This area on the west coast of Tenerife is famous for the giant rock formation called Los Gigantes, whose uniqueness will literally take your breath away.
The huge overhangs were formed by volcanic activity several million years ago and in some places reach heights of up to 800 metres above sea level. At the foot of the cliffs is the village of the same name, where you can board a sightseeing boat and admire these rock formations from the sea. If you're lucky, you might spot dolphins or whales along the way.
Boating along Los Gigantes
The municipality of Los Gigantes is home to many companies offering boat trips to see whales, dolphins, snorkel or trek to the Masca Gorge. All of them sail around the cliffs of Los Gigantes.
The usual length of a cruise is about 2-3 hours and the price varies between 35 eur and 40 eur. Most of the time it is not necessary to book in advance, there are dozens of different companies operating locally and you can arrange your trip directly at the dock.
Beaches in Los Gigantes
One of Tenerife's most beautiful beaches is Playa de la Arena, whose black volcanic colour takes on a beautiful silver hue here thanks to the admixture of rocks. It's located in the town of the same name, but it's actually connected to the resort of Los Gigantes. You will find all the necessary amenities from sunbed and umbrella rentals to bars and restaurants. It's just not very large, so finding a free spot can be a problem in high season.
Choose the best hotel by the beach
Another popular beach is Playa de Los Gigantes, just a few steps from the marina where the cruise ships depart. This beach is also covered in fine black sand and has the best views of the Los Gigantes cliffs.
A third interesting swimming spot is a natural pool made of lava stones and covered with a low concrete wall, where you can swim without the risk of big waves, but in sea water and in a natural environment. It can be found right in the centre of Los Gigantes at the end of Calle Magnolia and access is free.
Accommodation
Finding accommodation in this area will be no problem, as virtually all of the buildings in the downstream resorts of Los Gigantes, Puerto de Santiago and Play de la Arena are hotels or apartments.
You can find cheap accommodation in apartments around 44 eur per night for two as well as comfortable accommodation in large hotel resorts (e.g. Barceló Santiago, Aparthotel Los Dragos del Sur, Hotel Blue Sea Lagos de Cesar) with prices between 62 eur and 128 eur per night for two.
How to get there
The resort of Los Gigantes is located on the west coast 44km from the main Tenerife Sur airport and 100km from the largest city, Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
As well as a car, you can get here by a fairly frequent bus service:
- Line 325 - Puerto de la Cruz, Icod, Santiago del Teide and intermediate villages.
- Line 473 - very frequent service to Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos and all the smaller beaches along the route
- Line 477 - only runs to Costa Adeje with stops along the coast
- Line 462 - local service connecting the surrounding communities of Santiago del Teide and Guía de Isora
- Lines 493 and 494 - local services connecting the surrounding municipalities of Playa San Juan and Guía de Isora
What to see around
Discover all the places to see in Tenerife.
