Tenerife’s Cocktail Scene: More Than Just Sun and Sangria
Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, is renowned for its stunning volcanic landscapes, vibrant nightlife, and sun-drenched beaches. While many visitors flock to the island for its lively beach clubs and traditional tapas bars, there’s a sophisticated and exciting cocktail scene waiting to be discovered. Beyond the ubiquitous sangria, Tenerife boasts a growing number of establishments that are pushing the boundaries of mixology, offering expertly crafted drinks, unique atmospheres, and unforgettable experiences. As a local who’s explored every nook and cranny of this island, I’m thrilled to guide you through the best cocktail bars Tenerife has to offer, from sophisticated lounges in cosmopolitan cities to hidden gems tucked away in charming towns.
The Sophistication of Santa Cruz: A Mixology Hub
The island’s capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, is where you’ll find the most concentrated and innovative cocktail scene. This bustling port city, with its blend of historic architecture and modern flair, is home to some of the island’s most acclaimed bars. If you’re serious about cocktails, Santa Cruz is your starting point.
1. La Guindilla (Santa Cruz de Tenerife)
Address: Calle de San Vicente Ferrer, 7, 38003 Santa Cruz de Tenerife
La Guindilla is an absolute must-visit for any cocktail aficionado. This stylish bar, located in the heart of Santa Cruz, has earned a reputation for its creative approach to classic cocktails and its innovative signature drinks. The ambiance is chic and intimate, making it perfect for a romantic evening or a sophisticated catch-up with friends. Their bartenders are true artists, meticulously preparing each drink with premium spirits and fresh, often locally sourced, ingredients. Don’t miss their take on the Old Fashioned or their seasonal specials, which often incorporate Canarian fruits like gofio or passion fruit. The attention to detail, from the glassware to the garnishes, is exceptional.
2. El Gusto por el Vino (Santa Cruz de Tenerife)
Address: Calle de Santa Rosalía, 23, 38002 Santa Cruz de Tenerife
While the name suggests a focus on wine, El Gusto por el Vino has a surprisingly robust and impressive cocktail menu. This elegant establishment offers a more relaxed yet equally refined atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you can savor a well-made drink and engage in conversation without shouting. They excel in crafting classic cocktails with precision and are known for their extensive selection of premium gins and whiskies, which form the base of many of their signature creations. Their ‘El Gusto’ cocktail, a unique blend featuring local ingredients, is highly recommended. It’s a testament to their philosophy of quality and taste, evident in every sip.
3. Aguazul (Santa Cruz de Tenerife)
Address: Calle de Teobaldo Power, 14, 38002 Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Aguazul offers a slightly more casual but equally vibrant cocktail experience in Santa Cruz. It’s a popular spot with locals, known for its friendly atmosphere and consistently good drinks. The bar staff are knowledgeable and happy to make recommendations based on your preferences. They have a good range of international and local spirits, and their cocktails are well-balanced and generously proportioned. It’s a great place to start your evening or to enjoy a few relaxed drinks. Look out for their happy hour deals, which offer excellent value.
The Coastal Charms: Cocktails with Ocean Views
Tenerife’s coastline is dotted with picturesque towns and resorts, many of which offer cocktail bars with breathtaking ocean vistas. These establishments often combine the laid-back island vibe with a touch of class, making them ideal for sunset drinks.
4. El Monasterio (Puerto de la Cruz)
Address: Calle San Juan, 12, 38400 Puerto de la Cruz
Puerto de la Cruz, on the island’s northern coast, has a more traditional Canarian charm, and El Monasterio perfectly embodies this. This historic building, once a monastery, now houses a sophisticated bar that offers a unique setting for enjoying cocktails. The ambiance is serene and elegant, with beautiful courtyards and traditional architecture. Their cocktail menu features both timeless classics and creative concoctions, often with a nod to local flavors. It’s a place where you can feel the history while sipping on a modern masterpiece. Their list of rums is particularly impressive, given the island’s connection to the Caribbean.
5. Charco del Conde (San Sebastián de La Gomera – Day Trip from Tenerife)
Note: While technically on the neighboring island of La Gomera, a popular day trip from Tenerife, Charco del Conde is worth mentioning for those seeking a unique island experience.
If you venture to La Gomera, the picturesque town of Hermigua offers a truly special spot. Charco del Conde is a charming bar that often features live music and offers a relaxed atmosphere with stunning views of the surrounding volcanic landscape. Their cocktails are prepared with care, and they often use fresh herbs and fruits from the local area. It’s a peaceful escape and a chance to experience a different side of island life, a perfect accompaniment to a day exploring La Gomera’s natural beauty. You can easily reach La Gomera via ferry from Los Cristianos in Tenerife.
