San Marcos
Canary Islands, Spain — Excellent water quality
From the main road, this is the municipality's primary beach. Directional signs line the route to guide you in.
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to San Marcos
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is San Marcos?
From the main road, this is the municipality's primary beach. Directional signs line the route to guide you in.
It sits alongside Blue Flag beaches in Canary Islands, part of a broader network of Blue Flag certified beaches across Spain certified annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
Visitor Feedback
What Visitors Say About San Marcos
What visitors appreciate
- stones|black sand beach|water shoes recommended|ocean view|stony beach|sunsets|cliffs|family-friendly atmosphere|blue flag|pebbles
- Well-staffed with lifeguards during season
- Excellent EU-rated bathing water quality
Points to consider
- Can be busy during July and August peak season
- Facilities may be reduced outside peak months
Based on aggregated public visitor feedback. Themes are synthesised from multiple sources — not individual quotes. Zeach does not reproduce individual reviews.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
San Marcos faces W toward Atlantic Ocean. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in April, May, June. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 18°C | 15°C | Med |
| Feb | 18°C | 15°C | Med |
| Mar | 18°C | 15°C | Med |
| Apr | 19°C | 16°C | High |
| May | 20°C | 17°C | High |
| Jun | 21°C | 18°C | High |
| Jul | 23°C | 20°C | High |
| Aug | 24°C | 21°C | High |
| Sep | 24°C | 21°C | High |
| Oct | 23°C | 20°C | Med |
| Nov | 21°C | 18°C | Med |
| Dec | 19°C | 16°C | Med |
The best time to visit San Marcos is April, May, June. Air temperatures peak around 22.7°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 19.7°C in July.
How crowded does San Marcos get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Spain, San Marcos sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is San Marcos open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-01 – 31-12). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at San Marcos
Is San Marcos safe to swim?San Marcos is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Excellent</span>. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season.
What is the water temperature at San Marcos?Peak water temperature at San Marcos reaches around <span class="inline-stat">19.7°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 17.9°C.
What is the beach like at San Marcos?San Marcos is a sandy beach on the Canary Islands coast of Spain. It meets all Blue Flag criteria for environmental management, water quality, safety, and facilities.
Does San Marcos have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, San Marcos meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Trained lifeguards are on duty during the season. Showers are available. Toilet facilities are on site. Parking is available nearby.
San Marcos sits on the Atlantic Ocean — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Atlantic.
Planning a trip to Spain? Blue Flag Beaches Spain 2026 — our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
Transport
Getting to San Marcos
How do I get to San Marcos by car?San Marcos is approximately 1.26 km from Icod de los Vinos. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to San Marcos?The nearest airport is Tenerife Norte Airport (TFN) (TFN), approximately 39.1 km away.
Can I get to San Marcos by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Icod de los Vinos.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✓ On duty during official season |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✓ Available during season |
| Toilets | ✓ Available during season |
| Official Season | 01-01 – 31-12 |
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Sand | Pebble / shingle beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 28.3781°N, 16.7237°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Spain |
Frequently Asked Questions
San Marcos FAQ
Is San Marcos suitable for children?
San Marcos is a Blue Flag certified beach in Canary Islands, Spain. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season, providing an important safety layer for families. Shower facilities are available. The EU Excellent water quality rating means the water is safe and clean for all swimmers, including children. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is San Marcos free to access?
Yes, access to San Marcos is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. Parking is available nearby; check local signs for any parking charges. Facilities including showers and toilets are typically available during the official season at no charge. The beach is managed by local authorities under the Blue Flag programme.
When is the best time to visit San Marcos?
The best time to visit San Marcos is April, May, June. Water temperature peaks at around 19.7°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 22.7°C in summer. If you prefer quieter conditions, visiting in June or September gives you warm weather with fewer crowds than the July–August peak. The Blue Flag is displayed during the certified season, confirming the beach meets all water quality and safety standards.
What is the water quality at San Marcos?
San Marcos is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is currently rated Excellent. Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and requires independent water quality monitoring throughout the season. The results are publicly available from the European Environment Agency.
How do I get to San Marcos?
San Marcos is located in Canary Islands, Spain. It is approximately 1.26 km from Icod de los Vinos. The nearest airport is Tenerife Norte Airport (TFN) (TFN), 39.1 km away. Parking is available at or near the beach. Check local transport authority websites for current public transport schedules. A car is the most flexible option for reaching the beach, particularly outside peak season.
Explore More
More Blue Flag Beaches in Spain
Editorial
From the Zeach Blog
Everything you need to know about what makes a beach qualify for Blue Flag status — from water quality to environmental education.
Read moreOur editorial team's pick of the standout Blue Flag beaches in Spain — rated for family friendliness, scenery, and facilities.
Explore SpainWhat the flag actually means, how certification works, and why a Blue Flag is a genuinely reliable signal — not just a marketing tool.
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