Playa de San Marcos is a small, charming cove on Tenerife’s north coast. The natural bay shields it from waves — a rarity in this part of the island — making it one of the few beaches in northern Tenerife where the water is genuinely calm. Black volcanic sand, restaurants overlooking the ocean, and proximity to the famous Drago Milenario make it well worth a visit.
Where is Playa de San Marcos and how to get there?
The beach is in Icod de los Vinos, on Tenerife’s north-west coast. It’s about 3 km from the centre of Icod de los Vinos, in the small settlement of San Marcos.
By car: From the TF-5 motorway, exit at Icod de los Vinos and follow the road down to the coast. Free car park at the beach — fewer than 50 spaces, fills up quickly at weekends and in summer.
By bus: TITSA line 363 (Puerto de la Cruz — Icod) or 460 from Santa Cruz. From Icod’s centre you’ll need to walk or take a taxi (about 3 km).
Beach characteristics
Playa de San Marcos is about 160 metres long and 40 metres wide. The sand is black, volcanic. The bay is shaped like a shell — natural rocks shelter the beach from the swell, so the water is calm even when the rest of the north coast is pounded by heavy waves.
The beach holds a Blue Flag and is accessible for people with disabilities — an amphibious wheelchair is available. Lifeguards are on duty in season.
Facilities
- Sunbeds and parasols for hire
- Showers and toilets
- Restaurants — several places with terraces above the beach, specialising in fresh fish
- Accessibility — amphibious wheelchair, easy access to the beach
Good to know
Playa de San Marcos is one of the few beaches on Tenerife’s north coast with calm water. While most northern beaches have strong waves and dangerous currents, the natural bay here creates a sheltered swimming area. This makes it especially popular with local families from the north of the island.
The restaurants above the beach are renowned for fresh fish and seafood — this is one of the best spots on the north coast for squid or grilled sea bream with ocean views. Prices are lower than on the tourist-heavy south coast.
Who is Playa de San Marcos for?
- Families with children — calm water, sheltered bay, gentle slope
- Local residents — a popular weekend beach for Canarios from the north of the island
- Tourists exploring the north — a perfect beach break between attractions (Drago Milenario, Garachico, Masca)
Worth noting: Just 3 km from the beach you’ll find the Drago Milenario — a thousand-year-old dragon tree and one of Tenerife’s most famous landmarks.
Nearby beaches
To the east — Playa del Socorro in Los Realejos (about 20 km, surf beach, powerful waves). To the west — Playa de la Arena in Puerto Santiago (about 25 km, black sand, views of Los Gigantes). Further east — Playa Jardín in Puerto de la Cruz.
Weather at Playa de San Marcos
San Marcos is a small bay beach near Icod de los Vinos on Tenerife’s north coast. The bay shelters it from strong waves, but northern weather can be changeable. Check the weather forecast for Puerto de la Cruz, the nearest major resort.