15/04/2026
Embarking on a holiday to sun-drenched destinations like Tenerife or the idyllic St. John in the US Virgin Islands often involves navigating local transport. For many UK travellers, understanding taxi services is key to a stress-free trip, offering convenience and flexibility. This comprehensive guide delves into everything you need to know about taxi options in these popular locales, from airport transfers and inter-island travel to local hailing practices and detailed fare structures, ensuring you're well-prepared for your journey.
- Tenerife Taxi Fares: South Airport to Puerto de la Cruz
- Navigating Puerto de la Cruz: Hailing Taxis and App Usage
- Travel Connections: Puerto de la Cruz to Santa Cruz de Tenerife
- Santa Cruz Taxi Services: A Higher Standard
- Understanding Taxis in St. John, USVI: The Safari Experience
- St. John Taxi Rates: A Detailed Breakdown
- Additional Charges and Important Provisions for St. John Taxis
- Frequently Asked Questions About Taxi Travel
Tenerife Taxi Fares: South Airport to Puerto de la Cruz
For those arriving at Tenerife South Airport (Reina Sofia) and heading to the vibrant resort town of Puerto de la Cruz, understanding your transport options is crucial. A private taxi offers a direct and comfortable journey, perfect for individuals or groups seeking privacy and efficiency.
A private taxi from Tenerife South – Reina Sofia to Puerto de la Cruz typically starts from £27.91 per person. This option provides a dedicated vehicle, taking you directly to your accommodation without additional stops. It's often preferred for its convenience and speed, especially after a long flight.
However, if you're looking for a more budget-friendly alternative, a shared shuttle service is an excellent choice. These services consolidate passengers heading in the same general direction, significantly reducing the per-person cost. A shared shuttle to Puerto de la Cruz can work out as little as £12.54 per person, making it a very attractive option for solo travellers or those conscious of their holiday budget. While it may involve a few extra stops, the savings can be substantial.
| Transfer Type | Approximate Cost (per person) | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Private Taxi | £27.91+ | Direct, faster, private, convenient |
| Shared Shuttle | £12.54+ | Cheaper, social, good for budget travellers |
Once you've settled into Puerto de la Cruz, getting around locally is straightforward. Taxis are readily available, and there are a couple of primary methods for securing one.
You can easily hail a taxi on the street in Puerto de la Cruz. Look for designated taxi ranks or simply flag one down if you see an available vehicle. This is a common and convenient method for short journeys around the town or to nearby attractions.
Alternatively, utilising a ride-hailing app is highly recommended. Using an app in Puerto de la Cruz offers several advantages, primarily due to the ongoing monitoring of driver and taxi quality. These services provide transparency, often showing the fare upfront, tracking your journey, and allowing for cashless payments. This can offer an added layer of security and peace of mind, especially for international visitors unfamiliar with local taxi practices.
Travel Connections: Puerto de la Cruz to Santa Cruz de Tenerife
For those looking to explore beyond Puerto de la Cruz, the island's capital, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, is a popular destination. The journey between these two major hubs is efficient, with both driving and public transport options available.
The fastest way to get from Puerto de la Cruz to Santa Cruz de Tenerife is by driving, which includes taking a taxi. This journey typically takes approximately 29 minutes and costs between €6 and €9. This quick travel time makes a taxi an ideal choice if you're short on time or carrying luggage.
Bus Services Between Puerto de la Cruz and Santa Cruz
Yes, there is a direct bus service connecting Puerto de la Cruz and Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Buses depart frequently, approximately every 30 minutes, and operate every day. The journey provides a scenic and economical way to travel between the two cities.
Specifically, if you're in the El Risco area, there is a direct bus departing from El Risco and arriving at Intercambiador Sta. Cruz (the main bus interchange in Santa Cruz). Services here are even more frequent, departing every 15 minutes and operating daily. The journey from El Risco takes approximately 42 minutes. This extensive bus network provides excellent connectivity for budget-conscious travellers.
The distance between Puerto de la Cruz and Santa Cruz de Tenerife Port is approximately 39 kilometres, highlighting the relatively short and manageable travel time between these key locations.
