Travellers planning to explore the beautiful northern coast of Tenerife this summer will need to cross one popular spot off their list: Los Patos Beach in La Orotava will remain closed due to ongoing safety concerns related to cliff instability causing rockfalls.
Nestled within the protected natural area of El Rincón, Los Patos has long been admired for its unspoilt beauty and striking volcanic black sands. After more than a decade of planning and construction, safe access to the beach was finally made available in late 2022. Unfortunately, after only a year of being open to the public, large rockfalls in December 2023 forced local authorities to close the beach once again.
Despite efforts to stabilise the cliffs, smaller rockfalls have continued to occur in recent months. Local officials have confirmed that the terrain remains unstable, making it unsafe for visitors. "The beach isn’t closed out of choice," explains Narciso Pérez, Councillor for Security, Urban Planning, and Land Management. "We would love to welcome visitors, but nature doesn’t always cooperate, and safety must come first."
Given Los Patos' location within a highly protected natural reserve, any intervention requires careful coordination with environmental authorities. A detailed geological study is currently underway to better understand the erosion affecting the cliffs and to explore long-term safety solutions that preserve the area's unique landscape.
"We hope to have a clearer idea by the end of the year," says Pérez. "But for this summer, the beach will unfortunately remain closed. It will only reopen once we can guarantee it’s completely safe."
For travellers still keen to enjoy Tenerife’s breathtaking coastline, La Orotava offers excellent alternatives. Nearby beaches such as El Bollullo and El Ancón remain fully open, offering dramatic scenery, beautiful volcanic sands, and a more secure environment for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation.
Authorities are urging visitors to respect the closure and avoid attempting to access Los Patos. "Ignoring the closure not only puts your own safety at risk but also endangers the lives of rescue teams who may have to intervene," Pérez emphasises.
While Los Patos remains off-limits for now, Tenerife continues to offer countless other stunning beaches, scenic hikes, and cultural experiences, ensuring visitors will still have plenty to explore and enjoy during their stay.
