A stunning beach in Tenerife was created using tonnes of sand imported from the Sahara Desert, and has become a popular destination for sunseekers from around the world.
Playa de las Teresitas, located north of the village of San Andrés, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, had previously been a strip made up of black sand and rocks, but began a major transformation in the 70s.
In 1953 authorities on the Canary Island decided to construct an artificial beach on the land, and 20 years later some 270,000 tones of white sand was transported from Western Sahara, with the beach created over the original volanic sands.
It’s been rehabilitated and reconditioned several times since and stretches around 0.8 miles long and 262 feet wide.
Its unique colour has also made it a standout destination for holidaymakers and was previously named as one of the nation’s most “picturesque” thanks to data analysed by expert on all things Spain, James Smith from Learn Spanish With James.
The beach was found to be the most Instagrammed on the island, and with its striking golden sands and calm waters – thanks to a stone breakwater installed in the late 60s – its easy to see why.
Its popularity is likely enhanced by its accessibility. Las Teresitas beach is the closest to the port city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, and is close to the quaint village of San Andrés, an old village with cobbled streets and mansions dating back centuries.
One recent TripAdvisor visitor gave the beach a five-star review and was pleased with how affordable it was.
“We have always fancied visiting this beach, it took just over an hour to drive up from Los Cristianos,” they wrote.
“It’s a pretty easier drive with plenty of parking when you arrive. We paid €6 for sun-beds and a parasol which I think is really cheap. I should imagine it is twice the price in the south resorts. The beach is clean and the sea is clear despite all the massive ships just off the coast.”
Another said they enjoyed the clear water and “swam with fishes which was fantastic”.
“We felt very safe with both the police and life guards present on site,” they said, adding that there were “various changing rooms, showers and toilets make it convenient to visit. It’d be even better if there are smart lockers on site.”
A third called it their “favourite beach of all time”. “There is a barrier to block the wave out so I feel very safe swimming there,” they said, “There is fish that you can watch and swim with.
“This beach is perfect for children, elder and people who is afraid of the sea like me,” they added.
Tenerife still sees sunny days in the winter months, though it is noticeably chillier than the summer. Tenerife seas average October highs of around 26C. In November these drop to 23C and even in December some of the warmest days recorded can rise as high as 21C.
