Welcome to Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, where the mesmerising world beneath the waves invites explorers to embark on an unforgettable expedition. Each corner of this aquatic Eden nurtures a symphony of life, making every dive a captivating exploration. Get ready to pack your snorkelling gear and discover the picturesque beauty of these 12 exceptional diving locations.
1. El Puertito
When it comes to immersion in the delightful realm of subaqueous splendour, few places in Tenerife can rival El Puertito. This peaceful bay boasts clear, calm waters that provide the perfect stage for beginners and seasoned explorers alike. Step into this blue expanse, and you’ll find yourself surrounded by friendly green turtles, colourful schools of fish, and fascinating geological formations. With its sun-kissed beaches to relax upon following your diving, El Puertito promises an excursion that echoes with fun, learning, and awe.
2. Abades
For those with a taste for mystery and history, Abades is an unmissable spot. It showcases an enticing blend of natural and man-made allure. Beyond the surface of these turquoise waters lies an intriguing landscape dotted with ruins of an abandoned leprosy village. Exploring this submerged ghost town, you’ll encounter the dance of sunlight and shadow, creating an ambience of tranquillity and discovery. As you navigate through the ruins, glimpses of vivid fish and other bewitching beings will grace your dive, making Abades a destination of adventure, narrative, and charm.
3. Alcala
Alcala offers a peek into the luring realm beneath the seas of Tenerife. This serene bay, adorned with smooth pebble beaches, reveals a thriving metropolis teeming with life just underneath its reflective facade. Its pristine waters serve as a sanctuary for a remarkable variety of marine creatures, ranging from amiable green turtles to delicate starfish. As the sun illuminates the water, it creates an enrapturing backdrop to your underwater explorations. Adjacent to the bay, accessible natural pools provide a pleasant space for relaxation, adding to the attraction of Alcala as a cherished place for leisure and enjoyment.
4. El Médano
Golden sandy beaches, stunning coastal vistas, and a playground of beauty await at El Médano. This charming town, embraced by gentle sea breezes, has captured the hearts of outdoor enthusiasts and now beckons explorers to indulge in its awe-inspiring landscapes. The coastline is dotted with clear pools, offering a gateway to a world of vibrant flora and fauna. Colourful birds flit through lush crevices, creating a backdrop of incredible splendour. After your immersive journey, the windswept coast and local eateries provide the ideal setting to share tales of outdoor thrills, making El Médano an irresistible spot for nature lovers.
5. Radazul Marina
Radazul Marina serves as a gateway to an enchanting aquatic wonder. The clarity of the water ensures a breathtaking view of the action happening undersea. Octopus, cuttlefish, rays, and an abundance of species call Radazul Marina their home, rewarding snorkellers with a glorious display of marine life. If the marvels in the sea aren’t enough, the surrounding area, including its cliffs and rocky outcrops, provides a stunning contrast to the sparkling turquoise waters. With this inviting local atmosphere and its unspoilt subaqueous serenity, Radazul Marina promises to take your vacation up a notch.
6. Los Cristianos
A fusion of sun, sand, and snorkelling fun, Los Cristianos in southern Tenerife holds a compelling charm. As you engross yourself in the crystal-clear waters, be prepared to meet jovial dolphins and agile sea turtles, all of whom are Los Cristianos’ residents. Geological formations add an element of intrigue, with underwater caves and tunnels waiting to be explored. Following your time in the sea, the warm sand beaches and panoramic ocean views create a flawless atmosphere for rest and reflection. Its good-looking scenery and opportunities for enrichment make Los Cristianos leave every person yearning for more.
7. Playa de las Vistas
Playa de las Vistas in southern Tenerife is a superb blend of breathtaking sights and abundant marine biodiversity. Its sandy seabed sets an ethereal stage against the shimmering azure ocean, reflecting the radiant Canarian sun. As you venture into the water, a vibrant panorama unfolds, showcasing many enthralling creatures, from sublime rays and inquisitive octopuses to a remarkable variety of fish. The surrounding area exudes a vivacious ambience, offering picturesque beachside establishments for you to unwind in after your explorations. For an outstanding day of adventure, Playa de las Vistas is a destination that simply cannot be overlooked.
8. San Juan
If a matchless balance of relaxation and excursion is your aim, then San Juan is the place to be. This small, quiet beach is impeccable for those seeking to escape the crowds and indulge in an intimate snorkelling experience. The bay houses a hypnotising landscape within its calm waters, brimming with a diverse population of rarely-seen species, while its seabed provides an outstanding setting for exploration. The laid-back town atmosphere and panoramic views make San Juan an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful yet engaging day out.
