In North Tenerife, Santa Cruz has a climate similar to South Tenerife but as you start to go further North, the climate changes rapidly and dramatically. La Laguna is typically 5 to 7 degrees colder and is somewhat damper than in the South. At a higher altitude, the area is often shrouded in a haze, similar to mist. Also there is a significantly higher rainfall than in the South, which of course means lush green vegetation!
On the north coast of Tenerife below the Taoro (La Orotava) valley, Puerto de la Cruz was the first holiday resort in the Canary Islands with visitors, explorers and writers coming for decades. Today, Puerto de la Cruz attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year who fall in love with its lush green landscape, flora and fauna, in sight of Mount Teide and stunning picture postcard views.
The resort has two stunning beaches. Playa Jardin is a 1km long strip of black volcanic sand. It’s huge so plenty of room to spread out your beach towel sand relax.
Trips and Tours for Puerto de la Cruz
When checking out excursions, if you are based in the resort of Puerto de la Cruz, be aware that many excursion companies pick up from your hotel in the popular resorts. Many of the cheaper trips, including the free trips, require you to make your own way there or to the nearest pick up point.
More Free Trips and Tours
Tour Operators
Playa Martiánez is located next to the Lago Martiánez (a man-made lagoon water park with waterfalls, sub-tropical gardens and sculptures.) It also has black volcanic sand but is smaller, simpler and less developed than Playa Jardin.
The center of Puerto de la Cruz has an extensive range of bars and restaurants catering for all tastes and wallets. Nightlife, whilst not as lively as Playa de las Americas in the south, caters for all tastes and ages. However, the locals are generally night-owls so expect to start after midnight.