Puerto de la Cruz is a destination that wears its history proudly while keeping a relaxed, authentic Canarian soul. Unlike the purpose-built resort towns further south, this northern Tenerife gem evolved from a fishing village into a beloved cultural hub. Its botanical gardens, volcanic beaches, and lively plazas give it a character that feels both timeless and welcoming.
Many travelers choose Puerto de la Cruz for its year-round spring climate and walkable layout. You can spend your morning exploring a historic fortress and your afternoon swimming in natural saltwater pools. It is a place where tradition and tourism have coexisted for more than a century, and that balance is exactly what makes it so appealing.
The town sits in the lush Orotava Valley, with the dramatic peak of Mount Teide as a backdrop. This location means you get green landscapes, ocean views, and a cooler breeze than the southern coast. The result is an environment that encourages slow strolls, long lunches, and genuine discovery rather than rushed sightseeing.
Because Puerto de la Cruz has welcomed visitors for so long, its attractions are well maintained and easy to reach. You will find excellent signage, helpful tourist offices, and a compact center that rewards exploration on foot. Even the beaches and viewpoints outside the core are just a short drive or bus ride away.
The local identity is rooted in fishing, agriculture, and a deep respect for the sea. You can still watch fishermen mend their nets near the harbor and taste papas arrugadas in family-run guachinches. This gives the town a sense of place that feels increasingly rare in busier tourist zones.
Puerto de la Cruz is also an ideal base for exploring northern Tenerife. The Anaga Mountains, La Laguna, and the Teide National Park are all accessible for day trips. Staying here means you experience a more authentic side of the island while still having plenty to see within walking distance of your hotel.
Below is a curated list of the best attractions in and around Puerto de la Cruz. Each one offers something distinct, from natural wonders to cultural landmarks. Use this guide to plan a balanced itinerary that mixes relaxation, history, and outdoor adventure.
Faro de Puerto de la Cruz
| Address | 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM Saturday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM Sunday: 6:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Phone | 828 18 11 40 |
Maybe I’m being too demanding, but this place really shows the untapped potential of the town — and I say that with sadness, because it’s genuinely a lovely spot: peaceful, thankfully not overrun by drunk tourists, but rather full of quiet strollers enjoying the seaside atmosphere.
The concrete promenade could easily be the showpiece of the town — a beautiful spot to watch the waves, listen to the sound of the sea, and enjoy the sunset. Unfortunately, it smells like urine almost everywhere, which makes it hard to appreciate the walk or the ocean when you’re constantly catching that smell.
Right next to the breakwater / promenade there’s a huge parking lot. I understand the town needs parking, but building even a small wall or barrier would help separate the walking area from the sight of cars. Another issue is the camper vans. I don’t want to sound judgmental — maybe some of the people living in them are struggling/homeless — but it’s hard to understand how someone can park right by the ocean to enjoy it and then urinate on or under the promenade. I actually saw it happening!
The views of the ocean and sky are phenomenal, but the constant smell and the sight of the parking area ruin the experience. I truly hope the local authorities will take action someday — this place deserves better.
The lighthouse is nice, but it is surrounded by a large parking lot, so you don't really get to enjoy its beauty. I didn't go up to the lighthouse, but there was still a nice view of the sea from the concrete pier.
Every coin has two sides. The same is true of this controvesial place.
An ordinary and somewhat shabby parking lot with a simple beacon? Yes, but only on one side.
From the other side, the one closer to the sea, you can look forward to a longer, breathtaking walk along the wall of the breakwater surrounding the land, and thus enjoy the view of the unrestrained sea and the waves breaking on the rocks below. If that doesn't make you think about the power of nature beyond us, the value and meaning of life, and everything..., go back to the parking lot and go away. I don't mean that in a bad way. You can simply look for something more to your taste. But if the sunset over the endless stormy sea resonates with you, give this place a chance - at least one side of it. And maybe, for a little while, you'll forget about the shabby part and the other unimportant things we struggle with every day.
Modern lighthouse on a dusty parking. Free parking. Great view to the sea, and both Puerto de la Cruz and Punta Brava, and the Teide vulcano.
