We invite you on a virtual journey through some special places on the wonderful island of Tenerife.
Las Teresitas Beach – Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Las Teresitas Beach is one of Tenerife’s most beautiful and, perhaps surprisingly, completely free. Located just 10 km from the island’s capital, Santa Cruz, this beach with soft golden sand (imported from the Sahara) stretches along a bay protected by an artificial reef that keeps the waters calm and clear — ideal for swimming and relaxing safely.
There’s free parking and public facilities like showers and changing rooms. You’ll find chiringuitos (beach bars) along the shore, but you’re welcome to bring your own snacks and drinks for a picnic. It’s a perfect spot for families or anyone wanting a serene swim in an exotic setting.
Palm trees provide natural shade, and the beach is especially beautiful in the morning or during golden hour at sunset. A visit to Las Teresitas offers a tropical vibe without spending a cent.
Masca – traditional village and dramatic scenery
Masca is often considered the most beautiful village in Tenerife, set high in the Teno mountains with breathtaking views. The drive to get there is an adventure itself — narrow, winding roads with unforgettable scenery at every turn.
Walking through the village is free and delightful. You’ll pass traditional Canarian houses, terraced gardens, and panoramic viewpoints. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and hikers, with the famous Masca Gorge hike beginning here (though access may be restricted, so check ahead).
Even without hiking, the views from the village alone are worth the trip. It’s a serene place that feels untouched by time, offering a glimpse of Tenerife’s rural past in a stunning natural setting.
Teide National Park (public access)
Teide National Park is one of the most spectacular destinations in Tenerife and a unique natural attraction in Europe. Access is free as long as you don’t use the cable car or request a permit to summit Teide. The area offers stunning volcanic landscapes, vast lava fields, bizarre rock formations, and dramatic color contrasts — from the black of volcanic rock to the white clouds floating below you.
Hiking is the most popular activity in the park. Marked trails like Siete Cañadas or Roques de García guide you through a surreal setting, perfect for photos or peaceful contemplation. Sunrise or sunset here is unforgettable. In fact, Teide is one of the best stargazing spots in the world, thanks to its clear skies and low light pollution.
Access is easy by car or public buses (though infrequent), and there are free parking areas at several entry points. A picnic amidst this lunar-like scenery is a memorable experience. Just be sure to stick to marked paths to help preserve this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
La Laguna – UNESCO World Heritage Historic Center
San Cristóbal de La Laguna, or just La Laguna, is the first colonial city in the Canary Islands and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Strolling through its historic center is entirely free and thoroughly enriching. Cobbled streets, colorful colonial architecture, inner courtyards, and ancient churches make for a charming and cultural walk.
You’ll find monuments, museums with free entry on certain days, and churches open to visitors. Places like the cathedral and Santa Catalina convent often offer free access. Everything is easily explored on foot, with helpful signage throughout the city.
La Laguna also hosts frequent open-air exhibitions, local markets, and occasional live music events — many of them free. It’s a place where history, culture, and vibrant local life coexist effortlessly.
Anaga Rural Park – hiking in ancient laurel forests
Anaga Rural Park in northeastern Tenerife is a natural treasure, known for its biodiversity and ancient laurel forests (laurisilva). Entry is free, and its extensive network of marked trails makes it a hiker’s paradise.
Trails begin from points like Cruz del Carmen, Taganana, Chamorga, or Punta del Hidalgo and range from easy walks to challenging treks. Along the way, you’ll pass through dense forests, dramatic ravines, ocean views, and even hidden beaches like Benijo.
You’ll also find isolated villages with traditional Canarian homes, offering a peaceful and authentic experience. Bring your own water and food, as services inside the park are limited. Anaga is a great way to disconnect and enjoy Tenerife’s wild, green side.
Playa del Duque – elegance without the price
Playa del Duque, located in Costa Adeje, is often associated with luxury hotels and chic beach clubs — yet the beach itself is completely free and accessible to the public. It’s known for its clean golden sand, calm waters, and overall sophisticated atmosphere.
The promenade leading to the beach is lined with stylish boutiques and cafés, but you don’t need to spend a thing to enjoy the sun and sea. The beach offers public showers, changing rooms, and sunbeds (available for a fee, but optional). You can simply bring a towel and enjoy a day in one of Tenerife’s most elegant coastal settings.
It’s also a great spot for families and swimming, thanks to the breakwaters that calm the surf. The area is well-maintained, with lifeguards on duty, and offers easy access for people with limited mobility. Whether you’re walking along the promenade or lounging by the waves, Playa del Duque proves that luxury can be enjoyed for free.
Garachico – rebuilt from lava
Garachico is a coastal town with a dramatic past, having been partially destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 1706. Today, it stands as one of the most picturesque towns in Tenerife, perfect for a free visit filled with charm and history.
Explore the old town, colonial buildings, historic churches, and quiet squares. Don’t miss San Miguel Castle and the central Plaza de la Libertad. Everything is walkable and free to explore.
A highlight is El Caletón, a series of natural swimming pools formed by solidified lava. Swimming here is free, and the ocean backdrop is simply stunning. Garachico’s unique blend of nature and heritage makes it a favorite for many visitors.
Benijo Beach – wild beauty in the northeast
Benijo Beach is a hidden gem for those who love unspoiled nature. Located at the end of the road through Anaga Park, it’s known for its striking rock formations, dramatic waves, and untouched atmosphere.
Access is free via a staircase from the nearby parking area. Once there, you’ll find black sand, clear water, and incredible views — especially at sunset. There are no facilities on the beach, so come prepared with your own water, snacks, and sun protection.
It’s a favorite for photographers, locals, and nature lovers. If you want a peaceful, remote beach experience, Benijo offers it in abundance.
Puerto de la Cruz – promenade and botanical surroundings
Puerto de la Cruz is a vibrant northern town full of charm and free attractions. A walk along the seaside promenade reveals fantastic views of the Atlantic, crashing waves, and public art displays.
You can admire the exterior of the historic Botanical Garden and stroll through the colorful old quarter, where murals, colonial buildings, and live street performances are common. Free events and music often take place in public squares.
Playa Martiánez is popular among surfers, and nearby you’ll find the Castillo de San Felipe — open to visitors free of charge when exhibitions are running. Puerto de la Cruz offers a lively mix of culture and coastal relaxation.
Los Gigantes – cliffs and coastal walk
The cliffs of Los Gigantes are among the island’s most impressive natural wonders — towering vertical walls rising up to 600 meters from the sea. While boat trips to view them are paid, the view from the shore is entirely free.
Stroll along the seaside promenade, take in panoramic views, and relax at Playa Los Guios, a small black-sand beach at the foot of the cliffs. It’s a peaceful spot for sunbathing and swimming with breathtaking scenery.
For photography lovers, the golden hour offers the best light to capture the majesty of the cliffs. The nearby harbor is also a pleasant place to sit and watch the ocean without spending a cent.