Las Mesas Park

Las Mesas Park is the largest municipal park in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, spread across the slope of Las Mesas mountain in the southwestern part of the Anaga massif. Covering close to 30 hectares of greenery, it gives residents and visitors a genuine escape from the city center without ever leaving city limits.

How do you get there?

The park sits on the edge of town, near the Ifara and Los Campitos neighborhoods. The easiest route is via the TF-111 road (Carretera de Los Campitos), which leads straight to the main entrance. If you're relying on public transport, take a city bus to Los Campitos and walk the rest of the way — expect a modest climb, since the park sits on higher ground overlooking the city.

What will you find inside?

The centerpiece is an artificial lake where visitors can rent rowing boats or pedal boats, a rare feature among Santa Cruz's parks. Trails wind around the water and up the mountainside, suited both for a short stroll and a longer hike with views over the city and the ocean. Families will find playgrounds with obstacle courses and swings, plus designated picnic areas with barbecue grills for anyone planning to spend most of the day outdoors.

The park's history hasn't been entirely smooth. It was originally created in 1995 as a recreational space for local residents, but was later shut down for thirteen years. The city reopened it to the public in September 2025, alongside a reinforced maintenance and security program aimed at preventing the problems that led to its earlier closure. Today it operates normally, though local authorities have stressed that keeping it in good shape also depends on visitors treating the space responsibly.

When is the best time to visit?

Opening hours shift with the seasons: from November to April the park is open 8:00 to 19:00, and from May to October it stays open later, from 8:00 to 21:00, leaving more time for an evening walk during the warmer months. Barbecue grills may only be used within set hours — 10:00 to 17:00 in winter and 10:00 to 19:00 in summer — so plan around those windows if a cookout is part of your visit.

Early morning or late afternoon tends to be the most pleasant time for walking, when temperatures drop and the views over the Anaga massif and the city below are at their best.

Frequently asked questions

Is there parking at the park? Yes, there's a visitor parking area near the entrance off the TF-111 road, the most convenient way to arrive, especially if you're bringing picnic gear.

Can you actually go boating on the lake? Yes — rowing boats and pedal boats are available on the artificial lake, one of the park's signature features and something you won't find in most other city parks on Tenerife.

Is it a good spot for a family day out? Definitely. The playgrounds with obstacle courses and swings, open space for kids to run around, and the lake make it one of the most popular family destinations in Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Are barbecues allowed? Yes, but only in designated areas and during set hours — 10:00 to 17:00 in winter and 10:00 to 19:00 in summer. Grilling outside those windows isn't permitted.