Free parking, if you're lucky to get a place))
El Castillo San Felipe
| Address | Castillo de San Felipe, C. Luis Lavaggi, 10, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 5:00 – 8:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 922 37 30 39 |
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Beautiful Historic Site with an Amazing Beach Nearby
Castillo de San Felipe was one of the most enjoyable places we visited during our time in Tenerife. The fortress itself is full of character and history, offering a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past. Although it is not a huge attraction, it is well worth visiting for its historical significance, unique architecture, and excellent location along the coastline.
What really made this visit special for us was the beautiful beach nearby. The combination of the historic castle, dramatic volcanic coastline, and black sand beach creates a stunning setting that feels very different from many other tourist destinations. The beach is clean, spacious, and perfect for relaxing while listening to the waves crashing against the shore. The views of the Atlantic Ocean are spectacular, and there are plenty of opportunities for photography.
The area around the castle is pleasant to walk around, with a lovely promenade, local cafés, and plenty of places to sit and enjoy the scenery. We spent much longer here than expected simply taking in the atmosphere and watching the ocean.
The site is easily accessible and suitable for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in history, photography, geology, or simply looking for a beautiful place to spend a few hours, this location offers something for everyone. A fantastic combination of culture, history, and natural beauty that we would happily visit again. Highly recommended when visiting Puerto de la Cruz. 🌊🏰📸☀️
The Castillo de San Felipe in Puerto de la Cruz is a great little historical spot to check out from the outside, but don't expect a traditional castle museum experience when you step inside.
Built in the early 17th century (around 1604) to defend the town's port from pirate attacks, it is a very compact, pentagonal stone fortress. However, because it was disarmed long ago and eventually declared a Historic-Artistic Monument, its purpose has completely changed.
Today, the interior functions primarily as a local cultural center used for art exhibitions, poetry readings, and classical music concerts. Because of this modern adaptation, there isn't really much to "tour" or explore inside in terms of historic rooms, armor, or permanent historical displays. Unless you are stopping by to view a specific temporary art exhibition or attend an event, the inside doesn't have much to see.
That being said, it’s absolutely worth a look from the outside! It sits right next to the volcanic sands of Playa Jardín, and walking around the exterior—where you can still see the old cannons facing the Atlantic Ocean—makes for a fantastic quick stop during a coastal stroll.
Great walk to this castle, right on the sea front. It is free to enter and the walls have art work on them.
Okay for quick look if you're passing but it's just an art exhibition (and not many exhibits) with no information about the tower itself. It could be better as it's an excellent building in itself.
Castle is a too pretentious name for this small fortification. 4 stone walls that close a space. Rectangular, without interesting architecture. In addition, it can only be visited during cultural events.
Botanical Garden
| Address | C. Retama, 2, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 922 92 29 81 |
+ Beautiful and very well‑maintained botanical garden — truly enjoyed the visit.
+ Wide variety of plants, trees, and shaded paths, perfect for a relaxing walk.
+ Clean and convenient restroom available on site.
+ Free parking just across the street, very easy to access.
+ Clear digital online guide with numbered sections — helpful and easy to follow.
– The only downside: no live guide available, only the digital one. A personal guide would make the experience even more engaging.
The Botanical Garden (Jardín Botánico) was a real highlight of our visit and we really enjoyed it. The garden is a calm and green place, full of a wide variety of exotic plants and trees growing naturally across the area. It’s a great spot for a relaxing walk, especially if you want a break from the busy town. The atmosphere is peaceful, with shaded paths and plenty of interesting plants to see along the way. Overall, it was a very pleasant experience and definitely worth visiting.
The most underrated location in all Tenerife. It as amazing. The plants are not only for the experts, its for regular people too.
By the way, if you want the perfect profile picture for Instagram this is where you do it.
Just 3 euros to spend a couple of pleasant hours enjoying this garden. The information leaflet given out at the entrance was in different languages except English, I was advised to check it though a QR code, which was a shame. I loved the huge trees but I would have liked more information on their ages as I only found one information sign with this detail.
