At first glance, Puerto de la Cruz, on the north coast of Tenerife, is a charming seaside town in the Canary Islands. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll discover it’s a gateway to some of the island’s most spectacular natural treasures. Thanks to its subtropical climate, volcanic landscapes, and proximity to protected areas, this part of Tenerife offers an unbeatable blend of coastal beauty, exotic gardens, and mountain scenery. Whether you’re a casual stroller or an avid adventurer, Puerto de la Cruz makes a perfect base for discovering the wild side of the Canary Islands.
- A Botanical Paradise in the Heart of the Town
- Orotava Valley: A Natural Amphitheatre
- Exploring the La Orotava Forest
- Teide National Park: A Landscape from Another Planet
- Wildlife Watching on the Water
- Gardens Beyond the Botanical
- Natural Swimming Pools and Beaches
- A Nature Lover’s Base on the North Coast
- Where to Stay
- How to Get There
A Botanical Paradise in the Heart of the Town
Right in the centre of Puerto de la Cruz lies one of Tenerife’s most famous green spaces: the Botanical Gardens (Jardín Botánico). Established in the 18th century as a home for exotic plants brought from the Americas and Asia, the gardens are now a peaceful oasis filled with towering palms, vibrant flowering trees, and unusual species from around the world. Shady paths wind through lush vegetation, making it an ideal place to escape the midday sun. Even if you’re not a plant expert, the sheer variety of shapes, colours, and scents makes for a fascinating visit.
Coastal Walks with Ocean Views
The volcanic coastline around Puerto de la Cruz is dotted with black-sand beaches, natural pools, and dramatic rock formations. For a scenic stroll, follow the seafront promenade east or west of town. To the west, you’ll find viewpoints overlooking rugged lava cliffs, while heading east reveals quieter stretches of sand and smaller coves. The Atlantic is always in sight, and the changing light throughout the day makes each walk a little different. Don’t forget your camera – the contrast of blue ocean against dark volcanic rock is striking in any season.
Orotava Valley: A Natural Amphitheatre
Just inland from Puerto de la Cruz, the Orotava Valley is a vast, fertile basin framed by mountains and dominated by the towering presence of Mount Teide. This area is renowned for its lush vegetation, from banana plantations to terraced vineyards and forests of native laurel and pine. Several hiking trails start just a short drive from town, offering everything from gentle woodland walks to more challenging climbs. The views over the valley to the Atlantic are unforgettable, especially in the soft light of morning or late afternoon.
Exploring the La Orotava Forest
Nature lovers will want to head higher into the La Orotava Forest, part of the wider Teide National Park ecosystem. Here, winding roads lead to picnic spots, lookout points, and hiking routes through dense Canary Island pine forests. The air is cooler and fresher, with the scent of pine needles underfoot. This is an excellent place to experience Tenerife’s natural diversity – within an hour, you can go from subtropical coast to alpine-like forest.
Teide National Park: A Landscape from Another Planet
No nature-focused trip to Puerto de la Cruz would be complete without a visit to Teide National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to Spain’s highest mountain. The journey there from Puerto de la Cruz is an adventure in itself, with the road climbing through changing vegetation zones until you emerge into a stark volcanic wilderness. Whether you choose to take the cable car for panoramic views, hike one of the many trails, or simply admire the alien rock formations, Teide’s landscape is both dramatic and unforgettable. If you’re here in spring, the endemic Teide bugloss blooms into towering spikes of red flowers, adding a splash of colour to the scene.
Wildlife Watching on the Water
The waters around Tenerife are some of the best in Europe for spotting whales and dolphins. Several responsible tour operators depart from nearby harbours, offering trips that combine stunning coastal views with the chance to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Species such as pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins are present year-round, while other migratory species pass through seasonally. Even without venturing far from shore, you can often see seabirds and sometimes even flying fish.
Gardens Beyond the Botanical
While the Botanical Gardens are the most famous, Puerto de la Cruz has other green spaces worth visiting. Parks and landscaped promenades throughout town feature tropical flowers, shaded seating areas, and fountains. These smaller gardens are perfect for a quiet break between sightseeing, offering an easy way to enjoy the local flora without leaving the centre.
