Best Snorkeling Spots in Tenerife: A Complete Guide
Tenerife is not just the island of eternal spring; it is also a true underwater paradise hidden in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean. Thanks to its volcanic origins, the surrounding waters offer extraordinary visibility that often exceeds 20-30 meters, alongside a marine biodiversity that is unique in the world.
If you are planning your holiday and wondering where the best snorkeling spots in Tenerife are, you have come to the right place. In this guide, we will explore the island’s most fascinating spots, focusing particularly on the south and west coasts, where the waters are calmer, more protected, and teeming with life.
Why go snorkeling in Tenerife South?
Tenerife’s geographical layout plays a fundamental role for sea lovers. While the north of the island is often exposed to strong waves and currents, the coastline stretching from Las Américas and Costa Adeje all the way to Los Gigantes is sheltered from the trade winds.
This microclimate creates the perfect conditions for snorkeling:
Calm and warm waters all year round (ranging from 19°C in winter to 24°C in summer).
Volcanic seabeds rich in caves, natural arches, and reefs that provide shelter to hundreds of marine species.
Easy access from both the beaches and by boat.
Top 4 snorkeling spots in Tenerife you can’t miss
Here is a selection of the most marine-rich and geologically fascinating spots on the island, all easily accessible from our base in Las Américas.
1. Abades: The natural pool of biodiversity
Located on the southeast coast, the bay of Abades is a favorite destination for both scuba divers and snorkelers. Being a sheltered bay, accessing the water from the beach is incredibly easy, making it ideal for families or beginners. Beneath the surface, you will find a rich volcanic reef and meadows of Cymodocea nodosa (a local seagrass) where parrotfish, salemas, and small invertebrates hide.
2. Alcalá: Lava formations and marine life
This picturesque fishing village offers an incredible underwater landscape. Ancient lava flows have created a series of natural barriers and rock pools where the water is crystal clear. Snorkeling here allows you to admire the typical Canarian fauna up close: red rock crabs, starfish, and schools of bogas.
3. El Puertito (Armeñime): A sheltered bay
El Puertito is a small, highly characteristic natural bay protected from outer ocean currents. Its sandy seabed mixed with rock patches makes it a calm and relaxing place to swim with a mask and snorkel, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility of South Tenerife’s waters.
4. Montaña Amarilla: Snorkeling under the volcano walls
Snorkeling at the foot of the majestic cliffs of Montaña Amarilla is a breathtaking experience. The yellow-hued volcanic rock walls plunge gently into the ocean, creating a dramatic and spectacular underwater environment. The seabed here is deeper, the water turns an intense shade of blue, and it is easy to spot schools of larger fish, trumpetfish, barracudas, turtles, and rays.
Marine life: What can you spot?
Swimming across the snorkeling sites in Tenerife, you will have the opportunity to encounter an incredibly rich marine ecosystem. Among the most common sightings are the colorful Canarian parrotfish (locally known as Vieja), timid trumpetfish, majestic rays resting on the sand, and curious cuttlefish.
(Note to the reader: If your dream is to spot the island’s most famous marine reptiles while fully respecting their environment, don’t miss our dedicated guide to Turtles in Tenerife).
Safety tips for snorkeling in the Atlantic
The Atlantic Ocean is wonderful, but it demands respect. To ensure an unforgettable and risk-free experience, we always recommend following these simple rules:
Never touch marine wildlife: Animals like rays and turtles should never be touched or disturbed. At Scubafriends, we strictly promote sustainable tourism and passive observation.
Watch out for currents: Even if the water looks calm on the surface, there can be invisible undercurrents. Never venture too far from the shore if you are unfamiliar with the area.
Use the right sunscreen: Choose “Reef Safe” sunscreens to avoid polluting the marine ecosystem and harming the reef.
Experience the best snorkeling in Tenerife with Scubafriends
Snorkeling on your own from the beach can be fun, but doing it with a professional guide completely transforms the experience. Often, the most beautiful spots full of life are only accessible by sea or require a deep knowledge of local currents.
At our Scubafriends Tenerife center (a PADI 5 Stars IDC center of excellence led by Salvatore and his team), we organize exclusive snorkeling excursions:
Small groups: A maximum of 5 to 6 people per guide to guarantee top safety and personalized attention.
Professional gear included: Mask, snorkel, fins, and a wetsuit in your size to ensure you swim in total comfort.
Expert guides: We will show you the hidden secrets of the reef that you wouldn’t be able to spot on your own.
Come visit us in Las Américas! At our center, our philosophy always stands: Arrive as a guest, leave as a friend.
👉 Book your Snorkeling Tour with Scubafriends now and dive into the adventure!
