The Las Teresitas Beach is one of the most visited places in Tenerife and undoubtedly one of the most recognisable images of the Canary Islands. Located in the district of San Andrés, just 7 kilometres from Santa Cruz de Tenerife, this artificial beach featuring golden sand has become a cultural and tourist symbol of the island.
An Artificial Beach with Sahara Sand
While many visitors believe that the sand at Las Teresitas is natural, the reality is that this beach was constructed in 1973. Originally, the area was composed of pebbles (volcanic stones), but the local council decided to transform it to make it more attractive.
Over 270,000 tonnes of sand from the Sahara were imported and mixed with local sand. To protect the beach from strong tides, a 1-kilometre breakwater was built, preventing erosion and allowing for calm waters throughout the year.
Due to its origin, a myth circulated for years suggesting that the sand brought from the Sahara came with scorpions, which is entirely false.
Three Beaches that Merged
Before its transformation in 1973, the area consisted of three small beaches: “Tras la Arena”, the closest to San Andrés; “Los Moros”, in the centre; and the section of Barranco de Las Teresas, which eventually gave the whole area its name.
It is said that this was a dangerous beach, where the water struck the rocks with force. Locals recall that several people even lost their lives. Due to its orientation, the strength of the water and wind has always characterised this beach.
A Chalet in “Los Moros”
In this central section, known as “Los Moros”, there was a unique chalet used by a royal couple: Princess Diana of Orléans (daughter of the Counts of Paris) and Duke Karl of Württemberg (son of Philip Albert, Duke of Württemberg).
The chalet was situated by the sea, surrounded by crops and fruit trees, and served as the venue for their honeymoon in September 1960, following their marriage on 21 July of that same year.
Although the property no longer exists, remnants remain, including two Indian laurels, traces of walls, floors, and the coastal parapet, located near accesses 7 and 8 of the beach.
Other Interesting Facts About Las Teresitas You Might Not Know
- No Big Waves: Thanks to the breakwater, the waves are minimal, making Las Teresitas an ideal spot for families and the elderly.
- Tropical Palms: Over 400 palm trees were planted, creating a paradisiacal environment that contrasts with Tenerife’s typical volcanic landscape.
- A Cemetery Beneath the Sand: Prior to its construction, the northern end of the beach housed the San Andrés cemetery, which was buried beneath the sand during the works.
- Filming Location: Due to its Caribbean-like appearance, Las Teresitas has been featured in advertisements, music videos, and international documentaries.
- A More Ambitious Project: Initially, plans were in place to construct a marina and a large tourist complex next to the beach, but these were never realised.
The Beach of Santa Cruz Residents
Although it is famous among tourists, Las Teresitas has always been regarded as the beach for the residents of Santa Cruz, who visit each weekend. Its over 1.3 kilometres of golden sand ensure ample space even on busy days.
The contrast with other beaches in Tenerife, such as Las Gaviotas or Taganana, is notable: while these retain their black volcanic sand and strong waves, Las Teresitas provides a calmer and more accessible environment.
How to Get There and What to Do
The beach has free parking, beach bars, and facilities such as showers and sun loungers. It can be reached by car in under 15 minutes from the centre of Santa Cruz or by bus (lines 910 and 945 of Titsa).
In addition to swimming and sunbathing, many visitors take the opportunity to explore the Las Teresitas lookout point, situated high up on the road to Igueste, which provides the best panoramic views of the beach and the capital.
