Tenerife Natural Pools: 10 Must-visit Natural Pools in Tenerife

The largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, Tenerife is a real treat for nature lovers since it is surrounded by the expansive Atlantic Ocean and is home to various beaches, diverse flora and fauna, a dormant volcano and much more. And if you are into stargazing, Tenerife is definitely the place for you! Something else that makes this island a fantastic tourist destination is its numerous natural pools; created by ancient lava pools, the ocean’s impact and rock formations, they not only make for a beautiful sight to see but are also great for swimming. So, when you travel to Tenerife, do visit some of its incredible natural pools because it is an experience that you will never forget. 

The following is a list of 10 natural pools in Tenerife that you must see:

1. El Caletón

Located in the Garachico municipality in the north of Tenerife, the El Caletón natural pool is one of the most popular ones on the island. Here you would find a bunch of natural pools along the Atlantic Ocean that formed due to lava cooling off. They are surrounded by the imposing La Culata cliffs and are also close to the famous San Miguel Castle as well as some restaurants, which means that there is plenty for you to explore here. Keep in mind that while these pools are mostly safe for swimming, you mustn’t go in when the water is a little turbulent. There are lifeguards present here during summertime.

Address: Av. Tomé Cano, s/n, 38450 Garachico, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Timings: Open 24 hours

2. Charco de la Laja

Charco de la Laja is a stunning natural pool situated in San Juan de la Rambla on the island’s northwest coast. Boasting of crystal clear water, this natural pool is separated from the sea by volcanic rocks and is thus very calm and ideal for swimming. It is easily accessible by car and once you reach the spot, you simply need to go down a few steps to get to the pool. Moreover, if you are looking to get a few pictures of this natural wonder, you can go up to the Charco de la Laja lookout point which offers splendid views of the pool. There aren’t a lot of food joints around so it is advisable to bring your own food if you plan on hanging around for a while.

Address: C. Antonio Ruiz Cedrés, 47, 38420 San Juan de la Rambla, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Timings: Open 24 hours

3. Piscinas Naturales de Mesa del Mar

Natural pools mostly frequented by the locals, the Piscinas Naturales de Mesa del Mar on the coast of Tacoronte are indeed a sight to behold. There are two pools here of which one has water all year round while the other only has water in the summer months. Your visit to these natural pools is the perfect opportunity for you to not only take a dip in their clear water but also to watch the spectacular sunset over the vast Atlantic Ocean. There is a space nearby for you to park your car. 

Address: C. Mesa del Mar, 132D, 38358 Mesa del Mar, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Timings: Open 24 hours

4. Charco de Los Chochos

The Charco de Los Chochos natural pool is located within the Los Silos municipality of Tenerife and was created as a result of volcanic eruptions that led to the formation of massive and uneven rocks. The water is about 2m deep which makes it suitable for adults as well as children; the pool is easily accessible via a set of steps and there is a handrail to guide you to it too. On a clear day, you can also spot the Cliffs of the Culata and sometimes even Mount El Teide. Make sure to take tons of photographs of this picturesque location!

Address: 39, Carr. El Puertito, 43, 38479 Los Silos, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Timings: Open 24 hours

5. Charco del Viento

Perfect for a swim and for watching the sunset, Charco del Viento in the Santa Catalina neighbourhood features some of La Guancha’s most popular natural pools that you must visit when in Tenerife. There are four natural pools here, created as a result of lava flows, and all of them are easily accessible from the road. Surrounding the pools are sandy as well as rocky surfaces which means that there is plenty of space for you to sunbathe also. Do keep in mind that the water from the sea might sometimes enter the pools, making them a little less suitable for swimming. 

Address: 38441 La Guancha, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Timings: Open 24 hours

6. El Pris Piscina Natural

The El Pris Piscina Natural is situated in the small fishing village of “El Pris” and is known not only for its inviting clear water but also for its spectacular views of the sunset with the majestic Mount El Tiede in the backdrop. It is protected from the sea’s crashing waves and is thus ideal for both adults and children; the steps and handrail that lead to the pool make it suitable even for the elderly. You can visit this pool with your family and once you’re done enjoying its cool water, you can go to one of the nearby restaurants for some delicious fish. 

Address: Ctra. el Pris, 99, 38358 El Pris, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Timings: Open 24 hours

7. Bajamar

Bajamar, located in the San Cristóbal de la Laguna municipality on the north-eastern coast of Tenerife is a must-visit if you plan on exploring the island’s natural pools. It is home to three pools here, two big ones for adults and a small one for children, that are located alongside the beach. Furthermore, there is a lighthouse located nearby which makes the area much more scenic so don’t forget to bring your camera. There are lifeguards present on-site at all times and other services like changing rooms, toilets and showers are also available. You can head over to one of the restaurants here to grab a bite to eat post your swim. 

Address: Av. Gran Poder, 8-39, 38250 Bajamar, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Timings: Open 24 hours

8. Piscina Natural Punta del Hidalgo

Another set of natural pools located in the San Cristóbal de la Laguna municipality, the Piscina Natural Punta del Hidalgo should definitely be on your list of natural pools to visit in Tenerife. They are perfect for swimming, even in the winter months since they are protected from the harsh sea; there are lifeguards here at all times. You can also revel in the stellar views of Mount El Tiede and the sunset here or simply walk around the coast while soaking in the atmosphere. Make sure to go to one of the nearby restaurants for some mouth-watering seafood. 

Address: Travesia Teosinte Quinta, 2, 38240 Punta del Hidalgo, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Timings: Open 24 hours

9. Piscinas Naturales Alcalá

Piscinas Naturales Alcalá is a fantastic choice for a day out with family since the natural pools here fill up when the tide is high, thus offering you the opportunity to go swimming. They are also close to the Playa La Jaquita so you can go there once you’re done swimming or you can also head over to the nearby children’s playground if you’re with kids. 

Address: 38686 Alcalá, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Timings: Open 24 hours

10. Charco de Isla Cangrejo

If you are planning on visiting Tenerife’s natural pools, make sure to not miss out on Charo de Isla Cangrejo which is located in Los Gigantes. Separated from the sea by a concrete wall, this natural pool is an example of very few such pools which have been slightly modified by humans. It is not too deep and therefore ideal for taking a dip but keep in mind that sometimes the high tide might make it a little dangerous to go swimming here. Moreover, it also makes for a beautiful sight, not only because of the vast Atlantic Ocean that surrounds it but also because of the many white buildings that line the massive rocks all around. 

Address: C. Magnolia, 4, 38683 Santiago del Teide, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Timings: Open 24 hours

There’s nothing special about swimming in a pool in a hotel or a resort but taking a dip in a pool created as a result of natural processes is an experience that you are not likely to forget. Tenerife’s many natural pools are beautiful natural formations that are mostly surrounded by cliffs and flanked by the sea on one side. Not only can you swim in these pools but the surroundings are perfect for relaxing, walking around and sometimes even playing, taking pictures and more.