Montaña Amarilla & Playa Amarilla: One of Tenerife’s Best Shore Diving Spots

If you are looking for a quieter side of southern Tenerife—away from large resorts, busy promenades, and crowded beaches—Montaña Amarilla and Playa Amarilla might be exactly what you’re searching for. This understated coastal area near Costa del Silencio offers volcanic landscapes, excellent snorkeling and diving conditions, calm apartment living, and beautiful ocean views without the crowds.

Located in the far south of Tenerife, close to the airport yet far removed from mass tourism, Montaña Amarilla is a destination that appeals to travelers who value nature, space, and authenticity. Whether you’re planning a relaxed beach day, a coastal walk, a snorkeling session among volcanic reefs, or simply a peaceful stay by the ocean, this area simply delivers.

Where Is Montaña Amarilla and Playa Amarilla?

Montaña Amarilla and Playa Amarilla are located on the southern coastline of Tenerife, just next to Costa del Silencio, approximately:

• 15 minutes from Tenerife South Airport (TFS)
  
• 20–25 minutes from Los Cristianos
  
• 30 minutes from Costa Adeje

Despite being close to the airport, the area feels surprisingly calm and residential. There are no large hotels or nightlife zones here—just low-rise apartment complexes, coastal paths, volcanic cliffs, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Montaña Amarilla itself is a distinctive volcanic hill rising directly from the coastline, giving the area its name and character.

What Is Montaña Amarilla?

Montaña Amarilla (meaning Yellow Mountain) is a protected natural monument formed by volcanic activity. Its ochre-colored slopes contrast beautifully with the deep blue of the Atlantic, making it one of the most visually striking coastal landscapes in southern Tenerife.

Hiking Montaña Amarilla

One of the highlights of the area is that you can hike Montaña Amarilla easily without special equipment or advanced fitness:

• The trail is short and accessible
  
• Suitable for most age groups
  
• No entrance fee
  
• Takes around 30–45 minutes round trip

At the top, you are rewarded with panoramic views over:

• The Atlantic Ocean
  
• Costa del Silencio
  
• Palm-Mar and Las Galletas
  
• On clear days, even Mount Teide in the distance

It’s a fantastic spot for sunrise or sunset, photography, or simply taking a quiet moment away from busier parts of the island.

Playa Amarilla: A Rocky Beach with Exceptional Marine Life

Playa Amarilla is not a sandy beach—and that’s exactly why it’s special.

This is a rocky volcanic shoreline with natural and man-made platforms, lava formations, and access points into the sea. While it may not appeal to sun-seekers looking for soft sand, it is one of the best places in southern Tenerife for snorkeling and shore diving.

Swimming & Sea Access

• Stone steps and platforms provide easy access to the water
  
• Calm conditions most days
  
• Natural areas to sit, rest, and enter the sea
  
• Clear water thanks to rocky seabed

Because there’s no sand being stirred up, visibility underwater is often excellent.

Diving and Snorkeling at Playa Amarilla

Playa Amarilla is particularly well-known among divers and snorkelers. The volcanic seabed creates a dramatic underwater landscape with:

• Lava arches and rock formations
  
• Natural shelters for marine life
  
• Excellent water clarity

You can explore directly from the shore—no boat needed.

What Marine Life Can You See?

Common sightings include:

• Parrotfish
  
• Damselfish
  
• Trumpetfish
  
• Octopus
  
• Moray eels
  
• Rays (occasionally)
  
• Barracudas (further out)

The area is suitable for:

• Beginner snorkelers
  
• Experienced freedivers
  
• Scuba divers using shore entry

There are also flat platforms underwater and near the shore where divers often rest or adjust equipment.

Mana Nui Chiringuito: A Beach Bar with a View

Right next to Playa Amarilla, you’ll find Mana Nui Chiringuito, a small, relaxed beach bar that perfectly fits the atmosphere of the area.

Why People Love Mana Nui

• Very affordable prices
  
• Casual, friendly atmosphere
  
• Located right by the sea
  
• Ideal after swimming or diving

You can expect cold beers, simple cocktails, and snacks or light meals, all enjoyed in a laid-back, local atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where people come straight from the water in flip-flops—and no one minds.

Accommodation: Calm Apartment Living by the Coast

Montaña Amarilla and Costa del Silencio are known for their apartment-style accommodation, rather than hotels.

What to Expect

• Low-rise apartment complexes
  
• Many with shared swimming pools
  
• Balconies or terraces
  
• Sea views in some buildings
  
• Quiet, residential atmosphere

This area is especially popular with long-stay visitors, digital nomads, retirees and travelers seeking peace and privacy. There’s no party scene here, which makes it ideal if you want to unwind and explore Tenerife at a slower pace.

Restaurants and Places to Eat Nearby

While the area is quiet, there are several good dining options nearby—especially in Costa del Silencio and Las Galletas.

Recommended Places to Eat

Restaurant Fish-Art
This popular spot serves fresh seafood, Mediterranean dishes, paella, grilled fish, and creative risottos in a relaxed yet refined setting, with options for vegetarian dishes too.

Gastro Gallo Restaurante Pizzería
Good pizza and Mediterranean options, informal atmosphere.

Lizzie’s Bistro
Popular for breakfast, brunch, and international cuisine.

For a wider selection, Las Galletas is only a short drive away and offers several excellent seafood restaurants by the harbor.

How to Get to Montaña Amarilla

By Car

Driving is the easiest option.

• Well-signposted roads
  
• Free parking available directly near Playa Amarilla
  
• No parking stress, even during busier hours

You can park just a short walk from the sea and access both the beach and the hiking path easily.

By Bus (Public Transport)

Montaña Amarilla is accessible by TITSA buses, mainly from:

• Los Cristianos
  
• Las Galletas

Buses run relatively regularly, though less frequently than in major tourist areas. Expect a short walk from the bus stop to the coast.

Things to Do Nearby

If you’re staying longer, there’s plenty to explore nearby:

• Las Galletas harbor – local life and seafood restaurants
  
• Palm-Mar – coastal walks and cafés
  
• El Médano – beaches and wind sports (30 minutes)
  
• Los Cristianos – shops, ferries, and excursions

Montaña Amarilla works very well as a quiet base for exploring the south of Tenerife.

Who Is Montaña Amarilla Best For?

This area is ideal if you are:

• Looking for peace and nature
  
• Interested in snorkeling or diving
  
• Traveling as a couple or solo
  
• Planning a longer stay in Tenerife
  
• Avoiding large resort zones

If you want nightlife, shopping malls, or sandy beaches with sunbeds—this may not be your place. But if you value authenticity and volcanic landscapes, it’s a hidden gem.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Playa Amarilla suitable for swimming?

Yes, but it’s best for confident swimmers. Entry is via rocks and steps rather than sand.

Is Montaña Amarilla good for snorkeling?

Absolutely. It’s one of the best shore snorkeling and diving spots in southern Tenerife.

Are there sandy beaches nearby?

Yes, sandy beaches can be found in El Médano, Los Cristianos, and Costa Adeje.

Can you hike Montaña Amarilla?

Yes, it’s an easy hike with great views and no entrance fee.

Is the area family-friendly?

It can be, but it’s more suitable for older children due to rocky coastline.

Is public transport available?

Yes, buses run from Los Cristianos and nearby towns, though renting a car is more convenient.