Playa de Benijo

Introduction

Today we delve into one of those corners of Tenerife's beaches that takes our breath away, a place where nature expresses itself in its purest and wildest state: Playa de Benijo. Located in the heart of the majestic Anaga Rural Park, in the municipality of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, this beach is much more than a simple stretch of sand; it is an experience, a journey to the volcanic and Atlantic essence of the island.

Playa de Benijo is famous for its spectacular volcanic black sand, a dark canvas that contrasts sublimely with the intense blue of the ocean and the emerald green of Anaga's lush vegetation. But what truly makes it an icon are its imposing rock formations, especially Roque Benijo and Roque La Rapadura, which emerge defiantly from the sea, sculpted by millennia of wind and waves. This dramatic and pristine landscape makes it a favorite destination for photographers, adventurers, and those seeking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and feel the unstoppable force of nature. Let's not expect to find the amenities of an urban beach here; Benijo invites us to adventure and respect for its environment.

How to Get to Playa de Benijo

Getting to Playa de Benijo is, in itself, part of the adventure. The route takes us along the winding and picturesque Anaga road (the TF-12), a road that snakes between deep ravines and peaks covered by the laurel forest, offering us spectacular views at every turn. From Santa Cruz de Tenerife or La Laguna, we will head towards Taganana, the last inhabited village before venturing into the most remote area.

Once we approach the area, access to the beach itself requires additional effort. Parking is limited and consists of small spaces along the road, near the few restaurants and chiringuitos that overlook the cliff. From there, the descent to the sand is via a steep path, sometimes with irregular steps, which requires suitable footwear and a certain level of fitness. This path, although challenging, rewards us with increasingly impressive views of the beach and its rock formations as we get closer. It's a walk that prepares us for the majesty that awaits us below.

The Sand and the Water

The sand of Playa de Benijo is one of its most distinctive features: a blanket of volcanic black sand, a testament to the rich geological history of Tenerife. Its texture is generally fine, although in some areas it may mix with small stones and pebbles polished by the constant ebb and flow of the waves. Walking on it is a unique sensation, especially when the sun warms its dark grains.

The water, on the other hand, is crystal clear and tempting, inviting us to immerse ourselves in the Atlantic. However, we must exercise extreme caution. Playa de Benijo is directly exposed to the force of the Atlantic Ocean, which translates into strong waves and currents that can be dangerous, especially on rough sea days. It is not a beach for a calm swim or for inexperienced swimmers. Here, nature is in charge, and it is essential to respect it. It does not have lifeguard services, so the responsibility is entirely ours. If we decide to swim, we must always do so with the utmost caution and without venturing too far from the shore.

Services and Facilities

As we have already mentioned, Playa de Benijo is a wild beach and, as such, lacks the services and facilities we find in more urbanized beaches. Let's not expect showers, public toilets, or umbrella and sunbed rentals directly on the sand. The beauty of Benijo lies precisely in its natural and pristine state, which means we must go completely prepared with everything we might need: water, food, towels, sunscreen, and a bag to collect our waste.

However, civilization is not entirely absent. On the road that runs above the beach, a few minutes' walk from the start of the descent path, we find some popular chiringuitos and restaurants, such as El Frontón or Casa África. These establishments are famous for their Canarian gastronomy and, above all, for their impressive panoramic views of the beach and the rock formations, especially at sunset. They are the ideal place to replenish our energy after the adventure, enjoying good fresh fish while contemplating the natural spectacle. Parking, although limited and sometimes chaotic, is organized on the roadside near these establishments.

Best Time to Visit

Thanks to the enviable climate of Tenerife, Playa de Benijo can be visited practically all year round. The air and water temperatures are usually pleasant, allowing us to enjoy its charm in any season. However, there are nuances we can consider based on our preferences.

During the summer months, the influx of visitors is usually higher, and the sun shines intensely, ideal for sunbathing (always with protection). At this time, the waves can be somewhat gentler, although the force of the Atlantic never completely disappears. For surfers, the autumn and winter months are usually the most attractive, as Atlantic storms bring larger and more powerful waves, creating optimal conditions for practicing this sport. Outside the high season, the beach is usually less crowded, allowing us to enjoy a greater sense of peace and isolation. Regardless of the season, it is always advisable to check the weather forecast and sea conditions before planning our visit, avoiding days with strong winds or excessively rough seas for our safety and enjoyment. The sunsets, with their skies painted in fu