Playa El Callao in Arona – Quiet Volcanic Beach and Coastal Walk in South Tenerife

Playa El Callao is one of the most peaceful corners of the Arona coastline in south Tenerife. This rugged volcanic bay combines black lava rocks, a wide pebble shore and long views across the Atlantic Ocean towards the island of La Gomera. Far from the crowded resort beaches, it is a favourite place for relaxed walks, sunset watching and quiet swims in natural surroundings.

From above you can clearly see the long arc of Playa El Callao framed by dark volcanic stones. Dirt paths cross the open terrain behind the beach, allowing visitors to explore short walking routes and viewpoints along the cliffs. On clear days the calm Atlantic waters are a deep blue, and the silhouette of La Gomera appears on the horizon, making this viewpoint ideal for photography and sunset watching.

At the western side of the bay the coastline forms a small natural inlet protected by black lava rocks. Here locals and confident swimmers climb down to the water for a refreshing dip away from the main pebble shore. The contrast between the pale coastal buildings, the dark rocks and the bright Atlantic gives this corner of Playa El Callao a very characteristic Canary Islands look.

A wooden-fenced path follows the edge of the cliffs and connects Playa El Callao with the nearby resorts. This coastal walk is almost flat and easy, making it perfect for an afternoon stroll or an early-morning run with sea breeze and uninterrupted ocean views. Along the route there are several spots where you can stop to look down at the waves crashing against the volcanic rocks.

Close to the cliffs a small cove offers another access to the sea. On calm days small boats and catamarans anchor offshore while visitors sit on the rocks enjoying the sound of the waves. The setting feels wild and natural, yet it is only a short walk from the hotels and apartments of Palm-Mar and the southern Arona area.

The main beach of Playa El Callao is made up of smooth, rounded pebbles in different shades of grey and black. Good footwear is essential, but once you reach the water you are rewarded with clear, clean sea and plenty of space even in high season. This pebble beach is rarely crowded and tends to attract people looking for a quiet spot for sunbathing, reading or simply listening to the ocean.

Looking towards the cliffs, you often see sailing boats and excursion catamarans resting on the water. Many whale and dolphin watching tours from Los Cristianos and Costa Adeje pass close to this stretch of coast, which explains the frequent presence of boats. From the beach it is easy to spot them against the glittering surface of the Atlantic, especially in the late afternoon light.

At the entrance there is an information board for Playa El Callao provided by the municipality of Arona. The panel shows a simple map of the bay and includes safety recommendations, emergency numbers and icons about services and bathing areas. Although this is a more natural and undeveloped beach, the signage makes it easy for visitors to understand where to enter the water safely and how to access the coastal paths.

Playa El Callao is an excellent choice for travellers who want to discover a more authentic volcanic beach in south Tenerife. Its combination of pebble shore, rocky coves, walking paths and open sea views creates a calm atmosphere only minutes away from the lively resorts. Whether you come for a coastal hike, a quiet swim or to watch the sunset over La Gomera, this corner of Arona offers a memorable and very Canary Islands experience.