Natural Pools in Tenerife North

If you fancy a refreshing dip in the sea, the natural pools in Tenerife north are a great alternative to the fine sandy beaches of the south. The sea and volcanic activity have created a landscape of sharp, black rock, with pools of crystal clear water and a colourful sea bed.

In other words, the natural pools typical of the north of Tenerife are special places where you can feel like you are in paradise and completely at one with nature. Specifically, the coast of Isla Baja, from Buenavista del Norte to Garachico, offers a wide range of picturesque pools, ideal for a dip in the sea.

These authentic bathing spots on the north coast of Tenerife are set in idyllic volcanic landscapes, unspoilt and far from mass tourism. As a result, most of them can only be reached on foot.

We love them too, of course, so we thought we would share our favourites with you in this article.

How were the natural pools in the north of Tenerife formed? 

The natural pool or “charco” is the name of a natural phenomenon that is very characteristic of Tenerife and the Canary Islands, although it also occurs on other islands of volcanic origin. It is an area on the north coast formed by lava flowing into the sea. When the incandescent lava came into contact with the cold water, it solidified and formed pools surrounded by natural walls, where you can enjoy a pleasant and completely safe sea bath.

Most of these pools are completely natural, while others have been partially modified to provide access and comfort for bathers. However, they have lost none of their natural charm. Some, for example, have metal steps and natural stone sunbathing areas.

The 5 most recommended natural pools on the north coast of Tenerife

To understand the geological significance of this extraordinary coastline from Buenavista del Norte to Garachico, it is necessary to know what an “Isla Baja” is and how it was formed. Originally there was a small platform on which the current volcano, Montaña de Taco, rose. Its lava flows spread out like a fan and created the lower island.

Today’s Isla Baja, however, owes its formation not only to this volcano, but also to other lava flows from higher altitudes in the Teno Rural Park. These allowed the area on the north coast to extend even further into the sea, creating what is now known as the Fajana, or plain.

A recent example of this natural phenomenon occurred on 29 September 2021 in the northwest of the island of La Palma, when lava from the Tajogaite volcano poured into the sea, creating a new peninsula.

As a result, the north coast of Tenerife is dotted with ponds and authentic natural pools of lava and salt water that will surprise you. We have selected five of them for their beauty and their proximity to Tabaiba Guesthouse.

Charco Las Mujeres

On the coast of Buenavista del Norte, a path of barely one and a half kilometres links the beaches of Las Arenas and El Fraile, passing by several ponds that appear when the tide comes in and out. Some of them, such as Charco Roque, are very popular with the locals, especially in the summer. The path has benches and viewpoints with views over the Atlantic. There are also gaps between the rocks that invite you to climb down and jump in.

But it’s worth continuing on to Charco Las Mujeres, which even has some sand at the bottom and where you can swim your laps. You are also likely to see local fishermen in the area. This natural swimming pool is also ideal for a family outing, as you can park your car just a short distance away.

Around Las Arenas beach, the most famous and main beach in Buenavista del Norte, there are other pools with easy access. One of them has a ramp from the beach to the water. You can also read about the many special features of this charming coast in the northwest of Tenerife in our article Trail in Buenavista del Norte.

Location: Google Maps

Charco El Rayo 

Near the border with the municipality of Los Silos is the Charco del Faro de Buenavista. Because of its shape, it is a very unusual puddle. Also known as Charco El Rayo, it is a wonderful location on the north coast of Tenerife due to the scenery it offers. It is also close to the Teno Rural Park, a hiking reserve that we highly recommend. The crystal clear waters of this huge natural pool will allow you to appreciate its rock formations even more. Be careful when descending and entering the water, however, as there are many loose stones.

Although some locals claim that the basin was created by a lightning strike, it is more likely that erosion has been responsible for sculpting this curious crater-like site. You can get there from Buenavista del Norte, using the white lighthouse about 400 metres away as a reference point. Note that this lighthouse is NOT the one at Punta de Teno (red and white), where you will also find some natural pools. You can find out more about them by reading our Travelers’ Guide to Punta de Teno.

