Puerto Santiago Travel Guide

Puerto Santiago is the middle of three separate resorts that, over time, have spread and pretty much merged into each other on Tenerife's exquisite, unspoilt west coast. Together they form the area's largest tourist hub, which is collectively known as Los Gigantes. The resort of Puerto Santiago was once a small fishing village, but is now a popular holiday destination garnering rave reviews from most tourists and visitors. It boasts a small but decent selection of bars, restaurants, shops and activities to suit the tourist palette, and has managed to retain some of its traditional charm. Visitors can look forward to an incredible seaside break with an unforgettable Spanish flavour.

Shopping

There's no shopping district in Puerto Santiago, but there is an assortment of shops that cater for tourists. Shopping on the island of Tenerife is tax-free, so it's possible to find good deals on cigarettes, perfume, alcohol, electronics, and other items. Although Puerto Santiago isn't a shopping hub, there's a larger variety of shops in neighbouring resorts such as Los Gigantes. A unique souvenir from Tenerife is the locally-produced sweet rum called Ron Miel.

Restaurants

Travellers will come across the usual assortment of international restaurants in Puerto Santiago, but the local Canarian eateries and tapas bars are the best. It's worth trying some of the delicious traditional dishes, such as roast chicken in banana cream or 'wrinkly potatoes' in the local mojo picón sauce.

Nightlife

Most of the entertainment in Puerto Santiago is provided by the hotels as bars largely close at midnight. After-dark entertainment usually consists of relaxed drinks and drawn-out meals, though anyone who wants to dance the night away can make the short trip to nearby resorts such as Playa de las Americas, which offer more of a party scene.

Holiday activities

Puerto Santiago's black sand beach is European Blue Flag accredited. There are also boat trips, walks, visits to neighbouring Playa la Arena and Los Gigantes, day trips to nearby towns and points of interest, and much more to be enjoyed. Many hotels also offer their own entertainment programmes. For those visiting in July, the annual fiesta and fireworks display in honour of Our Lady Carmen is not to be missed. The main activity is sun tanning on the gorgeous beaches, but the restless will find plenty of other activities and diversions.

Any negatives?

The ocean currents around Tenerife can be very strong and swimmers should be cautious and pay attention to warnings from lifeguards.