Punta Del Hidalgo

Punta Del Hidalgo combines a rocky coastline with an extensive intertidal zone. The coast is part of the Macizo de Anaga Biosphere Reserve. Geologically, the area is a low-lying landform created by volcanic activity. Its defining features include the rocky coast and the biologically valuable intertidal area. Coastal paths, seawater pools, birdwatching and traces of the fishing industry offer different insights into the area.

Coast, Tides and Sea

The Las Furnias tide pools are easy to access and allow visitors to observe a variety of marine species. The birdwatching hides also reflect the natural character of the coast: they provide information about resident and migratory bird species, as well as places to sit and observe the natural surroundings. Both the intertidal zone and birdlife are therefore in focus here.

The Piscina Natural de la Punta, also known as del Arenisco, is a seawater bathing area with lifeguard supervision, showers and access adapted for people with reduced mobility. The El Arenisco natural swimming pool has been awarded the Blue Flag and is open free of charge all year round. The bathing area and nature observation are thus different aspects of the coastal landscape.

El Roquete is a surf spot with left-breaking waves and a pebble bottom. Low and mid tide are considered optimal conditions; the technical difficulty is moderate. As surf conditions change, it is worth checking the current surf before deciding.

Coastal Trail and Hike

The Sendero Litoral de La Punta del Hidalgo is 2,300 metres long, takes about 45 minutes and is easy. It starts at Playa del Roquete, next to the Cofradía de Pescadores de Ntra. Sra. de la Consolación de la Punta del Hidalgo. The trail passes the lighthouse and Charco La Arena before reaching the Ermita de San Juanito. Its length and approximate duration help you fit this coastal route into your day’s plans.

The PR-TF 10 hiking trail leads to Roque de Los Dos Hermanos, which offers panoramic views of the Anaga coast. The trail then descends towards Punta Del Hidalgo. The two trails have different highlights: the Sendero Litoral focuses on the coastline and a stated walking time, while the PR-TF 10 features a viewpoint and the descent that follows.

Fishing, Buildings and Local History

The Centro de Interpretación del Mar y la Pesca de Tenerife has a permanent exhibition about artisanal fishing in Tenerife and the local natural heritage. The Cofradía de Pescadores is also part of the local fishing tradition. Its restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced produce.

The Faro de Punta del Hidalgo is a landmark of the coastal area thanks to its modern architecture. The lighthouse was completed in 1992 and began operating two years later. Another distinctive building is the Casa-torre de Punta del Hidalgo, a replica of the famous Torre del Conde de La Gomera. The Capilla de La Virgen del Carmen de La Hoya was built in 1925 in honour of the Virgen del Carmen.

The area’s pre-conquest history is also part of its character: at that time, Punta Del Hidalgo was an independent lordship, separate from the other Menceyatos. It was ruled by Aguahuco, the son of Mencey Tinerfe; Aguahuco’s son Zebenzuí later inherited the territory. In September, the patron saint festival in honour of San Mateo Apóstol features religious and popular events. These include the Cabalgata del Haragán, during which a cloth effigy filled with firecrackers is burned.

For help finding your way around, the Oficina de Información Turística de Punta del Hidalgo is on Carretera General Punta del Hidalgo, opposite the Mirador San Mateo.

Discover more destinations: Guamansa, Bajamar, Tejina, Valle De Guerra.

For the main travel overview: San Cristóbal De La Laguna.