06 July 2010
Posted in Tenerife

Los Gigantes is the fourth biggest holiday resort in Tenerife after Playa de las Americas, Puerto de la Cruz and Los Cristianos. It lies on the west coast of the island, 45 minutes drive from Tenerife’s main south airport. Los Gigantes, which means "The Giants" in English, refers to the large natural rock formations that stretch over 600 metres up from the Atlantic Ocean, giving Los Gigantes it own natural atmosphere.

The cliffs themselves also serve a larger purpose than just being a stunning backdrop for postcards and pictures. They protect the town from the trade winds that blow across the Canary Islands ensuring that the west coast of Tenerife has probably the best climate on the island, and certainly provides Los Gigantes with the most hours of sunshine.

Los Gigantes History

Once a quaint fishing village, Los Gigantes became heavily developed in the late 60’s and early 70’s making it the tourist town that it is today, with many hotels and a variety of other holiday accommodation. It is very popular with holidaymakers and ex-pats that prefer the slightly less frantic pace of life compared to some of the noisier resorts in the south of Tenerife. Sun, sea and scenery are the main selling points of Los Gigantes and it is impossible to ignore its breathtaking natural beauty. Right in the heart of Los Gigantes lies the marina, a superb area lined with café bars and restaurants along the seafront. Always busy with tourists, it is a great location to spend the afternoon drinking ice cold beers in the Canarian sunshine. Whale and dolphin trips, deep sea fishing boat charter and scuba diving are available, as well as all just about any other water sport you can think of. All can be located and booked in the marina.

Bars and restaurants

It’s fair to say that visitors to Los Gigantes do not come here for its vigorous nightlife. There are many relaxing bars and restaurants offering all kinds of delights from snacks, sandwiches, pastries and local tapas to superb fish and meat restaurants. Some of these establishments offer live nightly entertainment, but by around midnight everything seems to wind down and Los Gigantes returns to a being peaceful haven. For those who wish to avoid the more boisterous resort of Las Americas, Los Gigantes is one of the places for you.

Shopping

There are lots of tourist shops dotted around Los Gigantes, offering the visitor everything from beach wares, postcards, gifts and trinkets. There are also a few well stocked but small supermarkets. The biggest supermarket is based only a short bus ride away in Playa la Arena and here you will find a good selection of household goods as well as fresh meat, fish, vegetables and fruit at a slightly better price.

Beaches and relaxation

Because Los Gigantes nestles under the iconic cliffs, it isn’t blessed with superb beaches. There is a very small black sand beach right next to the marina with limited facilities. A less well known spot for sun worshippers is the rock pool at Crab Island on the southern end of the resort. It is open air and very secluded with fantastic views of the island of La Gomera. Alternatively try the El Laguillo complex with its cooling pools and great views.

Images of Los Gigantes

(click for full size)