Top 7 Things to Do in Los Gigantes Tenerife

Nestled on the sunny west coast of Tenerife, Los Gigantes offers more than just its towering cliffs. This picturesque locale has activities for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking a quiet escape. It has a smaller town vibe and has fewer tourists than many of the other towns on the southern coast. Here are the top 7 things to do in Los Gigantes Tenerife.

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1. Visit the Natural Pools of Los Gigantes

The ocean around western Tenerife can be somewhat turbulent for swimmers. A delightful alternative is to explore the island’s natural pools, carved out by volcanic activity. These unique formations offer a serene and refreshing sea experience, providing idyllic spots for both swimming and sunbathing.

In Los Gigantes, don’t miss visiting the Piscina Natural Acantilado de Los Gigantes. a spectacular spot to soak in the natural beauty. It’s stunning any time of day, but especially at sunset. Navigating the area can be a bit tricky, as the rocks leading to the larger pool area tend to be slippery. Wearing water shoes is a smart choice to enhance safety and comfort.

Exercise caution if you decide to swim near the pool’s outer edge, especially on windy days. The waves crash over the side forcefully on windy days, posing a risk of sweeping swimmers off. Heed all safety signs and be aware of any closures due to adverse weather conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable visit.

2. Take an Eco-Friendly Whale or Dolphin Watching Trip to Masca Bay

Embark on a journey from the marina and sail beneath the imposing cliffs of Los Gigantes. Discover the secluded Masca Bay, accessible only by boat or on foot, and enjoy swimming in its crystal-clear waters. Most boat rides to Masca Bay include whale and dolphin watching.

We recommend looking for a tour provider who follows eco-friendly practices, so that the whale and dolphin’s natural behaviors are not interrupted. This typically includes the use of eco-friendly boats, avoiding loud or large boats and those who chase the whales.

3. Snorkeling and Diving

The marina in Los Gigantes offers a wide variety of boat trips, including sailing, snorkeling, and kayak tours. The area’s clear waters and diverse marine life make it a perfect spot for snorkeling and diving, offering a close-up view of colorful fish, turtles, and more.

4. Hike to the Top of the Cliffs

For those seeking adventure, hiking to the top of the Los Gigantes cliffs offers a rewarding challenge. The El Agujere trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of Los Gigantes, the ocean, the cliffs, and the neighboring island of La Gomera. There are also options for a guided tour to the top of the cliffs.

The Acantilados Los Gigantes – Alcalá hike is a more moderate trail option. While this trail doesn’t have the cliff views, it does run along the coast for almost 10 miles (almost 16 km) and passes through Arena Blanca Beach. You’ll have plenty of swimming options on this trail.

Los Gigantes is also a great place to stay if you’d like to hike the Masca Gorge trail. This classic and challenging trail requires a free permit, which can be difficult to get. You’ll see a lot of write-ups about doing this as a one-way downhill hike. Currently, that is not an option as there are no pickups at the beach (you have to hike back up the hill).

5. Sunset Watching

Los Gigantes offers some of the most spectacular sunsets in Tenerife. Find a spot along the marina or dine in a hilltop restaurant to watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues. Our favorite places to watch the sunset in Los Gigantes are:

• The Wine Bar and Terrace (restaurant and wine bar).
• Piscina Natural Acantilado de Los Gigantes (the view from the staircase and rocks are as good as from the pool itself).
• Los Gigantes Marina (there are a number of restaurants here to choose from). Our rental apartment in Los Gigantes overlooked the marina.
• Mirador Archipenque is a bit of a drive up the hill, but has a small café and garden with spectacular views.

6. Visit the Beach

Los Gigantes’ main beach is Playa de los Guios, a black sand beach just north of the marina. It has spectacular cliff views. Note that it was closed for our last visit due to some rock fall. Doublecheck this before heading to the beach. There are a few alternative beaches if this is the case:

• Playa de Santiago
• Playa Arena Blanca

7. Explore the Village of Los Gigantes

Stroll through the village’s streets, lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. Stop in at the pretty church, Parroquia del Espíritu Santo Los Gigantes. Don’t miss the fresh seafood at local restaurants, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere of Los Gigantes.

Is it Worth Visiting Los Gigantes?

Visiting Los Gigantes is undoubtedly worth it for anyone looking to experience the breathtaking natural beauty and serene ambiance that the town has to offer. The imposing cliffs of Los Gigantes, which dramatically drop into the sparkling Atlantic, create a stunning backdrop that is both awe-inspiring and soothing.

This area is not just about the views; it’s a gateway to a variety of outdoor activities, including whale and dolphin watching, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, hiking spectacular trails, and exploring secluded beaches accessible only by boat..

Where to Stay in Los Gigantes