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Eat seafood at a traditional Canarian restaurant
Playa del Cura’s restaurant scene is pretty low key, but the chefs know their stuff when it comes to seafood. There’s a rustic edge to eating out here, and you can tuck into the likes of lemon sole, fresh fish pie, jumbo prawns and mussels drenched in creamy sauce. If fish isn’t your bag, there’s a hilltop restaurant which gets rave reviews for its signature fillet steak and peppercorn sauce.The rocky cliff-tops around Playa del Cura are ideal for hiking. Head inland for a more challenging route, or stick to the coastline for sea views while you walk. Keep an eye out for a couple of hidden coves along the way – if you follow the winding trails down the cliffs, these secret beaches can serve as some of the most private spots for sunbathing.
Read MorePuerto Rico is a cauldron of activity, with hotels and villas perched on the cliff faces above a basin of bars and restaurants. Things hot up after dark, with the neon glow coaxing crowds of partygoers towards the strip. It’s also a good place to visit during the day, and if you haven’t been drawn to the spotless beach, there’s a good chance you’ll be at one of its three shopping outlets. It’s only a five-minute cab ride from Playa del Cura, too.
Read MoreCompare Cura Beach with the island’s busiest sunbathing spots, and you’ll see they’re like chalk and cheese. You won’t find hordes of people or rows of shops and bars – it’s all about relaxation here. It feels more authentic, with dark, volcanic sand stretching around the bay, and peace and quiet is practically guaranteed.
Read MoreAmadores Beach is nothing like its quieter neighbours. It’s got Blue Flag status, and the sand here is made of crushed coral which was shipped across from the Caribbean. The crescent-shaped beachfront is only 10 minutes’ walk from Playa del Cura, and one of its main draws is the scuba diving scene. Below the waves you’ll find parrotfish, damselfish and – if you’re lucky – the occasional octopus.
Read MoreWhen the pink petals of the almond trees come into bloom, Canarians throw on their gladrags for an island-wide party. Locals don straw hats, colourful skirts and traditional, embroidered waistcoasts. To celebrate the blossom, a sweet almond cream called bienmesabe is dished out – often with a tot of almond wine. Most villages have some form of folk dancing and singing, but the main parties can be found in Valsequillo and Tejeda. They’re both about an hour’s drive from Playa del Cura, but it’s worth the trip if you want to see the festivities in full swing.
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