Did you know Costa del Silencio has one of the most unique swimming spots on the island? When we first saw Playa Amarilla on Tenerife, we couldn’t believe our eyes. A massive wall of sunbathers sat on the cliffs of the orange tinted wall, with Montana Amarilla high above. Playa Amarilla is unlike any other place in Tenerife. Yet, as you’ll see, it isn’t much of a beach at all!
The Cliffs of Playa Amarilla
When we first saw Playa Amarilla we immediately thought of the hippie caves of Matala Greece. However, these aren’t quite the same caves as we saw on Crete island!
Instead they’re more like small rocky platforms which everyone spreads out their towels and sun baths on. The cliffs naturally form small platform,s that from afar look like caves.
Swimmers and snorkelers float in the water while there seems to be a constant day party at the small beach bar. The rock wall has layers of people all who have their own uninterrupted view of the ocean, enjoying the peaceful afternoon in Costa del Silencio.
You can expect to find more people relaxing and taking in the view than in the water, as getting in can be a little tricky.
Swimming on Costa del Silencio
There are two ladders that hang off of the rocks and merge with the water below. At high tide, the sea can be wild and crashes into the rocks.
It would become apparent that the non-windy days make for much easier swimming. Our first experience at Playa Amarilla on Tenerife was at high tide. We watched as beachgoers one after another took turns plunging in.
After getting rocked gently by the waves, they slowly swam back between the rolling water and climbed up the ladder. It’s important to note that you do have to be a semi-strong swimmer at Playa Amarilla.
Don’t worry if this popular swimming spot is too rough for you. There are plenty of beautiful beaches on Tenerife to explore. You could even take a Tenerife boat tour with whale and dolphin watching!
Taking the Plunge at Playa Amarilla
Not wanting to miss out, we both crawled down to the bottom and flung ourselves from the rocks into the wavy water below. Even at the end of November, the ocean was refreshing from the hot afternoon sun.
After treading water for a while, we fought the incoming waves and crawled back onto the safety of the rocks.
We also saw a group of scuba divers emerge from the water just as we got out. A local told us that on a clear day at Playa Amarilla the snorkeling is supposed to be amazing.
Playa Amarilla Beach Bar
Besides being naturally beautiful, what else draws travelers to Playa Amarilla? Well, a beach bar of course! Tucked away in a small corner of the rocks is the Mana Nui Chiringuito beach bar.
Selling a large variety of drinks ranging from 2-4 euros, there wasn’t a time that we came here when it wasn’t packed with people. You can grab a drink of your choice and hang out on one of the small cushioned seating areas, or find your own place on the rocks.
Some of our favorites were the fresh squeezed lemonade and Tinto de Verano. Cheers!
Hiking to the Top of Montana Amarilla
Don’t leave the area before making the short climb up to the top of Montana Amarilla. You can see it from the swimming zone, as the tall peak towers over the beach.
After a steep 10-15 minute climb, you’ll be rewarded with insane views of the southern and eastern part of the island. You can even see down the coast to more of the Tenerife beaches, and there are hiking trails where you can continue along the coast from the top.
Montana Amarilla is also an especially gorgeous place to catch the sunset over town!
Ready to Hit Playa Amarilla Tenerife?
Just to recap… epic views of Montana Amarilla, layered sitting platforms in the cliffs, clear and refreshing ocean water, and a fun beach bar? This is the spot to be!
Playa Amarilla became our go to place for a quick dip or sunset drink during out stay in Costa del Silencio. Hopefully, you find time during your visit to explore this beautiful place in the south of Tenerife!
Renting a car can be a great way to get around the island. That way you can get to more amazing Tenerife beaches, and explore Mount Teide National Park. Also, be sure to check out some of the highly-rated hotels in the area at the bottom of this post.
Have any questions about Playa Amarilla, or want to share your own experience visiting the Tenerife beaches? Let us know in the comments below!
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
Where To Stay Around Costa del Silencio
Ultra Luxury (High End) – Royal Hideaway Corales Beach – This ultra high end hotel in the south of Tenerife is an adults only escape with massive open concept rooms, onsite restaurant, spa, and an infinity pool you’ll never want to leave.
Fun Vacation (Mid Range) – H10 Atlantic Sunset – This new modern hotel and property is perfect for a fun vacation. Rooms are beautiful with large balconies and upscale amenities, with onsite pools, restaurants, spa, and gym. Quick dive to popular Tenerife beaches.
Hostel Life (Budget) – Hostel chillax costa Adeje – Set in the hills of Costa Adeje, this is one of the few hostels located on Tenerife island. Beautiful views, large balcony, shared kitchen, and washing machine are includec. Both private twin rooms and dormitory beds are available.
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We’re Brigitte and Jake! American travel bloggers currently based in Spain. If you can believe it, we started Nothing Familiar way back in 2015 on an Ipad in the Ecuadorian jungle. Ever since, we haven’t stopped traveling! We’ve now been to over 60 countries around the world, with our expertise being Europe and Southeast Asia. We love outdoor adventures, tasting local specialties, and island hopping through tropical destinations. Hopefully, our guides and authentic experiences will inspire you on your own travels!
