Garachico is a charming coastal town on Tenerife, nestled between sea and mountains with an interesting history. We were seduced by its rich historical heritage, spectacular natural pools and authentic atmosphere.
Discover the best attractions in Garachico, illustrated with photos that will make you want to go there.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
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Is Garachico worth it?
Garachico is certainly worth a visit. This charming coastal town in the north of Tenerife offers an authentic experience that bears witness to the island’s history. The natural pools of El Caleton, created by the eruption of 1706, the preserved historic center and the local atmosphere make this a unique destination that combines architecture and natural beauty.
Garachico is a small town easily explored on foot. Most attractions are located in or near the historic center.
This is one of Tenerife’s must-sees.
Useful tips for visiting Garachico
Where is Garachico?
- Garachico is located on the north coast of Tenerife, around 27 km west of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
- From Santa Cruz de Tenerife = 1h drive
- From Puerto de la Cruz = 35min drive
- From Costa Ajede = 1h10 drive
- Here is a map to help you find your way
How to get to Garachico
Garachico is easily accessible via the main northwest coast road, TF-5. Here are the main options:
- By car: This is the most practical way to explore the region.
- By bus: Line 363 runs from Puerto de la Cruz to Garachico.
- By cab: More expensive but convenient option from nearby towns
- Organized tours: many excursions around the island make a stop at Garachico – see options
Parking in Garachico
Garachico has two main parking lots:
- One near the beach (fills up very quickly)
- Another near the waterfront to the east of the historic center
Note that Garachico is a popular spot and parking lots fill up quickly, especially in high season. We advise you to arrive early in the morning to find a place easily.
OUR TIPS TO RENT A CAR IN Tenerife
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- If you’re planning to explore the mountains, don ‘t take the smallest cars. A more powerful engine will be more comfortable.
- But don’t take too big a car either, as some roads are narrow.
- There’s a lot of demand and it’s an island, so book early.
1. Enjoy the natural pools of El Caletón
Why visit?
The natural pools of El Caletón are Garachico’s star attraction. And we loved it. Formed by cooled lava rocks from the volcanic eruption of 1706, they offer a magnificent natural spectacle. Especially at high tide! The contrast between the dark volcanic rock and the azure blue of the ocean is striking.
Whether you want to swim (at low tide) or watch the waves crash against the rocks (at high tide), El Caletón is well worth a visit.
These are our favorite natural pools in Tenerife(see our list).
Practical advice
- Duration: Between 20 minutes and 1 hour, depending on your desire to swim and take photos.
- Free access
- Best time: At low tide to swim in calm waters or at high tide to see the water jets
- At high tide, look carefully at where the ground is wet to avoid waves.
- Bring water shoes to walk on rocks if you go swimming.
2. Visit San Miguel Castle
Why visit?
San Miguel Castle is one of Garachico’s must-see historical relics. Built in 1575 to protect the town from pirate attacks, it bears witness to the city’s past. We enjoyed its canto stone walls, typical of the Canary Islands.
Note its white bell tower and coats of arms.
It is one of the few buildings to have survived the devastating eruption of 1706.
Practical advice
- The castle is small, and it’s not really a “tour”.
- Sometimes open for exhibitions, when you can climb up to the roof and enjoy the view.
- Next to natural pools
WHERE TO STAY IN Tenerife
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
- Where to stay in Tenerife
- Our favorite: Hotel Corales Beach
Select by hotel type:
- 5-star hotels
- Best boutique-hotels
- Best adults-only hotels (coming soon)
- Best all-inclusive hotels (coming soon)
- Best hotels for families (coming soon)
Select by city:
- Best hotels in Costa Adeje
- Best hotels in Puerto de La Cruz
- Best hotels in Los Gigantes
- Best hotels in Santa Cruz
- Best hotels in Laguna
- Best hotels in Playa de las Americas
- 5-star hotel in Los Cristianos (coming soon)
3. Admire the Church of Santa Ana
Why visit?
The Church of Santa Ana is located in the heart of Garachico. Founded in 1520, it was severely damaged by the eruption of 1706 before being rebuilt according to the original plans.
We really enjoyed the interior, with its impressive Mudéjar-style coffered ceiling. Numerous side chapels, adorned with Baroque altarpieces, are well worth a visit.
Admire the tower and its architectural perspective.
Practical advice
- Duration: 15 to 30 minutes
- Access: Free or for a small fee (depending on the time)
- Opening hours: 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. except Saturdays (when access is restricted by mass)
4. Stroll through Puerta de Tierra park
Why visit?
Puerta de Tierra Park is a small garden in the heart of Garachico. Its name comes from the ancient gateway to the town, whose stone arch can still be seen today. We enjoyed the tranquility of this exotic garden.
In the past, all people and goods entering or leaving Garachico had to pass through this gate.
The park is a silent witness to the city’s flourishing past, before the catastrophe of 1706 destroyed its port.
Practical advice
- Duration: 5 to 10 minutes
- Access: Free
- Located west of the historic center
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5. Stroll along the waterfront and discover its sculptures
Why visit?
Garachico’s waterfront offers a pleasant promenade dotted with contemporary works of art. The seawall is home to several white sculptures that stand out against the blue of the sky and ocean. This is Kan Yasuda’s “Tensei Tenmoku” (Door without door), composed of elements in Italian marble.
We really liked the combination of artwork, sea and mountains. And the white of the sculpture contrasted well with the black of the lava.
