The beaches in Tenerife are generally man-made, as the island was formed from volcanic activity and, left to their natural state, would form a generally rocky coastline, interspersed with areas of black sand or 'picon', which is very uncomfortable to walk on!

The Canarian government has spent vast sums over the past 40 years creating some wonderful beaches around the flatter parts of the coastline which, in turn, have formed the frontispiece for most of the resort developments.

Your choice of beach will probably be determined by where you decide to stay on the island, but we have listed some of the best known below for ease of reference:

Playa de las Teresitas at Santa Cruz de Tenerife (North)

Playa Bollullo near Puerto de la Cruz

Playa de la Tejita (South, near airport) - nestling in the shade of Montana Roja to one side of the beach, which also provides the best cover from the wind.

Playa de Las Vistas at Playa de las Americas   - for sheer scale, and a wide choice of beachside facilities and entertainment, it is difficult to beat Las Vistas

For a full listing of most of the beaches on Tenerife, see the beach guide at the website Tenerife Uncovered.