Playa de los Guios
A Dip at the Feet of the Giants
Hello, traveler! I’m your local guide from Canaguia.com, and today I’m bringing you a spot that will leave you speechless. If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming in a cathedral of rock, Playa de los Guios is your destination. Located in the municipality of Santiago del Teide, right at the end of the Los Gigantes marina, this small black sand cove is possibly one of the most photogenic and spectacular places in all of Tenerife.
What makes Playa de los Guios a mandatory stop on your list of the "100 best things to do in Tenerife" is not just its volcanic sand, but its impossible location. You are literally at the feet of the majestic Los Gigantes Cliffs, those vertical walls that rise up to 600 meters above sea level. Swimming here is feeling the power of nature in every wave.
What makes Playa de los Guios so special?
Playa de los Guios, also known by many locals as Playa de Argel, is a haven of peace with a unique atmosphere. Unlike the miles-long beaches of the south, this cove is cozy and quiet. Its black sand sparkles under the sun, and the water is usually calm, protected by the harbor breakwater and the immensity of the cliffs.
It is a place steeped in geological history. The ancient Guanches considered these cliffs "The Wall of Hell," and when you swim at Playa de los Guios and look up, you perfectly understand why. The feeling of smallness before such a natural monument is something you have to experience to believe. Furthermore, the climate in this part of Tenerife is the best on the island, with guaranteed sunshine almost every day of the year.
A Privileged Marine Ecosystem
It’s not just what’s outside that is impressive. Around Playa de los Guios, the seabed is spectacular. Due to the depth the cliffs reach underwater, the biodiversity is incredible. It is a perfect starting point for boat excursions that will take you to see dolphins and pilot whales, which live permanently in this channel between Tenerife and La Gomera.
Insider Tips from a Local
As a local who knows every stone on this coast, I want your visit to Playa de los Guios to be perfect. Take note of these tricks:
- Watch your Cholas: The black sand absorbs heat like crazy. Don't try to cross Playa de los Guios barefoot at noon unless you want to end up dancing on hot coals. Always use your cholas (flip-flops) until you reach the shore!
- Taking the Guagua: Parking at the Los Gigantes port is very limited and expensive. The best way is to take the guagua (bus lines 473 or 477 from Costa Adeje). It drops you off at the top, and you can walk down while enjoying the views.
- The Best Time: Go first thing in the morning to see how the sunlight hits the cliff stone directly. Or stay until sunset to watch the rock change color to orange tones.
- Mandatory Snorkeling: Bring your goggles. Near the side rocks of Playa de los Guios, you can see "viejas," "sargos," and, if you're lucky, a "chucho" (ray) resting on the bottom.
- Food with a View: Near Playa de los Guios, there are stalls to buy cotufas (popcorn) or ice cream, but my advice is to go to the port restaurants to try some fresh fish after your swim.
Conclusion
Playa de los Guios is where the blue of the sea meets the black of the volcano and the verticality of the stone. It is a magical corner that will remind you how small we are and how immense the beauty of Tenerife is. Don't forget your camera, because you won't stop taking pictures!