Lago Martiánez

In the north of Tenerife, you’ll find picturesque but not the most comfortable beaches, as there are constantly strong waves from the Atlantic. The Lago Martiánez pools were built within the city of Puerto de la Cruz near the Avenida de Colon promenade specifically for a peaceful family vacation. The Lago Martiánez complex is an artificial beach with 7 pools filled with seawater.

Half of the water park area is occupied by the main pool, el Lago, with five small islands made of lava rock. On the central island, the Hotel Sala Andromeda is built, a restaurant is open, and a casino operates. In the midst of the emerald pool, a tall fountain-geyser sprays. It supplies the entire complex with filtered seawater and is beautifully illuminated at night. On the small islands, you can sunbathe and rest from swimming. The depth of el Lago depends on the ocean level – it becomes shallower during low tides.

In addition to the large lake, there are smaller pools – from deep turquoise pools to a shallow children’s pool. They are filled with water from the Atlantic and warm up nicely in the sun throughout the day. Lago Martiánez is separated from the open ocean by an artificial barrier. High waves sometimes overcome the barrier and splash the sunbathers, creating the full effect of being on the shore. The water in the pools remains calm and still in any weather. From the complex, you can observe the ocean. The parapets don’t block the magnificent scenery from the relaxing visitors.

The area of the beach complex is about 100,000 m², of which 33,000 m² is the large lake with islands. Lago Martiánez was built in 1971. Its landscape is designed in the style of a Japanese park and traditional Canarian motifs. Shrubs and palm trees grow between the pools, lawns are arranged, and huge boulders lie here and there.

The technical part of the park was designed by engineer Juan Alfredo. The landscape design and artistic elements of the complex were handled by César Manrique. In the architecture of Lago Martiánez, unusual fences, sculptures, and lava rocks blend organically with ocean views. Even the technical buildings here are designed in the same style.

After Manrique’s death in 2006, the complex underwent renovation: relaxation areas were expanded, and a cascading fountain was installed. The work was overseen by the César Manrique Foundation.

At the Lago Martiánez beach, there is a spa pool, changing rooms, and a cafe. Showers are available, and umbrellas and loungers are provided.