Is Granadilla de Abona good for a beach holiday?
Yes, Granadilla de Abona is an excellent destination for a beach holiday, especially for those who enjoy natural and windswept beaches. It's home to some of the largest natural sand beaches in Tenerife, like El Médano and La Tejita. The area is particularly famous for watersports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing due to consistent winds.
What are the beaches in Granadilla de Abona like?
The beaches in Granadilla de Abona are known for their natural beauty, often featuring golden or dark volcanic sand. Key beaches include El Médano, which is extensive and popular for watersports, and La Tejita, a large, more secluded natural beach next to Montaña Roja. Many beaches here are less urbanized than in other parts of South Tenerife, offering a more rugged and natural experience.
Is it windy on the beaches in Granadilla de Abona, especially El Médano?
Yes, El Médano and other beaches in Granadilla de Abona are known for being quite windy, especially El Médano. This is due to the consistent northeastern trade winds, known as 'Alisio'. While this makes it a world-class destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing, it can sometimes be too windy for those simply looking to sunbathe, although parts of beaches like La Tejita offer some shelter near Montaña Roja.
Can you swim in the sea in Granadilla de Abona? What's the water like?
Yes, you can swim in the sea in Granadilla de Abona. The water is generally clear. Water temperatures are typically mild year-round, averaging around 19-23°C (66-73°F). Some beaches, like El Médano, can have moderate waves, which are great for some watersports but might require caution for casual swimmers, especially on windy days. Other spots can be calmer. Always pay attention to beach flags indicating swimming conditions.
Are there hotels or apartments right on the beach in Granadilla de Abona?
Yes, particularly in El Médano, you can find hotels and apartments with direct beach access or very close proximity to the sea. For example, Hotel Médano is located right on the beach. There are also apartment complexes near La Tejita beach, some offering sea views and easy beach access. Options range from hotels to guesthouses and self-catering apartments.
Are there family-friendly beaches in Granadilla de Abona?
Yes, El Médano beach is considered family-friendly. It has a gentle slope into the water, a promenade with amenities, and a lively atmosphere. It has also been awarded a Blue Flag for its quality and services. While some areas are popular for windsurfing, the main town beach area is generally suitable for families with children.
Are there nudist beaches in Granadilla de Abona?
Yes, Granadilla de Abona has options for naturists. La Tejita beach has a well-known designated nudist area, typically towards the part of the beach under Montaña Roja. Playa Montaña Pelada is another more secluded beach where nudism is practiced. It's always advisable to look for local signage or customs.
What's the best way to get to La Tejita beach?
La Tejita beach is accessible by car by taking the TF-1 highway and following signs for El Médano, then La Tejita. There is a dirt parking area near the beach. You can also reach it by public bus (line 470 connects El Médano with Los Cristianos and stops near La Tejita). It's also possible to walk from El Médano, which is a scenic route around Montaña Roja.
Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent at the beaches in Granadilla de Abona?
Some of the more developed beaches, like parts of El Médano and La Tejita, offer sunbed and umbrella rental services. However, many of Granadilla's beaches are more natural and may have limited or no such facilities. For example, El Médano beach has these services, and La Tejita has some, particularly near the 'Chiringuito Pirata' beach bar or access points.
Is it safe to swim at the beaches in Granadilla de Abona? Are there any warnings?
Generally, it is safe to swim, but it's crucial to always check the flag warnings on the beach, as conditions can change, especially with wind and waves. Occasionally, beaches like El Médano or La Jaquita have had temporary closures due to water quality tests (e.g., high levels of bacteria), but authorities monitor this regularly and reopen them once safe. Some marine life, like the occasional Portuguese Man o' War or specific sea slugs, can also lead to temporary warnings.
What is there to do at El Médano besides swimming and sunbathing?
El Médano is a world-renowned hub for watersports, particularly windsurfing and kitesurfing, with many schools offering lessons and rentals. The town has a bohemian vibe with a pleasant promenade filled with cafes, restaurants, and surf shops. There's often a local market, and you can enjoy walks along the long stretch of beach or towards Montaña Roja.
Which beach is better, El Médano or La Tejita?
It depends on what you're looking for. El Médano is a lively town beach, great for watersports, families, and easy access to amenities, though it can be windy. La Tejita is a larger, more natural, and often quieter beach, popular with naturists in a designated area, and offers stunning views of Montaña Roja. It's also windy but can offer more sheltered spots. If you want buzz and facilities, choose El Médano; for natural beauty and tranquility, La Tejita might be preferred.
Are there any hidden or less crowded beaches in Granadilla de Abona?
While El Médano and La Tejita are the most famous, Granadilla de Abona has smaller, more secluded coves and beaches. Playa Montaña Pelada is a serene cove known for its privacy. Playa La Pelada is another option known for its tranquility and natural setting, also frequented by naturists. Exploring the coastline around Montaña Roja or towards Los Abrigos might reveal quieter spots.
What's the sand like on Granadilla de Abona's beaches?
The sand on Granadilla de Abona's beaches varies. El Médano is known for its fine golden or greyish sand. La Tejita also has dark golden sand. Being volcanic islands, some smaller coves might have darker, black volcanic sand. Generally, the main beaches offer pleasant sandy stretches.
When is the best time to visit Granadilla de Abona for a beach holiday?
Granadilla de Abona enjoys a mild climate year-round, making it suitable for beach holidays in any season. Summer months (June to September) offer the warmest air and sea temperatures, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. However, this is also when the winds can be strongest, which is perfect for windsurfers. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and potentially fewer crowds.
