Sailing around Tenerife in 7 days

A week of sailing around Tenerife offers a combination of steady winds, charming ports and a side trip to neighbouring La Gomera. With the steady north-easterly trade winds blowing most of the year, conditions are ideal for a memorable sailing adventure.

However, you’ll need to keep the island’s conditions in mind – in the channels, wind acceleration zones can push speeds up to 25 knots, so be ready to reef. Currents can run strong and the seas, especially off the headlands, are often rough. Because of the terrain and local rules, anchoring outside marinas is limited, meaning most nights will be spent in the shelter of marinas or on permitted moorings. This itinerary takes you around all four faces of Tenerife – the sunlit south, the dramatic west with its towering Los Gigantes cliffs, the lush green north and the lively, metropolitan east – with the added bonus of a stop at La Gomera.

West of Tenerife South Airport lies our home port, Marina San Miguel. From here, we set sail on a 24-nautical-mile crossing to the neighbouring island of La Gomera. With the steady north-easterly trades, the crew can expect a lively reach on the first day, a true introduction to Atlantic sailing.

In the channel between Tenerife and La Gomera, sudden gusts are common – the wind often accelerates dramatically before the port of San Sebastián. After 4–5 hours under sail, you’ll be gliding past the long breakwaters and into the sheltered harbour of La Gomera’s capital.

• Route: Marina San Miguel (28°01.12′N, 16°36.97′W) – Port of San Sebastián de La Gomera. A south-west crossing of open sea with steady, favourable wind
• Distance: 24 NM
• GPS destinations: 28°04′56″N, 17°06′39″W (San Sebastián harbour breakwater)
• Anchorage: Marina San Sebastián - a modern, protected marina with moorings supplied with water and electricity. Advance booking via web or app is required by the harbourmaster. Anchoring within the marina is not permitted.
• What to see: The colourful historic town of San Sebastián is famous for being a stop on Christopher Columbus’ voyage to the New World. You can visit Columbus’s house (Casa de Colón) and the well from which he drew water, as well as the 15th-century Torre del Conde fortress and the church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción. The town also offers swimming beaches, and a wide choice of restaurants and bars serving Canarian specialities.
• Stocking up: San Sebastián has well-stocked supermarkets and a petrol station for refuelling.

We leave the magical island of La Gomera and set a morning course back to Tenerife. Sailing northeast towards the southern coast, the wind will at first be sharp from the bow — most likely a beat upwind against the trade winds blowing between the islands. After less than 4 hours and around 22 NM, we arrive at Los Cristianos, easily recognised by the slightly domed Montaña de Guaza that shelters the bay. Once a small fishing village, today Los Cristianos is a lively tourist town with a busy ferry port. We drop anchor here for the night, a good chance to rest and explore the south of the island.

• Route: San Sebastián – Los Cristianos, across the strait between Gomera and Tenerife, then along the southwest coast of Tenerife past the resorts of Costa Adeje.
• Distance: 22 NM
• GPS coordinates: 28°02.920′N, 16°43.120′W (entrance to the port of Los Cristianos)
• Anchorage: Puerto de Los Cristianos – a busy ferry and yacht port with around 200 berths for boats up to 20 m. Space is limited and it’s often difficult for sailors to get a berth. If there’s no space, you can anchor outside the port on the southeast side, away from the ferry route, for example in the bay by Montaña Guaza.
• What to see: Los Cristianos has two wide sandy beaches with a gradual entrance to the sea. The town still retains some of the charm of its fishing-village past around the harbour, while also offering a lively promenade lined with bars and cafés. Nearby Playa de las Américas (walk or taxi) is home to Siam Park, one of the best water parks in the world.
• Stocking up: Los Cristianos is a major tourist centre, so stocking up is easy. Supermarkets, bakeries, grocery stores and yachting shops are within minutes of the port. Water and diesel/fuel are available at the port (shared with ferries). In town you’ll also find ATMs, pharmacies and most other services.

