Arona
CanariasClimate
Being home to the best water park in the world, recognized by TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards between 2014 and 2021, is just the beginning of what this southern municipality has to offer. Beyond the sun-and-beach tourism that welcomes almost 900,000 travelers a year according to the INE, Arona hides a fascinating aboriginal heritage and a historic center in the midlands that preserves the essence of 17th-century Canarian architecture. With an average annual temperature of 23 degrees and a coastline stretching over 15 kilometers, this destination combines the vibrant life of Los Cristianos with the rural tranquility of Valle de San Lorenzo.
The must-seesWhat to see in Arona: the must-sees
Arona offers a unique blend of modern tourist development and deep historical heritage, where you can go from hotel high-rises to Guanche archaeological sites in a matter of minutes. Here are the places you cannot miss if you want to understand the true identity of the municipality.
Playa de las Américas
This is the most important coastal tourist hub in southern Tenerife, an area that was intensively developed from the 1960s onward, transforming an arid coastline into an international destination. Its most notable feature is its fame for spectacular sunsets and the guarantee of more than 300 days of sunshine a year, making it the economic engine of the coastal sector. When you visit, you will find a high concentration of tourist services, wide pedestrian avenues, and an atmosphere specifically designed for vacation enjoyment.
Arona Historic Quarter (Conjunto Histórico de Arona)
Declared a Historic Quarter and a Site of Cultural Interest (Bien de Interés Cultural), this enclave preserves traditional Canarian architecture dating back to the 17th century, offering a complete contrast to the coast. The settlement officially began in 1625 when Antón Domínguez received land rights, and the area gained its administrative independence from Vilaflor in 1798. Strolling through its streets is essential to appreciate how the urban center developed around the original religious and administrative hubs.
Hermitage of San Antonio Abad (Ermita de San Antonio Abad)
This parish church, originally erected as a hermitage in the 17th century, forms the original nucleus of the historic center and remains the spiritual heart of the community. Its Canarian religious architecture holds great heritage value and it is located on the municipality’s main square, determining the development of the urban settlement surrounding it. Visiting it is essential to understand the social and religious evolution of the town’s first inhabitants.
Guanche Archaeological Sites of Arona (Yacimientos Guanches de Arona)
These archaeological sites preserve valuable remains of prehistoric Canarian aboriginal culture and form part of the Arona ArqueoViva project together with the old town. They offer crucial information about Tenerife’s first inhabitants and their settlement, confirming the existence of life before the Castilian conquest of the 15th century. It is a must-stop for those seeking to connect with the island’s oldest history beyond the modern resorts.
Horno Tejas (Tile Kiln)
This monument represents the traditional industry and labor history of the municipality, serving as a physical testimony to ancient construction techniques. Although it is a specific structure, its preservation helps understand the local historical economy and the trades that shaped the current landscape. It is part of the industrial and cultural heritage route that the municipality actively protects.
San Carlos Borromeo – Sculpture
This sculpture, dating from 2003, is an artistic monument that adds cultural value to the public space where it is located.
Archaeological Site
In addition to the main sites, there are other protected archaeological sites that complement the information about the area’s pre-Hispanic past.
Arona Nature Trails
The network of hiking routes managed by the Nature Classroom (Aula de la Naturaleza) connects the midlands with the coastal strip, allowing visitors to discover the volcanic landscape and traditional agricultural scenery under the patronage of the Culture Department.
The Great Viewpoint (El Gran Mirador)
This viewpoint offers a privileged elevated perspective for observing the geography of the municipality and the Atlantic Ocean.
Barranco del Infierno Viewpoint
Located in an area of great natural interest, this observation point allows visitors to appreciate the rugged terrain characteristic of southern Tenerife.
Cueva del Marqués Viewpoint
From this viewpoint you can enjoy panoramic views that combine the rural surroundings with the coastline.
Arona Coast
This beautiful municipal coastline stretching over 15 kilometres features beaches of volcanic origin bathed by the Atlantic and records the lowest annual rainfall on the entire island.
Arona Pyramid
This commercial and entertainment venue stands out for its unique architecture and has become a visual landmark in the area.
