Puerto de la Cruz Faces New Beach Closure Amid Testing Dispute
Playa Grande in Puerto de la Cruz remains closed to swimmers following conflicting water quality reports between regional health authorities and the local City Council.
Water quality in Puerto de la Cruz is back in the spotlight following the closure of Playa Grande at Playa Jardín. The General Directorate of Public Health ordered the beach closed to swimmers after finding that water samples failed to meet safety standards. This is the latest in a series of intermittent closures this summer, causing frustration for both beachgoers and the local tourism industry.
The situation is complicated by conflicting data. While regional health authorities insist the beach must remain closed, the City Council has released results from an independent firm, Biocontrol Labtec. These tests, conducted just an hour after the official samples were taken on September 28, show the water is within safe limits. As a result, the local government is demanding a formal explanation from health officials to clarify why the testing results differ and to ensure the public receives consistent information.
This is not the first time such a dispute has occurred. Throughout August and early September, beaches like Punta Brava, El Charcón, and Playa Grande faced similar temporary closures, only to be reopened within 24 hours once water quality improved. These recurring issues highlight ongoing concerns about the town’s aging sanitation network. In response, the City Council is working to replace the Punta Brava collector and increase monitoring efforts.
For now, the City Council plans to continue its own independent water testing and maintenance. However, Playa Grande will remain closed until the General Directorate of Public Health confirms the water is safe. The situation has once again raised questions about the effectiveness of sewage control and infrastructure management in one of Tenerife’s most popular tourist destinations.