Day three is an easier sailing day – a short 15-mile cruise along the sheltered southwest coast of Tenerife. You can enjoy a slow morning in Los Cristianos or head out early and stop for a swim along the way. The route takes you past the lively resorts of Costa Adeje and Playa Paraíso, before the monumental black cliffs of Los Gigantes rise dramatically ahead.

These volcanic walls drop straight into the sea from heights of 450–800 m, best admired from the deck. The sailing here is usually calm: the lee side of Teide provides protection from the trade winds. Keep an eye out for puffins, sea turtles, and dolphins – all frequent companions in these waters. In the afternoon, you’ll reach Marina Los Gigantes, nestled beneath the cliffs.

• Route: Los Cristianos – Los Gigantes, following the southwest coast. A recommended stop is Playa Diego Hernández or Masca Bay, about 3 NM before Los Gigantes. Playa de Masca is one of the few legal anchorages on this coast: you can anchor in 8 m on sandy-rocky seabed and swim in crystal-clear water (note that landing on the beach is prohibited for conservation reasons).
• Distance: 15 NM
• GPS coordinates: 28°14′57″N, 16°50′28″W (Marina Los Gigantes)
• Anchorage: Marina Los Gigantes – a compact, well-protected marina directly beneath the cliffs. The entrance faces northwest; caution is required for shallows and swell. Around 120 berths are available with depths of 5–6 m. Anchoring outside is impractical due to depth and waves.
• What to see: The cliffs themselves – Los Gigantes, “The Giants” – are one of Tenerife’s greatest natural wonders. From the marina, a short walk leads to the black-sand beach or to the viewpoint above town with panoramic views across the cliffs and to La Gomera.
• Stocking up: Within 1 km of the marina you’ll find Lidl and Mercadona supermarkets for larger provisioning. The marina itself offers water, electricity, showers, toilets, and fuel (check availability with marina staff). The town also has smaller shops, a bakery, and several water-sports rentals.

On the fourth day we head to the northwestern tip of Tenerife, to the historic town of Garachico. The passage is about 18 nautical miles. In the morning we leave Los Gigantes and set course north along the island’s rugged west coast. After passing the striped red and white Punta de Teno lighthouse at the island’s westernmost point, we turn east and begin our climb towards Garachico.

Here we will once again feel the full force of the trade winds — sailing hard upwind along the exposed northwest coast, likely tacking several times to make progress. The open north coast of Tenerife is notorious for its ocean swell, so expect the boat to rock on long rolling waves. After around four hours, the sight of Garachico’s small harbour, protected by a modern breakwater, will signal our arrival.

• Route: Los Gigantes – Garachico. Sailing around the westernmost cape of Punta de Teno with its red-and-white striped lighthouse, then turning east along the north coast. Expect stronger winds accelerating behind Cape Teno and reflected waves bouncing off the steep cliffs.
• Distance: 18 NM
• GPS coordinates: 28°22′N, 16°45′W (Garachico Harbour)
• Anchorage: Puerto Deportivo Garachico – a small municipal marina completed in 2012. Capacity is only a few dozen boats, but visiting yachts usually find a berth outside of the ARC rally season. Mooring is at floating pontoons and the breakwater offers solid protection from Atlantic swell. Anchoring outside the harbour is not possible due to the exposed northern coast.
• What to see: Garachico is a peaceful, authentic Canarian town with a rich history. At the harbour entrance stands the Castillo de San Miguel fortress (1575), one of the few structures to survive the devastating volcanic eruption of 1706. The centre is a delight to wander, with colonial-style houses, Plaza de la Libertad, historic churches and a monastery — all untouched by mass tourism. Don’t miss the natural lava pools along the coast, where locals and visitors swim in the crystal-clear Atlantic.
• Stocking up: The marina provides water and electricity, though there is no fuel station (the nearest is in Santa Cruz). In town you’ll find small grocery shops, a bakery, and several excellent restaurants — the highlight being freshly caught fish and seafood. Larger provisioning or technical repairs are better planned elsewhere, but basic services are available at the marina.

This day we sail around the northern tip of Tenerife towards the island’s capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife. It is the longest stretch of the cruise — about 28 NM along the north and east coasts — so we set off early in the morning to take advantage of calmer seas.