Toilets here are very clean and well attended.
Unfortunately, our visit did not fully meet expectations. The entrance process was rather slow, and the garden itself did not feel as well maintained as we had hoped.
In several areas there were visible weeds and parts of the garden looked somewhat neglected. The variety of plants also seemed fairly limited, and overall there were not many particularly exciting highlights to explore.
With better upkeep and a broader collection, this botanical garden could offer a much more engaging experience.
Loro Parque
| Address | Av. Loro Parque, s/n, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM |
| Phone | 922 37 38 41 |
Our visit to Loro Parque was one of the highlights of our holiday and a wonderful experience for the whole family. We were amazed by the variety of animals and the beautiful surroundings, and there was so much to see that we could easily have spent even longer there.
We particularly enjoyed seeing the parrots, penguins, dolphins and the other incredible animals up close. The park was very well maintained, and the shows were entertaining and gave us plenty of memorable moments.
What we enjoyed most was being able to explore the park together as a family and experience something different from a typical beach holiday. There was something for everyone, and we came away with lots of lovely memories and photos.
The only downside was that there is so much to see and do that one day almost doesn’t feel enough! Overall, Loro Parque was a fantastic day out and an experience we would happily recommend to other families visiting Tenerife.
An amazing and truly memorable zoo experience! We absolutely loved it. The variety of birds is especially impressive — seeing so many beautiful and colorful species was simply wonderful.
The dolphin and orca shows were very touching and informative. The stories shared during the shows made the experience even more special and meaningful, not just entertaining but also educational.
The territory is large and pleasant to walk around, and it’s great that there are many cafés and food spots available throughout the park, with plenty of tasty options to enjoy during the visit.
Overall, a fantastic place that left us with very positive emotions. Highly recommended!
Loro Parque is absolutely incredible! 🦜🐬🐧
I first visited Loro Parque with my family, and I was so impressed and excited by the experience that I came back just three days later — this time on my own! ❤️ That’s how much I loved it!
There is so much to see and discover, from the incredible penguins and beautiful birds to the orcas, dolphins and amazing habitats. Everything is beautifully maintained, exceptionally clean and very well organised.
The staff were absolutely wonderful. During our first visit, we asked SO many questions about where everything was, and everyone was incredibly kind, patient and helpful every single time. They always greeted us with a smile and were happy to help. It really made a difference to our experience. 😊
The food options are also quite reasonably priced for a place like this, and there are some really interesting and beautiful souvenirs to choose from.
For me, Loro Parque was definitely one of the highlights of Tenerife. I loved it so much that I simply couldn’t wait — three days later, I was back again!
An unforgettable experience and an absolute must-visit in Tenerife.
Such a great place , all animals have big enclosures and are well looked after and also have privacy away from the public if they want . All animals also have conditions like their homeland which I find cool .
Animals like the tiger, lion and black panther were really cool to see. There is A LOT of parrots and is very cool however my favourite part is the penguins mannn so cute . The food is nice however it is quite expensive and if you want a seat for the shows you have to be early to guarantee a seat. The design of the place was very beautiful and clean and well looked after and is definitely my favourite zoo/ embassy I’ve ever been too . I recommend getting the free bright coloured train in the town as it’s a direct route just to loro parque and is a good way to sight see . I highly recommend this place 👍
Great experience at Loro Parque!
We had a really great experience at Loro Parque. The presentations were definitely the highlight of our visit — very well organized, entertaining and enjoyable. I would definitely recommend planning your visit around the presentations if you want to see them.
One tip: go early and find a good place, especially for the more popular presentations, as there were quite a lot of people even though we visited on a Tuesday.
The only downside is that the park closes quite early at 5:30 PM. We visited three presentations, and because of the time spent at them, we didn't have enough time to properly explore the rest of the park. So if you want to see everything, I would recommend arriving as early as possible.
Parking was also a bit difficult — we had to spend quite some time looking for a parking space because there were many visitors.
