What to Do in Just One Day in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

Cruise Port Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain

The cruise port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife sits on the east coast of Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands off North Africa. It serves as the island's capital and main cruise gateway. Major cruise lines like Holland America, Celebrity, and Carnival include the port on eastern Atlantic and Canary Islands itineraries.

The port is only about 1 km from downtown Santa Cruz, making it very walkable. But the city itself has fairly limited attractions, so most cruisers opt for shore excursions or taxis to reach Tenerife’s incredible natural landscapes and parks just beyond.

Transportation from Santa Cruz Cruise Port

While Santa Cruz has a nice seaside promenade and historic plazas, the best of Tenerife lies outside the capital. The port is small, so expect to walk 5-10 minutes into downtown Santa Cruz. From there, taxis are plentiful for transferring to attractions around the island. Rental cars are also convenient for exploring farther afield.

Bus service provides an affordable option as well. The TITSA bus network links Santa Cruz to major sites around Tenerife. Have your destination address handy, as routes are not always intuitive for visitors. Check schedules in advance.

Shore excursions offer hassle-free transportation and tours if you have just one day. They hit top highlights suitable for cruisers with limited time.

Top Attractions Near the Port

While Santa Cruz itself has minimal draw beyond its lively markets and seaside promenade, world-class natural attractions lie just beyond the city across Tenerife. Top excursions include:

Teide National Park

Teide National Park is Tenerife's most spectacular landscape and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the heart of the park is Mount Teide, an imposing 12,198 ft active volcano that is the highest peak in all of Spain. Visitors can take a cable car up to the summit for otherworldly views of Teide's enormous craters and the massive caldera that resembles a lunar landscape. 

Loro Parque

If you're traveling with kids or looking for a fun day out, Loro Parque is one of Tenerife's top attractions. This impressive animal park is home to Europe's largest collection of parrots with over 300 different species. Get up close to ring-tailed lemurs in the primate habitat, watch killer whale and dolphin shows, observe majestic lions and tigers, and see adorable penguins waddle about their polar enclosure. 

Playa de las Americas

For picture-perfect golden sands and a lively beach scene, Playa de las Americas is a favorite for both tourists and locals. Located in the sun-soaked southern resort area of Costa Adeje, this family-friendly beach has calm waters perfect for swimming and leisurely days soaking up the sun. There are ample beach chair and umbrella rentals available, along with showers and changing facilities. The promenade lining the beach is dotted with restaurants, bars, shops, and hotels. 

Siam Park

At Siam Park, the entire family can splash the day away at this impressive waterpark located in Costa Adeje. Upon entering, be awed by the spectacular Thai-inspired theming with temple replicas, exotic plants, and tranquil lagoons. Adrenaline seekers will love waterslides like the 28m high Tower of Power, as well as the dragon-themed Singha water coaster. Little ones can safely play in areas like Siam Beach with its calm waters, white sand beach, and mini slides. When you need a break, float along the lazy river or simply relax at one of Siam Park's outdoor cafes. With attractions suitable for all ages and swim levels, this waterpark promises an unforgettable family day out.

Tenerife Auditorium

Even if you don't catch a performance, the visually stunning Tenerife Auditorium is worth visiting for its architecture alone. Designed by world-renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the sweeping curved white concrete structure was inspired by the waves and mountains of the Canary Islands. The massive arched entrance makes a dramatic first impression. Inside, the main concert hall features an enormous pipe organ and dazzling geometrical shapes formed by white concrete arches soaring over the space. 

FAQs

1. Where is Santa Cruz de Tenerife Cruise Port located?

The cruise port is located right in the center of the city along Avenida Francisco La Roche, about 1 km from downtown Santa Cruz.

1. What cruise lines visit Santa Cruz de Tenerife Cruise Port?

Major cruise lines like Carnival, Holland America, Celebrity, MSC Cruises, and Royal Caribbean offer port stops in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

1. How far is the port from the center?

Santa Cruz de Tenerife's cruise port is located right in the city center, about a 10-15 minute walk from downtown attractions in Santa Cruz. However, most cruisers use it as a gateway to attractions across Tenerife which require transportation.