Location: 10 minutes drive from San Carlos in the northeast of the island
Facilities: Loungers, parasols, showers (turned off to save water), toilets, bar, restaurant, lifeguards, access for the disabled
Activities: Pedalos
Size: 190 metres long, 60 metres wide
Getting there: Reached only by car, follow signposts from San Carlos. If you arrive before midday, you may find a parking place under the shady trees on the left where the access road ends. If the parking area is full, see if you can find a space on the road through the housing development above the beach known as La Joya.

The beach

Cala Leña is a very broad beach with a wide curve of fine white sand. The sea bed is sandy with the odd rock, and the water shallow for some way out, perfect for children to splash around. It is set in a fragrant valley of pine trees that give it a secluded atmosphere despite the presence of several apartment complexes nearby.

Because of the latter, this is quite a busy beach, especially with families. It is nice to spend a full day on as there are plenty of sheltered picnic spots amongst the pines.

At the left end, there is a small strip of sand without sun loungers where some people also go nudist.

Spotlight tip

If you feel adventurous, walk along the cliffs or through the urbanised area above the beach with pretty, landscaped gardens and woodland.

Beach bars and restaurants

There is a wooden beach bar with a restaurant that, among other options, serves a tasty paella (to be ordered in advance when you arrive at the beach).