Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a busy city located on the eastern tip of Tenerife island, and it is one of the most historically important harbors in the Atlantic ocean. This harbor is the gateway to get to the mainland Spain and it is the stop off point for cruise lines that travel to the Caribbean. It was in the 19th century that Santa Cruz developed, when the fleets bound for America would stop here regularly.
This helped in fixing this destination on the world map.
A Little Bit of History
It was during 1494 that Alonso Fernandez de Lugo arrived in Tenerife to launch his final conquest on this rebellious island in the Canary archipelago.
The island’s capital was La Laguna, which was situated a few kilometers inland.
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands
Santa Cruz de Tenerife, which was known as Santa Cruz de Santiago, only started to develop in the 1800s-1900s.
The Spanish royal decree liberated Santa Cruz in 1803 from La Laguna. In 1859 it was declared a city.
Santa Cruz turns into a party town in February or March, with the arrival of carnival.
The streets and plazas take on a festive look, and people dress up in colorful costumes and parade, sing and dance the whole night.
Teresitas Beach close to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands
The celebration goes on for weeks and it is the best time to visit this port city. Canrio handicrafts include embroidered linens and ceramics; you can also buy leather, silks, perfumes and jewelry.
Where is Santa Cruz de Tenerife?
- 41.8 miles/ 67.4 km from Los Abrigos, Spain
- 219.9 miles/ 354 km from Arrecife, Spain
- 75.1 miles/ 121 km from San Sebastian de la Gomera, Spain
- 69.5 miles/112 km from Las Palmas, Spain
- 8 miles/ 13 km from Tenerife Norte Airport, Spain
- 83.2 miles/ 134 km from Gran Canaria Airport, Spain
Things to See
- Church of Nuestra Senora de la Concepcion
- Castillo de San Juan
- Museo Militar de Almeyda
- Museo de la Naturaleza El Hombre
- Teatro Guimera
- Museo de Bellas Artes
- Plaza de Espana
Beaches
- Playa de las Teresitas
- El Bollullo
- Playa San Marcos
- Playa Jardin
Excursions
- Orottava Valley and Puerto de la Cruz
- Canadas del Teide National Park
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is a great place to explore and that is why people come here for a day, even if they are staying in some other part of the island.
It offers unique views and atmoshere – very much worth the visit.
We wish you a fantastic Mediterranean cruise!