Overall, though, a fantastic experience and definitely worth visiting. Just arrive early, plan the presentations in advance and allow yourself enough time to explore the whole park. 🦜🐬🌴
Playa del Muelle
| Address | Calle de la Marina, 6, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
A beer is a beer but to sit and drink on the sea front with a fantastic musician playing was fantastic!
Nice little fishing harbour in the centre of town. Not really a beach to speak of more just a small pebbly shore line.
Theres a couple of benches to sit and chill.
You can spend hours sitting there, watching early mornings dog walkers, and let the world walk by
We sat and relaxed here for a short time during our holiday. Nice little spot that feels more like old town Puerto de la Cruz. Quaint spot.
A small beach, with large but round stones, so not very unpleasant. Located in the middle of the city, simple, undeveloped, there are no sunbeds, I didn't see a lifeguard. Good for a quick bath but nothing more.
Playa jardín
| Address | Av. Blas Pérez González, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Lovely, local beach with black sand. There's a small shop that sells ice cream and drinks. Beach chairs available to rent.
I would advise you bring, or wear your beach shoes as its quite rocky at the water front.
The sand derives from volcanic ash, hence the reason we avoided wearing white or bright clothes that easily stain.
Lovely beach and amazing flowers and plants to view.
Playa Jardín is an iconic volcanic black sand beach located in Puerto de la Cruz, northern Tenerife. Designed by the renowned Canarian artist César Manrique, it is famous for its unique integration of lush botanical gardens, waterfalls, and stone-walled paths that lead directly to the shore.
My favourite beach in Puerto de la Cruz. Beautiful views, cactuses and palms nearby, black sand. Usually not that crowded, comfortable to spend the day by the ocean enjoying amazing nature. Highly recommend!
We had a great experience at Playa Jardín. The volcanic sand creates a distinct, beautiful atmosphere, and the palm trees offer excellent natural shade. The facilities are impressive; both the restrooms and the large changing rooms were notably clean and comfortable. Although the ocean was too rough for swimming while we were there, it’s worth noting that the entry is rocky, so protective footwear is a must. Don't miss the stunning botanical garden nearby—the cacti and flowers are beautiful, and the Monarch butterflies are a lovely bonus.
A beautiful beach; unfortunately, we were there at a time when it was closed due to big waves. I recommend checking reviews or information on websites in advance to see if the beach you want to visit is open, because when we were in Tenerife, almost all beaches were closed due to the high waves. But the view of the ocean was beautiful. 😊😊
Puerto de la Cruz Scenic Viewpoint
| Address | CC9V+4J, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Great photo spot with the ocean view and the big crashing waves 🌊
Was für ein beeindruckendes Erlebnis, hier entlang zu spazieren und dem Ozean mit all seiner Kraft gegen die Insel branden sehen.
Nichts als Unenedlichkeit und die Magie der Natur gegen die sich der Mensch mit den Wellenbrechern, die heute kkleinen Krabben als Wohnsitz dient zu verteidigen wusste.
Beautiful view, but the uneven ground of these blocks annoys me; it's not nice to walk on them, and on one side you have to walk over many large stones.
Agatha Christie Painted Stairs
| Address | C. San Amaro, 5D, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
Loved this walk but there is a lot of stairs to get to these Agatha Christie stairs when going up them from the beach like we did but well worth it if your a fan, we really enjoyed the walk and the views are great, there are plenty of spots to stop and rest on your way up and it is worth a bit of extra walk to see the bust of Agatha Christie too.
There is also a really nice coffee and cake shop at the top of the stairs to reward yourself with and they serve beer too
Found these steps interesting, as it gives all the books written by Agatha Christie. My mum loves Poirot so she would have loved seeing these 🙂
Can be found to the left of the Central shopping centre either up some steps or via a steep winding road. Worth the walk to see them, always quite busy and hard to get a decent photograph.
Nice painted stairway, a bit dirty now and has a lot of people. But if you’re a fan of Agatha it’s worth visiting.
Such a great way to transform part of the urban landscape into an interesting spot
Playa San Telmo
| Address | C. de San Telmo, 18, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
Very scenic location.
