Charco del Viento

Four natural pools for people of all ages

If your idea of a great day out is admiring lava flows bathed by the sea creating natural pools, you’ll find four of them here. Charco del Viento is the most popular swimming area in La Guancha and one of the best known and easiest to access in north Tenerife. Even though the force of the sea enters at times, the beauty and contrasting natural colours of this area allow safe bathing in different parts, with some sandy areas and rocky parts ideal for sun-bathing.

Swim with views of Teide and banana plantations nearby

Unlike many of the other natural pools of the Canary Islands, getting to this particular spot is relatively easy. Take the road which brings you to the borough of Icod de los Vinos, and follow a tarmac path to the pools, which are signposted, passing through typical banana plantations. There is a large parking area and steps down to what is a natural treasure multiplied by four, with magnificent views of Teide behind you.

Recommended tide

Low tide

Parking

Solarium

Kids zone

Sin vigilancia

La Guancha

Sustainability

- Never leave waste of any type lying around, including cigarette butts. Leftover food leads to a proliferation of rats and wild cats.
- Do not throw any waste or other objects into the water.
- Respect the animals. Do not bother them or feed them. If you see an injured specimen, you can call the emergency number: 112. Do not pick flowers or plants from the environment.
- Do not pick up or take away stones or any other item from the natural environment. And do not move them to pile them up into sadly famous 'towers'.
- Do not use soap or gel in the showers.
- Try to use ocean- friendly sun creams.
- Try not to alter the peace of the environment with excessive noise (loud music, yelling, etc.) or activities that might be bothersome, such as ball games.
- Pets are prohibited at many natural pools. Make sure you can take them beforehand.