6. Muelle Viejo (Los Cristianos)
Address: Paseo Marítimo, 38650 Los Cristianos, Arona
Los Cristianos, a bustling tourist hub in the south, also has its share of quality cocktail bars. Muelle Viejo, situated right on the promenade, offers fantastic sea views and a lively yet sophisticated atmosphere. It’s a great spot to watch the world go by while enjoying a well-crafted drink. They offer a wide range of cocktails, from refreshing mojitos to complex spirit-forward drinks. Their outdoor seating area is particularly popular in the evenings, providing the perfect backdrop for a sunset cocktail. They also have a good selection of tapas to accompany your drinks, making it a complete evening experience.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Beyond the main tourist centers, there are smaller towns and lesser-known spots that hide some of Tenerife’s best cocktail secrets. These are the places locals love and where you can find authentic island charm.
7. Bodeguita de Laja (La Laguna)
Address: Calle de la Carrera, 76, 38201 San Cristóbal de La Laguna
The historic city of La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is full of character, and Bodeguita de Laja is a gem within it. This intimate bar offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, reminiscent of a traditional Canarian bodega but with a modern twist. They are known for their excellent selection of local wines and spirits, which they expertly incorporate into their cocktails. The bartenders here are passionate about their craft and often create unique flavor combinations. It’s a fantastic place to try Canarian rum or local liqueurs in a cocktail form. The historic setting of La Laguna itself adds to the charm.
8. La Vinoteca (La Orotava)
Address: Calle San Agustín, 20, 38300 La Orotava
La Orotava, with its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, is another town worth exploring. La Vinoteca is a cozy and stylish bar that offers a curated selection of drinks, with a strong emphasis on quality. While they have an impressive wine list, their cocktail menu is equally noteworthy. They focus on fresh ingredients and artisanal spirits. It’s a more refined experience, perfect for those who appreciate quality over quantity. The ambiance is relaxed and intimate, making it ideal for a quiet drink after exploring the town’s historic center.
Insider Tips for Your Tenerife Cocktail Adventure
To make the most of your cocktail journey across Tenerife, here are a few insider tips:
- Embrace Local Spirits: Tenerife has excellent local rums, honey liqueurs (like ‘Miel de Palma’), and even some unique wines and spirits derived from local fruits. Don’t hesitate to ask bartenders for recommendations featuring these local ingredients. Explore offerings from brands like Arehucas or local craft distillers. You can often find a great selection of these spirits at specialty shops or even online at dropt.beer/shop/.
- Happy Hour Hunting: Many bars, especially in tourist areas, offer happy hour deals. While sometimes associated with lower quality, some of the bars mentioned above offer genuine value during these times, allowing you to sample their offerings at a reduced price.
- Ask for Recommendations: The best bartenders are often the most passionate. If you’re unsure what to order, tell them your preferred spirit or flavor profile (e.g., ‘sweet,’ ‘bitter,’ ‘fruity,’ ‘herbal’), and let them surprise you.
- Check for Events: Some bars host special events, like cocktail tasting nights or live music. Following them on social media or checking their websites can give you a heads-up on these unique opportunities. For insights into the broader beverage scene, including news and trends, check out dropt.beer/insights-news-blog/.
- Dress Code: While Tenerife is generally a relaxed destination, the more upscale bars in Santa Cruz or in high-end hotels might appreciate a smart-casual dress code, especially in the evenings.
- Transportation: Consider using taxis or ride-sharing services, especially if you plan on indulging in multiple drinks. Parking can be challenging in the historic centers of towns like La Laguna or Santa Cruz.
- Beyond the Bar: For those interested in the broader world of craft beverages, exploring online resources like dropt.beer can provide a wealth of information, from reviews to purchasing options for unique spirits and beers from around the globe, which can sometimes inspire your Tenerife cocktail choices.
A Final Toast to Tenerife’s Spirit
Tenerife’s cocktail scene is as diverse and vibrant as the island itself. From the sophisticated lounges of Santa Cruz to the charming, sea-view spots along the coast and the hidden local haunts, there’s a perfect drink and a perfect bar waiting for every palate. So, next time you find yourself on this magnificent island, venture beyond the usual and explore the art of mixology. Cheers to discovering the spirited soul of Tenerife!
