Discovering Bajamar – Largest Waves in Tenerife & Best Place to Experience Surf Culture
In this article, I’m going to let you in on a little secret – Bajamar (and its neighboring Punta del Hidalgo) are my absolute favorite spots in northern Tenerife.
I’m not sure if it’s because I first discovered this area during the winter when massive waves crashed against the shore and flocks of migratory birds arrived from the north or because it is similar in some ways to a coastal side between Guia and Las Palmas in Gran Canaria (which I love). But this small town left such a lasting impression on me that I keep coming back, time and time again.
I’ve visited Bajamar in every season, and let me tell you – it’s a place that transforms throughout the year. Its weather changes subtly but noticeably, giving the town a completely different vibe depending on when you visit.
That’s why I’d recommend exploring Bajamar at any time of the year, but before you plan your trip, make sure to read this article so you know what to expect in each season!
Quick Things to Know About Bajamar, Tenerife
1. Bajamar is a seasonal town with a noticeable temperature difference between summer and winter. During the summer, it gets quite hot here and lively, especially on weekends, with people from mainland Spain coming to swim, sunbathe, and catch the waves.
Parking can be challenging, and some areas are paid. In winter, however, it’s much quieter, and finding a parking spot is easy.
2. In winter, Bajamar is heavily windswept – whether it’s the location or something else, the winds here are relentless. This is one of the reasons swimming isn’t recommended during this time (though no one will stop you from trying).
The waves are incredibly powerful, and the undercurrents are dangerously strong, making it a risky endeavor. So, if you get into trouble in the water, these waves and undercurrents mean that rescue is unlikely, so it’s not worth the risk.
3. That said, winter in Bajamar is perfect for long walks, photoshoots, sipping wine slowly at one of the cozy local cafes (check my recommendations below), and simply experiencing life in a small northern village where just one single road leads.
4. Bajamar is a small village, and while it might seem like you wouldn’t need much time to explore it, combining it with nearby Punta del Hidalgo (which is a must!) can turn your visit into a day long trip.
5. Late spring and early autumn are perhaps the best times to visit Bajamar. By then, the ocean calms down, the water warms up, and you can even swim in the public pools with sea water (which, by the way, are quite decent). But as I’ve mentioned above, Bajamar is worth visiting at any time of the year. Just know that in winter, it’s incredibly quiet and windy.
6. Bahamar is not really about the beach holiday in summer. It is about surfing, a bit of sunbathing here and there, walking, eating, taking in the views, and swimming in natural pools. It is possible to swim on the beaches in summer too, but they are nothing special. Check my post about the best beaches in Tenerife North if you prefer a beach getaway.
Should You Stay in Bajamar?
I’d say it depends – it really comes down to how much time you have on the island and the season you’re visiting. In some winter months, the winds here can get so intense that staying overnight might not be the most comfortable choice for everyone. The gusts can be so strong that, at night, it feels like a hurricane is about to tear through the house, and combined with slightly lower temperatures, the apartments get quite chilly.
If you’re planning to do a full loop around Tenerife by car or following my 5-day itinerary around Tenerife’s north, then in winter, early spring (like March), or late autumn (like November), a half-day visit here is usually enough. You can explore the town, take some photos, enjoy the views, and then move on.
But if you’re visiting in other months or let’s say spending a few months in Tenerife (for example based in Santa Cruz or Puerto de la Cruz), staying overnight in Bajamar offers something entirely different. (If you are based somewhere, just book a guest house here for 1-2 nights to have a change. I am providing some examples below).
The atmosphere of Bajamar is completely different from anywhere in southern Tenerife and even distinct from other towns on the island. Spending the night here lets you immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere.
WhaT to Know About Bajamar Hotels & Apartments
In Bajamar, there are no big hotels, only guesthouses with rental apartments, and they can be quite pricey.
A couple of them close in winter and only welcome guests from around February’s Carnival to about November. If you’re planning to stay there, I can recommend two reasonably priced options, or I’d suggest staying in Punta del Hidalgo instead. It’s a much cooler spot with a wider selection of places to choose from.
But here are some reasonably priced accommodation options in Bajamar:
- La Selvita (2 nights minimum stay, garden-like home)
- Mar y Sol (mountain apartment close to the sea)
RELATED READ: Unique Places Where to Stay in Tenerife for Couples and Cheap All-Inclusive Hotels Around the Island
Interesting Things to Do in Bajamar
And here is a list of my favorite things to do in Bajamar that are cool for any season:
Marvel (or Swim) at Bajamar’s Famous Natural Pools
I’ve only gone into the Bajamar pools once, but I love coming here just to sit nearby and watch the waves crash into them, splashing the ocean water dramatically inside. I also enjoy walking along the edges and soaking in the energy of the ocean.
Bajamar’s pools are natural saltwater pools that are a remarkable example of combining natural resources with functional design. Fed directly by seawater from the Atlantic, they are constantly replenished by the ocean’s tides, bringing fresh, clean water (they are also cleaned from time to time).
You’ll find there three pools in total, where one is designed for families and casual visitors, while the others are deeper and more suited for experienced swimmers.
The barriers surrounding the pools protect against the Atlantic’s powerful waves, yet during high tide, waves frequently crash over the edges, creating a dramatic and mesmerizing scene.
These pools are free to access at any time of the year, but they are particularly popular in summer when water warms up and when days are warmer. Winter offers a quieter experience, perfect for strolling along the edges or watching the waves collide with the barriers.