Santa Cruz Taxi Services: A Higher Standard
Santa Cruz de Tenerife's taxi services pride themselves on offering a high standard of service to both residents and visitors, ensuring hassle-free transportation at a fair price. They aim to provide comprehensive solutions for various travel needs within the city and beyond.
Some of the key services offered by Santa Cruz taxi providers include:
- Airport Shuttles: Convenient transfers to and from the airport, ensuring a smooth start and end to your journey.
- City and Landmark Tours: Specialised tours of Santa Cruz and its major landmarks, offering a comfortable way to explore the city's highlights with a knowledgeable driver.
- Medical Visits: Dedicated services for clients with special needs and senior citizens requiring transport for medical appointments.
- Special Packages: Tailored options for visitors planning a day or night out on the town, offering flexible and convenient transport solutions.
A notable commitment of Santa Cruz taxi services is their dedication to accessibility. All cab and taxi services offer wheelchair accessible vans for handicapped passengers and their chaperones, ensuring inclusive travel for everyone.
Understanding Taxis in St. John, USVI: The Safari Experience
Moving across the Atlantic to the Caribbean, taxis are a highly popular mode of transport for visitors to St. John, particularly in areas like Cruz Bay. However, the taxi experience here is quite unique and differs significantly from what you might expect in Europe.
The most common taxi vehicle on St. John is the open-air safari. These are essentially converted trucks, where the truck beds have been customised with bench seating and a roof, but importantly, the sides remain open-air. This design offers a breezy and immersive way to experience the island's stunning scenery as you travel.
Pricing and Operation in St. John
Unlike many urban areas, taxis on St. John are not metered. Instead, rates are set per person and per destination. This fixed-rate system means you'll know the cost upfront for your journey.
Taxi drivers on St. John often group people going in the same direction. This practice is designed to be more efficient and allows drivers to maximise their earnings per trip. Consequently, you might find yourself waiting in the safari vehicle for a short period while the driver solicits more customers before departing. While this can sometimes mean a brief delay, it's a standard part of the service.
For those seeking immediate departure or a more personalised experience, you can request a private taxi just for yourself or your group. Some taxi drivers on the island exclusively offer private taxis and tours. Private taxis provide the significant benefit of operating on your time and schedule, offering unparalleled flexibility. Naturally, this convenience comes at a higher cost than the standard per-person rates in a shared taxi.
Taxi rates in St. John are officially set by the VI Taxicab Division, with clear provisions covering luggage, waiting time, late-night runs, and private taxi services. It's important to note that new taxi rates went into effect on October 24th, 2022, so always confirm current pricing.
Taxi Tips for St. John Travellers
- Taxis are almost always available at the ferry dock in Cruz Bay (during regular ferry schedule hours) and at hotels.
- They frequently wait for passengers at popular taxi stand areas like Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay.
- Licensed taxi vehicles are easily identifiable by a taxi placard or dome light on the roof, license plates indicating 'Taxi' status, an on-duty/off-duty sign in the window, and a sign (usually on the fender) indicating passenger capacity. The driver’s personal identification or taxi license should be displayed on the vehicle’s dashboard.
- Although rates are standardised, it is highly recommended to speak to your driver and agree upon your total rate (for your group, luggage, waiting time, and any tour) before boarding the taxi. This prevents any misunderstandings.
- Many taxis are multi-destination and some can carry up to 26 passengers; drivers will often wait to fill their vehicles before departing, particularly from the ferry dock and popular beach locations.
St. John Taxi Rates: A Detailed Breakdown
Understanding the fare structure is essential for budgeting your travel in St. John. The following tables provide the rates from key locations to various destinations across the island, effective from October 24th, 2022. Rates are given for one person and for groups of two or more people (per person).