Natural Swimming Pools and Beaches
One of the unique pleasures of Tenerife’s volcanic coast is the presence of natural swimming pools formed by ancient lava flows. These sheltered basins fill with seawater at high tide, creating calm, crystal-clear spots for a refreshing dip. They’re a great alternative to open beaches if you prefer gentler swimming conditions. For sandy shores, Puerto de la Cruz offers distinctive black-sand beaches that are both striking and comfortable for sunbathing.
A Nature Lover’s Base on the North Coast
Puerto de la Cruz is an ideal base for exploring Tenerife’s natural beauty. Whether your idea of connecting with nature is a gentle stroll among exotic flowers, a swim in clear Atlantic waters, or a challenging hike on a volcanic slope, you’ll find it here. And the best part? You can end each day back in town, enjoying the relaxed pace, ocean views, and warm Canary Island welcome.
Where to Stay
Hotel Puerto Palace: An opportunity to stay in the natural amphitheatre formed by the La Orotova Valley should not be missed if you’re a nature lover. Guests enjoy panoramic views from the elevators, from the 4,000 square metres of landscaped gardens and terraces, and even in the buff from the rooftop terrace pool and jacuzzi dedicated to naturists. Dining facilities include a buffet breakfast and dinner, after which you can relax in the bar and lounge where live music and entertainment are available.
Precise Resort Tenerife: Boasting a subtropical garden bursting with exotic plants and a palm-lined swimming pool, this is another property designed for nature lovers. The on-site restaurant Mar Oceano serves a buffet brimming with local and international specialties that guests enjoy on the terrace overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Round off a perfect day in the atmospheric Cocoloco Bar with its glazed panoramic terrace, where you can watch the sun setting over the rocky Playa de Los Roques coastline as you sip on cocktails.
Hotel AD Valle Orotava: Situated in the centre of Puerto de la Cruz, this 4-star hotel treats visitors to sophisticated, well appointed modern rooms. With a rooftop swimming pool, a mouth-watering breakfast buffet and sterling service, a stay here is the perfect base for exploring all that Puerto de la Cruz offers.
How to Get There
Flying to the Canary Islands is as seamless as getting a bus to a local destination. There are so many flights to choose with a range of carriers operating from a range of UK airports. You are guaranteed to find a seat that suits your budget and your timings. A direct flight lasts around four hours, and you can proceed directly to your final destination with minimal fuss by pre-booking one of our reliable airport transfer services from Tenerife South Airport to Puerto de la Cruz.
Overview
UK to TFS Flight Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
TFS to Puerto de la Cruz Distance: 91 km approx
Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 1 hour approx
Types of Transfer
We recommend that you book your Puerto de la Cruz transfer immediately after you’ve secured your airline ticket. At Shuttle Direct we offer a range of prompt and punctual options to get you from the terminal at TFS to Puerto de la Cruz.
Private Transfer: Tenerife South Airport to Puerto de la Cruz is a journey that passengers can make in style when they choose a private vehicle. One of our professional and experienced drivers will meet you in the terminal after you land and escort you to your accommodation in a comfortable, modern vehicle.
Taxi: If you’d prefer to avoid the local taxi queues on arrival, you can book peace of mind in advance with one of the Shuttle Direct airport taxis. You’ll be collected on arrival and driven to your hotel by one of our helpful drivers.
Shuttle Bus: Our shuttle bus service offers value for money and can also be booked in advance. You’ll meet the vehicle at a designated spot at Tenerife South airport. The buses run a frequent schedule and follow a route with stops convenient for the main accommodation options in Puerto de la Cruz.
Minibus Transfer: For those occasions when you’re travelling in a large group, we have a fleet of minibuses that can be booked to keep your party all together for the airport transfer to Puerto de la Cruz.
Choosing the Right Transfer
Whichever option you choose for your TFS transfer, Shuttle Direct promises a reliable and professional service. Your choice will depend on budget and the flexibility of your schedule.
Cost: All our airport transfers are great value for money, but if you prefer to save some pennies without incurring a logistical headache, the shuttle bus to Puerto de la Cruz is the answer.
Convenience: For travellers whose arrangements are less flexible, our airport taxis and private transfers can be booked to fit your schedule exclusively and deliver you to the doorstep of your chosen accommodation.
About Shuttle Direct
Operating for many years, Shuttle Direct has earned its position as a market leader in airport transfers from Tenerife South. We’ve carried thousands of passengers to and from the airport in clean, modern vehicles operated by professional drivers. You’re in safe hands with Shuttle Direct.
