A Romantic Day in Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Unhurried, intimate one-day plan for couples: a rooftop morning, fragrant gardens, local market bites, light culture, a relaxing beach golden hour, a sunset boat special moment, and a late romantic dinner — paced for conversation and shared moments.
Highlights
- Rooftop morning coffee at a historic hotel
- Stroll through Parque García Sanabria
- Tasting stops at Mercado Nuestra Señora de África
- Golden-hour walk at Playa de Las Teresitas
- Sunset catamaran cruise from Puerto de Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Late, intimate dinner at La Hierbita
Itinerary
Day 1
A gentle day built for closeness: rooftop morning, a fragrant park stroll, local market tasting, soft cultural interlude, hotel rest, seaside golden hour and a sunset cruise — ending with a cozy late dinner.
Rooftop coffee & morning views at Hotel Taburiente S.C.T.
Begin your day with a slow, private-feeling coffee on the hotel's terrace or rooftop — a quiet way to plan the day and savor views over the city.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a table on the terrace or rooftop for unobstructed city views — perfect for a morning photo together.
- If you’re staying elsewhere, call ahead — many hotels welcome non-guests for morning coffee but seating can be limited.
- Mornings are mild in May; bring a light layer for sea breeze on the rooftop.
Stroll through Parque García Sanabria
A compact, fragrant botanical park for hand-in-hand wandering among subtropical palms, sculptures and shaded benches.
Tips from local experts:
- Head for the quieter paths and the small rose garden — great for intimate photos without crowds.
- Sit on one of the shaded benches near the fountain for a private moment and local people-watching.
- The park paths are mostly flat and paved — easy on dress shoes and good for couples preferring an easy walk.
Market tasting at Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África
Taste Canary cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruit and a café con leche at the lively central market — a casual, local-flavored lunch.
Tips from local experts:
- Try small plates to share: local cheese, papas arrugadas (tiny salted potatoes) and a slice of fresh tropical fruit — perfect for a light, romantic grazing lunch.
- Aim for midday to catch vendors at their liveliest; also easier to find a quiet corner to sit together.
- Bring cash for stalls — many small vendors prefer it — and be ready to ask vendors for a recommended wine pairing.
TEA Tenerife Espacio de las Artes — light cultural stop
Enjoy a calm hour exploring contemporary exhibitions and the building's terrace — a cultured, intimate interlude.
Tips from local experts:
- Check current temporary exhibitions online or at the desk — pick one gallery to browse slowly rather than rushing the whole museum.
- The building has quiet terraces: perfect for a whispered conversation and a short break from sightseeing.
- Wear comfortable shoes; gallery floors are smooth and easy to navigate together.
Leisurely hotel break / siesta
Return to your hotel for a relaxed rest — freshen up, nap or prepare for the seaside part of the day.
Tips from local experts:
- Use this time to change into lighter layers for the beach and to bring a light blanket for an evening picnic.
- Request privacy or a quiet room location when booking — it makes the afternoon refresh more intimate.
- If you prefer spa time, ask the hotel for a brief couples massage or foot rub service in advance.
Transfer to Playa de Las Teresitas
Easy 20–30 minute transfer up the Anaga coast to the famous golden-sand beach for a long, relaxed late-afternoon visit.
Tips from local experts:
- If using a taxi, ask the driver to drop you near the quieter east end of the beach for more privacy.
- Bring a small cooler or ask the hotel for a picnic bag — local bakeries and the market make lovely take-away treats.
- Traffic is usually light late afternoon, but allow extra time if you want a specific sunset spot on the sand.
Golden-hour walk & picnic at Playa de Las Teresitas
Long beach walk on golden sand as late afternoon softens; relax together on the sand, toast with a small bottle of local wine.
Tips from local experts:
- Settle near the palm-lined eastern end for a stretch of quieter sand and better privacy for couples.
- Bring a blanket and a small bottle of local Tenerife wine to toast during golden hour — avoid glass on the sand (use a small tumbler).
- Wear shoes that are easy to slip off — the sand is fine and warm in late afternoon; protect yourselves with sunscreen even late in the day.
Transfer back to Puerto de Santa Cruz de Tenerife (board cruise)
Return to the port area with time to stroll the promenade and check in for the evening cruise.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow 30–40 minutes to get back to the port in case you want to freshen up before boarding.
- Keep your cruise confirmation and ID handy — many companies board 15–30 minutes before departure.
- If you prefer private transport, pre-book a taxi for a seamless pick-up at the beach to avoid waits.
Pre-cruise promenade & freshen-up
A short buffer to stroll the port, buy a drink or step aside to freshen up before boarding the sunset cruise.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a quiet bench on the promenade for a moment together before boarding — great for candid sunset photos.
- Use this time to layer up — evenings can breeze off the sea even in May.
- If you want a particular spot on the boat (bow or shaded cockpit), mention it when checking in.
Special moment: Sunset catamaran cruise from Puerto de Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Private or small-group sunset cruise for two — champagne at dusk, coastal views and light sea air for a memorable romantic highlight.
Tips from local experts:
- Book a small private or semi-private catamaran if possible — it’s quieter and more intimate than large excursion boats.
- Bring a light wrap — temperatures drop on the water after sunset; avoid open-toed shoes that catch on nets or ladders.
- Ask the crew to steer a little off the shore at sunset for unobstructed views and intimate photo opportunities.
Late romantic dinner at La Hierbita
Wrap the night with a cozy, traditional-Canarian dinner in a warm, intimate setting — candlelight and regional dishes to share.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve a quiet corner table in advance and mention it's a special occasion — they often accommodate small requests.
- Share a few tapas-style plates so you can taste several local flavors; try a local red wine from Tenerife.
- Restaurants can be lively; request a table away from the door and service area for a more intimate experience.
