Sheltered family beaches with golden sand
Los Cristianos town beach and Playa de las Vistas offer gentle waters perfect for families. These beaches have soft golden sand and are well protected from wind. They're lined with bars and restaurants. If you stay near Los Cristianos, like in our apartment in the center of Los Cristianos, you're steps away.
Along the coast towards Costa Adeje, you'll find Playa de Fañabé, Playa de Torviscas and Playa del Duque. All have the same golden sand and calm conditions. They have facilities and services nearby. These beaches suit families wanting shelter from the wind and safe swimming.
Dark sand and pebbles at La Caleta
La Caleta sits at the quieter end of Costa Adeje. The beaches here are smaller, with dark volcanic sand mixed with pebbles. The water is usually calm and the setting feels more local and low-key than the main resort beaches. It's a good choice if you prefer a quieter atmosphere and don't mind darker sand.
Our apartment in La Caleta puts you on these beaches with all the comfort you need. The area has a village feel while staying within reach of the busier resort zones.
Natural beaches near Montaña Roja
South-east of Los Cristianos, past the airport, you'll find Montaña Roja, a striking volcanic peak. La Tejita is a long natural beach that stretches below it, lined with dark volcanic sand. This beach is often windy and has a wilder, more remote feel than the sheltered resort beaches.
Just east of Montaña Roja sits El Médano, famous for windsurfing and water sports. The wind and waves here attract enthusiasts from across the island. If you love action on the water or prefer natural, unspoiled shores, this area rewards a visit. Both beaches have dark volcanic sand typical of south Tenerife's natural coastline.
What to bring and what to expect
The south coast has sun for much of the year. Bring high factor sun protection, a hat and sunglasses. Water shoes help on pebbled areas and rocky seabeds. A beach bag with snacks and water keeps you comfortable during long days.
Wind varies by location and season. Sheltered beaches like those in Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje stay calm even when elsewhere is breezy. La Tejita and El Médano are windier by nature. Darker volcanic sand gets hotter underfoot than golden sand, so flip-flops are useful. Check local conditions before you go, as the weather can change.
Where to stay for beach access
Our homes in San Eugenio Alto, like the bright apartment with terrace and sea views, sit above the Costa Adeje beaches. You're close to Playa de Fañabé and the other golden sand coves. The Villa Ocean Bliss sleeps six and works well for families wanting space with beach proximity.
For activities beyond the beach, we can arrange kayaking and stand up paddle outings or diving experiences. A rental car gives you freedom to explore all the south coast beaches in one trip.
Our homes in this area
Bright apartment with terrace, sea views and air conditioningSan Eugenio Alto · sleeps 4
Apartment in La CaletaLa Caleta · sleeps 4
Villa Ocean Bliss - La TagoraSan Eugenio Alto · sleeps 6
Apartment in center of Los Cristianos · Crisol 121Los Cristianos · sleeps 3Book direct — See all homes
Common questions
Los Cristianos and Playa de las Vistas are ideal for families. They have shallow, calm water and golden sand. Costa Adeje beaches like Playa del Duque and Playa de Torviscas offer the same shelter. La Caleta is quieter, with smaller beaches and dark sand.
No. The resort beaches in Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje have golden sand. La Caleta has dark volcanic sand with pebbles. Natural beaches like La Tejita and El Médano also have dark volcanic sand. The colour depends on whether the beach is developed or natural.
El Médano, just east of Montaña Roja, is known for windsurfing and attracts water sports enthusiasts. La Tejita nearby is also windier and suits active beach-goers. The sheltered resort beaches are calmer and better for swimming and sunbathing.
A car helps you explore multiple beaches in one day, especially to reach La Tejita and El Médano near Montaña Roja. The main beaches in Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje are accessible by local transport, but having a car gives more freedom and comfort.