Playa de Almáciga

Playa de Almáciga

Playa de Almáciga is one of the great wild beaches of the Anaga massif, on the northern side of the municipality of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Located next to the hamlet of Almáciga and very close to Taganana, it is part of a stretch of coast open to the Atlantic where the volcanic landscape, the cliffs and the constant swell define the character of the place. It is a dark-toned beach, about 300 metres long and around 35 metres wide, with a mix of black sand, gravel and rock typical of the Anaga coast.

Unlike the sheltered beaches of the south of the island, Almáciga is an undeveloped natural setting, frequented by surfers, locals and travellers seeking the most authentic side of Tenerife. The power of the sea and the beauty of the massif have made it one of the most photographed beaches in the north, but also one of those that demand the greatest caution. If you are exploring other coastal options, you can check the list of beaches in the guide.

Open sea and strong swell

Almáciga is completely exposed to the ocean, with no natural barriers to dampen the swell. The waves are powerful for much of the year and the currents can change quickly, so bathing conditions are usually demanding. It is a scene much appreciated by experienced surfers, but general bathing requires caution.

Safety recommendations

• Currents: the sea can drag you out; avoid moving away from the shore and do not bathe on rough-sea days.

• Swell: the waves break hard and entry into the water is uneven; always assess the state of the sea before bathing.

• Surveillance: it has a lifeguard service in season (1 June to 30 September), but outside that period there is no surveillance.

• Signage: respect the danger warnings posted on the beach.

Services and facilities

Because of its wild nature, Almáciga offers very basic services. It has a municipal cleaning service and seasonal lifeguards, as well as risk signage. It does not have urban-beach facilities such as sunbeds, showers or changing rooms. Camping and overnight parking of motorhomes are prohibited in the area. Near the beach, around Almáciga and Roque de las Bodegas, there are kiosks and restaurants where you can get something to eat and drink.

• Type of sand: black volcanic sand with gravel and rock.

• Lifeguards: seasonal, from June to September.

• Profile: a wild beach, ideal for surfing and for enjoying the Anaga landscape.

How to get there

It is reached by car via the TF-134 road, which runs along the Taganana coast. You can park on the sides of the road and walk down to the beach by short paths. Public transport also reaches it via the bus line that connects the area with Santa Cruz de Tenerife. To plan your visit it is best to check the official information of the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Town Council and of Tenerife Tourism.