Puerto de la Cruz
Where Culture Meets Coastline (And Bananas)
Puerto de la Cruz is Tenerife's sophisticated cultural heart, and honestly, it's a different world from the party resorts down south! This gorgeous colonial town on the island's lush north coast is where you come when you want your beach holiday with a serious dose of incredible architecture, botanical wonders, and that authentic Canarian atmosphere.
Woa-ooh Black Beaches (bam-ba-lam)
The beaches here are completely different from the south coast - we're talking gorgeous black volcanic sand that might take a bit of getting used to but once you get it, it's amaze! Playa Jardín is the main beach and it's absolutely stunning, designed by the famous local artist César Manrique with gorgeous gardens, palm trees, and dramatic mountain backdrops that make every photo look like a professional travel shot.
The Lago Martiánez complex is the real showstopper though - this incredible seawater swimming pool complex designed by Manrique is like an outdoor art installation that you can actually swim in! The seawater pools are surrounded by sculptures, tropical gardens, and dramatic volcanic landscapes.
Culture That Doesn't Feel Like Homework
The Casa de la Aduana houses an excellent museum about Tenerife's history, while the beautiful Church of Nuestra Señora de la Peña sits right on the seafront and offers gorgeous views over the town and coast.
The Botanical Gardens are absolutely incredible - 200 years old and packed with tropical plants from around the world. You can easily spend hours wandering through different climate zones and snapping your face next to plants you never knew existed before you saw them.
Dining That Celebrates Local Flavors
Restaurante Régulo is legendary among locals and visitors alike - their traditional dishes are incredible, the atmosphere is properly authentic, and the prices won't require you to check your bank balance before ordering dessert.
Casa Pache serves excellent seafood in a beautiful building that makes you feel like you're dining in someone's elegant home. For something more modern, La Cofradía de Pescadores does contemporary takes on traditional dishes that prove Canarian cuisine can be both authentic and innovative.
Plus, the banana wine here is actually a thing and surprisingly good - definitely worth trying even if it sounds like something someone made up as a joke!
Cruz your way to a good time
Puerto de la Cruz has been welcoming visitors since the 18th century (they clearly know what they're doing by now!), and it shows in the charming cobbled streets, and lovely plazas where locals still gather for their evening paseo. Plus, you're surrounded by banana plantations and lush green landscapes that prove the Canary Islands are about much more than just beaches and sunshine.