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Playa de Garañona Black-Sand Beach in El Sauzal, Tenerife – Access, Safety Tips & Photo Guide

Hidden beneath dramatic lava cliffs on Tenerife’s north coast, Playa de Garañona (El Sauzal) rewards patient hikers with a vast sweep of volcanic sand, Atlantic swells and raw, untouched scenery. This guide explains the access route, sea conditions and the striking geology you’ll meet on the way—illustrated with on-site photos.

Wide panoramic view of Playa de Garañona with open Atlantic waves and a long strip of black volcanic sand below high cliffs.

The beach opens wide to the Atlantic, with a generous intertidal zone and constant surf. The cliff line shelters sections of sand while headlands frame the bay.

View along the cliff-backed coastline at Garañona showing multiple coves and black-sand pockets broken by rock promontories.

Looking along the shore you can see a sequence of pocket coves. These breaks in the lava reveal how the ocean continually reworks older flows and ash layers.

Small set of Atlantic waves washing across the black sand at Garañona during calm conditions.

Swell varies day to day; even on calmer mornings, shore-break can be punchy. Swim only when conditions are clearly safe and never turn your back on the surf.

Close view of the fine basaltic black sand at Playa de Garañona with footprints and subtle flow lines.

The sand is fine, basaltic and heat-absorbing. Early or late hours are most comfortable underfoot; bring footwear for midday visits.

Sheer cliff at Garañona showing grey columnar lava and weathered layers stacked above the beach. Natural lava arch and boulder field at Playa de Garañona beneath layered basalt cliffs.

The headwalls display columnar joints and oxidized layers—a textbook look at Tenerife’s volcanic history. Near the mid-beach a natural arch and boulder field form a striking focal point at low tide.

Narrow hiking path carved into the cliff on the descent to Playa de Garañona, with rough lava overhangs above. View from the access path showing a sea cave and turquoise water below the lava ledges.

Reaching the shore involves a steep, rough trail with exposed sections and loose gravel. Allow time for the descent and return, wear sturdy shoes, and avoid the route in wet or windy weather. Scenic pauses reveal sea caves and clear water below.

Close photo of improvised ropes fixed to a lava outcrop near Garañona, indicating hazardous, informal access.

You may see improvised ropes fixed to rock. Treat these as unsafe and avoid using them; sticks, cords and old lines weather quickly in the marine environment. Stick to the recognizable footpath and never attempt cliff shortcuts.

Playa de Garañona is best enjoyed as a wild-nature outing: bring water, sun protection and a pack to carry out all waste. Check tides and swell before you go; low to mid tide offers wider sand and easier passage between coves.