Playa de la Tejita is a long, open beach on Tenerife’s southern coast, beside the red volcanic cone of Montaña Roja. Its broad stretch of pale sand and striking mountain views make it a quieter alternative to busier southern beaches, with room for a walk, sunbathing or wind sports. A small beach bar and some sun loungers provide basic facilities. Wind and waves can be strong, so check the sea conditions before swimming; parts of the beach are clothing-optional.
A wild stretch of Tenerife’s south coast
Playa de la Tejita lies beside Montaña Roja, the red volcanic cone that rises above the southern coast. The open shoreline runs for about a kilometre, with a wide sweep of sand and few built-up facilities. Its natural setting and distance from busy resort beaches give it a quieter feel, though it is not always calm: wind can blow sand across the beach, and the sea can turn rough.
The beach sits alongside the Montaña Roja protected natural area. The distinctive red slopes and the open, sandy coast are the main features of the landscape. You can explore the shore on foot, with views changing as you walk closer to or farther from the mountain. Parking is available in a large lot along TF-643, and another parking area is near Chiringuito Pirata. Access may involve walking on rocky paths, so the beach is not a good choice for visitors with reduced mobility.
Wind sports and swimming conditions
Windy conditions make La Tejita popular for surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing. The same exposure can make a beach day less comfortable if you want still air, and the waves may be powerful. Some parts of the water are shallow and sandy, but that does not make the whole shoreline safe in rough conditions. Waves can break on the sloping beach, and currents may be hard to see. Be cautious, especially when the sea is unsettled.
Facilities are limited. There are some sun loungers and parasols for hire, and a small beach bar serves light meals and refreshments. Toilets and restaurants are not available on the beach, so plan accordingly if you need more services. The open setting suits a long walk or a quiet stretch of time on the sand better than a visit built around full resort facilities.
Clothing-optional areas
Nudism is allowed along the beach, and one end is particularly popular with naturists. The shoreline is long enough for visitors to find different areas, but clothing-optional bathing is part of the character of La Tejita. If you prefer a more conventional beach setting, choose your spot with that in mind.
Conditions and atmosphere can change from one visit to the next. Weekends tend to be busier when the wind is calm, while strong wind can make sitting on the sand uncomfortable. Check the sea before entering, and avoid swimming when the waves or currents look unsafe.
Perguntas frequentes
Is Playa de la Tejita clothing-optional?
Yes. Nudism is allowed, and one end of the beach is especially popular with naturists.
Is Playa de la Tejita safe for swimming?
Some areas are shallow and sandy, but waves can be strong and currents may be difficult to see. Take care and avoid swimming when the sea is rough.
Are there facilities at Playa de la Tejita?
Facilities are limited. There are some loungers and parasols for hire and a small beach bar, but no toilets or restaurants on the beach.
Can you rent sun loungers at Playa de la Tejita?
Yes. A pair costs €15.