🍂 Otoño
Si visitas Arona en otoño, el clima se mantiene estable y agradable gracias a los escasos 117.2mm de lluvia anuales. Podrás disfrutar de las terrazas y excursiones con mucha más tranquilidad que en agosto. Aprovecha para reservar restaurantes con vista al mar sin mucha antelación.
What to do in Arona
Arona offers vibrant cultural activities and unique natural experiences ranging from international music festivals to award-winning gastronomic routes. You can immerse yourself in local culture by taking part in the Fiestas Patronales (Patron Saint Festivities) in honour of San Antonio de Padua in June, which include processions and fireworks, or enjoy Arona Folk in July, a festival that brings together traditional groups from around the world. For nature lovers, the Arona Nature Trails are ideal for discovery tourism, connecting the agricultural area of Valle de San Lorenzo with the sea. Also, don’t miss the Las Américas Street Market (Mercadillo de Las Américas) in December, a Christmas market with crafts and performances, or the Arona Carnival in February with its parades of comparsas and murgas.
Arona in one day: express itinerary
If you’re short on time, this route will allow you to see the essentials of the municipality, from its history in the midlands to its famous coastline.
- 09:00 – Arona Historic Quarter: Start the morning in the old town to see the 17th-century architecture and the Hermitage of San Antonio Abad in the soft early morning light.
- 11:30 – Guanche Archaeological Sites: Spend an hour exploring the remains of the aboriginal culture and understanding the origins of settlement on the island.
- 13:30 – Lunch in Valle de San Lorenzo: Head down to the midlands area to try the local gastronomy at the Farmers’ Market (Mercado del Agricultor) or traditional bars.
- 16:00 – Arona Coast and Playa de Las Américas: End the day on the coast to enjoy the 23-degree weather, walk along the seafront promenade and watch the sunset.
Where to eat in Arona: local gastronomy
Where to stay in Arona
Los Cristianos
Originalmente un pueblo de pescadores, es ahora una zona turística muy desarrollada con una playa urbana protegida y un paseo marítimo lleno de restaurantes. Ofrece un ambiente animado pero más familiar y tranquilo que las zonas de fiesta intensiva.
Las Américas
El centro neurálgico del turismo de sol y playa en el sur de Tenerife, caracterizado por grandes complejos hoteleros, centros comerciales y una vida nocturna muy activa. Es una zona construida específicamente para el turismo con amplias avenidas peatonales.
Arona Casco
El núcleo histórico y administrativo del municipio, situado en el interior lejos de la costa, que mantiene la arquitectura tradicional canaria y un ambiente rural auténtico. Es la zona donde se encuentra la vida local no turística y las fiestas patronales.
Costa del Silencio
Una urbanización residencial tranquila conocida por sus acantilados volcánicos y calas rocosas, alejada del ruido de los grandes centros turísticos. Su nombre proviene de la ausencia de viento en la zona, lo que crea un mar habitualmente en calma.
Los Gigantes
Un puerto pesquero y deportivo famoso por los impresionantes acantilados verticales que caen al mar desde gran altura. La zona combina viviendas locales con resorts turísticos orientados a la observación de cetáceos y el senderismo.
El Médano
Un barrio costero con ambiente bohemio y relajado, mundialmente conocido como destino principal para la práctica del windsurf y kitesurf debido a sus vientos constantes. Destaca por su gran playa de arena dorada y la montaña roja volcánica al fondo.
How to get to Arona
Connectivity with the municipality is efficient thanks to the southern road network and the main bus station.
| Medio | Duración | Precio aprox. | Frecuencia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus (TITSA) | Variable según origen | Económico | Alta (Estación de Guaguas de Los Cristianos) |
| Coche (TF-1) | Rápido desde el aeropuerto | Combustible + Alquiler | Libre |
| Coche (TF-28, TF-66, TF-51) | Acceso a medianías y costa | Combustible + Alquiler | Libre |
How to get around Arona
To get around within the municipality, the most practical option is the urban bus, which connects the different tourist and residential areas. If you prefer total freedom, the TF-1, TF-28, TF-66 and TF-51 roads allow smooth access both to the coast and to the mid-altitude areas of Valle de San Lorenzo and the old town of Arona.
