San Marcos
Tenerife, Spain
Beach breakIntermediate
On Tenerife's quieter north coast near Icod de los Vinos, San Marcos is a black sand cove that catches north swells and creates a sheltered, accessible surf environment beneath the dramatic volcanic cliffs of Tenerife's lava coastline.
Typical Conditions
The Surf Window
Swell Window
OptimalN (0°)
WindowNNW–ENE (330°–60°)
Size1–2m at 10–14s
Wind
SE
Light to S under 15 knots
Tide
Mid to high
LowMidHigh
Season
Nov–Mar
JFMAMJJASOND
The Wave
Type
Beach break
Bottom
Black volcanic sand
Shape
Peaks in the protected cove
Length
40–80m
Skill Level
- •Who it's for: Intermediate surfers
- •Why: Sheltered cove reduces swell power, accessible and consistent
Hazards
- •Rocks at the cove edges
- •Cliffs create shadow on the water in afternoon, assess carefully
- •Limited parking
Local Tips
- •The Drago Milenario tree in nearby Icod de los Vinos is one of the world's oldest dragon trees, extraordinary
- •The village has a small, local character very different from Tenerife's tourist zones
- •The black sand beach is beautiful, volcanic geology at its most visually striking
Location
28.3667, -16.7833