9. Martiánez
North of Tenerife, Martiánez unveils a captivating blend of natural wonders and artistic splendour. Its volcanic origins have sculpted intriguing rock formations and picturesque scenery, offering a serene oasis for you to recline and forget life’s worries. As you wander through this enchanting landscape, you’ll be greeted by a thriving ecosystem of lush vegetation, energetic birdlife, and delicate wildflowers. Above ground, Martiánez boasts an architectural masterpiece—the Martiánez Pools, a visionary creation by the renowned artist César Manrique. These stunning pools, surrounded by lush gardens and inspired by the harmony between nature and design, invite you to immerse yourself in tranquillity. Martiánez offers a truly unique experience that will leave visitors enchanted by its charm and dreaming of returning sometime soon.
10. Playa de las Teresitas
Set against a backdrop of verdant mountains, Playa de las Teresitas is an enchanting locale that appeals to snorkellers. As you descend toward the seabed, you’ll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of fish darting among rocks and ravines. What makes Playa de las Teresitas unique is its golden sand, which was actually imported from the Sahara Desert in the 1970s to create the beach. The sand was brought to Tenerife to replace the black volcanic sand that naturally covers most of the island’s coastline. This spot is a hidden gem, promising water enthusiasts an enriching and fun-filled day out.
11. Garachico
Garachico, a quaint town in northwest Tenerife, offers snorkelling escapades with a side of history. Its naturally formed volcanic harbour a wide range of aquatic life, inviting you to delve into the secrets held in its depths. The rocky bed adds an element of intrigue to your trip. Once you’re out of the water, you can enjoy the area’s charming old-world feel and historical landmarks offer a delightful contrast. A visit to Garachico is more than just a light day in the sun – it’s an immersion into the island’s distant past.
12. Playa de la Arena
When it comes to finding a paradise for snorkelers, nothing beats the Playa de la Arena, boasting a stunning volcanic beach that creates a spellbinding juxtaposition with the crystalline waters. Yet, the real spectacle awaits under the sea. Descend into the depths and be greeted by a vibrant tapestry of colourful fish species darting among the rocky formations, engaging in a playful game of hide-and-seek. The immaculate clarity of the sea ensures excellent visibility, guaranteeing that you won’t miss a single moment of the underwater ballet. Playa de la Arena is an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression, thanks to its optimal combination of sun, sand, and fun.
Introducing AGULHAS
Whether you are just starting to dip your toes into the world of diving, or are an experienced diver looking to upgrade your equipment for your next big diving adventure, AGULHAS is your one-stop shop for all your diving equipment needs.
AGULHAS’ dedication to providing high-quality freediving equipment at the best prices is matched only by our commitment to sustainability. Our technical range is designed with performance, innovation, and function in mind, using sustainable materials and circular economy principles. We recognise the significant impact that refuse has on our oceans and thus make our freediving gear with the most sustainable parts available to help reduce the amount of materials used and the number of items that end up as trash.
One example of our commitment to sustainability is our modular freediving mask. Its design allows for elements to be replaced if damaged, reducing waste and prolonging the life of the product. We also use mono materials whenever possible, such as a silicone snorkel and weight belt with stainless steel screws and buckles. This design not only ensures durability but also assists with recycling efforts.
We take pride in our eco-friendly packaging as well. Our “plastic” packaging from the factory is biodegradable and compostable, and we encourage reuse by incorporating zip closures where possible. Our dedication to sustainability is born out of our love for freediving, and our freediving kit is designed by renowned freediver Hanli Prinsloo, champion swimmer Peter Marshall, and acclaimed designer Alexander Taylor.
At AGULHAS, we are confident that our freediving kit is the best on the market. We invite you to explore the rest of our website, where you can dive into a variety of freediving topics and access our freediving store, which features everything from masks and snorkels to bags and accessories. By choosing AGULHAS, you can enjoy your freediving experience with the knowledge that you are supporting a sustainable, environmentally conscious company that shares your passion for the ocean. Visit our website to shop our products today.
Conclusion
Snorkelling in Tenerife is a veritable voyage of discovery, taking you into the depths to encounter worlds teeming with life and beauty. Each site, from El Puertito’s friendly turtles to the under-the-sea ghost town of Abades and the vibrant fish of Martiánez, serves up a different slice of the island’s beautiful environment. Pack your gear, and let the island’s serene waters, abundant ocean wildlife, and warm sun paint a gorgeous picture you’ll remember forever. Each descent will help you gain a deeper appreciation for what goes on under the surface and what creatures thrive down there. Tenerife is a gateway to a watery wonderland waiting to be explored.
