Puerto de la Cruz is a charming town of around 30,000 inhabitants in the north of Tenerife, bordering the Orotava Valley on the slopes of Mount Teide. It was one of the first parts of the island to make the most of tourism, and it draws visitors from all over the world. The recently revamped seafront is full of character and beautifully kept, with beaches suitable for swimming. Along the main street facing the ocean you’ll find plenty of businesses, traditional restaurants and shops of every kind, offering visitors lots of opportunities for fun and shopping.
The historic centre is built around Plaza del Charco, with its enviable green space, a meeting place for tourists and locals alike; around the square you’ll find traditional Canarian bars and cafés for a relaxing break. From the square, a network of cobbled lanes branches out into the town, where you can admire buildings of great historical importance, including the Casa de la Aduana, the Casa Miranda and the Hotel Marquesa. Plaza Concejil is also worth a visit; at its centre stands the monument to Paco Alonso, one of the town’s best-loved former mayors.
The town is also home to the renowned Playa Jardín, one of the most beautiful beaches in Tenerife. It is a typical volcanic-sand beach, ideal for sun lovers, with the roar of the waves as a soundtrack.
Puerto de la Cruz is therefore an excellent choice both for those who enjoy a relaxing holiday and for those who love nightlife, with bars and clubs open until late.
Places of interest
- Lago Martiánez: a wonderful aquatic park of around 30,000 m² right on the ocean, designed by the famous architect César Manrique. The complex has several artificial seawater lakes. It is an enchanting place that blends the beauty of the park with a mix of art and modern architecture; besides the artificial lakes, it has pretty gardens and numerous statues and sculptures, including the beautiful “Monument to the Waves”. The complex is ideal for a day of relaxation, with lakes, waterfalls, sun terraces, green spaces, bars and restaurants. Phone 34 922 38 59 55
- Mirador de la Paz: a nearby viewpoint with a splendid panorama over the seafront. A visit at sunset is highly recommended, to admire Puerto de la Cruz in the evening light.
- Loro Parque: a large zoo with many different animal species. Numerous shows are scheduled throughout the day, creating a magical atmosphere in a stunning setting. Phone 34 922 37 38 41
- Jardín Botánico (Botanical Gardens): a garden with 20,000 m² of displays featuring numerous tropical and subtropical plants and a huge variety of palms, bromeliads, aroids and plants of the fig family. Opening hours 9:00–17:30 – Phone 34 922 92 29 78
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