Puerto de la Cruz Jandía
A historic tourist gem on Tenerife's north coast, known for its lush landscapes, volcanic beaches, and the iconic Lago Martiánez.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Puerto de la Cruz Jandía
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic tourist gem on Tenerife's north coast, known for its lush landscapes, volcanic beaches, and the iconic Lago Martiánez.
"Puerto de la Cruz is a gem on Tenerife's northern coast with great views and an amazing atmosphere!"
🚶♀️ Stroll the Promenade
Enjoy the scenic coastal walk, especially around Lago Martiánez. Great for sunset views!
🚗 Consider a Rental Car
While walkable, a car offers flexibility for exploring the north of Tenerife.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lago Martiánez
Coastal promenade
Impressive seawater pools designed by César Manrique, offering a unique swimming experience with volcanic rock.

Playa Jardín
West of the town center
A beautiful black sand beach with lush gardens, waterfalls, and playgrounds, perfect for relaxation and family fun.

Historic Old Town
Town center
Wander through charming cobblestone streets, admire traditional Canarian architecture, and soak in the local atmosphere.
Loro Parque
Western outskirts
World-renowned zoo and botanical garden, famous for its parrot shows, orcas, and diverse animal collection.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Northern Charm
Plan for Varied Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll the Promenade
Enjoy the scenic coastal walk, especially around Lago Martiánez. Great for sunset views!
🚗 Consider a Rental Car
While walkable, a car offers flexibility for exploring the north of Tenerife.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Even on cloudy days, the Canarian sun is strong. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Cobblestone streets and hilly terrain mean comfy shoes are a must for exploring.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll the Promenade
Enjoy the scenic coastal walk, especially around Lago Martiánez. Great for sunset views!
🚗 Consider a Rental Car
While walkable, a car offers flexibility for exploring the north of Tenerife.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
Even on cloudy days, the Canarian sun is strong. Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
Cobblestone streets and hilly terrain mean comfy shoes are a must for exploring.
🎟️ Book Loro Parque in Advance
Save time and potentially money by booking tickets for Loro Parque online.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Puerto de la Cruz for its authentic Canarian charm, lush landscapes, and the impressive Lago Martiánez. The town offers a vibrant atmosphere with good nightlife and family-friendly attractions like Loro Parque. However, some find the weather can be cloudier than the south, and parking can be a challenge.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common ways are by bus (line 30) or taxi. The bus takes about 1.5-2 hours and is the most budget-friendly option. Taxis are quicker but more expensive. Renting a car is also a great option for exploring the island.
Yes, Puerto de la Cruz is well-connected by bus to other parts of Tenerife, including the capital Santa Cruz and the southern resorts.
The town center is very walkable. For longer distances or to reach attractions like Loro Parque, local buses or taxis are available.
Yes, Tenerife North Airport (TFN) is closer to Puerto de la Cruz and serves many European cities. From TFN, it's a short taxi or bus ride to the town.
Parking can be challenging, especially in the town center during peak season. Look for public car parks.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Lago Martiánez. Prices vary depending on the season and age.
Ticket prices for Loro Parque vary, but expect to pay around €40-€50 for adults. Booking online in advance can sometimes offer discounts.
Absolutely! Exploring the historic old town, walking along the promenade, and relaxing on the black sand beaches are all free activities.
Loro Parque is typically open daily from around 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM, but it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours.
For most attractions like Loro Parque, you can buy tickets on arrival, but booking online is often recommended to avoid queues and secure your spot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Playa Jardín is highly recommended for its beauty, amenities, and family-friendly atmosphere. Playa Martiánez is another option, closer to the town center.
Don't miss Lago Martiánez, the historic old town, Playa Jardín, and the botanical gardens. Loro Parque is a major draw for many visitors.
Yes, Puerto de la Cruz has a lively nightlife scene with numerous bars, pubs, and clubs, particularly around the Plaza del Charco.
Families will love Loro Parque, Playa Jardín with its playgrounds, and the swimming pools at Lago Martiánez.
The black sand beaches generally have calm waters, but always be aware of local conditions and any posted warnings. Lifeguards are usually on duty during peak times.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Look for fresh seafood, 'papas arrugadas' (wrinkled potatoes) with 'mojo' sauces, and local Canarian stews.
Many restaurants offer romantic settings, especially those with sea views or in the charming old town.
There are several cafes and restaurants along the promenade offering various cuisines, perfect for a meal with a view.
Most restaurants are accommodating. You can often find vegetable dishes, salads, and can often request modifications.
You can find everything from budget-friendly tapas bars to more upscale dining. Expect to pay around €15-€30 per person for a mid-range meal.
📸 📸 Photography
The colorful architecture of the old town, the dramatic volcanic landscapes of the beaches, and the unique design of Lago Martiánez are all highly photogenic.
Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light for capturing the town and coastline.
The coastal promenade and higher points in the old town offer lovely views. Consider a trip up to the nearby Botanical Gardens for elevated perspectives.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for landscapes and street photography. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the scale of Lago Martiánez.
Drone regulations can be strict in populated areas and near attractions. Always check local rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider staying in accommodations with family-friendly amenities. Many restaurants offer children's menus. The town is generally safe and easy to navigate with strollers, though some older streets can be uneven. Embrace the relaxed pace and enjoy the diverse activities available.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
The Lago Martiánez complex provides a unique setting for a relaxing day, and the black sand beaches offer a dramatic backdrop for evening walks. For a touch of luxury, consider a spa treatment or a leisurely boat trip along the coast. The town's lively yet relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for couples seeking both relaxation and exploration.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
Look for budget-friendly tapas bars and local eateries to sample Canarian cuisine without breaking the bank. Hostels and guesthouses offer affordable accommodation options. The town's compact nature means you can see a lot on foot, saving on transportation costs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Lago Martiánez
Many visitors highlight the impressive scale and design of Lago Martiánez, noting it as a must-visit attraction. The way it integrates with the natural volcanic landscape is particularly praised. It's a fantastic alternative to the natural beaches, especially if you prefer a more controlled and amenity-rich swimming environment. Remember to bring your swimwear and a towel to make the most of this iconic spot.
Pro-tip: Visit during the late afternoon to catch the beautiful sunset light reflecting off the water and surrounding structures. It's a truly magical time to be there.
The Magic of Loro Parque
Visitors often rave about the quality of the enclosures and the welfare of the animals. The park's design ensures that animals have ample space and naturalistic habitats. The shows, particularly the dolphin and orca presentations, are a huge hit, though some visitors may prefer to focus on observing the animals in their habitats. It's a full-day experience, so plan accordingly and wear comfortable shoes.
Getting there: Loro Parque is located on the western edge of Puerto de la Cruz. You can reach it by local bus, taxi, or by car. Many visitors opt for the 'Loro Parque Express' bus service from various points on the island.
Discovering Puerto de la Cruz's Old Town
Exploring the old town is a delightful experience, offering a glimpse into the town's past as one of the first tourist destinations in Spain. You'll find beautiful churches, historic buildings, and hidden courtyards. It's a great place to get lost, discover local artisan shops, and enjoy a coffee or a traditional 'barraquito' (a local coffee specialty).
Photography tip: The colorful buildings and intricate balconies make for fantastic photo opportunities, especially in the soft light of the morning or late afternoon.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit