Puerto de la Cruz is Tenerife's original tourist resort, a graceful town on the island's lush northern coast that has been welcoming visitors since the nineteenth century. It offers a very different experience from the purpose-built resorts of the south — here you will find a beautiful historic centre, tropical botanical gardens, dramatic volcanic coastline and a genuine Canarian atmosphere. For Irish visitors who want culture, character and authenticity alongside their sunshine, Puerto de la Cruz is a rewarding choice.
Location and Getting There
Puerto de la Cruz is on Tenerife's north coast, in the fertile Orotava Valley beneath the slopes of Mount Teide. Tenerife South Airport (TFS), where most charter flights land, is approximately one hour's drive away via the modern motorway. Tenerife North Airport (Los Rodeos) is closer at around twenty-five minutes. The flight from Dublin takes approximately four hours. The longer transfer from the south airport is more than compensated by the completely different landscape and atmosphere of the north.
Beaches
The beaches of Puerto de la Cruz are volcanic black sand, which gives them a dramatic appearance quite unlike the golden beaches of the south. Playa Jardin, designed by the legendary local artist Cesar Manrique, is the main beach — a series of black sand coves set among tropical gardens and palm trees. It is genuinely beautiful and has full facilities. Lago Martianez, also Manrique-designed, is a remarkable seawater lido complex with pools, terraces and landscaped gardens built into the volcanic coastline. It is one of Tenerife's most iconic landmarks and is a joy to spend a day at.
The Canary Islands are volcanic in origin, which gives the coastline a distinctive character. Many beaches feature dark volcanic sand alongside imported golden sand, and the underwater landscape is rich with marine life, making snorkelling and diving rewarding activities. The Atlantic waters around the Canaries are home to sea turtles, rays, angel sharks and colourful tropical fish that have drifted north on warm currents from West Africa. Beach conditions vary throughout the day — mornings tend to be calmer, while afternoon trade winds can pick up, particularly on north and east-facing coasts.
Things to Do
The Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanico), established in seventeen eighty-eight, houses tropical and subtropical plants from around the world in a beautiful setting. Loro Parque, one of the Canary Islands' most visited attractions, is located in Puerto de la Cruz and features a large zoo, aquarium, dolphin shows and a penguin habitat — it is a full day out for families. The historic old town, centred on the Plaza del Charco, is a delight to explore on foot, with traditional Canarian balconied houses, churches and a fishing harbour. The town of La Orotava, a short drive inland, has some of the finest examples of traditional Canarian architecture on the island. From Puerto de la Cruz, the drive up to Mount Teide National Park through the pine forests is one of the most dramatic road trips in Europe.
Dining and Nightlife
Puerto de la Cruz has an authentic dining scene. The old town and harbour area are lined with traditional Canarian restaurants where you can eat well at very reasonable prices. Fresh fish, tapas, papas arrugadas with mojo and local wines feature prominently. The Plaza del Charco is the social hub, with cafe terraces that fill up in the evenings. There are also excellent restaurants in the wider Orotava Valley area. Nightlife is more cultural than clubby — live music, theatre and open-air events are common, and the town's bars have a relaxed, convivial atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit
The north of Tenerife has a more varied climate than the south. It is generally a few degrees cooler, greener and occasionally cloudier, though sunshine is still plentiful. Summer temperatures are pleasant in the mid-twenties, and the lush vegetation makes the landscape far more attractive than the arid south. Puerto de la Cruz is best suited to visitors who enjoy warm weather without extreme heat, and who value culture and scenery as much as beach time. The spring months of March to May are particularly lovely when the gardens are in bloom.
Practical Information for Irish Visitors
Tenerife is part of Spain and the EU. The euro is the currency and no visa is required. The Canary Islands are on GMT in winter. English is spoken in tourist businesses, though less universally than in the south coast resorts — a few words of Spanish will enhance your experience.
Healthcare in the Canary Islands is covered by the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for Irish citizens, though travel insurance is always recommended. Tap water is safe but most visitors prefer bottled water, which is inexpensive and widely available. The islands have excellent road networks, and hire cars are affordable — driving is on the right-hand side. Pharmacies (farmacias) are well stocked and pharmacists can advise on minor ailments without a doctor's visit. The Canary Islands have no time difference with Ireland in winter, which is a real bonus — no jet lag on arrival and no adjustment needed for return.
Why Book with Sunholidays.ie
Sunholidays.ie is Irish-owned and IAA licensed (Licence No. T0601), providing full financial protection. Book with twenty euro per person and pay monthly. The price match guarantee ensures best value, and the team can advise on whether the north or south of Tenerife best suits your holiday preferences.
Puerto de la Cruz, situated in Tenerife's verdant north, offers a more authentic Canarian experience. This historic town is known for its lush botanical gardens, the impressive Lago Martiánez seawater lido complex designed by César Manrique, and distinctive black volcanic sand beaches like Playa Jardín. With its charming old quarter, traditional Canarian architecture, and a more relaxed pace, it attracts Irish visitors seeking culture, natural beauty, and a less tourist-Tenerife.