Very satisfying to watch the tidal waves crashing on the rocks.
Natural Pools & Swimming: Known for its volcanic rock pools that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, especially at low tide.
The Promenade: The beach is located along the Paseo de San Telmo, a lively pedestrian walkway lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Nice shopping area with great views. On the edge of a storm so the seas were up, and the clouds were down. So that is a good combination. The swimming pools were closed though.
Playa San Telmo has a great central location right along the promenade, making it super convenient for a quick dip in the ocean while exploring the city. The naturally clear water, rocky natural pools, and beautiful coastal views give it a charming, authentic vibe that is definitely worth seeing.
However, I am giving it 3 stars because the beach definitely needs some improvement. First and foremost, there is a major lack of space for visitors. It is a very small beach area, so it gets crowded almost immediately, making it tough to find a decent spot to lay down your towel unless you get lucky.
Another big downside is that there are no sunbeds or umbrellas available to rent. Spending more than an hour or two here can get quite uncomfortable, especially on hot days when you need shade or a softer place to rest than the hard ground and rocks.
Overall, the entire area could be much better maintained and upgraded. With some investment in better facilities, modern infrastructure, and cleaner amenities, this could easily become a top-tier spot in the city.
As it stands, Playa San Telmo is fine for a quick stop or taking a few pictures, but it falls short if you are looking for a comfortable, all-day beach experience.
We visited this part of town twice . We didn't swim here but did see alot of people swimming there and there were lifeguards one of the occasions. We also enjoyed having a drink at a bar just there and watched the waves. Bit more peaceful compared to the busy main street above !
The area is very beautiful, with many rocks against which the ocean waves break. As a beach, however, it is far from being a top one. There is a small portion of gravel where you can walk into the ocean. The rest are just rocks and a concrete pier.
Vip Tours Tenerife
| Address | C. Aceviño, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 8:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | 646 95 47 11 |
Had an amazing experience from booking with Richard and touring with Fran.
They were very welcoming and Fran made sure we had a great time while going around the Island. He made sure we felt happy, fed and was very engaging throughout the day. My Mrs and I recommend 100%!
We had 2 tours with Vip Tours Tenerife.
The first one with Fran to El Teide, amd the second with Aday to Anaga Moutains.
I can't even measure in words how amazing it was or even how Fran and Aday were wonderfull.
They were very friendly and at ease with the all group
Always explaining the history of the places we were seing.
I do lively reccomend that if you visit Tenerife to book at least one tour with Vip Tours Tenerife, you won't regret and it's worth it.
Its our first visit to the canary islands and we trying to get out and see as much as possible.
We did the 8hr tour and it was incredible, our driver/guide managed to keep us all entertained (a mixture of English, German and Spanish tourists). His knowledge and passion for history, culture, music, economy and landmarks mixed with his energy levels meant at no point did anything feel forced or boring. The man loves his island and has a genuine love for telling anyone who will listen.
I forget our guide's name but hes a keen cyclist and really welcoming and friendly.
The mini bus wasnt cramped at all, at 6ft4 I was sat in the front. I simply cant recommend their tours enough for anyone who wants an almost intimate dive into the island of Tenerife.
Great work!! Theo and Marie.
Fran- what an amazing driver and tour guide.
He was very knowledgeable, funny & relatable.
He looked after the group really well.
Would definitely recommend this tour.
Great tour! Fran made it very entertaining and he make us laugh a lot! I recommend the tour 100%
Batería de Santa Barbara
| Address | C. Las Lonjas, 3, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
An open, relaxed spot - whilst looking into a little history...
Not far from the centre, it's an ideal spot to get out of the crowds and shop fronts for a nice view of the coastline.
With some historical context, its perhaps worth a small diversion and drop by, if your looking for the history and culture of the island - though I wouldn't necessarily make it the sole reason of a long trip.
We came upon this area walking along the coast around the city. It was very busy up with plenty of people admiring the cannons, the ocean views and walking along the battlements. The cannons were very ornate and well maintained. The rocky coastline was very beautiful and their were good views of the port. Their was steps but easily accessible with only a few in certain areas.
