Puerto de la Cruz: Discovering the Lush Charm, Lago Martiánez Pools, and Traditional Vibe of Tenerife’s Northern Resort Town

Puerto de la Cruz is tucked away in Tenerife’s lush north, and honestly, it feels like a different world compared to the island’s busier tourist spots.

Cobblestone streets, lively markets, and a real sense of “slow down and stay awhile” pulled me in right away. But the thing that really sets Puerto de la Cruz apart? Those spectacular Lago Martiánez seawater pools—where nature and creative design somehow combine to make the Atlantic feel like a spa.

As I wandered around, I stumbled on cozy tapas bars and gardens bursting with color. Local culture mixes with the usual resort comforts here, and it’s a combo I didn’t expect to love so much.

Some days, I’d just soak in the mountain views or snack on fresh seafood. Other times, I’d lose track of time by the pools. If you’re after a place that blends tradition with pure leisure, this northern town might be your sweet spot.

The Lush Allure of Puerto de la Cruz

Puerto de la Cruz wooed me with its fresh ocean breezes, a laid-back vibe, and a kind of old-world charm that’s hard to fake.

The gardens are a riot of color, and the town squares buzz with local life. I kept thinking, “This is the real Tenerife.”

Natural Beauty and Year-Round Sunshine

The first thing I noticed? All the tropical greenery. The city sits right between the Atlantic and these steep, green hills, so I’d wake up to views of the sea on one side and Mount Teide on the other.

The climate here is mild—plenty of sunshine, even in winter. I could walk along the shore with just a light jacket, which felt pretty dreamy compared to back home.

Sure, there’s some rain, but it’s usually just enough to keep everything lush. The parks and gardens—especially the old Botanical Garden—are full of palms, wildflowers, and rare plants.

I loved wandering through these green spaces, watching locals chill on benches in the shade. It’s a simple pleasure, but one I never got tired of.

Cobbled Streets and Traditional Architecture

When I wandered the cobbled streets here, I could see how much care locals put into keeping their old buildings alive.

Narrow lanes wind through rows of stone houses, all painted in warm earth tones. Ornate wooden balconies hang over the doors, and I spotted old tiles decorating walls and courtyards.

These streets invite you to slow down. I’d stop for photos in tiny plazas or peek into patios overflowing with plants.

It’s easy to picture life here a hundred years ago—neighbors chatting at the bakery, families heading to church on Sundays.

There are a few old churches and colonial manors tucked away, too. They give the place a peaceful, almost storybook feel.

I felt surrounded by history, honestly. Locals would greet me with a quick “hola,” or point me toward their favorite café if I looked lost.

Vibrant Plaza del Charco

Plaza del Charco is the town’s beating heart, and I kept coming back. Palm trees shade the square, and you hear fountains mixing with music from nearby cafés.

This isn’t just a spot to pass through. Locals and travelers hang out on benches, kids chase each other near the pond, and vendors sell fresh fruit or souvenirs.

You’ll see everyone here—elderly friends gossiping, couples with coffee, street musicians setting the mood.

At night, lights twinkle on the water and families stroll around. The restaurants serve local dishes and sweet pastries.

There’s always something happening—a market, a festival, a guy strumming guitar. Sitting here, you really feel like you’re part of the town’s daily rhythm.

Lago Martiánez Pools: An Iconic Seaside Experience

Lago Martiánez is probably the most famous spot in Puerto de la Cruz, and for good reason.

With its gorgeous pools, sun terraces, black sand views, and food stalls, it’s way more than just a place to swim.

Design and Features of Lago Martiánez

The first time I stepped inside, I stopped in my tracks. César Manrique, a Canarian artist, designed the whole complex.

He mixed volcanic rock with modern shapes, so the pools almost blend into the coastline. It’s wild.

There are seven seawater pools and a huge artificial lake in the middle, all surrounded by little islands, fountains, and sculptures.

Even the walkways feel like art. The gardens, palm trees, and terraces break up the space, so it never feels crowded.

Families, couples, solo travelers—everyone finds their own little corner. The pools are filled with fresh Atlantic seawater, and the salty breeze always hits you.

The main lake is massive—about 15,000 square meters. I could always find a quiet spot if I wanted to escape the action.

Sun Terraces and Black Sands

Lago Martiánez sits right on the ocean, so you get killer views of the Atlantic and Mount Teide.

There are big sun terraces with loungers and umbrellas. I’d stretch out in the sun, or snag a shady spot under the palms if I needed a break.

