Las Teresitas: A Sahara in Tenerife, a beach with history and a royal past

Las Teresitas Beach is a true hallmark of Tenerife and one of the most popular places on the island. It is located near the village of San Andrés, just 7 kilometers from the city of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This artificial beach with golden sand has long been a symbol of the island, loved by tourists and locals alike.

Many people think that the sand on Las Teresitas appeared here on its own, but in reality, the beach was created in 1973. Previously, there were volcanic rocks here, but the authorities decided to make this place more attractive.

Then, more than 270,000 tons of sand were brought from the Sahara and mixed with the local sand. To protect the beach from the waves, a kilometer-long dam was built. It protects against erosion and allows you to enjoy the calm sea all year round.

Hence the myth that scorpions were brought to Las Teresitas along with the sand from the Sahara. But this is not true!

Before the beach appeared here in 1973, there were three small beaches in this place: "Tras la Arena" (closest to San Andrés), "Los Moros" (in the center), and part of Barranco de Las Teresas, which gave the name to the entire beach.

It is said that it used to be a dangerous place, where waves crashed heavily against the rocks. Locals recall that people even died there. Due to the location of the beach, the water and wind have always been very strong here.

In the central part, which was called "Los Moros," there once stood a palace where the royal couple, Princess Diana of Orléans and Duke Carl of Württemberg, rested.

The chalet was located right by the sea, among gardens and fruit trees. They spent their honeymoon here in September 1960, after their wedding, which took place on July 21 of the same year.

Now almost nothing remains of the palace, but you can still see two Indian laurels, the remains of walls, floors, and a parapet near entrances No. 7 and No. 8 to the beach.

Although Las Teresitas is very popular with tourists, the locals from Santa Cruz have always loved this beach and come here every weekend. There are over 1.3 kilometers of golden sand here, so there is enough space even on the busiest days.

Unlike other beaches in Tenerife, such as Las Gaviotas or Taganana, where there is black volcanic sand and strong waves, Las Teresitas offers a more relaxing and comfortable vacation.

The beach has free parking, "chiringuitos" bars, showers, and hammocks. It is easily accessible by car (less than 15 minutes from the center of Santa Cruz) or by bus (routes No. 910 and No. 945 Titsa).

In addition to swimming and sunbathing, many people climb to the Las Teresitas observation deck, which is located on the road to Igueste. It offers the best view of the beach and the island's capital.