Secret coves Tenerife: 6 coves

Tenerife is full of small coves that classic tourist circuits ignore. These coves offer a real alternative to large developed beaches, provided you carefully prepare your access and respect the safety instructions. Here are six of them, accessible on foot or by car, for those seeking peace and quiet far from deckchairs and vendors.

Playa de Benijo — closed to the public, best seen from the viewpoint

In the Anaga massif in the northeast, Playa de Benijo remains one of the most visually preserved on the island: black sand and pebbles, often powerful waves, totally wild atmosphere. ⚠️ The beach has been closed to the public since July 2024 (landslide risk, municipal order from Santa Cruz de Tenerife) — do not descend, access is forbidden and cordoned off. It remains visible and photogenic from the viewpoint above. The best time for photos is at the end of the day when the light softens the cliffs.

Punta del Hidalgo — natural pools and cliffs

Further northwest, Punta del Hidalgo offers a landscape of cliffs and natural pools rather than a true sandy beach. The coastal path leaves the village and can be covered in 20 to 40 minutes depending on the section chosen. Free parking at the start. The water is clear but the rocks require suitable shoes. Peaceful atmosphere, especially in the morning before the local hikers arrive.

Playa de Diego Hernández — the secret of the south

Near La Caleta in Adeje in the south, Diego Hernández is the best known of the confidential coves... while remaining discreet. Golden sand, turquoise waters, access by a coastal path of 15 to 20 minutes from the car park near the golf course (slightly steep descent, more tiring return). Part of the beach is nudist (the area is clearly at the west end). No surveillance or services: take everything you need. Ideal mid-morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.

El Bollullo — black sand and waves, near Puerto de la Cruz

El Bollullo offers volcanic black sand and a raw vibe. You go down there via a 10-minute path from the upper parking lot. Waves often present, so swimming to be monitored. Less busy during the week out of season. Best visit in the morning to enjoy the light and freshness.

La Caleta de Adeje — starting point for several calas

La Caleta de Adeje is a departure area for several small hidden coves around Diego Hernández. The coastal path connects several points in 30 to 45 minutes of walking. Parking in the village, easy access. Local atmosphere with a few fishermen. Perfect for a half-day stroll without much difficulty.

Playa de Los Roques (Fasnia) — the forgotten one of the east

On the east coast, rarely mentioned in guides, this cove of pebbles and dark sand is hidden between volcanic cliffs. Access via a track from Fasnia, approximately 10 minutes on foot. No services. Sea often calm in protected coves. Ideal for snorkeling if you have your equipment.

How to access the secret coves of Tenerife without getting lost?

Use offline map apps, wear good walking shoes and always check tide and weather conditions. Most of these coves lack surveillance: no lifeguard, no first aid station. Bring plenty of water, sun protection and a charged phone. Avoid midday in summer where the reverberation is intense.

These calas require a little effort but reward those who seek authenticity. Before leaving, check the weather conditions and swimming risk: waves in El Bollullo can make swimming dangerous even in good weather — Benijo remains closed to the public regardless. To explore all the beaches on the island, check out our Tenerife beaches guide. For other ideas for discoveries off the beaten track, find our section [Discover Tenerife] (/decouvrir).