Leaving Garachico, we pass the rugged coastline of Isla Baja. In good visibility, the neighbouring island of La Palma can be glimpsed on the horizon to port. Further along, we pass the lively resort of Puerto de la Cruz — though note that there is no yacht harbour here, so no anchorage is possible. By midday, we round the lush massif of the Anaga Mountains at the north-eastern tip of the island. Here, the course turns south along the east coast towards our destination.

The prevailing northerly winds will once again be on the bow, so expect some tacking. After rounding Punta de Anaga, however, they usually ease and shift to a light tailwind from the north, giving us a more comfortable run. By late afternoon, the skyline of Santa Cruz comes into view, with its high-rise buildings and the gleaming white Auditorio de Tenerife standing out along the waterfront. Entering the vast commercial harbour, we find the Santa Cruz Yacht Marina in the northern part, sheltered behind solid breakwaters — our berth for the night.

• Route: Garachico – Santa Cruz. Cruise around the north coast of Tenerife. First heading north, then from Punta del Hidalgo lighthouse we continue along the foothills of the Anaga Mountains to the southeast. We sail around the greenest part of the island with villages in the mountains above us and turn into the wide bay where Santa Cruz lies. Beware of possible wave reflections off the perpendicular cliffs in Anaga and the strong currents around the headland - the tide and northeasterly winds can make the water choppy.
• Distance: 28 NM (longest leg, approx. 6-7 hours sailing)
• GPS coordinates: 28°28′ N, 16°14.5′ W (Marina Santa Cruz de Tenerife)
• Anchorage: Marina Santa Cruz (Marina del Atlántico) - A modern city marina right in the heart of the capital, protected by a massive harbour breakwater. Yachts must book a berth in advance through the Puertos Canarios website or app – without a reservation, entry may be refused. The marina offers around 150 berths for boats up to 40 metres, mooring lines, electricity, water, sanitary facilities and a fuel station. For a quieter and more informal stop, the smaller Radazul marina lies about 6 NM to the south, though it lacks the big-city atmosphere of Santa Cruz.
• What to see: Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city and one of the two capitals of the Canary Islands, alternating status with Las Palmas. After days at sea, its energy makes a welcome change. Right next to the marina stands the striking Auditorio de Tenerife, a concert hall designed by Santiago Calatrava and now a symbol of the city. From there, stroll along Avenida Marítima, passing the twin Torres de Santa Cruz skyscrapers on your way to Plaza de España, with its dramatic water-filled basin. Don’t miss the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África either — a bustling market full of local produce and Canarian atmosphere.
• Stocking up: Around the marina you’ll find large supermarkets, shopping malls and specialist shops, so stocking up is straightforward. The marina itself provides water and diesel refills, laundry facilities, engine servicing and other support — it’s the main service hub of the area. In town there are hospitals, pharmacies, post offices, banks and all the amenities you would expect from a major metropolis.

After yesterday’s long sail, today is a rest day. We have only a short passage from the capital to the quiet marina of Radazul. The morning can still be spent in Santa Cruz – perhaps with a visit to the famous Playa de las Teresitas, a golden Saharan-sand beach just 8 km north of the centre (taxi or bus accessible), or by browsing the shops for souvenirs.

After lunch, we set out to sea and head south along the island’s east coast. In less than two hours of sailing (around 5–6 NM), the tower blocks of Radazul, a modern residential district, appear among the rocky cliffs. At their foot lies the small but picturesque Marina Radazul, where we arrive in the afternoon. Sheltered beneath high cliffs, the marina is known for its calm surroundings and welcoming, homely atmosphere.

We spend the rest of the day unwinding – Radazul offers a small beach and excellent conditions for snorkelling in its crystal-clear waters. For a change of pace, you can take a taxi (8 km) to the nearby town of Candelaria, renowned for the basilica dedicated to the patron saint of the Canary Islands and the impressive statues of the Guanche kings along the seafront.

