Playa de las Gaviotas

Playa de las Gaviotas is a small, quiet beach located just northeast of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It sits beneath steep cliffs in a protected cove, which gives it a calm, low-key feel that’s hard to find on more tourist-heavy parts of the island. The beach has become known for its relaxed vibe, and it’s one of the few places on Tenerife where nudism is not only allowed but widely accepted.

The sand at Gaviotas is soft and black — a result of the island’s volcanic landscape. It’s a short beach, only about 250 meters long, and fairly narrow, but it rarely feels overcrowded. The cliffs that surround it provide some shelter from the wind as well as shady spots later in the day. The focus here is on nature: no loud music, no lines of sun loungers, no massive developments behind you. Just the sea, the sand, the cliffs, and the occasional group of seagulls that gave the beach its name.

This beach attracts a mix of people — naturists, swimmers, couples, surfers, and locals looking to disconnect for a few hours. There’s a sense of quiet respect among those who go there. Some people sunbathe nude, others don’t, and no one seems to mind either way.

The sea can be calm at times, especially in summer, but conditions change quickly. When the tide is high or the swell is strong, the beach can become quite narrow, and waves may crash right up to the rocks. Swimming is generally safe during calmer periods, but there are no lifeguards most of the year, so it’s best to stay attentive.

One of the draws of Gaviotas is its natural, unpolished feel. There’s a small beach bar near the entrance that’s open when the weather is good and visitors are frequent, but there aren’t other facilities to rely on. You won’t find toilets or changing rooms, and mobile signal can be patchy. Most people come prepared with what they need and settle in for a few quiet hours by the water.

The best time to visit is usually between late spring and early autumn, when the water is warmer and the weather is more predictable. Mornings tend to be the most peaceful, with the beach slowly filling in by afternoon, especially on weekends. If you time your visit right, low tide opens up more space on the sand and invites longer swims or a walk along the shoreline.

By public transport: Take a bus from Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Igueste, then walk or take a taxi down the steep TF‑121 service road to the beach.

By car: Drive from Santa Cruz via TF‑121 toward Igueste, park near the roadhead and walk the steep descent (~5 minutes) to this small cove.