This isn’t a beach, but the gardens have that signature black volcanic sand you see on Tenerife’s real beaches.

It’s soft, and it wraps around the pools, making it a comfy place to relax with a book or people-watch. I really liked how close the terraces are to the waves.

Sometimes, I’d just listen to the surf pounding the rocks—not bad for a pool day. The place has showers, restrooms, and changing rooms everywhere, so you never feel stuck.

Cocktails and Culinary Delights

You can’t visit Lago Martiánez without grabbing a drink or a snack. There are restaurants, snack bars, and open-air cafés all around the pools.

Some serve classic Spanish and Canarian food, while others stick to lighter stuff like salads or fruit.

My favorite moment? Sipping a cold cocktail under a parasol, just watching the water. Whether it was a mojito or a fresh juice, there was always something tempting.

Here’s what I tried and loved:

Drink	Where to Find	Notes
Mojito	Poolside bars	Refreshing & minty
Sangria	Main café	Fruity & light
Fresh Orange	Snack kiosks	Sweet local oranges

Some spots stay open into the evening, so you can grab an early dinner as the sun goes down.

I’d go for seafood paella or a plate of tapas—simple, tasty, and perfect for the setting. The vibe is casual, friendly, and always buzzing.

Traditions and Local Culture

Puerto de la Cruz feels like a patchwork of old and new. Centuries-old customs mix with daily life, and you see it everywhere—from festivals to the way people greet each other.

The town’s roots run deep, with colorful fiestas, indigenous history, and those lush green spaces hugging the coast.

Festivals and Community Events

If you visit during festival season, you’re in for a treat. Locals fill the streets with music and parades, and honestly, everyone seems to join in.

The Fiestas de Julio is a highlight—fireworks, concerts, and floats on the water to celebrate the town’s patron saint.

Carnival is wild—costumes everywhere, music in the plazas, food stalls on every corner.

In June, the San Juan bonfires light up the beach. Families and friends gather by the water, and some even leap over the flames for good luck.

The markets are another way to soak up local life. People haggle over Canarian cheese, wine, and crafts.

Every event has its own food specialties—papas arrugadas (those salty wrinkled potatoes) and sweet gofio treats are must-tries. I always end up sampling more than I planned.

Guanche Heritage

Long before tourists showed up, the Guanche people called this land home. I spot reminders of their culture in the town’s art and museums.

The Casa de la Aduana has exhibits on Guanche tools and traditions, which gave me a peek into the island’s past.

Some street art features Guanche symbols, and I’ve noticed plaques around town marking ancient burial sites.

Most locals today have roots from later settlers, but you can tell there’s pride in that ancient heritage. I think learning about the Guanche adds real depth to the island’s story—it’s not just about beaches and sunshine.

Banana Plantations and Tropical Gardens

Banana groves stretch out along the edge of town, and if you walk or bike by, you’ll probably see workers harvesting bunches the old-fashioned way.

I took a guided tour once and learned how important bananas are to local life and cooking.

The Jardín Botánico (Botanical Garden) is a favorite of mine. Founded in the 1700s, it’s packed with rare palms, orchids, and even tropical spices like ginger.

It’s peaceful there, and the signs help you trace the island’s plant history. Sometimes, I stumble on smaller private gardens that open up to visitors.

Those are little slices of paradise—papaya, passionfruit, coffee plants, all tucked away. I always leave feeling like I’ve wandered into a secret, green world.

Outdoor Adventures and Activities

Puerto de la Cruz isn’t just about lounging by the pool. The north side of Tenerife is packed with wild coastlines, volcanic peaks, and all sorts of adventures.

You can spot wildlife, hike, or just chase the sun—it’s hard to get bored.

Exploring Mount Teide and Teide National Park

If you’re in Puerto de la Cruz, you have to see Mount Teide. It’s Spain’s tallest peak, rising over 3,700 meters, and the heart of Teide National Park.

I found the volcanic landscapes and rock formations absolutely surreal.

You can take a cable car up the mountain, but I loved hiking one of the official trails. If you want to get close to the summit, you’ll need a free permit—book early, they go fast.

Sunrise and sunset are magical here, but honestly, the midday light makes the lava fields glow in a way that’s hard to describe.

Bring layers, because it gets chilly up high, even if it’s hot in town. And don’t forget your camera.

I was blown away by the sea of clouds below and the views stretching all the way to La Gomera and beyond.

