Visit Bajamar – The Northern Pearl of Tenerife

The relaxed resort of Bajamar in northern Tenerife is ideal for swimmers, hikers and surfers in search of a laid-back break. With a slower pace of life and a milder climate, this part of the island offers beaches, mountains and glorious seaside saltwater pools.  

Situated on the Northern coast of Tenerife, Bajamar is a photogenic spot that’s popular with swimmers, hikers, surfers, divers, snorkellers and fishing fans. The resort lies close to the Anaga mountains and offers good quality accommodation, a saltwater pool complex and a peaceful atmosphere.

Whether you’re seeking an active holiday or a laid-back break, this resort with a history of sugar cane growing and fishing is alluring to anyone seeking picturesque landscapes, water based activities and local hikes. 

The Best Time to Visit

As you may already know, the climate of northern Tenerife is somewhat different from that of the southern resorts. While the weather still tends to be warm, there also tends to be higher levels of humidity, cloudy skies and rainfall. Stronger trade winds from the northeast can also affect this region, and it can also be a little chillier than southern Tenerife. 

This more mild climate has created a lush, green landscape in the Bajamar area, and one which is better suited to agriculture and hiking alike. Typical August highs in Bajamar may be around 25°C with 10 daily hours of sunshine. January is the coldest and wettest month, with highs of about 17.5°C. 

The ocean is at its warmest in September, with an average temperature of about 24°C. This is the best month for keen swimmers to visit. Between June and November is the warmest period in Bajamar, though the climate is reliably mild even during winter and spring. 

How to Get to Bajamar

Bus routes 50, 105 and 224 all pass near Bajamar.

Buses 50 and 224 run from La Laguna to Punta del Hidalgo, stopping in Bajamar on the way. Bus 105, meanwhile, runs from Santa Cruz to Punta del Hidalgo, and also calls in at Bajamar en route.

Things to do in Bajamar 

Dip into the Natural Pools of Bajamar

The natural saltwater pool is Bajamar’s number one attraction – and there’s no entrance fee, either. Fronting the large pools is a pleasant promenade, and once in the water kids and adults can enjoy a swim in seawater without worrying about big waves or hidden underwater currents. Boasting a Blue Flag award, it’s a clean place to swim. 

A separate kids’ pool provides a safer space for young children, and the complex offers lifeguards on duty, changing rooms, showers, places to eat and drink nearby and even organised activities. The lighthouse here is also a recognised local landmark, and it’s a great place to watch the sunset. 

Where: You can find the pools here on Google Maps.

Chill out at Bajamar Beach

Playa de Bajamar is situated right next to the saltwater pools and the lighthouse. The sand is protected by a breakwater, making the waves far calmer than usual for the coastline in the north of Tenerife. 

A variety of local eateries are close by for when you need a cool drink or bite to eat. By Bajamar beach you’ll also find a car park, toilets, a yacht club and boat hire outlets. 

Watch the Waves Break During High Tide

If you visit the north-east of Tenerife during September or October, then you may witness the natural phenomenon known as Pine Tides, or Mareas del Pino. The huge waves breaking against the stone wall is a breathtaking sight, so don’t forget to capture this natural spectacle on film. 

The location is right near the natural pools and the beach.

Sample Local Restaurants

Bar Terraza El Capricho

This restaurant in Bajamar receives consistent five star reviews and is for many visitors their local go-to eatery. Creative, authentic Spanish and Mediterranean dishes are on the menu and you can expect the warmest of welcomes as well as outstanding food and service.  

Casa Pepe El Playa

With a dining room overlooking the ocean and fusion food in addition to Mediterranean and Spanish favourites, Casa Pepe offers friendly service, stunning sea views and delicious cuisine. The fish soup is a popular pick here. 

Mojo Rojo

Mojo Rojo – is perfect for those who want to try Spanish specialities like paella and tapas. Dishes served here are packed with flavour, beautifully presented and executed with great culinary flair, and can be washed down with local beers. 

Surf the Crest of a Wave

Bajamar is one of the island’s most popular surfing spots. There’s a thriving community centre on the sport, and unless it’s particularly unsettled at sea is suitable for all levels of ability with both right and left hand swells. 

The nearby locations of El Arenal and El Charco are easy to reach from Bajamar and also offer reliable swells. 

El Arenal

El Arenal is pretty consistent, though this spot is actually at its best during winter. There are swells from both sides, especially when there are north winds blowing. 

Location: Google Maps

El Charco

El Charco is a quiet beach offering an exposed break that’s good for seasoned surfers when the swells are large. When it’s calmer, it’s also suitable for those at intermediate level, and you can hire boards or book tuition here.  

Take a Hike in the Hills

There are two popular hiking loops you can take from Bajamar, as follows.

Bajamar – Roque Moquinal – Casa de Fuset 

The first stage of this hike is to take the footpath from town towards the Roque Moquinal, almost 800 metres above sea level. Upon reaching the Juradero you can then drink in views of the Anaga’s outh face before taking the route to Casa de Fuset. Here you’ll find Casa de Franco, a partly ruined building that is often linked to paranormal activity. 

The return 17.5-km loop trail takes around six-and-a-half hours and is seen as moderately challenging. It tends to be quiet, though you may encounter the occasional trail runner or hiker.

You can find a map of the hike here.

Bajamar – Lomo la Bandera

This 18.2km hike takes you close to San Cristóbal de La Laguna. The trail takes about seven hours to complete, and is fairly challenging.

This route is ideal for either walkers or runners, and you’re not likely to come across many other people along the way. Here is a map of this hike.

Where to Stay

There are no hotels in the relatively non-touristy Bajamar area. This means you’ll have to stay in apartments when visiting this part of northern Tenerife. Here are a few recommendations for the best places in town. 

Bajamar Armonia Park

This apartment in Bajamar is ideal for those with a hire car, as there’s private parking on site. Other useful amenities include a gym, free WiFi throughout, pleasant gardens and a kids’ playground. 

Bajamar Armonia Park is conveniently positioned for guests who want to take part in activities like hiking, snorkelling, fishing, surfing, diving and swimming. The one bedroom apartment comes with a full kitchen, flatscreen cable TV, all linen and towels and a seaview balcony. Playa San Juan is just 450 metres from the front door. 

Sunset Dream Bajamar

This Bajamar apartment comes with a kitchenette, two bedrooms and access to a private pool. A gym, play park, airport shuttle and grocery shopping service are among the attractive facilities available. There is also a continental breakfast served daily. 

Bikes can be stored on site here and the property can also provide help with booking car or cycle hire. Fresh decor, sea views, welcoming hosts and the outdoor swimming pool are among this property’s highlights. 

Armonia

Armonia in Bajamar also offers a good standard of accommodation for couples or small families. There is a children’s playground here, plus a fitness centre for the adults. The apartment comes complete with a kitchenette, washing machine, hairdryer, free toiletries and more. 

A tour desk can help guests with booking local trips and onward travel, and there is a car park on site. The accommodation is located in a quiet spot and all towels and linen are supplied. There are pleasant mountain, garden and ocean views from this complex.