Thanks to its location, Charco El Rayo is the perfect place to switch off and relax, as it is not usually crowded. To have a good day’s bathing, you should time your visit to coincide with high tide. But always be aware of the waves and currents, especially on days when the sea is very rough.Location: Google Maps

Charco Los Chochos

This amazing place is located in the municipality of Los Silos, four kilometres from Buenavista del Norte. It is one of the most beautiful pools on the north coast of Tenerife, not only because of the contrast between the blue of the sea and the black of the volcanic rock, but also because, on a clear day, you can see the cliffs of La Culata and the Teide volcano.

The natural pool has a maximum depth of two metres at its deepest point and its transparent water is calm with no strong currents. There are also steps with railings to get into the water comfortably and safely. Occasionally the water can be a little choppy, especially at high tide when small fish swim in. The pool is very easy to get to, as all you have to do is leave the historic centre of Los Silos behind and take the road to El Puertito. A few metres away is the impressive original skeleton of a baleen whale (Baleanoptera borealis borealis).

A curiosity, Charco Los Chochos owes its name to the fact that in this place the peasants used to soak lupins in salt water in order to eliminate the peculiar bitterness of this legume, known in the Canary Islands as chocho.

Location: Google Maps

Charco Don Gabino

This enchanting pool of volcanic rock and transparent water is located on the coast of Los Silos. It takes its name from Gabino Dorta, a famous owner of banana plantations. It can be reached on foot, following the same path that leads to Charco Los Chochos. Once you get there (there is a sign), all you have to do is go down a few steps, roll out your towel and cool off in the Atlantic waters.

Charco Don Gabino is a natural pool, about ten metres long and two metres deep at its deepest point. It has a solarium area and several volcanic stone entrances. However, it is advisable to avoid the part facing the sea, as the waves are usually very strong in this area.

For those who prefer to combine swimming with a two-hour walk, we recommend the coastal path from Buenavista del Norte to Los Silos. Walk down to the lighthouse on a tarmac road between banana plantations, then turn right onto a path that runs parallel to the coast. On the way you will pass several puddles and enjoy fantastic views of the Teno mountains with the Teide volcano in the distance.

Location: Google Maps

El Caletón 

In the fishing village of Garachico, about nine kilometres from Buenavista del Norte, the natural pools of El Caletón guarantee a day of bathing with breathtaking views. These large pools were formed by the eruption of the Trevejo volcano in 1706. The hot lava cooled under the force of the sea and formed these twisted shapes, which have become one of Tenerife’s main tourist attractions.

The natural pools of Garachico fill and empty thanks to the tides and waves. They are most spectacular at high tide. El Caletón is a family-friendly complex with numerous ladders to the water and sun terraces. It also has lifeguards during the summer, a bar-restaurant with a chill-out terrace on the lava itself, car parks, a public swimming pool, the nearby Muellito beach and numerous renowned restaurants and shops within walking distance.

Location: Google Maps

Tips for visiting the natural pools of northern Tenerife

There are some important recommendations and warnings to follow to get the most out of your Charco experience.

• Wear bathing or surfing shoes for safe access to the pools – the rocks are slippery!
• Some rocks have sea urchins on them, so be careful if you have to lean on them.
• Before jumping in, check the depth of the pool – they are usually very shallow!
• Watch the locals go in and out of the puddles.
• Never ignore the power of the ocean, be alert and if the sea is too rough, don’t take any chances.
• Beware of high tides combined with swell: take extra precautions!
• Don’t forget to protect yourself from the sun. There is no shade by the pools and it is not possible to put up a parasol.
• Bring your snorkelling gear or goggles if you want to see the colourful underwater world.
• Most of the pools are in areas with no facilities, so it is advisable to bring food and water.
• Take your rubbish home with you (including cigarette butts) and leave these unique places clean.

Would you like to discover some of these natural pools? Have you already been to one? We would love to hear about your impressions and experiences.

See you soon… ¡Hasta pronto!

Karin and Sergio