CRUZ BAY TO/FROM:
| Destination | 1 Person ($) | 2+ Persons (Per Person $) |
|---|---|---|
| Annaberg | 20.00 | 14.00 |
| Bethany | 8.00 | 7.00 |
| Bordeaux Mountain | 26.00 | 17.00 |
| Beth Cruz/Upper Deck | 9.00 | 8.00 |
| Calabash Boom | 30.00 | 21.00 |
| Caneel Bay | 9.00 | 8.00 |
| Catherineberg | 14.00 | 11.00 |
| Chateau de Bordeaux | 14.00 | 11.00 |
| Chocolate Hole | 11.00 | 9.00 |
| Cinnamon Bay | 14.00 | 11.00 |
| Concordia | 30.00 | 21.00 |
| Contant | 9.00 | 7.00 |
| Coral Bay | 25.00 | 15.00 |
| Dennis Bay | 12.00 | 9.00 |
| Desoto Bock House (East End) | 38.00 | 23.00 |
| Estate Lindholm | 8.00 | 6.00 |
| Fish Bay | 20.00 | 12.00 |
| Francis Bay | 20.00 | 14.00 |
| Frank Bay | 8.00 | 6.00 |
| Gallows Point | 8.00 | 6.00 |
| Gift Hill | 12.00 | 9.00 |
| George Simmonds Terrace | 12.00 | 9.00 |
| Goat Path/Maho Bay Beach | 17.00 | 12.00 |
| Great Cruz Bay | 9.00 | 8.00 |
| Grunwald | 9.00 | 8.00 |
| Haulover | 32.00 | 22.00 |
| Hawksnest | 9.00 | 8.00 |
| Hurricane Hole | 29.00 | 20.00 |
| John’s Head | 14.00 | 11.00 |
| Jumbie Beach | 12.00 | 9.00 |
| Lameshur | 38.00 | 25.00 |
| Leinster Bay | 20.00 | 14.00 |
| Little Maho Bay Campground | 20.00 | 14.00 |
| Mandahl | 30.00 | 21.00 |
| Ms. Lucy’s | 30.00 | 21.00 |
| Oppenheimer | 9.00 | 8.00 |
| Pine Peace | 8.00 | 6.00 |
| Privateer Bay | 45.00 | 30.00 |
| Rendezvous Bay (Klein Bay) | 15.00 | 10.00 |
| Reef Bay Trail | 14.00 | 11.00 |
| Salt Pond | 30.00 | 21.00 |
| Sunset Ridge | 12.00 | 9.00 |
| Susannaberg (Clinic/Laundry) | 12.00 | 9.00 |
| Trunk Bay | 12.00 | 9.00 |
| Vie’s (East End) | 38.00 | 25.00 |
| Westin Resort | 9.00 | 7.00 |
| Zootenvaal | 27.00 | 18.00 |
CORAL BAY TO/FROM:
| Destination | 1 Person ($) | 2+ Persons (Per Person $) |
|---|---|---|
| Annaberg | 12.00 | 9.00 |
| Bloomingdale (Freeman Ground) | 9.00 | 8.00 |
| Calabash Boom | 9.00 | 8.00 |
| Caneel Bay (via Northshore) | 20.00 | 14.00 |
| Cinnamon Bay | 13.00 | 10.00 |
| Desoto Bock House (East End) | 18.00 | 9.00 |
| George Simmonds Terrace | 14.00 | 11.00 |
| Hawksnest | 20.00 | 14.00 |
| Hurricane Hole | 11.00 | 8.00 |
| John’s Folly School | 9.00 | 8.00 |
| Lameshur | 15.00 | 10.00 |
| Maho Bay Beach | 12.00 | 9.00 |
| Mandahl | 11.00 | 9.00 |
| Oppenheimer | 20.00 | 14.00 |
| Salt Pond | 11.00 | 9.00 |
| Public Works | 15.00 | 11.00 |
| Susannaberg (Clinic/Laundry) | 15.00 | 11.00 |
| Trunk Bay (via Centerline) | 29.00 | 20.00 |
| Trunk Bay (via North Shore) | 14.00 | 11.00 |
| Vie’s (East End) | 12.00 | 11.00 |
| Zootenvaal | 9.00 | 8.00 |
GALLOWS POINT TO/FROM:
| Destination | 1 Person ($) | 2+ Persons (Per Person $) |
|---|---|---|
| Annaberg | 20.00 | 14.00 |
| Caneel Bay | 10.00 | 8.00 |
| Cinnamon Bay | 15.00 | 12.00 |
| Cruz Bay | 8.00 | 6.00 |
| Coral Bay | 25.00 | 16.00 |
| Maho Bay Beach/Goat Path | 17.00 | 13.00 |
