Los Gigantes: Tenerife’s Mighty Cliffs and Coastal Charm
Nestled on Tenerife’s sun-drenched west coast, Los Gigantes offers a captivating blend of natural wonder and modern comfort. Dominated by its world-famous cliffs, this area is a sanctuary for those seeking breathtaking views and a relaxed atmosphere. While the cliffs provide the backdrop, much of the resort’s life, including its best volcanic beaches and local dining, flows directly into the charming area of Puerto de Santiago. Together, they form a perfect destination where the rhythm of island life takes precedence and sunsets over La Gomera become a daily ritual.
🎬 Hollywood on the Rocks: The Cinematic Fame of the Cliffs
The cliffs of Los Gigantes are international stars. Their colossal scale and prehistoric appearance have caught the eye of Hollywood for decades. Most notably, the area served as a dramatic backdrop for the 2010 blockbuster «Clash of the Titans». Standing at the harbour or looking out from the coastal path in Puerto de Santiago, it’s easy to see why directors choose this spot to represent the edge of the world.
🐳 Whale and Dolphin Watching in Los Gigantes
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This is the undisputed number one activity in the area. The deep, sheltered waters between the cliffs and La Gomera are a permanent sanctuary for Bottlenose dolphins and Pilot whales.
Unlike other parts of the island, boat trips from Los Gigantes Marina offer the unique experience of seeing these majestic creatures with the towering cliffs as your backdrop. Most excursions range from 2-hour «safaris» to half-day sails that include a swimming stop at the crystal-clear waters of Masca Bay. Always look for boats carrying the «Blue Boat» flag to ensure a sustainable and respectful encounter with the marine life.
🏨 Best Places to Stay: Accommodation in the area
Finding the right base in Los Gigantes is all about the perspective. The town is built into the hillside, meaning almost every balcony offers a front-row seat to the spectacular cliffs and the neighbouring island of La Gomera.
From upscale resorts with tiered terraces to charming self-catering apartments near the marina, the area caters perfectly to those seeking a quieter, more scenic pace of life. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel with an infinity pool or a cozy hideaway just steps from the volcanic sands of Playa de los Guios, you’ll find that staying here feels like a world apart.
📍 How to Get to Los Gigantes
Los Gigantes is located on the southwest coast, approximately 45 minutes from Tenerife South Airport (TFS).
By Car: Driving is the easiest way to reach the area. The TF-1 motorway connects directly to the town. Having a car is highly recommended if you plan to visit nearby gems like Santiago del Teide or the Masca valley.
By Bus (Guagua): The 473 and 477 lines connect Los Gigantes with Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos regularly.
Pro Tip: Parking in the village centre can be tricky, especially near the harbour. If you are visiting for the day, try the public parking areas near the entrance of the town.
❓ Los Gigantes: Essential FAQs
They are essentially the same destination for a visitor. Los Gigantes is more focused on the harbour and the cliffs, while Puerto de Santiago has more local shops, supermarkets, and the main beach (Playa de la Arena).
Yes! The cliffs’ prehistoric look has made them a Hollywood favourite. The most famous is the blockbuster «Clash of the Titans» (2010), but the area also featured in «Wrath of the Titans» and the 2019 TV series «The Peacemaker». Its dramatic landscape is often used by directors to represent mythical or otherworldly locations.
Yes! Don’t miss the Isla Cangrejo natural pool in Puerto de Santiago. It’s a spectacular spot to watch the waves crash against the rocks from a safe, walled-in swimming area.
It can be challenging. In Los Gigantes, the harbour has a paid car park. In Puerto de Santiago, you can usually find spots in the upper streets, but it involves a bit of walking.
The coastal path (Paseo Marítimo) that connects Puerto de Santiago with Los Gigantes offers incredible views as the sun sets behind the island of La Gomera.