Visiting Puerto de la Cruz in the Canary Islands
Located on the northern coast of Tenerife, Puerto de la Cruz is one of the most character-rich destinations in the Canary Islands. It avoids the cookie-cutter resort vibe found elsewhere, keeping a genuine local atmosphere that feels more like a lived-in coastal town than a tourist trap. You will find distinct volcanic landscapes, strong island traditions, and a laid-back pace that rewards travelers looking for something different. Here is what you should prioritize during your stay.
1. Exploring the colonial charm of the historic center
Puerto de la Cruz feels authentic, especially in its oldest neighborhoods. As you walk the cobblestone streets, you will see buildings with colorful facades that reflect the colonial architectural influence of Spain and its historical reach. The Plaza del Charco is the town hub. It is a shaded, social space perfect for grabbing a coffee, people-watching, and trying local island dishes at the surrounding cafes. Do not miss the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Peña de Francia, a classic 16th-century church that anchors the town’s history.
2. Wandering the Botanical Garden
Puerto de la Cruz is a solid base for nature lovers. The botanical garden, officially the Jardín de Aclimatación de La Orotava, is a must for anyone interested in exotic flora. Established in 1788, it holds a dense collection of tropical plants, towering palms, and century-old trees sourced from around the globe. It is a quiet, lush escape from the city streets where you can walk among rare species in a cool, shaded environment.
3. Relaxing at the Lago Martiánez pools
The volcanic black sand beaches of Puerto de la Cruz have their own appeal, but the Lago Martiánez saltwater pool complex is the premier spot for a swim. Designed by local architect César Manrique, the site is effectively an open-air art installation. It uses gardens, sculptures, and waterfalls to create a unique space for lounging. There are several bars and restaurants on-site where you can order a drink and look out over the Atlantic Ocean.
4. Taking a trip to Teide National Park
Less than an hour of driving from Puerto de la Cruz, Teide National Park is the top excursion for anyone wanting to see the island's interior. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to Mount Teide, a volcano reaching 12,188 feet, making it the highest peak in Spain. The landscape here is stark and lunar. You can take a cable car to the summit for a massive view or hike the various trails throughout the park. The volcanic terrain also supports unique flora, making it a primary spot for photography.
When to visit
The best window to visit Puerto de la Cruz is between May and October, when the weather is consistently warm without being oppressive, and rain is rare. This is the optimal time for beach days and hiking. Winter is also a viable option, as the climate remains mild and you can explore the historic center and natural sites without the peak summer crowds.
Getting there
The airports of Tenerife North (TFN) and Tenerife South (TFS) are located 25 minutes and 1 hour away from Puerto de la Cruz, respectively. Travelers arriving from the US will typically connect through major hubs like Madrid or Barcelona to reach either airport. Prices vary heavily by season, but expect to pay between 50 EUR and 400 EUR (about $55 to $435) for round-trip flights within Europe if you are connecting from a major continental city.
Puerto de la Cruz is a seaside resort that I really enjoyed.
It is certainly touristy, but to my taste less overrated than Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
We were able to go for some nice runs there and discover some pleasant trails near the city.
In the city center, you find many bars and restaurants with a lively and friendly atmosphere.
An ideal destination to combine relaxation, sports, and discovery.