Hiking Trails and Teno Rural Park

When I wanted to see Tenerife’s wilder side, I set out for the Teno Rural Park. These green mountains and deep ravines surround charming villages like Masca, where you’ll find some of the island’s prettiest hiking trails.

One morning, I took the famous hike down the Masca Gorge. The steep, winding path runs through a rocky canyon from the mountain village all the way down to the ocean.

Rugged cliffs and lush forests line the route, making every step feel rewarding—even when the trail gets tough. I found the scenery pretty unforgettable.

Other trails in Teno lead to lookout points facing the dramatic cliffs of Los Gigantes. Some wind through ancient laurel forests full of birdsong.

You can pick up trail maps at local tourist offices. If you want to learn about rare plants, guided hikes can really help.

Trail Name	Difficulty	What You’ll See
Masca Gorge	Challenging	Ravine, cliffs, sea view
Los Gigantes	Moderate	Cliffs, ocean, villages
Laurel Forest	Easy-Moderate	Ancient trees, birds

Boat Trips, Whale Watching, and Dolphins

I couldn’t skip a chance to spot whales and dolphins just off Tenerife’s coast. Boat tours leave from nearby harbors like Los Gigantes Marina and head out into deep blue waters where several species live year-round.

Watching pilot whales swim beside the boat, and dolphins leap in the wake, felt like a true highlight. The guides on our boat shared facts about local marine life, and they explained how the waters between Tenerife and La Gomera form a natural habitat for these magnificent animals.

Most tours last a few hours, and they often include snorkeling stops. I appreciated that operators follow responsible watch guidelines to avoid disturbing the animals.

A pair of binoculars and a sun hat helped me enjoy the trip even more.

Water Sports and Marine Life

The beaches and lagoons around Puerto de la Cruz are perfect for anyone who loves water sports. I tried stand-up paddleboarding on calm days, gliding over clear water where fish and even sea turtles swam past.

Surfing is a big draw on Playa Martiánez. Local schools offer lessons for all levels.

Beginners stick near the shore, while experienced surfers chase bigger waves farther out. When I wanted a break from surfing, I snorkeled around volcanic reefs and spotted colorful marine life—parrotfish, octopus, and sometimes rays gliding over the rocky seabed.

For something different, I joined a kayak tour just off the coast. Paddling near the cliffs of Los Gigantes gave me a fresh view of the dramatic shoreline.

Most beaches offer equipment rentals and lessons, so it’s easy to try something new even if you haven’t done it before.

Gastronomy, Nightlife, and Shopping

Puerto de la Cruz serves up flavors from land and sea, with bustling nightlife and unique shops. I’ve strolled these streets at nearly every hour, always finding something new—maybe a fresh-caught seafood dish, a friendly local bar, or a hidden market full of handmade crafts.

Local Cuisine and Unique Restaurants

I always look forward to meals in Puerto de la Cruz. Local cuisine centers on fresh fish, papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with spicy mojo sauce, and grilled meats.

Traditional Canarian dishes fill most menus. Spots like Casa Régulo and El Taller Seve Díaz really stand out for their authentic flavors.

For breakfast, I enjoy coffee and pastries at small cafés along the Plaza del Charco. Seaside restaurants serve “vieja” (parrotfish), which gives me a true taste of the Atlantic.

International restaurants pop up here and there—Italian, Asian, and fusion dishes—perfect when I’m in the mood for something different.

Dining here never feels rushed. Most evenings, I end up outside, sharing tapas or sampling local wines while the sun sets over the ocean.

Popular local dishes to try:

• Gofio escaldado (a hearty dish made with roasted cornmeal)
• Caldoso de pescado (Canarian fish stew)
• Grilled octopus
• Bienmesabe (almond dessert)

Puerto de la Cruz Nightlife Scene

Once night falls, Puerto de la Cruz comes alive. I like to start my nights at cozy bars around the old town, many filled with live music and friendly conversation.

Cocktails and local wines are popular, but you’ll also find craft beers and classic Spanish sangría. If I want more energy, there are dance clubs and late-night venues near Avenida de Colón and Lago Martiánez.

Most places have a relaxed vibe, with local bands or DJs playing well into the night. For quieter moments, beachside bars offer sunset views and a laid-back atmosphere.

The nightlife feels welcoming, not wild. I always find a mix of visitors and locals wherever I go.

Many bars even host themed nights or cultural events—great for mingling and learning about the area’s traditions.

