Location
Spain
Status
Unofficial / Tolerated
Suitable for
Adults only
Terrain
Sand
Best season
May to October, on calm days
About Playa del Ancón
El Ancón is an isolated black-sand beach on the north coast of Tenerife in the municipality of La Orotava, lying at the foot of steep cliffs between Puerto de la Cruz and the Santa Úrsula coast. It is roughly 200 m long and only about 20 m deep, with dark volcanic sand and stones, and it faces straight into the Atlantic, so the surf is usually strong and swimming can be dangerous. There are no services of any kind: no lifeguard, showers, toilets or kiosk. Because getting down is awkward, the beach offers a lot of privacy, and it is one of several wild north-coast beaches near La Orotava (with neighbouring Los Patos) that naturists use; the Spanish Naturist Federation lists it as a beach of nudist tradition. Expect a small, mixed crowd of nude sunbathers, surfers and walkers rather than a busy beach, with green cliffs and banana plantations above.
Getting there
The beach sits below the cliffs and getting down is difficult. Access is from the coast road area of La Orotava's shoreline, followed by a steep, rough path down the cliff; neighbouring Los Patos is reached by a similar path from a nearby car park. Sturdy shoes are needed, there is no step-free access, and no public transport serves the beach directly. Check sea conditions before going, as waves can cover parts of the shore at high tide.
Legal context
Nudity is not prohibited on Spanish beaches. El Ancón's nude use is customary and recognised by the Spanish Naturist Federation, not a municipal designation. No restrictions or enforcement against nudity were found (2026).
Naturism at Playa del Ancón sits under Spain's rules for de facto tolerance — usually left alone if you keep it non-sexual and low-drama.
Full country law: Spain public nudity guide.
Naturist status confirmed against an official source on 24 October 2026.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 28.4232, -16.5056
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in Spain
Frequently asked questions
Is nudity accepted at El Ancón?
Yes, by custom. The Spanish Naturist Federation lists it, and its remoteness gives plenty of privacy.
Is it safe to swim?
Often not. The beach faces open Atlantic surf and there is no lifeguard.
Are there facilities?
None. Bring water, food and shade.
Is access easy?
No. The beach is at the foot of a cliff and the path down is steep and rough.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
Members’ reviews
Write a review →Loading member reviews…