Though rarely mentioned in travel guidebooks, natural saltwater pools – also known as charcos or piscinas naturales in Spanish – are one of Tenerife’s hidden treasures. Naturally formed, wild and breathtakingly beautiful, visiting the best natural pools in Tenerife may well be a highlight of your trip to the island.
Some lava pools in Tenerife were created as a result of volcanic eruptions in past times. Others, meanwhile, have been shaped by ocean activity or are part of the island’s rock formations. Some of these natural swimming pools in Tenerife are completely unspoiled.
In other cases, such as Punta del Hidalgo or Bajamar, local authority intervention has made the pools safer. An entire infrastructure has been built here, including the provision of a lifeguard service and other amenities.
For a unique experience, clean and clear water, a peaceful setting and nature at its finest, visiting these pools in the north or south of Tenerife is a truly memorable experience. These bodies of water are dotted all around the island, and we are on a mission to introduce you to all the best ones in this article!
Proceed with Caution
Before we begin, a word of warning if we may. Not all of the natural lava swimming pools in Tenerife are equally safe. Those that have additional barriers installed and lifeguards available are of course the safest, while the more undeveloped ones should be approached with caution.
Swimming in the pools is best at low tide, and only advisable when the water is calm in any case. Stormy seas mean staying away from these natural rock pools in Tenerife. Having said that, when the weather is really bad the pools do tend to be cordoned off.
Even when the water is calm, do stay inside the pool. Most accidents occur when people are swept away by powerful wave action after straying to the outer edge of a pool. Many people have indeed lost their lives by being careless.
We don’t say this to stop you from enjoying this beautiful, natural phenomenon. Just take care not to play around with nature and the weather, and you should be fine!
Natural Pools on the West Coast
A Natural Swimming Pool in Los Gigantes
The natural swimming pool in Los Gigantes is also known as Charco de Isla Cangrejo. You can find it by following Calle Magnolia in the coastal resort. This natural pool has a rocky bottom, strong waves and is deep in parts.
Though walls have been built for protection, large waves often wash over the pool and can flood it. When this happens stay away from the water, as the waves can wash you against the rocks, causing injury. The Los Gigantes natural pool is thus often closed when conditions are stormy.
If you do visit, Charco de Isla Cangrejo is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. Observing the sunset here, and the powerful waves crashing against the rocks, are memorable experiences. It’s a popular pool, though, as well as one that’s easy to reach, so it can get crowded at times.
Location: Google Maps
Avoid standing on the edge of this pool, even if the ocean looks calm. Accidents happen here on a monthly basis. People get swept out into the ocean, or are bashed against the rocks by waves that seemingly appear from nowhere.
The Cueva del Tancón Blowhole
Cueva del Tancón is a water-filled cave on the coast of Puerto Santiago. Sculpted basalt sides surrounding the water make a most majestic backdrop. It’s a spectacular sight, and one of the most photographed spots on the island.
You can access the site from the sea, or via the coast. Exercise extreme caution, though. Strong currents can soon make this beautiful place lethal. In fact Cueva del Tancón is not a natural pool, but a blowhole (bufadero).
This is why getting in can be so dangerous. The cave is constantly being filled with and emptied of water. Thus there is a risk of being crushed against the cave ceiling if too much water gets in, or being sucked underwater by the current.
As of 2023, the cave has been closed to the public. This is due to the number of accidents that have happened here. People have actually died. During the last case in 2021, two young men unfortunately drowned.
Sadly, people still come to swim here even despite the blowhole being officially closed.
Location: Google Maps
Alcala Natural Pools
These natural pools in Tenerife South are located in the small and beautiful village of Alcala. We highly recommend visiting if you are nearby. The village has a very nice promenade, two playgrounds for kids, some lovely restaurants, and a pleasing vibe. You may also choose to make this your Tenerife base, because the 5-star Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora hotel can be found here.
But let’s focus on the pools. There are a few of these located on both sides of Playa La Jaquita, a black sand beach. One of them – which is closer to the hotel – is even child-friendly since it’s so calm and shallow. Our kids loved wading in there to look for juvenile fish and other sea creatures.
Other pools are good for swimming. All the pools offer an easy descent into the water via stairs and handrails. The water is clean and calm. In general, these natural pools in Alcala are really safe.
There are free toilets and showers near La Jaquita beach, and also a cafe. The sunset here is also stunning.
Finding a parking spot here is not so simple, however. The nearest car park is in front of the entrance to the Red Level at Palacio de Isora (here), but there are just a few spaces. Your best bet is to park near the Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora hotel (location), and walk to the pools from there.
