Puerto de la Cruz Restricts Swimming at Playa Jardín Following E. Coli Spike
Puerto de la Cruz has restricted swimming at two sections of Playa Jardín due to high Escherichia coli levels, highlighting ongoing concerns over the region's aging sanitation infrastructure.
Water quality in Puerto de la Cruz is back in the spotlight after local officials restricted swimming at two sections of Playa Jardín. The ban, which affects the Punta Brava cove (locally known as María Jiménez) and the El Charcón area, extends limitations that were first introduced last August.
The council’s decision follows reports of Escherichia coli levels exceeding 800 units, well above the 500-unit safety threshold. The response from the local government (PP-ACP-CC) has been complicated by conflicting data: while the Canary Islands’ public health department recommended action on the main beach, the City Council’s own tests identified the bacteria specifically in El Charcón. Mayor Leopoldo Afonso has opted for a precautionary closure, which is expected to last between 24 and 72 hours while officials wait for new test results.
This incident highlights ongoing issues with the Orotava Valley’s aging sanitation infrastructure. There has been significant political friction regarding the slow pace of repairs to the submarine outfall and the modernization of the treatment plant. While the local government has blamed delays on state coastal authorizations, the responsibility for these projects officially shifted to the regional government in 2023.
With major improvement works not expected to be finished until 2027, these temporary closures remain a recurring problem. The local administration now faces the difficult task of protecting public health while managing the reputation of one of Tenerife’s most popular tourist destinations, all while trying to maintain transparency with concerned residents and local businesses.