This old defence was built directly on the small cliffs to protect the town. It is in very good condition with some very old canons still in place. From here you get a nice view to the left to the port and amusement park and to the right of the town and beach and Rock pools. If you do a full 180 and look behind you can also see the top of the Teide Volcano. Definitely take a stroll down the promenade to this point and watch the Atlantic especially on a rough day
Such a stunning place! Super quiet, you can only hear the waves
Perfect to watch the sunset and listen to the sea!
Nice oryginal cannons from 1700- 1740. Part of old fortifications. Interesting and historical place with lovely views.
Paseo Acantilado de Martianez
| Address | P.º de la Costa, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Museo Del Pescador
| Address | C. Las Lonjas, 5, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | 922 38 91 97 |
A real asset to Puerto de la Cruz!
A mixture of archive photos, publicity and personal photos giving a real feel to what life in Puerto was like in past times...
And a great collection of handmade ships from 16th century style up to present day.
Free entry (donations appreciated).. definitely worth a visit!👍
Small museum, lots of model boats and photographs, it was only me there when I went so nice and peaceful. Wasn’t much to read/learn but from a visual standpoint it was striking.
Amazing museum full of hand crafted ships and boats, and other maritime art. There are model vessels from all over the world, from all different periods. It’s a free museum, but there is a donations box to help keep the place running, which I’d recommend a small donation as it is a great museum. It was unmanned when I visited - no back packs, I’m guessing because there are a large number of models and tight passages through the shelves so backpacks could knock them over when you’re passing through. Definitely worth the visit, and you could spend some time here if you wanted to. 👍
Nice small and free (donation welcome) museum, lots of models of fishing and other vessels, seems like maybe they filled in the spaces with what they had. There were a couple of Japanese battleships, for example. Lots of good info on the history of fishing in the area, with many photos from the past of the boats and the fishermen themselves. Really nice gentleman taking care of the place and answering questions. Definitely worth a stop in, even if you inspect everything closely I think you could be in and out in about an hour. Very tight so make sure if you have a backpack you move it to your chest to ensure you don't catch a model walking by, we were told this by the man at the entrance, but in case he's not hanging out there worth noting.
Beautiful place, free of charge. If you are interested in ships and other marine vessels you can't miss it!
Paseo Marítimo
| Address | 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
The Puerto de la Cruz seafront is one of the most iconic tourist destinations in northern Tenerife. You can admire the black volcanic sand, traditional architecture, and the spectacle of the wild sea, which can be enjoyed for hours. The tranquil atmosphere, strolling through the La Ranilla neighborhood, is a real treat, and dining in one of its bars is absolutely fantastic. Can't wait to return!
Complejo Turístico Municipal Costa Martiánez
| Address | Av. de Cristobal Colón, s/n, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz, Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | 922 38 59 55 |
Overall – 5/5
We really enjoyed our visit to Costa Martiánez. It's a great place to spend the day, with lots of different areas to explore, plenty of sun loungers and a really good-sized main pool. The price was also excellent for what you get.
Pools – 4/5
The pools were very clean and well maintained. The main pool was a particular highlight, with caves and bridges to swim around, making it fun to explore rather than just being a pool to swim in. It's also a large enough space that even with lots of people coming and going, it didn't feel overly crowded. There were plenty of sun loungers available throughout the complex.
Staff – 4/5
The staff seemed friendly and helpful from what we experienced, although we didn't interact with a huge number of them during our visit.
Cleanliness – 5/5
The complex was very clean. There were plenty of bins spread throughout the area and we didn't notice any litter lying around. The pools themselves were also very clean.
Food & Drinks – 4/5
There was a good variety of food and drinks available at reasonable prices. We didn't have a lot during our visit, so I can't comment too much on the quality, but there seemed to be plenty of choice.
Value for Money – 5/5
Excellent value for money. An all-day ticket was only €7 per person, and you could also hire an umbrella for €3, which was a great option to have. Considering how much there is to do and how long you can stay, we thought this was very reasonably priced.