Nightlife highlights:

• Tapas bars around Plaza del Charco
• Live music at Blanco Bar
• Beachside cocktails at Café de Paris

Shops and Artisan Markets

Shopping in Puerto de la Cruz is a treat, especially if you love finding handmade or unique goods. The old town’s narrow streets are lined with boutiques selling everything from classic Canarian lace to jewelry and ceramics.

I’ve picked up lovely souvenirs and gifts here, each with a story. Open-air artisan markets pop up weekly, often in squares like Plaza Europa.

These markets are full of local foods, crafts, and sometimes live performances. I always linger at stalls selling local honey, aloe vera products, and island fashion.

For modern needs, you’ll find small fashion boutiques and larger shops in shopping centers. I like comparing international brands with those made right in Tenerife.

Market tips:

• Visit the Saturday market at Plaza del Charco for fresh produce and local crafts
• Browse Calle Iriarte for independent boutiques
• Look out for stalls selling handwoven baskets, a local specialty

Planning Your Stay in Tenerife’s Northern Resort Town

When I planned my visit to Puerto de la Cruz, I realized picking the right accommodation mattered just as much as filling my days with adventure. The region has plenty of quality hotels, family-friendly options, and exciting day trips, including golf courses and waterslides.

Best Hotels in Tenerife

Puerto de la Cruz is home to some well-loved hotels. I stayed at the Hotel Botanico & The Oriental Spa Garden, and it really raised the bar for comfort.

The breakfast buffet was generous, the gardens felt peaceful, and the spa had an impressive range of treatments.

Not far from Lago Martiánez, H10 Tenerife Playa offers sea views and sits near both the pools and the waterfront promenade.

If you’re looking for modern style, Hotel Vallemar is another top pick. Its rooftop pool was my favorite spot for sunset.

For a unique stay, I suggest checking small boutique hotels around the old town. They often come with a local touch and are within walking distance to Plaza del Charco and the beautiful coastline.

Hotel Name	Highlight	Location
Hotel Botanico	Luxury & Spa	Near Botanical Garden
H10 Tenerife Playa	Beachfront	By Lago Martiánez
Hotel Vallemar	Rooftop Pool Views	Seafront, City Center

Family Breaks and Package Holidays

For a family break, I found Puerto de la Cruz to be one of the easiest places to travel without much stress. Package holidays can include airport transfers, meal plans, and activities for all ages.

Resorts and hotels here cater to children with kids’ clubs, splash pools, and even babysitting on request. During summer holidays, lots of families head to Lago Martiánez for the saltwater pools and gardens.

I noticed plenty of family rooms and connecting suites available in area hotels. I recommend checking for all-inclusive deals.

Often these come with flexible meal times and organized excursions, like dolphin-watching or local sightseeing tours. For peace of mind, I booked a package with cancellation options—helpful if plans change.

Day Trips to Playa de las Américas and Siam Park

Whenever I wanted a faster pace, I took day trips from Puerto de la Cruz down to Playa de las Américas. Although it’s about an hour by car or bus, I thought the change of scenery was worth it.

Playa de las Américas has buzzing beaches, water sports, and plenty of seaside cafes. The real highlight for me was Siam Park.

As one of Europe’s top water parks, it had rides for thrill-seekers and gentle zones for little kids. Booking tickets online saved me time in line.

Returning to the quieter north after a day here gave me the best of both worlds: excitement and relaxation.

Below is a quick tip list from my notebook:

• Direct bus service: Look for Line 343.
• Pack extra clothes: You’ll get soaked at Siam Park.
• Arrive early: Beach and park crowds grow after mid-morning.

Golf Courses and Other Nearby Activities

Puerto de la Cruz isn’t exactly famous for golf like the south of Tenerife, but I found a few enjoyable courses close by. Real Club de Golf de Tenerife sits in this gorgeous volcanic landscape, about half an hour’s drive from town.

I loved the old-world charm there. Afternoon tee times felt a bit quieter, which was a nice surprise.

If you’re not into golf, you’ve got other options. I went hiking on Mount Teide, wandered through botanical gardens, and even tried surf lessons at Playa Martiánez.

Mornings at the Jardín Botánico were especially peaceful. I’d spot rare plants—sometimes even parrots if I got lucky.

When I wanted something more laid-back, I’d head to Sitio Litre Garden. Sipping coffee in the shade there felt like a little escape.

There’s always another corner to explore, whether you’re drawn to sports or just want to soak up the local vibe.