So, you’re in Tenerife. You've got the sun, the volcanic sand, and a dog that’s currently staring at you with those "why am I stuck in the hotel?" eyes. It’s a common problem. Most of the pristine, blue-flag beaches on the island will get you a hefty fine if you show up with a canine companion. But then there’s Playa de los Perros.
It’s tucked away. Honestly, if you aren't looking for it, you might drive right past the El Médano area without realizing your dog’s favorite vacation spot is sitting right there. This isn’t some manicured resort beach with rows of matching umbrellas. It’s raw. It’s windy. It’s exactly what a dog beach should be.
The beach is located near the Tenerife South airport, specifically in the Granadilla de Abona municipality. It’s part of a stretch of coastline that feels a bit more "local" than the high-rise chaos of Playa de las Américas.
What’s the Vibe at Playa de los Perros?
Don’t expect luxury. Seriously. If you’re looking for a cocktail waiter to bring you a mojito while your pug sits on a velvet cushion, you’re in the wrong place. Playa de los Perros is a slice of volcanic shoreline where the rules are relaxed and the salt spray is constant. The ground is a mix of dark sand, pebbles, and those chunky rocks that make you wish you’d worn better flip-flops.
But for the dogs? It’s heaven.
They can run. There aren't many places in the Canary Islands where you can legally unclip the leash and let a Golden Retriever go full-speed into the Atlantic. Because it’s near El Médano, the wind is a major factor. You’ll see kitesurfers in the distance, their colorful sails cutting through the sky, while your dog tries to figure out if it can catch a wave. The water is generally clean, though the wind can make it a bit choppy for smaller pups.
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There's something uniquely cool about the community here. You aren't going to get side-eyed by a tourist for your dog shaking water onto their towel. Everyone is in the same boat. It’s a collective of dog lovers who just want their pets to experience the ocean. You'll see locals from San Isidro, expats from Germany, and travelers who rented a van just to bring their huskies to the coast.
Getting There Without Getting Lost
Finding it is half the battle. You’re looking for the area between El Médano and Los Abrigos. Specifically, it’s near the Montaña Pelada natural monument. There’s a dirt parking area nearby. Don’t expect a paved lot with a ticket machine. You park on the dirt, grab your water bottles—and you must bring water—and trek down.
- Location: Near El Médano, Granadilla de Abona.
- Access: A short walk from the dirt parking zones.
- Vibe: Rugged, windy, and social.
One thing people get wrong: they think every beach in El Médano is dog-friendly. Not true. If you wander onto the main town beach with a dog, the local police (Policía Local) might have a word with you. Stick to the designated Playa de los Perros zone to keep things stress-free.
The Reality of the "Sand"
Let’s talk about volcanic sand. It’s dark. It gets hot. Like, really hot. On a July afternoon, that black sand can reach temperatures that will hurt your dog’s paws. Experts like Dr. Marty Becker often emphasize the "five-second rule"—if you can’t hold the back of your hand on the sand for five seconds, it’s too hot for a dog.
In Tenerife, this is a real risk. I’ve seen people carrying their dogs across the upper stretches of the beach because the sand was basically a griddle.
The shoreline at Playa de los Perros isn’t all soft powder either. It’s a bit "wild." You’ll find dried seaweed (Posidonia) washed up in clumps. Some people hate it. They think it’s dirty. Actually, it’s a sign of a healthy ecosystem, though it does smell a bit salty and funky when it bakes in the sun. Your dog will probably want to roll in it. Let them. That’s the whole point of being here.
Rules and Etiquette (The Stuff People Ignore)
Even though it’s a "dog beach," there are still rules. The Granadilla de Abona council isn't just letting it be a free-for-all. You still need to have your dog’s paperwork—especially the microchip info and vaccination record—even if nobody asks to see it. It’s just good practice in Spain.
Potentially Dangerous Dogs (PPP) laws in Spain are strict. If you have a breed that falls under this category (think Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, etc.), the law technically requires a muzzle and a short leash, even on dog-friendly beaches. Now, do you see people following this perfectly? Honestly, no. But if an incident happens and you aren't following the law, the legal headache is massive.
Pick up the poop. It sounds obvious. It isn't. Because the beach is rocky and "wild," some owners think they can leave it. Don't be that person. The sun here turns everything into a permanent part of the landscape very quickly. The local community works hard to keep this spot open; if it becomes a health hazard, the council will just shut it down.
What to Pack
- Fresh Water: There are no taps on the sand. The salt will make your dog thirsty fast.
- Portable Shade: There are zero trees. A small pop-up tent or a sturdy umbrella is a lifesaver.
- Towel for the Car: Your car will be full of black sand and salt. You’ve been warned.
- Long Leash: If your dog’s recall isn't 100%, use a long line. The wind can carry scents that make even the most well-behaved dog suddenly decide to sprint toward a kitesurfer a mile away.
Why This Spot Matters for Tenerife Tourism
For a long time, Tenerife was behind the curve on pet-friendly travel. You had these massive resorts but nowhere for the "family member with four legs" to go. Opening spots like Playa de los Perros changed the game. It’s part of a broader shift in the Canary Islands to accommodate a different kind of traveler—the one who works remotely and travels with their pet.
It’s not just about the beach itself; it’s about what it represents. It’s a communal space. You’ll meet people here who will give you tips on the best pet-friendly cafes in El Médano (like some of the spots along the main plaza where dogs are welcomed with water bowls).
Is it the most beautiful beach on the island? No. If you want white sand and calm turquoise water, go to Playa de Las Teresitas in the north. But if you want a place where your dog can be a dog, where the wind blows the stress away, and where you can see the red cone of Montaña Roja in the distance, this is it.
The Weather Factor
You have to check the wind forecast. El Médano is the windsurfing capital for a reason. If the wind is gusting at 40 knots, you’re going to get sand-blasted. Your dog will get sand in its eyes. It won’t be fun.
Check sites like Windguru or Windy before you go. You’re looking for days when the wind is manageable. If it’s a "Calima" day—when the dust blows in from the Sahara—it might be too hot and hazy. The best times are usually early morning or the late afternoon when the sun is lower and the heat is less intense.
Actionable Steps for Your Visit
If you're planning to head down to Playa de los Perros, do it right. Don't just wing it and end up with a dehydrated dog and a sunburn.
First, check your dog's paws. If they've spent the whole holiday on hotel carpets, the volcanic rocks at the beach might be abrasive. Consider some paw balm before and after the visit.
Second, timing is everything. Aim for 9:00 AM or after 6:00 PM. The light hitting Montaña Roja at sunset is incredible, and the sand will be cool enough to walk on.
Third, bring a collapsible bowl. It's much easier than trying to pour water into your hand while the wind is blowing it sideways.
Lastly, when you leave, head into El Médano for a coffee. Most of the outdoor seating areas are incredibly dog-friendly, and it's a great way to let your pup dry off before the car ride back.
This beach isn't a postcard-perfect destination for humans, but for a dog, it's the highlight of the island. Respect the space, keep an eye on the wind, and enjoy the rare freedom of a leash-free Atlantic afternoon.