Updated in 2026. Puerto de la Cruz is one of those places in Tenerife that works equally well for a day visit or as a base for several days. It has the sea, tourism history, streets with local life, salt-water pools, gardens, volcanic beaches and an excellent location for discovering the Orotava Valley.
The appealing thing about Puerto de la Cruz is that it does not try to be perfect. It is Atlantic, slightly nostalgic, green, walkable and very rewarding when explored without rushing. Here is a practical guide to what to see, how to organise your visit and which details to check before going.
What to see in Puerto de la Cruz
1. Lago Martiánez
Lago Martiánez, also known as Costa Martiánez, is Puerto de la Cruz’s great icon. It is a complex of salt-water pools beside the sea, bearing César Manrique’s artistic influence and offering areas for lying down, swimming and spending several hours without looking at the clock.
For 2026, the official information lists general adult admission at €7.00 and general child admission up to ten years old at €4.00. The usual opening hours are 10:00 to 19:00 from 1 July to 30 September and 10:00 to 18:00 during the rest of the year. As maintenance, events or operational changes may occur, always check the official website before organising your day around Lago Martiánez.
2. Playa Jardín
Playa Jardín is one of the municipality’s most recognisable beaches: volcanic sand, gardens, a promenade and views towards Punta Brava. It is ideal for walking, resting or swimming when conditions permit. Follow flags, notices and signs because the Atlantic in the north changes quickly.
3. San Telmo and the seafront promenade
The San Telmo area is perfect for seeing the sea from close by, walking, having a drink and watching the waves break. If you do not want a complicated plan, start here and let the promenade itself lead you towards the centre, harbour and livelier streets.
4. Historic centre and fishing harbour
The centre retains squares, traditional houses, terraces, small shops and the atmosphere of a long-established tourist town. The fishing harbour is a simple but very Puerto de la Cruz stop: boats, sea, residents, visitors and the gentle pace that the municipality still retains.
5. La Ranilla and street art
La Ranilla is one of the most pleasant neighbourhoods in which to wander. It has murals, restaurants, colourful façades and charming narrow streets. If you travel with children or people who do not want to walk too far, it is an easy and attractive plan.
6. Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden is a peaceful and highly recommended visit if you enjoy plants, shade and unhurried walks. It is in the La Paz area and combines very well with a route around viewpoints or a relaxed lunch before descending to the centre.
7. Loro Parque
Loro Parque is in Punta Brava and is one of Puerto de la Cruz’s best-known attractions. If you decide to visit, set aside a long half day and check the opening hours before going. It is usually one of the most popular stops for families.
8. Martiánez Beach
Martiánez Beach combines black sand, pebbles and an area associated with surfing. It is not the most convenient beach for everyone, but it is one of the municipality’s most characteristic. If you simply want an easy swim, Lago Martiánez is usually more predictable.
One-day route around Puerto de la Cruz
Morning: start at the Botanical Garden or in La Paz, descend towards the Martiánez promenade and enter Lago Martiánez if you want to swim. Midday: eat in the centre or La Ranilla. Afternoon: explore the historic centre, harbour and San Telmo, and finish at Playa Jardín or Punta Brava.
Two-day route if you are staying in Puerto de la Cruz
Day 1: Puerto de la Cruz without a car, walking through Lago Martiánez, San Telmo, the centre, harbour, La Ranilla and Playa Jardín. Day 2: a road trip through La Orotava, Humboldt Viewpoint, Icod de los Vinos or Garachico. This combines a town, coastline and the historic north without overwhelming you.
Getting around and parking
The centre is best enjoyed on foot. If you arrive by car, try to park in large areas or public car parks and avoid entering narrow streets if you do not know the municipality. During high season, at weekends and around beach times, arrive with time to spare.
Since June 2026, the municipality has also had a panoramic tourist bus announced to connect places such as Lago Martiánez, the Botanical Garden, Loro Parque and Playa Jardín. It may be useful if you want a quick overview of the town, but check its operation and timetable for your dates.
Advice before visiting
- Take a light jacket if you are visiting in the afternoon. The north can become cool even when you come from sunshine in the south.
- Do not leave swimming in the sea until the end if conditions are good: the swell can change.
- Book a restaurant if you visit on busy dates or want to eat somewhere particular.
- Combine Puerto de la Cruz with La Orotava if you want a complete excursion.
- If you are travelling with children, Lago Martiánez, La Ranilla and Loro Parque are the easiest options to organise.
Frequently asked questions about Puerto de la Cruz
How much time should you spend in Puerto de la Cruz?
One full day is enough for a first visit. If you are staying there, two or three days let you explore more calmly and use it as a base for the north.
Is Puerto de la Cruz a good base for discovering Tenerife?
Yes, especially if you are interested in the north: La Orotava, Icod, Garachico, Anaga, La Laguna and Teide by the La Orotava road. If you want to visit the south frequently, calculate the journeys carefully.
Which is better, Lago Martiánez or Playa Jardín?
They are different activities. Lago Martiánez is more controlled and convenient for several hours of swimming. Playa Jardín is more natural, volcanic and open to the sea, so it depends more heavily on Atlantic conditions.
If you are going to explore this part of the island, it will help to keep our guide to what to see in North Tenerife and the option to hire a car in Puerto de la Cruz close at hand, so you can travel without depending on timetables.
