Arona, from the sun of the coast to the calm of the midlands

Arona is the most important tourist municipality in the south of Tenerife. On its coast are Los Cristianos, Playa de Las Américas y Las Vistas Beach, some of the most visited areas of Canary Islands. But Arona is much more than a beach: its historic center, in the midlands at 600 meters above sea level, offers tranquility, traditional architecture, and the other side of the island’s south.

In addition, the municipality has 7 CanariasLife Webcams in different points along the coast, which allows you to see live the sea state, the atmosphere on the beaches, and the conditions before choosing where to go.

Beaches of Arona

Arona concentrates several of the beaches most well-known beaches in the south of Tenerife:

Las Vistas Beach, between Los Cristianos and Las Américas, it is wide, with golden sand and calm waters. It is one of the most popular on the island for its good access and services.

On the other hand, Los Cristianos Beach has a more local and family-friendly atmosphere, next to the fishing port. Playa del Camisón, in the Las Américas area, is more sheltered and protected from the wind.

On the south coast of the municipality, Las Galletas offers a fishing village atmosphere away from mass tourism. From here, excursions depart for whale watching, as this area is a permanent habitat for dolphins and pilot whales.

Los Cristianos: port, ferries, and connection to La Gomera

Los Cristianos is much more than a beach area. Its port is the departure point for the ferry to La Gomera, with several daily frequencies and a crossing of less than an hour. Boat excursions also depart to see whales and dolphins and catamaran trips along the coast.

The promenade connects Los Cristianos with Las Américas and allows for walking along the sea for several kilometers. It is an area full of life: restaurants, terraces, and a lively atmosphere both day and night.

Arona town: the village of the midlands

Going up to the historic center of Arona is discovering another world. At 600 meters above sea level, temperatures drop a few degrees and the rhythm changes completely. Its cobblestone streets, houses with wooden balconies, and the Iglesia de San Antonio de Abad in the main square create an authentic Canarian village atmosphere.

In fact, the contrast between the coast and the village is one of the attractions of this municipality. In one day you can go from the beach to the mountains without traveling more than 15 minutes by car.

Hiking and nature

From the town of Arona, several hiking trails lead to the midlands and the summit. The Natural Monument of Montaña de Guaza, south of Los Cristianos, offers a short ascent with spectacular views of the coast and the ocean.

The trail leading up to the Roque del Conde, an impressive geological formation with panoramic views of all of southern Tenerife. Additionally, the route to the Lunar Landscape, although it starts in the neighboring municipality of Vilaflor, is accessible from Arona and is one of the island's most popular hikes.

Gastronomy in Arona

The gastronomic offer in the municipality is very varied. On the coast, restaurants serve Los Cristianos y Las Galletas offer fresh fish, seafood, and international cuisine. On the terraces of the promenade, you can dine with views of the sea.

However, to try the most traditional Canarian cuisine, it is advisable to go up to the town. The taverns in the village serve goat meat, vegetable stews from nearby gardens, wrinkled potatoes with mojo , and local pastries. This gastronomic contrast between the coast and the midlands is part of the experience of Arona.

How to get to Arona

Los Cristianos y Playa de Las Américas is about 20 minutes by car from the Tenerife South Airport via the TF-1 motorway. There are also frequent buses from TITSA (lines 111 and 450) that connect the airport with the coast.

To reach the historic center of Arona from Los Cristianos, it takes about 15 minutes via the TF-28. By bus, line 480 connects both points.