• Route: Santa Cruz to Radazul, we follow the southeast coast almost in a straight line south. Sailing in the lee of the island, the sea here is usually calm and pleasant.
• Distance: 6 NM
• GPS coordinates: 28°24′02″N, 16°19′28″W (Marina Radazul)
• Anchorage: Marina Radazul – a small, quiet port about 10 km south of Santa Cruz with around 250 berths and moorings. Well protected from the prevailing north-easterly winds by the high coastline, it’s also home to a shipyard with a crane and workshops, making it a popular place for off-season repairs and maintenance.
• What to see: Radazul itself is mainly a residential area, offering peace and quiet after lively Santa Cruz. You can snorkel straight from the local small beach or pier, where the rocky seabed is alive with marine life. For a cultural trip, head to Candelaria – a pilgrimage town with a striking basilica dedicated to the patron saint of the Canary Islands and a row of statues of the nine Guanche menceis (kings) along the seafront.
• Stocking up: The marina provides water, electricity, and toilets/showers. Fuel is available at the small petrol station in the port (check opening hours). There are a few restaurants and small shops directly in the marina; for larger shopping, head to the supermarket in El Rosario (approx. 2 km uphill). The shipyard workshops can also assist with gas bottle refills or recommend specialists for boat repairs.

The last leg of our journey takes us back to our home port in southern Tenerife. We leave Radazul early in the morning and head southeast. With a favourable wind at our backs, the passage is smooth and quick. Along the way, we pass the industrial port of Santa Cruz – Granadilla, before rounding Punta de Rasca around noon. This cape, marked by its solitary lighthouse, forms the southern tip of Tenerife and signals that our sailing adventure is drawing to a close.

Here, the familiar panorama of the southern coast comes into view — Los Cristianos and the tourist centres of Adeje stretch out before us. If time and supplies allow, we can drop anchor at one of the southern beaches (such as Playa de Los Cristianos or Playa del Duque) and enjoy a final swim in the Atlantic. Afterwards, we head back into San Miguel Bay, returning to the marina where our journey began. Before mooring, we stop at the fuel dock to top up water and diesel so the yacht is ready for her next voyage. In the evening, we can relax in Marina San Miguel and look back on the week’s sailing adventures — perhaps over dinner in one of the marina’s restaurants as the sun sets.

• Route:Radazul – Marina San Miguel, along the southwest coast of Tenerife

  Leaving Radazul, we pass the small fishing port of Tajao and continue past the large commercial harbour of Granadilla (currently only partly in use). From here, the coastline opens up as we round Punta de Rasca, the southernmost tip of Tenerife marked by its lighthouse, before turning west towards Marina San Miguel.

• Distance: 33 NM (27 NM open-water sailing + 6 NM along the southern coast)

• GPS coordinates: 28°01.12′N, 16°36.97′W (Marina San Miguel, entrance)

• Anchorage: Marina San Miguel – back to our starting point. Moor the yacht in the same berth from which you set off and report your arrival to the charter operator. The marina is well sheltered from wind and swell, making it a reliable and safe haven after your ocean passage.

• What to see: If you still have time before your flight, make the most of your last moments in Tenerife. You can hold a crew debriefing right in the port — perhaps over a meal in one of the marina’s restaurants with a view of the yachts. Nearby, you’ll also find the Amarilla Golf resort (18 holes) and a coastal promenade offering relaxing walks with sweeping views.

• Stocking up: Before handing the boat back, don’t forget to refuel and refill water tanks at the marina. For essentials, there are small grocery shops in San Miguel, while the town of San Miguel de Abona nearby has larger stores. The marina itself offers basic services, including a diving centre, and you can arrange for boat repairs or inspections here if needed.

In total, the route covers around 120 NM (about 220 km) around Tenerife. Over 7 days we managed to circumnavigate the island, discovering its many faces — from lively resort towns to quiet historic harbours — and experiencing what it’s like to sail in the trade winds of the Atlantic.

The plan is flexible: you can shorten it to 5 days by skipping either La Gomera or Radazul, or stretch it by adding a free day to enjoy at your own pace. Follow the full itinerary, though, and you’ll see the very best of Tenerife and its surroundings.

If you’d like to make your trip even more comfortable, you can also book additional services alongside your sailing adventure.

Happy sailing!