Los Realejos, green, surf, and fireworks in northern Tenerife

Los Realejos is a large municipality in the north of Tenerife, between the La Orotava Valley and the Atlantic coast. Its territory combines cliffs with palm groves, volcanic sand beaches with good waves and green midlands covered with vineyards and laurisilva. It surprises those who know it, as it offers much more than it appears.

Moreover, it is known throughout Canary Islands for its spectacular May Festival fireworks, which attract thousands of people every year. Thanks to the CanariasLife webcam you can watch live a panoramic view of the valley and the day's conditions in the municipality.

Socorro Beach and the coast

The Socorro Beach is the most famous in the municipality and one of the best beaches in surf from Tenerife. Black volcanic sand, constant waves, and an undeveloped natural environment make it a regular destination for surfers and sea lovers.

On the other hand, the coast of Los Realejos has hidden coves and tide pools accessible on foot. They are not service beaches but offer a nature bath hard to find in other parts of the island.

Rambla de Castro and hiking

The Protected Landscape of the Rambla de Castro is the most emblematic natural space of the municipality. An easy trail runs along the coast between cliffs, Canary palm groves, and the old Hacienda de los Príncipes, a ruined manor house from the 16th century that gives a mysterious touch to the walk.

Also notable is the Barranco de Ruiz, with forests and laurisilva endemic vegetation. It is a short but spectacular route that connects the upper part of the municipality with the coast.

Moreover, from the San Pedro Viewpoint and the heights of Icod el Alto you get some of the best views of the valley, with the Teide in the background and the coast in front.

Historic center: Realejo Alto and Realejo Bajo

Los Realejos has two historic centers that reflect its origin: Realejo Alto y Realejo Bajo. In fact, the municipality's name comes from the two 'royals' (camps) where the Guanches' surrender was signed in 1496.

The Iglesia de Santiago Apóstol, in Realejo Bajo, is the first Christian temple of Tenerife. It was built after the conquest and is a place full of history. In Realejo Alto, the center retains stone mansions and streets with a rural atmosphere.

However, the main attraction of the town is not monumental: it is its atmosphere. Los Realejos maintains a local and authentic pace of life that is felt in its plazas, markets, and taverns.

Gastronomy in Los Realejos

The municipality is part of the Designation of Origin Valle de La Orotava, with wines to try in wineries and guachinches scattered throughout the midlands. The local cuisine includes wrinkled potatoes with mojo, scalded gofio, local cheeses, and fresh fish.

In fact, the guachinches of Los Realejos and Icod el Alto are among the most visited by the people of Tenerife: abundant homemade food with wine from the producer.

May Festivals

The May Festivals are the hallmark of Los Realejos. The fireworks that pit Realejo Alto against Realejo Bajo on the night of May 3rd are the most spectacular in Canary Islands. Thousands of people go up to the municipality to watch the pyrotechnic show, which can last for several hours.

How to get to Los Realejos

Since the Tenerife North Airport is about 30 minutes via the TF-5. From Santa Cruz de Tenerife, about 40 minutes. The municipality is next to Puerto de la Cruz y La Orotava, so it is easy to combine with visits to both.

There are also TITSA buses that connect Los Realejos with Puerto de la Cruz, La Orotava, and Santa Cruz.