What you'll meet
Ornate wrasse (the orange-cheeked show-offs), parrotfish crunching rock, damselfish clouds, trumpetfish pretending to be sticks, octopus if you look slowly, and — over sand patches — the flutter of round rays. Sea temperature never bites; sessions run long.
Where exactly
Home bay: the rock arms both sides, morning calm. La Arena: the northern rocks on green-flag days. Alcalá: the sheltered coves by the plaza. El Puertito (30 min south): the famous turtle cove — go early, respect the no-touch ethic that keeps them coming.
- Fins matter more than mask price — currents respect kicked feet.
- A rash vest replaces sunscreen that otherwise films the water.
- Fish-ID apps make every session a treasure hunt — kids especially.
FAQ
Are there dangerous animals?
Nothing seeking trouble. Don't touch urchins or the (rare, beautiful) portuguese man o' war after storms, and the ocean stays friends.
Can non-swimmers snorkel?
In the natural pools, yes — contained, calm, fish included.
Related guides
Whale watching in Tenerife — from Los Gigantes marina
Dolphin watching in Tenerife
Boat trips from Los Gigantes — cliffs, whales, Masca bay
Stay at Gigantes View Studio
Ocean-view studio in Puerto de Santiago — 8.5/10 on Booking.com, location rated 9.7. Book direct for the best rate.
Check availabilityLast updated: 2026-08-07 · Written by your hosts Jan & Lucie · Sources: local experience, official tourism data. Prices & hours drift — verify big-ticket details before you build a day around them.