Due to the volcanic nature of the Island, most of the beaches are relatively small and the soft sand is dark colored. The sand on some beaches is almost black.
Most beaches are incredibly clean (many have been certified as Blue Flag beaches) and have a good range of facilities, including sun beds, cafés bars and toilets.
The beaches in Tenerife are busiest from April through September and almost deserted in wintertime. Even during peak season, don't expect to find as many gay sunbathers as in Maspalomas Beach on nearby Gran Canaria island.