Safety – 5/5
We felt very safe throughout the complex. The pools were well maintained and there were plenty of staff around. The general area also felt safe, so we had no concerns during our visit.
Walkability & Accessibility – 3/5
The complex was easy enough to walk around, but there are a lot of stairs between the different levels and to access many of the pools. Because of this, it isn't particularly accessible for people with limited mobility.
Noteworthy Details
The location is great and there are lots of different areas to explore, so you can move around the complex rather than staying in one place all day. There were plenty of sun loungers, and we really liked having the option to hire an umbrella for just €3.
The large main pool was especially fun to explore, with its caves and bridges. There are also dedicated areas for children, making it a good option for families as well as adults.
Perfect day and a perfect place. We were in the middle od July, when it was a sunny day. Until 2 pm water was a bit coldish, afterwards it was warmer and perfect for swimming.
The entrance is 7 euros and you get a sunbed, additionally for 3 euros you can have a sun umbrella. Big complex, drinks and food, nice toalets, all available. It’s not so crowded during the week, you can find a nice spot for yourself, maybe there are more people on the weekends. Food and drinks are reasonable price, for example 2 burgers, 2 fries, 2 coffees and a beer for 21 euros and it is tasty.
Would definitely come again!
Great alternative for ocean swimming without the rough waves. It’s a paid entry, but worth it: safe, clean, and well-kept. Loungers are free, but umbrellas cost extra (though there’s enough natural shade if you prefer). There’s a nice little restaurant too, so you can spend all day enjoying the views. We will definitely visit again.
Great place to go for some swim time and R & R - staff are lovely and helpful which is always a plus.
Music would be a great addition for ambience and vibe
Good value for money too as we spent around 5 hours there.
A lifesaver when the ocean waves are too big to swim! This place is exceptionally clean, cozy, and well-maintained. It provides a safe and beautiful way to enjoy salt water even during a storm. Highly recommended!
Tips for Visiting Puerto de la Cruz
To make the most of your time in Puerto de la Cruz, it helps to understand a few local rhythms and practical details. The town is easy to navigate, but knowing when to go, what to wear, and how to get around will save you time and energy. These tips focus on comfort, value, and experiencing the destination the way locals do.
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Wear comfortable, non-slip footwear. Many streets are made of polished volcanic stone and can be slippery after rain or sea spray. You will also encounter stairs and gentle slopes, so leave the flip-flops for the beach.
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Bring a light layer even in summer. The northern coast can be cooler and cloudier than southern Tenerife, especially in the evening. A light jacket or sweater will keep you comfortable during open-air dinners and coastal walks.
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Use the public bus for nearby attractions. The TITSA bus network is affordable and reliable for reaching places like La Orotava, Icod de los Vinos, and even Santa Cruz. The main bus station is centrally located and easy to use.
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Visit popular attractions before noon. Natural pools, gardens, and viewpoints are quieter in the morning. You will also get softer light for photos and a more peaceful experience before tour groups arrive.
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Try the local seafood and Canarian potatoes. Restaurants near the old fishing harbor serve fresh catch at reasonable prices. Look for places filled with locals, and pair your meal with a local white wine from the Tacoronte-Acentejo region.
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Carry some cash for small purchases. While most hotels and larger restaurants accept cards, small cafes, market stalls, and rural guachinches may prefer cash. Having a modest amount of euros on hand will make things easier.
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Respect the ocean conditions. The Atlantic on the north coast can be powerful. Always check flag warnings and swim only in designated areas or supervised pools. The natural saltwater pools are the safest and most enjoyable option.
Puerto de la Cruz rewards travelers who slow down and pay attention. Its beauty is not always flashy, but it is deeply satisfying. A quiet morning at the botanical garden, a sunset over the Atlantic, or a simple meal of grilled fish by the harbor can become the highlight of your trip.
Whether you are visiting for two days or two weeks, this town offers a genuine slice of Canarian life that feels far removed from mass tourism. Plan your days around the attractions that interest you most, but leave room for spontaneous detours. That is often where the best memories are made.