Location: Google Maps
Natural Pools on the South Coast
Los Abrigos Natural Pools
These natural tidal pools were formed by waves pounding against volcanic rock. The site lies between Los Abrigos and El Medano. After Abrigos, take a right turn onto the dirt track leading towards the sea when you reach the banana plantation. You can park here before enjoying this fabulous natural swimming pool. Or the walk from the road takes only five minutes.
Kids will love all the crabs to be found among the rocks here, though the pool is deep and therefore not the safest for children. There is a steel ladder for adult access, and the water ranges between three and four metres deep according to the tide.
If you do venture here, the pool offers an undiscovered feel, attractive rock formations, crystal clear water and breathtaking views.
Location: Google Maps
Natural Pools on the North Coast
Charco Don Gabino
Charco don Gabino is named for a local banana plantation owner and is situated on the coast of Los Silos, close to the blowhole (El Bufadero). This pool is about ten metres by two to three metres, and has steps with a handrail for access to the clear water.
The site combines the best of Mother Nature with some man-made features, and the result is pleasing to the eye. A cobbled pathway and sunbathing area can also be found here.
The disadvantage of this pool is that the waves can be very strong – which is far from unheard of in this part of the island. Bathing is never recommended in such conditions.
Location: Google Maps
Charco Las Mujeres
Charco las Mujeres is also known as Charco Roque. It’s positioned between Playa del Fraile and Playa de las Arenas. The pool is set among a stunning coastal and volcanic landscape, and it tends to be very peaceful here.
It has clean water, and as this tends to be calm, it’s safer for kids than other pools. Locals tend to use it more than tourists, and the sunset here is incredible. Arrive early and you may even have the place to yourselves.
Parking is available.
Location: Google Maps
Charco Los Chochos
This pool is located between Charco Don Gabino and Charco de la Araña. It’s characterised by singular shapes caused by historic lava flow. The site has a mystical feel and a pleasant natural saltwater pool.
Charco Los Chochos is up to two metres deep in parts, and has stone steps with a handrail for easy entry to the water. It’s family friendly, with good access and plenty of parking. There are fantastic views of Mount Teide and La Culata cliffs on a clear day too.
Location: Google Maps
Garachico Natural Pools
The Garachico pools are also known as El Caletón. They resulted from volcanic lava flowing here during the early 18th century, and now offer one of the island’s finest swimming spots. El Caletón de Garachio has a series of pools of varying shapes and sizes.
You can find the ideal pool for a toddler here, in addition to bigger pools that are perfect for adults. The construction of a walkway, sunbathing platforms and stairs here has improved access. While these are among the island’s most protected pools, it’s still unsafe to enter the water when it’s stormy. The Garachico pools may be closed for safety reasons at times.
Facilities at El Caletón include parking, a summer lifeguard service, a restaurant built over the lava, a nearby beach, plenty of shops and eateries and the new port.
Location: Google Maps
Charco de la Laja
La Laja pool is located in the northern village of San Juan de la Rambla, close to the viewpoint of the same name. You can park on the street here, before ascending the stairs that lead to the solitary pool.
Though there’s only one pool here, it’s deep enough to swim in and has a beautiful setting. It’s a favourite among locals, yet remains relatively off the tourist radar. Expect warm, clear water – and big waves at times. When this occurs, do stay away. The pool may be closed then in any case, but even then it remains a very pretty and photogenic spot.
Charco de la Laja has good amenities and access. There is a sun terrace here, plus several restaurants and bars. While visiting, taking a coastal walk to San Juan de la Rambla village is recommended – not least for the authentic local restaurants found here.
Location: Google Maps
Charco del Viento
La Guancha lies close to La Laja and is home to one of the north’s finest volcanic pool complexes. It’s a relatively undeveloped site, with incredible views over the banana plantations and majestic Mount Teide. This is a peaceful place, and as a rule there are few visitors.
There are rocky and sandy areas you can sunbathe at, and those who love fishing will enjoy angling in the waters here. Charco del Viento is also popular with scuba divers due to the abundance of marine life.
The pools are signposted, and there’s a dedicated car park nearby. Steps also lead down to the pools. The waves here can be powerful, so do stay away from the water if it’s stormy.
Location: Google Maps
Mesa del Mar Natural Pools
Close to the beach and village of Mesa del Mar, a section of the ocean is enclosed by man-made walls and natural volcanic rock. There are two swimming pools here. Locals visit the site throughout the summer, and one of the two is open all year round. You can see the pool from the steep, winding road as you approach.
The Mesa del Mar natural pools are well protected and thus safe for swimming in. Man-made stairs ensure easy access, and there’s lots of space for sunbathing too. It’s a lovely spot for seeing the sunset, and therefore popular at peak times.
La Arena beach can also be accessed via the tunnel leading from here. This unspoiled, black sand beach offers magnificent views of Mount Teide, and is perfect for picnicking.
