10 minutes away from Santa Cruz. This is Las Terecitas beach.

Rumour has it that when the sand had been imported and the publicity photographs were being taken the models complained about being bitten by sand fleas. After investigations were held, all the sand was carefully removed, fully sterilized and then returned minus any biting insects. The cost of this is not mentioned!

Today, Las Terecitas is possibly one of the finest beaches in Tenerife. It has a beautiful beach front promenade where you can find bars, restaurants, toilets, showers and even telephone booths. The beach itself is studded with palm trees and sea grapes to provide shelter from the sun. Umbrellas, sun beds and even hammocks can be easily rented for the day. Chiriguitos are evenly spaced along the beach for those who fancy a quick snack or tapa without leaving the sand. For the more adventurous there is always some sort of activities going on, like aerobics or beach volleyball.

There is ample parking and it is a perfect place for the family as the beach is protected from the sea elements and the marina traffic by the bay, two large breakwaters and a man-made bar.

This artificial reef is ideal for snorkelling along and shelters the small fishing boats of San Andrés.

San Andrés is a picturesque village with around 700 inhabitants that overlooks Las Terecitas beach. It is built vertically up the mountain with modest stucco houses and has some excellent seafood restaurants. Standing sentinel at the base of the town is an historic fort, now crumbling into ruin. This was once a military fortress and was fully armed until 1878.

At the weekends the beach and town can become quite busy as it is a favourite of people living in nearby Santa Cruz but during the week the area is all but deserted and it can feel like you are on your own private paradise; clean, white sand under your toes; crystal, blue, calm water in front of you; majestic, blue, green mountains behind you and the smell of delicious, fried fish waftingon the breeze.

All in all the perfect place if you're looking to spend the day relaxing on the beach and the evening enjoying a fabulous inexpensive meal.

 

Over to coming months, we will be building up a picture of Tenerife so why not visit other areas?
Visit:-
Villaflor
El Medano
Garachico

La Laguna
Los Cristianos