Charco Don Gabino
The Best Kept Secret of Los Silos
If you are looking for a spot where time seems to stand still and volcanic nature shows itself in all its splendor, you must visit Charco Don Gabino. Hidden on the coast of Los Silos, in northern Tenerife, this pool is the pure definition of what we call a "natural paradise." Here you won't find the crowds of the southern beaches, but a calm, authentic, and deeply Canarian atmosphere instead.
This corner is one of those places that reconnects you with the ocean. Surrounded by black basalt rocks and with views of the imposing Teno massif, Charco Don Gabino offers a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters that are renewed with every tide. It is, without a doubt, one of the crown jewels of the "Isla Baja" and a mandatory stop for any traveler who wants to know the true essence of Tenerife.
Why choose Charco Don Gabino for your next swim?
What sets Charco Don Gabino apart from other pools in the area is its size and excellent state of preservation. About 10 meters long, it has a volcanic stone solarium area where you can lie down to dry in the sun while listening to the roar of the Atlantic. Its water is such a clean blue that it invites snorkeling from the very first moment.
This place is named after a former local resident who took care of the surroundings, giving it a human and nostalgic touch. It is a space that has managed to adapt to tourism without losing its wild identity. Bathing here is feeling the strength of the volcano and the freshness of the sea in a perfect embrace.
Insider Tips: What only a local would tell you
To make your experience at Charco Don Gabino authentic and smooth, take note of these local tips:
- Beware of the swells!: Northern Tenerife is known for its power. If you see the water coming in with a lot of foam or the sea is very rough, avoid swimming. We always say that "you shouldn't fear the sea, but you must respect it deeply."
- Your best allies: your cholas: Don't try to walk on the rocks barefoot if you don't want to end up with a painful memory. Bring your cholas (flip-flops) to move around the solarium and, if you have water shoes for entering the water, even better.
- Plan your bus route: If you don't have a car, the guagua (bus) will drop you off in the center of Los Silos. From there, enjoy a walk along the "Sendero de las Cuevas" until you reach the coast; the views of the banana plantations and the nearby whale skeleton are well worth it.
- Survival kit: There are no beach bars right next to it. Prepare a good sandwich and bring some cotufas (popcorn) for snacking. Of course, take your trash with you! We want to keep our pool pristine.
- Unforgettable sunset: Stay late. Watching the sun set behind the Teno cliffs from this spot is a magical experience.
Conclusion
Charco Don Gabino is not just a natural pool; it is a little piece of Tenerife's history and geology. It is the ideal place for those seeking peace, virgin nature, and a revitalizing swim. If you come with respect and a desire to enjoy yourself, this pool will give you one of the best days of your vacation on the island. We'll see you in the north!