Location: Google Maps
Playa el Pris
Playa el Pris is located on the coastline near Mesa del Mar. You can find one of the best pools on the island here, though the Atlantic Ocean can be rough in this area. Concrete walls provide protection for visitors, so it’s safe to take a dip in this shallow pool.
Ramps, stairs and handrails make access easier for those with mobility issues, and there’s a summer lifeguard service. El Pris offers an unusually picturesque view, with a stark contrast between the calm pool waters and the powerful ocean. El Pris tends to be a locals’ haunt, though tourists do appear here during the summer months.
Afternoon is a great time to arrive, as you can watch the sunset and enjoy a fresh seafood dinner at one of the great local restaurants.
There is a large car park available at Playa el Pris.
Location: Google Maps
Natural Pools on the Northeast Coast
A Natural Pool in Punta del Hidalgo
The pool at Punta del Hidalgo is one of the highlights of the San Cristobal de La Laguna coastline. These pools were also formed by flowing lava, and the site boasts Blue Flag status for clear waters and amenities. Facilities found here include showers, lifeguards and disabled access.
Punta del Hidalgo is suitable for small children as the pools here are shallow, well-sheltered and warm during low tide. The rocky area around here is also favoured by snorkellers. While you’re here, taking a walk along the promenade, perhaps with a lunch stop at one of the restaurants, is recommended. The mountain and ocean views from here are seriously impressive.
Location: Google Maps
Jóver Natural Swimming Pool
The Jóver Natural Pool is located in Tejina, in the San Cristóbal de La Laguna area. Here you can enjoy both a natural, unspoiled landscape and facilities such as local restaurants and a good sized car park. It’s a popular place to swim, but very rarely crowded.
The small, sheltered bay is protected by volcanic rock and therefore offers calm water. It’s often family-friendly, but can be closed during storms, particularly during the winter months.
A gently sloping ramp and a staircase with a handrail makes this a good bet for all ages. There is also a pleasant little plaza and a lifeguard service. After swimming, you can also rinse off under a refreshing natural shower, fed by spring water from the mountains.
Location: Google Maps
Bajamar Natural Pools
The Bajamar Natural Pools attract many visitors, not least because these Blue Flag awarded natural swimming pools offer clean water and good services. Facilities include changing rooms, stairs with handrails and ramps, lifeguards on duty, decent eateries and even a programme of regular activities arranged by the local council.
Though the pools are popular, there is plenty of space for everyone here – and sufficient parking spots. Two bigger pools plus a smaller one perfect for children make Bajamar suitable for all ages. It’s also free to enter the site, and it also offers sun-drenched platforms, the local lighthouse and an attractive promenade.
For more things to do in this area, check out our Bajamar guide.
Location: Google Maps
Natural Pools in Tenerife on the Map
TENERIFE ESSENTIALS
To explore Tenerife to the fullest and at your own pace, we highly recommend renting a car. Our favourite place for car rental is the RentalCars website. It allows you to compare different providers and pick the best deal. You also get the best protection and flexibility for booking terms.
The unmissable top attractions in Tenerife are: Siam Park (tickets here), Loro Parque (tickets here) and Teide National Park (cable car tickets + transfer).
We also recommend taking at least one guided tour. Our favourite place for booking tours in Tenerife is GetYourGuide.
Top 3 excursions on the island:
- A whale and dolphin watching (pick by location: Los Cristianos, Costa Adeje, Los Gigantes).
- Stargazing in Teide National Park
- Kayaking and Snorkeling with Turtles
Our favourite websites for accommodation in Tenerife are: Booking.com (for hotels) and VRBO (for apartments and holiday homes).
The best hotels for families with kids (in our opinion):
Luxury: GF Victoria (Costa Adeje) or Bahia Principe Fantasia (Golf del Sur)
Mid-Range: Spring Hotel Bitácora (Playa de las Americas) or Iberostar Bouganville Playa (Costa Adeje)
Budget: GF Isabel (Costa Adeje) or Paradise Park Fun Lifestyle Hotel (Los Cristianos)
The best adults-only hotels:
Luxury: Iberostar Grand El Mirador (Costa Adeje) or Gran Melia Palacio de Isora (Alcalá)
Mid-Range: Tigotan Lovers & Friends (Playa de las Americas) or Iberostar Selection Sábila (Costa Adeje)
Budget: Barceló Santiago (Puerto de Santiago)
Top hotels for everyone:
Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, Abama or Bahia del Duque (Costa Adeje)
Mid-Range: Hard Rock Hotel (Playa Paraiso) or Dreams Jardin Tropical Resort & Spa (Costa Adeje)
Budget: Alexandre Hotel Gala or Olé Tropical Tenerife (both Playa de las Americas)
