Puertito de Güímar combines beach time and nature experiences in two clearly distinct areas. Playa del Puertito de Güímar is in the center of El Puertito de Güímar; the Malpaís de Güímar nature reserve borders the town. For planning, it helps to consider beach conditions and hiking trails separately: sea conditions can change daily, and the trails differ in their circular routes and roles.
Beach in the center
Playa del Puertito de Güímar consists of pebbles and black sand. The surf is very calm, and the beach is considered suitable for families with children. Since sea conditions can change daily, plan your time by the water with the current conditions in mind. Playa del Puertito de Güímar has adapted access for people with reduced mobility. Check the latest information about access and facilities before your trip.
The Malpaís and its habitats
The Reserva Natural Especial del Malpaís de Güímar nature reserve covers 290.3 hectares, or around three square kilometres. It preserves coastal and inland habitats of the Cardonal-Tabaibal and the associated flora and fauna. The landscape and geomorphological structure of the Malpaís and the adjoining volcanic cones are also protected. The area contains one of the finest examples of Cardonal-Tabaibal in the Canary Archipelago. Visitors can therefore view the protected area from two perspectives: as a place with diverse habitats and species, and as a landscape whose formations and volcanic cones are also protected.
Hiking: a circular route or an extension
Sendero 1 passes through the nature reserve and is a 6.11-kilometre circular route of moderate difficulty. The start and finish are on Calle Almirante Cervera in El Puertito de Güímar. Sendero Malpaís de Güímar 2 goes around Montaña Grande and can serve as an extension of Trail 1. The choice therefore comes down to two different options: a circular route with a specified distance and difficulty, or a possible extension to your hike. Trail conditions can change; check them before setting out.
Church history and salt pans
The Ermita de Santiago Apóstol in El Puertito de Güímar was blessed in 1953; the parish of Santiago Apóstol in El Puertito de Güímar was established in 1966. The dates mark two different milestones: the blessing of the chapel and the establishment of the parish.
Visitors can also see two well-preserved salt pans in the adjoining Malpaís. Check their condition when you visit.
Discover more destinations: Los Rechazos, Las Cruces, Almáciga, La Caleta, San José de los Llanos, Juan Fernández, Ifonche y Benitez, Granadilla De Abona.
For the main travel overview: Tenerife.
