Tenerife is such a diverse holiday destination. As well as the many resorts that cater for the footloose party lovers, it has many a hidden away holiday spot, providing quieter, more sedate experiences for visitors who need relaxation. Puerto Santiago is one such spot that I can highly recommend. Ideal for anyone who enjoys great weather and a laid-back feel, Puerto Santiago, located on the west coast of this beautiful island, is a million miles from the party resorts for which Tenerife is better known.
If relaxing and unwinding are the two main aims for your holiday, then keep reading! Below I have highlighted a few of the best bits of this wonderful resort.
Whale and Dolphin Spotting
A personal favourite when it comes to activities in this area, spending a few hours on a boat watching out for the majestic whales and playful dolphins is definitely worth doing. Not only can you relax on the boat, but you can also look forward to a delicious lunch and drinks provided throughout the excursion. If you’re really lucky, you might also spot a turtle or two.
Top Tip: Head down to the marina at Los Gigantes for info on all the trips available.
Coastal Walks
There are some gorgeous footpaths to follow in this area, but if you’re looking for a picturesque walk that doesn’t involve any uphill climbs, I think the coastal walk to Los Gigantes is a real winner. Cliffs on one side and the stunning coastline on the other, this walk offers more than a breath of fresh air. With lots of shops and restaurants along the way, you can even make a day of it.
Head the other way along the coast and you reach Alcala. This walk is equally pretty.
Top Tip: Time your walk to finish when the sun goes down and you can hang out at the beach to watch the marvellous sunset behind La Gomera.
Restaurants and Bars
There are so many excellent local restaurants in Puerto Santiago, despite this being a relatively small resort. From Chinese and Indian to Turkish and Spanish, you can satisfy any craving you might have while on your holiday. The local restaurants are particularly good, with Flor del Drago being a personal favourite.
As an avid ice-cream lover myself, I can highly recommend Bilanzerri. The ice cream here offers the perfect afternoon refreshment.
Beaches
Playa de La Arena
This is definitely the most popular beach in this resort, famous for its black sand and Blue Flag status. If swimming is not a priority, this is a great beach for you, since the currents can be quite strong. Instead you can enjoy the sunshine and relax on one of the sunbeds available to hire. It’s easy to enjoy an afternoon (or even a full day) relaxing at this pretty spot.
Playa Chica
A much smaller beach and less well known, this is a quieter place with no facilities. If you like secluded, this is the beach for you, but it is wise to note that it can only be accessed via the stairs.
Where to Stay
Allegro Isora – This bright and spacious accommodation option is just a short 10-minute walk to La Arena Beach. Rooms are well appointed and all have either a private balcony or terrace, which is ideal when you want to order a pre-dinner drink and enjoy it from the comfort of your room. Air-conditioning comes as standard, as does the free Wi-Fi. This hotel is great for those who don’t always like to venture too far when on holiday. You really do have everything you need right here. There are three swimming pools, a buffet restaurant, snack bar, wellness centre and even a tennis court should you fancy a game.
Hotel Blue Sea Lagos de Cesar – A more luxury offering comes in the shape of this fabulous hotel that is conveniently situated only 450 yards from the Black Sand Beach. Large modern rooms boast separate living areas and private balconies, as well as the very welcome air-conditioning. If having a restaurant on site is something you look for in a hotel, you won’t be disappointed here, and to top it off there is a complementary evening entertainment.
How to Get There
Tenerife’s main airport is Tenerife – South Airport (TFS). It is well served by flights from the UK and with around 70 direct options every week you have plenty of choice. The flight takes just a little over four hours.
On arrival you are going to want to get from Tenerife South Airport to Puerto Santiago with as little fuss as possible, especially after the reasonably long flight. I can highly recommend therefore that you pre-book Tenerife transfers with Shuttle Direct. This reliable and professional company have a team of excellent drivers, who are always willing to help during your journey.
With pre-booked Tenerife transfers, your designated driver will meet you in arrivals and whisk you the 51 km (around an hour’s drive) to Puerto Santiago and have you unpacking your case before you know it.
Overview
- UK to TFS Flight Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- TFS to Puerto Santiago Distance: 51 kilometres
- Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 58 minutes
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct are a reputable transfer company operating throughout Europe and North Africa. We take pride in the exemplary service offered by our personable and professional drivers. Aiming to provide seamless transfers between airports and hotels, we offer an easy pre-booking service on our website.
