Playa de Benijo: The Wild Heart of Anaga
If you are looking for rows of sunbeds and cocktail bars, you are in the wrong place. Playa de Benijo (Benijo Beach) is the island’s most iconic «wild» beach—a dramatic stretch of volcanic black sand framed by the jagged peaks of the Anaga Mountains.
It is, quite simply, a photographer’s dream and a sanctuary for those wanting to escape the crowds of the South.
🌴 Why Benijo is Unique
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The charcoal-coloured sand is a striking reminder of Tenerife’s volcanic soul. Unlike the golden beaches of Las Américas, Benijo remains in its raw, natural state. Flanked by the famous Roques de Anaga (majestic rock formations rising from the ocean), the scenery here feels like something out of Jurassic Park.
⚠️ Important: Safety & Swimming
While the waves are a magnet for local surfers, a word of caution for British visitors: the currents here are extremely powerful. Benijo is a place to paddle, walk, and take incredible photos, but swimming far out is not recommended even for strong swimmers. Respect the Atlantic—it’s as fierce as it is beautiful.
🐟 Seafood with a View
After working up an appetite exploring the shore, head back up toward the road where the local flavor awaits. Unlike the commercialized beaches in the south, you won’t find snack bars on the sand here. Instead, a few authentic, family-run restaurants sit perched on the cliffs overlooking the coast.
It’s the perfect reward for your climb: a table with a front-row seat to the Atlantic. We recommend trying the freshly caught local fish, queso asado (grilled cheese with mojo), and the iconic papas arrugadas. Enjoying a cold glass of local wine while watching the sunset over the Roques is, quite simply, the ultimate Tenerife North experience.
📍 Location & How to Get There
The journey is part of the adventure. You’ll drive through the winding, emerald-green roads of the Anaga Rural Park.
Pro Tip: Stop at the viewpoints (miradores) along the way for panoramic shots of the North Coast.
Parking: Space is limited near the trailheads, so arrive early or visit during the week.
🗺️ The Ultimate North Coast Experience
Maximize your day. Book a private excursion to discover the hidden corners of the North, from the historic streets of La Laguna to the wild sands of Benijo
❓ Playa de Benijo: Essential FAQs
Yes, but with caution. Benijo is famous for its wild beauty, which includes strong Atlantic currents and waves. It is best to swim during low tide when there is more sand and the water is calmer. Always keep an eye on the tide and never swim alone if the sea looks rough.
The drive from the South (Los Cristianos/Las Americas/Costa Adeje takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. You’ll need to drive toward Santa Cruz and then follow the winding roads through the Anaga Rural Park. It’s a long journey, so we recommend making a full day of it by stopping at Teresitas Beach or La Laguna along the way.
There is no official «parking lot.» Most visitors park along the sides of the narrow road. Spaces are very limited and fill up quickly, especially on weekends or at sunset. Pro tip: Arrive before 11:00 AM to secure a spot without the stress.
No. Benijo is a virgin, wild beach. There are no showers, toilets, or sunbed rentals on the sand. However, the restaurants located at the top of the stairs (in the hamlet) offer facilities for their customers and the chance to grab a cold drink.
Yes, but it requires a bit of planning. You can take Bus 946 from Santa Cruz, which goes to Taganana and Almaciga, ending near Benijo. Check the TITSA website (https://titsa.com/index.php/en/) for current schedules, as services are infrequent compared to the tourist hubs in the South.