Bonus: At sunset, the golden hues reflecting off the water create a scene straight out of a postcard.
Get access to many more unique & interesting places in Tenerife with my curated map. All cool things to do, see, and experience in one place!
Relax At Panoramic Cafe Melita
This little cozy spot is among our favorite cafes in Tenerife with a view where we like to indulge in a cake with coffee or get a sandwich with a smoothie while sitting by the window enjoying the view.
It is perched on the edge of a cliff with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean nd is kind of place that locals love to visit not just for the views but for its homemade German-inspired pastries and cakes.
I tried different cakes and love absolutely everything, but my husband is a fan of their poppy seed cake and freshly made jams paired with a cup of coffee or tea.
You’ll also find here sandwiches, burgers, and salads if you’re in the mood for something savory. There is both indoor and outdoor seating, but some time from December to February, it can be chilly to sit outside due to the winds.
The cafe Melita is located up the road towards Punta del Hidalgo and despite its quiet location, it is easy to find and there is even its own private parking, which is very convenient for that time when exploring Tenerife’s northern coast. It’s a peaceful place to relax, enjoy good food, and take in the dramatic beauty of this side of the island.
Walk Along Beautiful Bajamar’s Promenade
Bajamar’s promenade, also known as Paseo Marítimo de Bajamar, is a scenic coastal pathway that begins near the lighthouse and extends through quieter parts of the town (the mid-point of it is here).
Starting with dramatic ocean views and the sound of crashing waves, the route eventually transitions into a peaceful walk past residential areas, where you can catch a glimpse of everyday life in this northern village.
As you wander further, you might spot local fishermen tending to their small boats or engaged in aquaculture along the rocky coastline.
These areas are a testament to Bajamar’s deep connection to the sea, with traditional fishing practices still playing a role in the community. Watching them at work adds an authentic and grounded feel to your walk, reminding you of the town’s reliance on the Atlantic for both livelihood and culture.
The promenade is dotted with benches and resting spots, so you’ll see plenty of opportunities to sit and take in the fresh ocean breeze. However, in summer, make sure you have a hat and apply sunblock regularly as the path is under the sun for the entire way. I burned there once when walking without any sun protection.
Visit a Unique Museum of Surfing
La Capilla del Surf in Bajamar is a spot you just can’t miss and you wouldn’t expect to find in this area.
Once a small 19th-century chapel, it’s now been turned into a museum dedicated to the history of surfing in the Canary Islands. Kind of ironic, isn’t it? The irony here lies in the contrast – what used to be a place of calm and spirituality now pays tribute to a sport known for its energy, freedom, and wild connection to nature.
Inside, you’ll find old surfboards, vintage photos, and artifacts that show how deeply surfing is woven into the local culture. The building itself still holds onto its original charm, with its historic architecture creating an unexpected backdrop for the surfer vibe.
Even if you’re not into surfing, it’s worth stopping by just to see how this little chapel has turned into a tribute to the waves it once quietly overlooked. It’s quirky, it’s unique, and it’s pure Bajamar.
Here are their opening hours and location, and you know what? Entrance is free!
NOTE: Bajamar is one of the best places in Tenerife for surfing, whether you want to watch surfers, surf yourself, or try to learn to surf. The best place for that is Playa del Arenal.
Take a Look At Bajamar’s Pioneer – Its First-Ever Hotel
And that is Hotel Neptuno, the very first hotel in Bajamar opened in 1959. It became a symbol of the town’s early tourism era. Once a bustling retreat with 92 rooms and 27 villas, it hosted visitors drawn to Bajamar’s rugged coastline and natural pools.
Though abandoned since 2007, its decaying structure tells a story of shifting tourism trends and whispers of a bygone era.
However (!), going inside and exploring the building is dangerous – not only is it old and crumbling, but it also sits precariously on a cracked cliff that looks like it could collapse at any moment. For a safe view, stick to the asphalt path near the main road where cars pass by.
Psst: Here is what this hotel is like today… still, it tells a story.
I know, for some people, it might just seem like an eyesore – a pile of ruins spoiling the horizon. But if you’re like me and love places that tell a story, simply looking at this half-collapsed hotel can still be fascinating.
You can see the remnants of rooms (from the road where you walk), traces of old furniture where people stayed over 70 years ago, and even spot where the small pool and once-luxurious private villas for exclusive stays used to be. It’s a glimpse into a very different era of travel.
My favorite cafes in Bajamar, Tenerife
Besides Cafe Melit mentioned above, here are other places we tried and liked:
- La Ola Sunset Cafe (directly by the sea, lots of food options and from here you can see the waves)
- Nami Surf Club (excellent burgers, sushi, vegan bowls, cheesecakes and quite few other food options)
- Bar Cafeteria Marianne (along the main road in an unremarkable place, but offering a large selection of very good sandwiches – all on a budget! Try their fries too)
More Interesting & Unique Places in Tenerife
- Guimar Village – what to see and do besides the pyramids
- Historical Military Museum of the Canary Islands – interesting museum not to miss
- Puerto de la Cruz in a Day – step by step itinerary and tips on what to do
- Unique & Cool Cafes in Puerto de la Cruz – for tapas, drinks, and Canarian food
Other Things to Do in Tenerife North
I continue writing more posts about Tenerife, so you can find more things to do here or just get my map with all the details in one place!
