To the west of Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, Playa Jimenez is a black-sand urban beach in a splendid setting: on the sea side, the ocean and the colorful houses of Punta Brava; on the town side, lush gardens with the mountains in the background.
Here are some useful tips for planning your visit to Playa Jimenez in Puerto de la Cruz.
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 Playa Jimenez worth it?
Yes, absolutely! We really appreciated its authentic character, with the colorful facades of the houses above the black sand. Away from the town center, it’s also a slightly wilder beach. The currents can be strong, but the waves are magnificent and we spent a long time admiring them from the boulders that separate the beach from Playa Chica. Playa Jimenez has all the necessary facilities, including a lovely beach playground.
In our opinion, this is one of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto de la Cruz, if not our favorite.
Beach type: sandy, supervised…
Sand or no sand?
- The beach floor is black and volcanic, typical of Tenerife.
- The texture is fine and pleasant for bare feet.
- There are rock formations on the beach and in the water.
- Because of its color, sand can be very hot in summer, so special footwear is recommended. Find out more here.
Swimming conditions and supervision
- We didn’t see a lifeguard station on the beach, but there was a lifeguard.
- The slope is gentle on the sand and steeper to enter the water.
- The bottom is rocky in places.
- There were some nice waves during our visit and we could see that the currents were strong. So we need to be vigilant.
- The waters are crystal clear.
Installations
- We found showers and toilets in the building above the beach.
- There was also a straw mat walkway at the bottom of the access stairs, to get closer to the water, very useful when the sun is beating down and the black sand is getting hot.
- Sun loungers and parasols are available for hire.
- A large beach playground is set up every day.
Access to Playa Jimenez in Puerto de la Cruz
Where to find Playa Jimenez
- Northwest of Puerto de la Cruz
- Near Punta Brava and Loro Parque
- 25min walk from downtown
- From Santa Cruz de Tenerife: 35min drive
Access by car and parking
- The beach is not far from downtown.
- There are parking spaces in the streets above the beach, but they are overcrowded in high season.
- Less than a 25-minute walk away, Parking Explanada del Muelle is free and open 24 hours a day.
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.
Access from Puerto de la Cruz
Playa Jimenez is less than a 25-minute walk from downtown. So it’s within walking distance if you like to do a bit of walking. And if that’s the case, why not take advantage of its location to go on a walking tour of the old town with a guide who will introduce you to Puerto de la Cruz and its history?
Public transport access
The bus stop Loro Parque bus stop is just above the beach, less than a 2-minute walk away. Find out more here.
DISCOVER Puerto de la Cruz
Useful information
Dog
Dogs are not allowed on the beach or in the water.
Reduced mobility access
There’s an inclined plane foraccess by the mobility-impaired and adapted toilets.
With children
Because of the waves and currents, the beach didn’t seem ideal for a visit with children.
Naturism
It is not possible to practice naturism on this beach.
Eating out
The beach is close to the town center, where you’ll find plenty of restaurants. Don’t miss our article on our top addresses in Puerto de la Cruz.
Hotels
You’re right in the center of Puerto de la Cruz. See our selection of the best hotels in the city.
WHERE TO STAY IN Puerto de la Cruz
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Right in the center
Hotel AF Valle Orotava – Check photos and availability
Near the beach
Hotel AluaSoul Orotava Valley – Check photos and availability
On the heights
Hotel Botanica y Oriental Spa – Check photos and availability.
Atlantic Mirage Suites & Spa Hotel – Check photos and availability
Tigaiga Suites apartments – Check photos and availability.
See our complete selection of the best hotels in Puerto de la Cruz.
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
