Is San Andrés a good destination for a family beach holiday?
Yes, San Andrés, primarily because of Playa de las Teresitas, is considered very family-friendly. The beach has calm, shallow waters protected by breakwaters, making it safe for children to play and swim. There are also facilities like lifeguards, showers, toilets, and play areas.
What's the general vibe of San Andrés and Playa de las Teresitas? Is it a party place or more relaxed?
San Andrés and Playa de las Teresitas offer a more relaxed and local atmosphere compared to the bustling tourist resorts in the south of Tenerife. It's popular with residents of Santa Cruz and those seeking a calmer beach day. While there are beach bars, it's not known as a party destination. The village of San Andrés itself is a traditional fishing village.
Can you actually swim at Playa de las Teresitas? What are the water conditions like?
Yes, you can definitely swim at Playa de las Teresitas. The water is generally very calm and clear, almost like a pool, thanks to the breakwaters built offshore that protect it from strong waves and currents. This makes it excellent for swimming and safe for less confident swimmers.
How warm is the water at Playa de las Teresitas?
The water temperature at Playa de las Teresitas is generally pleasant for swimming for a large part of the year. Average water temperatures range from around 19-20°C (66-68°F) in the cooler months to 22-23°C (72-73°F) in summer and autumn. Many consider the swimming season to last most of the year.
What are the accommodation options like near Playa de las Teresitas? Are there beachfront hotels?
In the village of San Andrés, immediately next to Playa de las Teresitas, accommodation mainly consists of holiday apartments, guesthouses, and smaller, locally-run lodgings. You won't find large, sprawling beachfront hotel resorts directly on Playa de las Teresitas, as local regulations have limited such development. For a wider selection of hotels, including larger establishments, visitors usually look to the nearby capital city, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, which is a short drive or bus ride away.
I heard the sand at Playa de las Teresitas isn't natural. Is that true?
Yes, that's true. The original beach in the area consisted of black volcanic sand and pebbles. In the 1970s, Playa de las Teresitas was significantly transformed with tons of golden sand imported from the Sahara Desert to create the expansive, light-colored beach you see today.
What are the best and worst times to visit Playa de las Teresitas to avoid crowds or bad weather?
Playa de las Teresitas can be enjoyed year-round due to Tenerife's mild climate. For fewer crowds, weekdays outside of major holiday seasons (like summer, Easter) are best. Weekends and public holidays, especially with good weather, can get very busy. While generally sunny, the area can sometimes be windy; checking a local weather forecast for wind before going is advisable as the fine sand can be an issue on very windy days.
Are there any local tips for visiting Playa de las Teresitas? (e.g. wind, parking)
Yes, a few tips: Arrive early on weekends or holidays to secure a good parking spot, as the large free car park can fill up. The Santa Cruz council website sometimes offers real-time parking availability. Be mindful that it can get windy; if strong winds are forecast, the fine Sahara sand can be uncomfortable. The beach is very popular with locals from Santa Cruz, especially on Sundays.
How do I get to Playa de las Teresitas from Santa Cruz de Tenerife?
Playa de las Teresitas is located about 7-9 km northeast of Santa Cruz city center. You can drive there by taking the TF-11 road, following signs for San Andrés. The TITSA bus line 910 runs frequently from the Santa Cruz main bus station (Intercambiador) directly to the beach entrance. Taxis from Santa Cruz are also readily available.
Is it easy to find parking at Playa de las Teresitas?
Playa de las Teresitas has a large, free parking area that stretches along much of the beach, with over 1,000 spaces. However, it can get very crowded and fill up completely, especially on sunny weekends, during summer, and on public holidays. Arriving early is highly recommended at these times. Some online resources may show real-time parking occupancy.
What facilities are available at Playa de las Teresitas (toilets, showers, sunbeds, etc.)?
Playa de las Teresitas is well-equipped with a range of facilities. These typically include public toilets, freshwater showers, and footbaths. Lifeguards are on duty. You can rent sun loungers and parasols. There are also access ramps for visitors with reduced mobility and designated accessible parking. Waste bins are plentiful.
Are there places to eat and drink directly on Playa de las Teresitas or nearby in San Andrés?
Yes, there are several beach bars (often called 'chiringuitos') located directly on the sand at Playa de las Teresitas. These offer a variety of snacks, meals (like fresh fish and paella), and drinks. Additionally, the village of San Andrés, which is adjacent to the beach and easily walkable, has numerous local restaurants and cafes, many specializing in Canarian cuisine and fresh seafood.
Are there other beaches near San Andrés apart from Las Teresitas? What are they like?
Yes, if you continue along the coast from San Andrés into the Anaga Rural Park, you'll find smaller, more rugged, and natural beaches. These typically have black volcanic sand. Playa de las Gaviotas is a well-known clothing-optional (nudist) beach a short drive away. Further along the winding roads, or accessible by hiking, are wilder coves like Playa de Benijo, famous for its dramatic scenery and surf. These beaches offer a more secluded experience but generally have fewer or no facilities compared to Las Teresitas.
How does Playa de las Teresitas compare to the beaches in the south of Tenerife?
Playa de las Teresitas offers a distinct experience. It's a large, man-made golden sand beach with very calm waters, popular with locals from Santa Cruz and families, and has a more laid-back, authentically Canarian feel. Beaches in the south of Tenerife (like those in Costa Adeje or Playa de las Américas) are generally located in purpose-built tourist resorts, often with a more international crowd, a wider array of tourist-focused amenities, and a livelier atmosphere. While some southern beaches also have imported light sand, many are naturally black volcanic sand and can have more wave action.
What's the village of San Andrés like next to the beach?
San Andrés is a charming and traditional Canarian fishing village situated right beside Playa de las Teresitas. It retains an authentic local atmosphere with its narrow streets, colorful houses, and a good selection of local bars and restaurants, many specializing in fresh seafood. It's a pleasant place to stroll, experience a more local side of Tenerife, and enjoy a meal after a day at the beach. It also serves as a gateway to the Anaga mountains.