| Francis Bay | 20.00 | 15.00 |
| Golf Course/Pastory | 11.00 | 8.00 |
| Hawksnest Beach | 10.00 | 8.00 |
| Jumbie Bay | 13.00 | 10.00 |
| Maho Bay Campground | 20.00 | 14.00 |
| Oppenheimer | 10.00 | 8.00 |
| Susannaberg (Clinic/Laundry) | 12.00 | 9.00 |
| Trunk Bay | 13.00 | 10.00 |
| Westin | 11.00 | 8.00 |
CANEEL BAY TO/FROM:
| Destination | 1 Person ($) | 2+ Persons (Per Person $) |
|---|---|---|
| Annaberg | 18.00 | 12.00 |
| Bordeaux Mountain | 27.00 | 15.00 |
| Chateau de Bordeaux | 20.00 | 14.00 |
| Cinnamon Bay | 12.00 | 9.00 |
| Coral Bay (Via Centerline) | 27.00 | 15.00 |
| Coral Bay (Via Northshore) | 20.00 | 14.00 |
| Francis Bay | 18.00 | 12.00 |
| Gallows Point | 10.00 | 8.00 |
| Hawksnest Bay | 8.00 | 6.00 |
| Lameshur (via Northshore) | 35.00 | 20.00 |
| Maho Bay Beach/Goat Path | 15.00 | 11.00 |
| Pastory/Course | 12.00 | 9.00 |
| Maho Bay Campground | 18.00 | 13.00 |
| Salt Pond (via Northshore) | 30.00 | 18.00 |
| Susannaberg (Clinic/Laundry) | 16.00 | 13.00 |
| Trunk Bay | 11.00 | 8.00 |
| Westin | 12.00 | 9.00 |
WESTIN RESORT TO/FROM:
| Destination | 1 Person ($) | 2+ Persons (Per Person $) |
|---|---|---|
| Annaberg | 23.00 | 17.00 |
| Asolare/Estate Lindholm | 11.00 | 8.00 |
| Calabash Boom | 35.00 | 21.00 |
| Caneel Bay | 12.00 | 10.00 |
| Chateau de Bordeaux | 18.00 | 15.00 |
| Catherineberg | 17.00 | 14.00 |
| Chocolate Hole | 8.00 | 6.00 |
| Cinnamon Bay | 17.00 | 14.00 |
| Coral Bay | 25.00 | 17.00 |
| Cruz Bay | 9.00 | 7.00 |
| Dennis Bay | 15.00 | 12.00 |
| East End | 41.00 | 27.00 |
| Fish Bay | 15.00 | 10.00 |
| Francis Bay | 23.00 | 17.00 |
| Gallows Point | 11.00 | 8.00 |
| Gift Hill | 11.00 | 8.00 |
| Maho Bay Beach/Goat Path | 18.00 | 15.00 |
| Golf Course/Pastory | 11.00 | 8.00 |
| Hawksnest Bay | 12.00 | 10.00 |
| Maho Bay Campground | 23.00 | 17.00 |
| Ms. Lucy’s | 38.00 | 23.00 |
| Oppenheimer | 12.00 | 10.00 |
| Salt Pond | 40.00 | 26.00 |
| Susannaberg (Clinic/Laundry) | 15.00 | 12.00 |
| Trunk Bay | 15.00 | 12.00 |
NEPTUNE LANDING/WINDMILL TO/FROM:
| Destination | 1 Person ($) | 2+ Persons (Per Person $) |
|---|---|---|
| Annaberg | 20.00 | 17.00 |
| Caneel Bay | 16.00 | 13.00 |
| Cinnamon Bay | 18.00 | 15.00 |
| Coral Bay | 18.00 | 11.00 |
| Cruz Bay | 12.00 | 9.00 |
| Francis Bay | 20.00 | 17.00 |
| Gallows Point | 12.00 | 9.00 |
| Goat Path/Maho Bay Beach | 20.00 | 17.00 |
| Hawksnest Beach | 16.00 | 13.00 |
| Jumbie Beach | 17.00 | 14.00 |
| Maho Bay Campground | 27.00 | 20.00 |
| Oppenheimer | 16.00 | 13.00 |
| Trunk Bay | 17.00 | 14.00 |
| Westin | 15.00 | 12.00 |
Additional Charges and Important Provisions for St. John Taxis
Beyond the standard per-person rates, there are several additional charges and specific rules that apply to taxi services in St. John. Being aware of these will help you avoid any surprises and ensure a smooth transaction.
