Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife: Beaches, Old Town, Gardens, Martiánez Pools & Harbour
Puerto de la Cruz is the north coast’s classic resort town, where volcanic shores meet leafy plazas and centuries-old churches. This photo guide follows a logical walk: starting from a panoramic viewpoint, then along the promenade to beaches and the harbour, before diving into gardens, street art, markets and transport tips.
Panoramic view of Puerto de la Cruz
This wide overview shows the coastline curving around Playa Martiánez and the Lago Martiánez pools with the Atlantic beyond—an ideal first look at the town’s setting on Tenerife’s green north shore.
Seafront promenade and natural lava pools
Puerto’s waterfront mixes broad pedestrian avenues with sculpted lava reefs and safe tidal areas for taking in the surf. Cafés, pharmacies and small boutiques line the route.
The volcanic foreshore creates sheltered steps and platforms right at the ocean’s edge—great for wave-watching and photos on days with lively swell.
Black-sand beaches: Playa Jardín, Playa Martiánez & the muelle cove
Puerto de la Cruz is known for its soft, dark volcanic sand. These three spots offer different vibes—from wide family beaches to the little cove by the harbour.
Near the Martiánez pools you’ll find another stretch of dark sand with breakwaters that keep the surf manageable for casual swimmers and sunbathers.
In the historic centre, the harbour cove becomes a lively family spot—especially during local fiestas when bunting decorates the quay.
Coastal beacon at the western breakwater
A modern beacon tower stands by the western end of town, looking over the breakwater and surf—a striking photo stop on a coastal walk.
Lago Martiánez: art beside the sea
Outside the Lago Martiánez complex stands a playful sculpture and fountain—one of several artistic touches that blend with palms and wind-shaped forms.
Castillo San Felipe cannons at dusk
The town’s old coastal defenses come alive in evening light. The cannons of Castillo San Felipe recall Puerto de la Cruz’s maritime past.
Harbour life and fishermen’s traditions
Fishing culture remains central to the town’s identity—from statues and shrines to the fishermen’s guild and a small museum.
Along the promenade, this small seaside shrine is dressed with flowers for the Virgen del Carmen, patroness of seafarers.
The fishermen’s guild building—Cofradía de Pescadores—sits by the water and houses a popular seafood restaurant.
Nearby, the “Casa Museo del Pescador” introduces visitors to local maritime heritage and traditional boats.
Historic churches and chapels
The old town preserves several religious landmarks, each with distinct architecture and quiet gardens.
Just a short walk away, the San Francisco church and former convent show stonework façades typical of the Canary Islands.
On the coast, the small Ermita de San Telmo—protector of sailors—faces the Atlantic and hosts local devotions.
Parks, botanical paths and green corners
Despite its urban core, Puerto de la Cruz is lush. Paths shaded by tropical trees, street planters and playful garden art appear throughout town. There is Botanical Garden Tenerife just minutes from Puerto de la Cruz’s seafront.
Quiet residential lanes are softened by greenery and views towards the sea.
A cypress-lined walkway frames a blue horizon—one of many calm places to pause on a morning stroll.
Even the streets bloom: florists and planters brighten the historic lanes.
On a coastal lawn, an overturned amphora spills flowers near a whimsical green mask—an example of the playful landscaping you’ll spot around town.
Street art in Puerto de la Cruz
Murals energise several façades. Portraits of local characters and seafaring themes reflect the town’s identity.
Another mural depicts a sailor adjusting his mask—painted during recent years when maritime life met modern realities.
Squares, markets and modern shopping
Small plazas connect to commercial areas where you can browse souvenirs or pick up fresh produce.
The sleek Martiánez shopping centre sits above the seafront with cafés and a supermarket.
For local specialties, the Mercado Municipal is the go-to spot for fruit, cheese and everyday groceries.
Getting around: bus station and the Loro Parque train
Public transport is straightforward. The TITSA bus station serves island routes, while the free Loro Parque road train is a fun shuttle for zoo visitors.
The yellow train trundles through the centre, linking hotels with Loro Parque.
Local festivities: the night of San Juan
Every June, beach bonfires light up the coastline for the Night of San Juan—one of the most atmospheric evenings of the year in Puerto.
From volcanic beaches and ocean pools to leafy lanes, murals, churches and the working harbour, Puerto de la Cruz blends resort comfort with local character. Use this photo guide to plan a coastal walk, choose a beach day, discover quiet gardens and time your visit with a fiesta for an authentic north-Tenerife experience.