Nestled on Tenerife’s verdant northern coast, Puerto de la Cruz offers a captivating contrast to the more arid southern resorts. For those seeking a blend of cultural immersion, natural beauty, and engaging activities, understanding the array of Puerto de la Cruz Tenerife Canary Islands things to do is key to unlocking a memorable vacation.
This article will guide you through the unique appeal of this historic town, detailing the best activities and attractions, along with practical insights into their typical prices.
The Enduring Appeal of Puerto de la Cruz
Puerto de la Cruz holds a special place in Tenerife’s tourism history, being one of the island’s first established resorts. Its appeal lies in its ability to blend traditional Canarian life with modern tourist amenities, all set against a backdrop of dramatic volcanic landscapes and the refreshing Atlantic.
Authentic Canarian Atmosphere
Unlike some purpose-built resorts, Puerto de la Cruz boasts a genuine town feel. You’ll find historic buildings, bustling plazas, and a vibrant local community. This offers a more immersive cultural experience, letting visitors feel like part of the island’s daily rhythm. Its charm is evident in lively markets, traditional festivals, and the friendly locals.
Lush, Green Surroundings
Thanks to its northern location, Puerto de la Cruz benefits from a more temperate and humid climate. This microclimate creates incredibly lush landscapes, including extensive banana plantations, beautiful botanical gardens, and verdant valleys that stretch up towards the mountains. The air often feels fresh, imbued with the scent of tropical flora.
Cultural Hub
The town is rich in history and culture. You’ll see charming colonial architecture, some dating back centuries. Art galleries, local craft shops, and a strong tradition of vibrant local festivals, like Carnival, ensure there’s always something culturally enriching to experience.
Year-Round Appeal
While the south is known for endless sunshine, the north offers a consistently pleasant climate year-round. It’s often tempered by refreshing breezes and occasional cloud cover, which adds to its verdant beauty and makes it comfortable for exploring. This means there are always fantastic Puerto de la Cruz Tenerife Canary Islands things to do, no matter when you visit.
Excellent Infrastructure
As a long-established resort, Puerto de la Cruz provides a comprehensive range of hotels, from luxury options to charming boutique guesthouses. It also offers a diverse selection of restaurants, appealing shops, and efficient public transport, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
Essential Puerto de la Cruz Tenerife Canary Islands Things to Do
From iconic attractions to hidden gems, Puerto de la Cruz offers a diverse palette of experiences. Here’s a detailed look at the top Puerto de la Cruz Tenerife Canary Islands things to do, along with estimated costs.
Immerse Yourself at Lago Martiánez
The crown jewel of Puerto de la Cruz’s seafront, Lago Martiánez is a magnificent complex of saltwater swimming pools, artificial islands, gardens, and sunbathing areas. Designed by César Manrique, it’s an artistic masterpiece blending with the volcanic landscape, providing a unique and aesthetic leisure space.
- Price: Entrance typically costs around €5.50 for adults, with discounts for children. Sun loungers are often included or available for a small additional fee of €1-€2.
- Recommendation: Go early to secure a good spot, especially during peak season, and take advantage of the entire day.
Discover the Wonders of Loro Parque
Consistently rated as one of the best zoos in the world, Loro Parque is a must-visit for animal lovers and families. It’s home to an incredible array of animals, from gorillas and tigers to a vast collection of parrots. It also offers captivating and educational animal shows.
- Price: Adult ticket approx. €42, child ticket (6-11 years) approx. €30. “Twin Tickets” combining Loro Parque and Siam Park (a water park in the south) are also available for around €74 for adults.
- Recommendation: Allocate a full day to explore the park properly; there’s a lot to see. Free shuttle buses are often available from central Puerto de la Cruz.
Wander Through the Botanical Garden (Jardín Botánico)
A serene and tranquil escape, the Jardín Botánico, established in 1788, is one of Spain’s oldest botanical gardens. It features a stunning and diverse collection of tropical and subtropical plants from around the world, thriving in Tenerife’s unique climate.
- Price: Entrance fee is usually around €3.
- Recommendation: Perfect for a leisurely morning or afternoon, especially if you’re looking for a tranquil break or have an interest in botany.
Explore the Historic Old Town
The heart and soul of Puerto de la Cruz lies in its charming old town, a labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets, traditional Canarian balconies, and picturesque plazas.
- Price: Free to explore. Shopping prices vary; a coffee at a plaza cafe might cost €2-€4.
- Recommendation: Visit in the late afternoon or early evening to experience the vibrant atmosphere as locals gather.
Relax at Playa Jardín
Another masterpiece by César Manrique, Playa Jardín is a beautifully landscaped black sand beach complex framed by lush gardens, waterfalls, and walking paths. It offers breakwaters that make it safer for swimming.
- Price: Free. Sun loungers and parasols are available for rent, typically €5-€7 each.
- Recommendation: A great family-friendly beach option with good facilities.
Hike the Coastal Path to Bollullo Beach
For a more adventurous beach experience, a hike to the secluded Bollullo Beach is rewarding. This wild, black sand beach is nestled beneath dramatic cliffs and surrounded by banana plantations. It’s one of the more off-the-beaten-path Puerto de la Cruz Tenerife Canary Islands things to do.
- Price: Free (parking at El Bollullo may incur a small fee, typically €2-€3).
- Recommendation: Wear sturdy shoes for the walk. Be aware that the currents can be strong, so swim with caution. There’s a small beach bar.
Experience the Nightlife
Puerto de la Cruz offers a vibrant, yet more relaxed, nightlife compared to the southern resorts. It caters to a more mature crowd and those seeking live music, traditional pubs, and cozy bars.
- Price: Drinks prices vary. A beer can cost €3-€5, cocktails €8-€12.
- Recommendation: The atmosphere is generally lively but not overly boisterous, perfect for a pleasant evening out.
Take a Day Trip to Teide National Park
No visit to Tenerife is complete without experiencing the lunar landscapes of Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site dominated by Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide.
- Price: Cable car return ticket approx. €40 for adults, €20 for children. Entrance to the park is free.
- Recommendation: Book cable car tickets online in advance to avoid long queues. Wear layers, as temperatures drop significantly at altitude. This is a truly unforgettable experience among Puerto de la Cruz Tenerife Canary Islands things to do.
Learn to Surf or Bodyboard
The northern coast of Tenerife, including areas near Puerto de la Cruz, offers excellent conditions for surfing and bodyboarding, particularly for beginners and intermediates.
- Price: A group surf lesson (2-3 hours) typically costs €40-€60, including equipment rental.
- Recommendation: Check local surf school websites for schedules and booking.
Puerto de la Cruz offers a distinctive and enriching holiday experience. By exploring the diverse Puerto de la Cruz Tenerife Canary Islands things to do, from its iconic attractions to its cultural heart and natural wonders, you’re sure to create lasting memories on this beautiful island.
