Black sand, fishing history and coastal views shape Puerto de Santiago. Playa de La Arena is in the town centre; Playa Puerto de Santiago is next to the fishing pier. There is also the Isla Cangrejo natural swimming pool and Zona de Las Bajas, both in the town centre. This gives you the chance to weigh up whether beaches, maritime culture or a walking trail best suits your travel plans.
Beaches with different highlights
At Playa de La Arena, black sand and the surrounding rock formations define the coastal landscape. Snorkelling offers a chance to discover the coast’s marine biodiversity; the activity depends on sea conditions. The beach has ramps, walkways, showers, toilets, adapted sun loungers and amphibious chairs. Facilities and services can change, so check what is available before your visit.
Playa Puerto de Santiago has dark sand and is sheltered from the swell. This makes it possible to swim in calm waters and sunbathe there; sea conditions can change. At La Arena, by contrast, the focus is on the black sand, surrounding rocks, snorkelling and the facilities listed above. The two beaches therefore offer different highlights for your time on the coast.
Coastal scenery and sunset views
The Isla Cangrejo natural swimming pool is in the town centre. From there, at sunset, the view stretches across the horizon beneath a warmly coloured sky. Zona de Las Bajas is also in the town centre. Natural pools form along its volcanic coastline; the view extends towards the neighbouring island of La Gomera and is especially impressive at sunset. The views described here differ: at Isla Cangrejo, the focus is on the horizon, while at Las Bajas, the island is also visible on the horizon.
Fishing history and summer festival
Museo El Pescador is in Puerto de Santiago, near the public square on Avenida Quinto Centenario. Information panels, photographs and fishing artefacts tell the story of the traditional lives of the town’s fishermen and fishmongers. The museum’s sculptural façade, designed by Bernard Romain, symbolises the relationship between the sea, fishing and life on the coast. If you are planning a visit, check the current access arrangements.
Every summer, Puerto de Santiago celebrates the Fiestas del Carmen in honour of the Virgen del Carmen. The festival brings maritime tradition and folk culture together against the backdrop of the Atlantic. The programme includes a procession, a boat carrying the statue of the Virgen del Carmen and a fireworks display. Dates and programme details can vary from one edition to the next. If you would like to plan your trip around the festival, check the dates and programme for the edition in question.
Walking trail and viewpoint
The TF-PR 65 short-distance walking trail runs from Santiago del Teide to Puerto de Santiago. Check current trail conditions before setting out. Nearby, Mirador de Archipenque is on the TF-454, the road between Tamaimo and Puerto de Santiago. There is a small car park nearby; the viewpoint can be reached by car and then on foot. From there, you can see the coastal town of Puerto de Santiago and the marina at Acantilados de Los Gigantes. On a clear day, La Gomera and La Palma are also visible. Road and car park conditions can change.
There are car rental offices in the town centre of Puerto de Santiago; individual providers may change.
Discover more destinations: Tamaimo, Acantilados De Los Gigantes.
Go to the main travel overview: Santiago Del Teide.