Unlisted Destination Charges
For destinations not explicitly listed in the official schedule, charges are determined by using the nearest tariffed place crossed to the next tariffed place ahead, based on the one nearest to the passenger’s final destination. It's always best to clarify the fare with the driver beforehand.
Kennel Charges
If you are travelling with pets in kennels, specific charges apply:
- Large Kennel: $45
- Small Kennel: $30
Round Trip Fares
For round trips, the fare is simply double the one-way fare, plus any applicable waiting charges. This makes it straightforward to calculate the cost for return journeys.
Waiting Charges
Taxi drivers in St. John can charge for waiting time. The rate is $1.00 per minute, with the first five minutes being free of charge. This is particularly relevant if you ask your driver to wait for you while you run a quick errand or visit a viewpoint.
Radio/Phone Call Surcharges
If you call for a taxi via radio or phone, additional charges apply:
- One person: The standard fare plus one third of the basic fare.
- More than one person: An additional $2.00 is added to each passenger's fare.
Late/Odd Hour Charges
For journeys undertaken between midnight and 6:00 AM, there is an additional charge of $3.00 per person. This covers the inconvenience of operating during unsociable hours.
Exclusivity
Should you wish to request a taxi exclusively for yourself or your group, the rate is subject to negotiation between the taxi operator and the passenger(s). As mentioned, this option provides flexibility but will cost more than a shared ride.
Luggage Charges
A flat rate of $3 per bag is added to the fare for each passenger. For items larger than 30″x20″, the rate shall not exceed $6 per item. This ensures clarity on baggage costs.
Hourly Rates
For longer engagements or custom tours, hourly rates are available:
- For 1-4 passengers (Sedan/Mini Van): $60 per hour
- Van/Safari (14 pax capacity): $70 per hour
- Safari (larger capacity): $90 per hour
Rates for additional passengers beyond the specified capacity will be negotiated directly between the taxi operator and passenger(s).
Sightseeing Tours
St. John taxi services also offer sightseeing tours, typically with a limited duration of 2 hours:
- One passenger: $70
- Two or more passengers: $35 per person
St. John Taxi Rules of Operation & Special Provisions
It's important for both drivers and passengers to be aware that taxi drivers in St. John must adhere to the Virgin Islands Taxi Commission's Rules and Regulations governing taxi operations while on duty. These rules ensure a consistent and regulated service for everyone on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions About Taxi Travel
Here are some common questions travellers often have when planning their taxi journeys in Tenerife and St. John:
- How much is a taxi from Tenerife South Airport to Puerto de la Cruz?
A private taxi starts from £27.91 per person. A shared shuttle is a cheaper alternative, starting from £12.54 per person. - How do I get from Puerto de la Cruz to Santa Cruz de Tenerife?
The fastest way is by driving (taxi), taking about 29 minutes and costing €6-€9. There is also a direct bus service. - Is there a direct bus between Puerto de la Cruz and Santa Cruz de Tenerife?
Yes, direct buses depart every 30 minutes from Puerto de la Cruz and every 15 minutes from El Risco, arriving at Meridiano or Intercambiador Sta.Cruz respectively. - How do I stop a taxi in Puerto de la Cruz?
You can hail a taxi on the street or use a ride-hailing app, which is recommended for monitoring driver and taxi quality. - What types of taxi vehicles are used in St. John?
The most popular taxi vehicle is the open-air safari, which are converted trucks with bench seating and open sides. - Are taxis in St. John metered?
No, taxis on St. John are not metered. Rates are fixed per person and per destination, and it's advisable to agree on the total fare before starting your journey.
By keeping these details in mind, UK travellers can confidently navigate the taxi services in both Tenerife and St. John, ensuring smooth, efficient, and enjoyable transport throughout their holiday.
If you want to read more articles similar to UK Traveller's Guide: Taxis in Tenerife & St. John, you can visit the Transport category.