Practical advice
- Access: Free
- Best time: At sunset to enjoy the changing lights
6. Stay in one of its charming hotels
If you like charming hotels, Garachico has small traditional hotels with patios and lots of color.
You may want to consider spending your whole stay here, or just one or two nights, to discover the atmosphere in the evenings.
- Hotel San Roque, in an 18th-century stately home
See photos, prices and availability – and book! - Hotel Quinta La Roja, in a 17th-century colonial mansion
See photos, prices and availability – and book!
See more suggestions for boutique hotels in Tenerife.
7. Discover the Convento de la Inmaculada Concepción
Why visit?
Built in the mid-17th century, this convent was unfortunately seriously damaged by fire in 1709 (according to the town’s website here). It’s a magnificent, large building. No visits except to the church, as the nuns are still cloistered there. To this day, they still make and sell typical cakes, perpetuating an age-old tradition.
Practical advice
- Duration: 10 minutes
- Located on rue Esteban de Ponte
- The interior is generally not accessible to visitors, apart from the church in some cases.
- Admire the façade and its typical architecture.
HAVE FUN IN TENERIFE: activities
8. Plaza Libertad and Church of Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles
Why visit?
The main square is Plaza Libertad. It’s lively, with beautiful trees and historic buildings all around. Parmin them, the Church of Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles, also known as the former convent of San Francisco, is a must-see. Dating back to 1524, this impressive ensemble bears witness to the city’s rich history.
The two magnificent masonry doors on the main façade are an immediate eye-catcher. Inside, its Latin cross plan and single nave are typical of the religious architecture of the period. And of course, you can’t miss the octagonal Mudejar coffered ceiling.
Practical advice
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Price: 1 euro
- Located in Plaza de la Libertad
- Particularly noteworthy is the La Vera Cruz chapel, built in the early 17th century.
9. Stroll through the town’s charming alleyways
Why visit?
Take time to stroll through the picturesque streets of Garachico. The cobbled streets and colorful facades bear witness to the city’s rich colonial past. We were charmed by the architectural details, such as the carved wooden balconies and brightly hued walls.
Take a turn down an alley and you’ll come across remarkable buildings such as the Casa de los Molinos and the Casa de los Ponte. We really enjoyed the peaceful, authentic atmosphere of these narrow streets.
All this charm makes Garachico one of Tenerife’s most beautiful towns.
Practical advice
- Duration: 15 to 45 minutes for a leisurely stroll
- Access: Easy, flat, well-maintained streets
- Best times: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat
- Don’t hesitate to get lost, it’s the best way to discover hidden treasures.
10. Admire the view from the Mirador del Emigrante
Why visit?
The Mirador del Emigrante offers exceptional panoramic views of Garachico and the surrounding area. Inaugurated in 1990, this viewpoint pays tribute to the Canarian emigrants who left the island in search of a better life. We enjoyed the contrast between the city, the sea and the mountains from this promontory. The monument created by artist Fernando in honor of the emigrants adds a moving touch to this place steeped in history. There are also panels explaining the eruption of 1706.
Practical advice
- Duration: 10 minutes
- Access: Free
- A 2-minute drive from Garachico
- Best time: At sunset for spectacular views
- A few parking spaces
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11. Relax on Playa El Muelle de Garachico
Why visit?
Playa El Muelle is Garachico’s main beach. It’s not as beautiful as other beaches on Tenerife, but it has the advantage of being close to the town center. It is small, with grey pebbles and black sand. It is quite quiet with a view of the mountains.
Practical advice
- Length: 60m long and 20m wide
- Access: Ramp access
- Unattended
- Located to the west of the city
Other Garachico attractions
La Marina
At the other end of town, the Marina offers a charming glimpse into the maritime life of this small coastal town. Although less imposing than in the past, it retains a special atmosphere.
Casa Palacio de los Condes de La Gomera
Casa Palacio de los Condes de La Gomera is a beautiful 17th-century building. This imposing stately home bears witness to Garachico’s prestigious past. take time to admire its majestic façade, typical of Canarian colonial architecture.
The interior can sometimes be visited on special occasions, please ask at the tourist office.
Plaza de Santo Domingo
The Plaza de Santo Domingo is the opposite of the natural swimming pools. It offers a fine example of the city’s colonial architecture. Here you’ll find a lively atmosphere, café terraces and benches shaded by century-old trees.
Casa El Molino
An example of Canarian civil architecture. This historic residence is the only remaining part of a flour mill complex. There used to be a lot of them, but they were destroyed by the eruption. Be careful, it’s easy to miss as it’s below the road.
C/ de Esteban de Ponte, 64.
What to see around Garachico
Garachico is ideally located for exploring northern Tenerife. Here are a few ideas of places to visit to combine with :
- Icod de los Vinos: Discover the famous Drago Milenario, a thousand-year-old tree
- Buenavista and Punta de Teno
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO tenerife
- Best of
What to do in Tenerife
Most beautiful towns and villages
Most beautiful beaches
Best natural pools
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful roads
Amusement parks
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Secret places, off the beaten track (coming soon)
- Practical advice
25 tips for a successful trip to Tenerife
How to get around
How to rent a car in Tenerife
Driving tips
Best excursions (coming soon)
Where to stay in Tenerife
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 1 week – 10 days
- The must-dos
Dolphin watching in Tenerife (coming soon)
Teide National Park
Anaga Rural Park (coming soon)
La Orotava (coming soon)
Garachico
Village of Masca
Pyramids of Güimar
