Live from Puerto de Santiago and Playa Chica
picked up by the wind and the waves
This is how the valley of Masca today
👉 What feeling does it give you right now?
The Pulse reflects how this place is perceived right now.
Perfect day
Strong wind
Rough sea
Very quiet
Ideal Promenade
Variable day
Playa Chica: the tranquil cove of Puerto de Santiago next to Los Gigantes
This beach is one of those little coves that are discovered almost by chance. It is just a few meters from the dock of Puerto de Santiago, in the northwest of Tenerife, and most of those who pass by here have their eyes set on the cliffs of Los Gigantes. With our live webcam , you can see the state of the sea and the atmosphere of the cove in real time before approaching.
A cove of black sand protected by the rock
The beach is barely about 50 meters long, but what makes it special is its natural shelter. A barrier of volcanic rocks slows down the currents and keeps the water still and clean for almost the entire year, making it a safe place for family bathing and snorkeling. The seabed is rocky and clear, with octopuses, wrasses, and colorful fish among the stones. It is advisable to wear water shoes to protect against sea urchins.
The dark volcanic sand mixes with pebbles that give it a very Canarian character. As for the climate, the south of Santiago del Teide is one of the most stable on the island: in winter, the air hovers around 17 °C and the water around 19 °C, and in summer both temperatures rise about ten degrees more, with clear skies almost all year round.
| Era | Air temperature | Water temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Winter | ~17 °C | ~19 °C |
| Summer | ~26 °C | ~23 °C |
How to get there and what to find in the area
The the TF-47 road leads directly to the center of Puerto de Santiago, with parking in the streets surrounding the port area. For those who prefer public transport, bus lines 473 and 477 have very nearby stops. From the dock, there is also a flat path that leads almost to the shore, making access comfortable for all types of visitors.
Just a few steps from the beach are the restaurants along the promenade, where the fresh fish of the day is the star. It is also worth visiting the Fisherman’s Museum, which is free to enter and preserves the maritime memory of the area. Daily excursions for whale and dolphin watching also depart from the adjacent port, one of the most valued activities in northwest Tenerife.
Before heading out, check our webcams to see the current state of the sea. It is advisable to arrive early in summer to find a spot on the shore and to bring sunscreen even if the day seems somewhat overcast.
Your questions about Playa Chica answered
What can be seen on the webcam of Puerto de Santiago and Playa Chica?
The camera shows the cove, the dock, and the state of the sea in real time. It's useful for checking the waves and the environment before getting closer.
Is it safe to swim at Playa Chica?
Yes. The rock barrier protects the cove from currents and keeps the water calm almost all year round. The rescue service is not fixed, so it's important to exercise extra caution with young children.
Is it good for snorkeling?
One of the best in the area. The rocky bottom and clear water create an environment rich in marine life: colorful fish, octopuses, and wrasses among the stones. Wearing diving shoes is recommended.
What services does the beach have?
Showers, accessible access with ramp and restaurants just a few meters away. Parking is available on the streets surrounding the port.
How to get to Playa Chica from the south of Tenerife?
Along the TF-47 road, well connected to the TF-1 highway. There are also buses on lines 473 and 477 from Playa de las Américas and Los Cristianos.
What else can be done nearby?
Visit the Fisherman’s Museum, take a cetacean watching excursion from Los Gigantes port or head up to the Archipenque Viewpoint for panoramic views of the entire bay.