Must-see attractions of Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife

Puerto de la Cruz is one of the most touristic places in Tenerife, the biggest island of the Canary Islands. A beautiful historical centre, the seafront promenade, its botanical garden, the black sand beaches and the immense fun parks are some of its must-see attractions in Puerto de la Cruz. 

Its location between the north and south of the island, very close to other historical examples of important traditional Canarian architecture such as La Orotava, and its wide range of accommodation options make it an ideal base for any route around Tenerife. A large number of tourists stay in the southern part of the island, unaware that the north of Tenerife is probably the most beautiful part, with its vegetation, its natural black sand beaches, the majestic view of Mount Teide that can be enjoyed from these places, and a peculiar atmosphere where tourists and locals mix.

The traditional hospitality of Puerto de la Cruz's people helped establish the city as an outstanding tourist destination in the north of the island. Today Puerto de la Cruz has the charm of a place that masterfully combines local culture and customs with the diligence and cosmopolitanism of a modern tourist resort. It is a place that thrills everyone who visits it and walks through its historic streets. Consequently, it has been declared a Place of National Tourist Interest and an Asset of Cultural Interest that leaves no one indifferent.

The best thing to do to get a general idea of Puerto de la Cruz is to stroll around without losing sight of the sea. That is why a walking tour close to the coast is probably one of the best options.

Martianez Beach and Martianez Lake

The first recommended tourist attraction is Martianez Beach and Martianez Lake. On one side of Playa Martiánez, a black sand beach where you can sunbathe to get a nice tan and surf is the unique water leisure complex designed by the Lanzarote artist César Manrique, Lago Martiánez. 

Lago Martiánez is made up of a series of saltwater pools that are accessible all year round. The island's good weather can be enjoyed in any corner of the island. A lake is a place where you can take a dip and admire what a veritable open-air museum is. Here you can recognise the unmistakable and brilliant mark of César Manrique, who knew how to fit the singularities of the Canarian landscape perfectly into his creations.

Behind this complex, you can find one of the most popular hotels in the area. The Sol Costa Atlantis Tenerife is ideally 50 metres from Martiánez Beach and the Lago Martiánez swimming pool complex. The hotel has a spa and an outdoor swimming pool. The Sol Costa Atlantis Tenerife is located in the city centre, where you can find shops, bars and cafés, and the Loro Parque theme park is less than 3 km away. Their guests say this part of Puerto de la Cruz is probably their favourite.

Playa Jardin 

My next recommendation is the longest beach in Puerto de la Cruz, Playa Jardín. For many people, this is the best beach in the town. It is made up of a group of black volcanic sand beaches: Playa del Castillo, El Charcón and Punta Brava. 

Playa Jardín also bears the unmistakable stamp of César Manrique. Sit down and take a break from walking while you listen to the waves crashing on the shore. If you are not in a hurry, wait until sunset because from here, you can enjoy one of the best sunsets on the island of Tenerife. And you can also enjoy and get a wonderful panoramic view of Mount Teide.  

One of the best-rated hotels in the area is Hotel El Fantastico. Located 500 metres from Jardín Beach, El Fantastico offers accommodation with barbecue facilities, a garden and free private parking. Its flats also feature a patio, a seating area, a flat-screen satellite TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge and an oven, and a private bathroom to make you feel at home. El Fantastico also has a terrace, and one of the highlights is that it allows pets.

Although if you prefer somewhere quieter and calmer a bit further from this area, this spectacular hotel is a great option. Surrounded by tropical gardens, Hotel Tigaiga features an outdoor swimming pool and a restaurant with a terrace. All rooms have a private balcony with sea or mountain views. Tigaiga Hotel is located in a quiet area next to Taoro Park. Jardín Beach is 900 metres away, and Martiánez Lake is a 30-minute walk away. Teide National Park is 40 km away. Their guests can relax under the palm trees, massage, or visit the hotel's sauna.

Botanical Garden

Puerto de la Cruz’s Botanical Garden is definitely on my list of recommendations if you are keen on exotic plants. The real name is Jardín de Aclimatación de La Orotava since, in the past, this town belonged to the city of La Orotova and was created in August 1788 by order of Charles III, the enlightened king. The aim of this foundation was none other than to make known and care for the different exotic plants brought from the colonies and the so-called New World.

Puerto de la Cruz’s  Botanical Garden has more than 2,500 species distributed over 20,000 m² today. It is without any doubt, a great opportunity to "get closer" to distant countries and continents.

In short, Puerto de la Cruz offers incredible sites to its tourists. Its must-see attractions include the black sandy beaches of Playa Jardin and Playa Martianez, a beautiful historical centre, the unique and almost tropical environment of the Botanical Garden, and a wide range of accommodations and parks in the surrounding area, which I will talk about in the next story. Its visitors always want to return because it is a unique and special place in the north of Tenerife.