Weather in Arona
Live webcam — Los Cristianos*
Arona* The nearest webcam to Arona is in Los Cristianos, 6.9 km away.
Source: Windy Webcams
Best time to visit Arona
Day trips from Arona
From Arona you can easily explore other towns in the Tenerife region. The municipality’s strategic location allows quick access to other points of interest on the island, taking advantage of the main roads that connect the south with the rest of Tenerife’s geography.
Curious facts about Arona you didn’t know
Did you know that Arona has the highest number of foreign residents in the entire province of Santa Cruz de Tenerife? This is due to strong residential tourism, sometimes surpassing the capital in percentage of non-Spanish population.
The name ‘Arona’ comes from the Guanche language and probably means ‘high place’ or ‘hill’, an ironic reference today given that the most famous area is the coast, although the administrative capital remains at 630 m above sea level.
In the Tofio ravine, archaeological remains have been found that confirm aboriginal settlements predating the Castilian conquest, demonstrating that the municipality’s history is much older than its tourist development.
The Festivity of San Antonio de Padua includes traditional romerías (pilgrimage processions) where carts adorned with local agricultural products are transported, keeping the connection with the land alive.
Who Arona is for
Arona is a versatile destination ideal for families seeking safety and services in Los Cristianos, couples wanting to unwind in Costa del Silencio, and nightlife lovers in Las Américas. It is also perfect for foodies interested in the cuisine of the midlands and sporty backpackers in El Médano, offering something for every type of traveler.
💡 ¿Sabías que...?
- ● El municipio de Arona cuenta con el mayor número de habitantes extranjeros de toda la provincia de Santa Cruz de Tenerife, superando en ocasiones a la capital en porcentaje de población no española debido al turismo residencial. (Instituto Nacional de Estadística (INE))
- ● La Playa de las Américas, situada dentro del término municipal de Arona, fue uno de los primeros destinos turísticos planificados de Canarias en la década de 1960, transformando una costa árida en un centro vacacional internacional. (Gobierno de Canarias)
- ● El nombre 'Arona' proviene del guanche y significa probablemente 'lugar alto' o 'cerro', haciendo referencia a su ubicación geográfica elevada sobre el nivel del mar antes de la expansión costera. (Toponimia Guanche (Estudios lingüísticos canarios))
- ● En el barranco de Tofio, dentro del municipio, se han encontrado restos arqueológicos que confirman la existencia de asentamientos aborígenes anteriores a la conquista castellana del siglo XV. (Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre)
- ● Arona alberga el Siam Park, reconocido durante varios años consecutivos (incluyendo 2014-2018 y 2021) como el mejor parque acuático del mundo por los Travellers' Choice Awards de TripAdvisor. (TripAdvisor)
- ● La Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Luz en Villa de Arona data del siglo XVII y conserva una imagen de la Virgen que es patrona del municipio, siendo un ejemplo de arquitectura religiosa tradicional canaria. (Diócesis de San Cristóbal de La Laguna)
- ● El municipio incluye parte del Parque Natural de la Corona Forestal y limita con el Teide, poseyendo una gran variedad de microclimas que van desde el nivel del mar hasta zonas de alta montaña. (Red de Parques Naturales de Canarias)
- ● La Festividad de San Antonio de Padua, celebrada en junio en la villa de Arona, incluye tradicionales romerías donde se transportan carros adornados con productos agrícolas locales. (Ayuntamiento de Arona)
Frequently asked questions about Arona
How many days do I need to see Arona?
With 2 or 3 days you can cover the essentials: one day for the coast and Playa de las Américas, and another for the historic center, the Guanche archaeological sites, and the gastronomy of Valle de San Lorenzo.
What is the best time of year to visit Arona?
According to climate data, the best time is from January to December due to the stable average temperatures (19°C in winter and 23.8°C in summer) and the scant annual rainfall of 117.2 mm.
How do I get to Arona from Madrid?
You need to fly to Tenerife South Airport and from there take a TITSA bus from the Los Cristianos bus station or rent a car using the TF-1 highway.
Where can I find updated official information?
For further practical information on opening hours, tickets, and cultural events, you can check the official Arona tourism website.