Best Campervan-Friendly Beaches in Tenerife (That You Can Actually Park Near)
Let’s face it — one of the main reasons to visit Tenerife is the beach.
But if you’re travelling in a campervan, not every beach is easy to access or safe to park near.
Some are surrounded by cliffs, others have tricky roads or signs that say “No Overnight Parking”. And let’s not even talk about the crowded tourist zones…
So, where can you actually park your van and enjoy the sun, sand and sea — comfortably and (sometimes) legally?
In this guide, we reveal the top campervan-friendly beaches in Tenerife, based on:
- Easy road access
- Parking space suitable for vans
- Scenic value
- Peaceful atmosphere
- Legal or tolerated overnight stay
Because yes — you can still wake up by the ocean, cook barefoot in the sand, or sip your coffee with Atlantic views.
What Makes a Beach Campervan-Friendly?
Before we dive into the list, let’s define what “camper-friendly” actually means on an island like Tenerife.
Key criteria:
Legal and safe parking nearby
You need to be able to park without blocking roads or getting fined. Bonus points if the area is quiet and flat.
Good access roads
Forget tight mountain curves or off-road struggles — the best spots are reached via simple, paved roads with reasonable space for vans.
Room to breathe
Campervan travel is about freedom. These beaches offer enough space to open your doors, cook, relax, and unwind — even if just for the day.
Tolerated overnight stay
Even when wild camping isn’t allowed, some places are known to be quiet and respectful for a night’s sleep, as long as you follow the rules.
Always check local signs and avoid putting tables, chairs or awnings outside unless you’re in a legal camping zone.
Top 7 Campervan-Friendly Beaches in Tenerife
Let’s start the route. From wild and natural to calm and family-ready, these are the best beaches where van travellers can truly enjoy the coast.
1. Playa La Tejita
Best for: Natural vibes, sunrise lovers, wind and space.
- Located near El Médano, this is one of Tenerife’s longest and wildest beaches.
- Huge parking area nearby, often with other vans and surfers.
- Perfect spot for early morning swims or quiet sunsets.
Campervan notes: Flat gravel area ideal for daytime stays. Overnight often tolerated if discreet.
2. Playa de Las Teresitas
Best for: Families and calm swimming.
- Located just outside Santa Cruz, this beach offers golden sand, palm trees and calm waters, thanks to a large breakwater.
- Wide parking along the promenade — easy even for large campers.
Campervan notes:Excellent access and parking. Not recommended for overnight, but great for day visits with kids.
3. Playa de El Médano
Best for: Surf, wind sports and vanlife atmosphere.
- The hub of Tenerife’s kite and windsurf scene, with a chilled, camper-friendly vibe.
- Several parking areas close to the beach, plus cafés and supermarkets nearby.
Campervan notes: Often used by van travellers. Overnight not legal but usually tolerated off-centre.
4. Playa de Abades
Best for: Peaceful atmosphere, snorkelling and a quiet stop.
- A small village beach on the south-east coast, often missed by tourists.
- Soft golden sand, gentle waves and clear waters perfect for kids or snorkellers.
- A laid-back community vibe with a couple of beachfront bars.
Campervan notes:Ample parking near the beach. Often used by vanlifers during the day. Overnight sometimes tolerated outside peak season.
5. Playa de Almáciga
Best for: Wild coast, dramatic waves and real escape.
- Located in the heart of the Anaga mountains, this is a raw and powerful Atlantic beach, surrounded by cliffs and banana plantations.
- The road is narrow and curvy — but absolutely worth the effort.
Campervan notes: Road requires caution for larger campers. Small parking area just above the beach. Overnight possible but not officially allowed — keep a low profile.
6. Playa de Los Cristianos
Best for: Urban comfort with a beach view.
- Right in the heart of the town, this beach is easy to access and full of amenities.
- Great for families, swimming, or those who want a mix of beach and restaurants.
Campervan notes: Parking available behind the beach and along nearby streets. Overnight not allowed, but good as a convenient daytime stop.
7. Playa del Socorro
Best for: Surfers, photographers and northern vibes.
- Located near Los Realejos, this black sand beach is popular with surfers and locals.
- Surrounded by green cliffs and usually less crowded than southern beaches.
Campervan notes: Designated parking available, including a spot frequently used by campers. May be noisy at night, but views are incredible.
Map Overview: Campervan-Friendly Beaches in Tenerife
Beach Name | Region | Parking Nearby | Overnight Stay Possible | Atmosphere |
Playa La Tejita | South-East | 🟢 Yes | 🟡 Sometimes | Wild and open |
Las Teresitas | North-East | 🟢 Yes | 🔴 No | Calm and family-safe |
El Médano | South | 🟢 Yes | 🟡 Tolerated | Sporty and vibrant |
Playa de Abades | East | 🟢 Yes | 🟡 Off-season | Quiet and sunny |
Playa de Almáciga | North-East | 🟡 Limited | 🟡 Possible (discreetly) | Remote and wild |
Los Cristianos | South | 🟢 Yes | 🔴 No | Urban and practical |
Playa del Socorro | North | 🟢 Yes | 🟡 Tolerated | Surf and scenery |
Tips for Parking and Sleeping Near the Beach in Tenerife
If you’re hoping to stay overnight near the sea, keep these things in mind:
Do:
- Park only in authorised or tolerated areas
- Arrive late and leave early if staying the night
- Keep everything inside the van (no tables, chairs, or awnings)
- Use apps like Park4Night to check latest reviews from other vanlifers
Don’t:
- Block access roads or entrances
- Light fires or leave rubbish
- Play music or party near residential areas
Sleeping by the beach is possible — but only if you respect the locals, the nature and the rules.
Final Thoughts: Sun, Sand and Vanlife
Travelling Tenerife by campervan means more than getting from place to place — it’s about waking up by the waves, cooking with your toes in the sand, and choosing a different beach every day.
And the best part?
You don’t need to stay in a resort to have beachfront luxury.
Explore Tenerife’s coastline your way — with AJJ Vans, every beach is a front-row seat to freedom.