Playa de Benijo (Wild Black Sand Beach)

A spectacular wild black volcanic sand beach in the remote Anaga region, famous for its dramatic sunsets and the iconic Roques de Anaga — towering rock pinnacles rising from the Atlantic just offshore. The beach is backed by steep cliffs covered in native vegetation. Swimming is dangerous due to strong currents and powerful Atlantic swells — this is a beach for experienced surfers and photographers rather than casual swimmers. Access is via a steep stone staircase from the car park. A popular beachside restaurant (El Penon del Aguila) serves fresh seafood with unbeatable sunset views. The beach is at its most photogenic at sunset when the Roques de Anaga are silhouetted against the golden sky and the wet black sand creates mirror-like reflections. Nearby the Benijo viewpoint (Mirador de Benijo) offers a panoramic coastal vista. Bus 947 reaches the village of Benijo from Santa Cruz via La Laguna.