Discover Arona

Arona can be explored through a variety of themes: a protected historic centre, trails through volcanic landscapes, and coastal towns with beaches and boat trips. The places and activities below offer some specific ideas to help you plan.

Historic Centre and Church

The historic centre of Arona was designated a Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC) on 3 April 2006. A walking tour takes you along cobbled streets such as Domínguez Alfonso and Duque de la Torre, as well as through the side streets of La Luna and del Medio. There, manor houses and other buildings reflect the development of civil architecture since the 18th century.

The parish church of San Antonio Abad acquired its present form at the end of the 18th century and was rebuilt in the 19th century. It stands on the site of a former 17th-century chapel. Inside the single-nave church, a polychrome wooden altarpiece covers the entire back wall. Together with the history of the town centre, these buildings offer a tangible impression of Arona’s historic architecture.

Volcanic Landscapes and Hiking Routes

Malpaís de Rasca is characterised by volcanic lava flows and a barren volcanic landscape. It is home to coastal and inland-growing Cardonal-Tabaibal vegetation, as well as numerous endemic species. A route through the area runs from El Fraile to the lighthouse: it is three kilometres long, takes about an hour and a half, and is rated easy. In the nature reserve, a paved track also serves as an adapted, barrier-free route for people with reduced mobility.

Montaña de Guaza also combines scenery with a varied route: it begins on the northern slope by the TF-6223 road, climbs to the 430-metre summit and descends along the southern side to Playa del Callao. From there, the route continues for 6.5 kilometres to Los Cristianos. The Montaña de Guaza Natural Monument covers 725.7 hectares within the municipality of Arona. Several pre-Hispanic burial sites and quarries have been discovered on the Mesas de Guaza; the quarries date back at least to the late 17th century.

Another hike starts in the town of Arona at Charcas de Ancón, passes Roque de Imoque and Montaña de Suárez, and ends near the starting point after crossing Barranco del Rey. This route is 8.5 kilometres long. For comparison, the trail through Barranco de Chija starts in Valle San Lorenzo and returns to the starting point after three kilometres. A hiking route also passes through the Ifonche protected area and the Corona Forestal. If you prefer mountain biking, Arona has several routes approved by Tenerife’s environmental authority; check the latest route conditions and permissions before setting out.

Beaches, Boat Trips and Local Cuisine

Playa de Las Américas is around 500 metres long and has golden sand, showers and step-free access for people with reduced mobility. It has designated surfing areas such as Fitenia, La Izquierda, El Medio, La Derecha and El Dedo. As beach facilities, signage and usage information can change, it is advisable to check the latest details before your visit. The beaches around Los Cristianos also have adapted access for people with reduced mobility.

Ferries from the port of Los Cristianos connect Tenerife with La Gomera, La Palma and El Hierro. It is worth checking the current timetable when planning your trip, as services and operators may change. Boat trips also depart from the same port to observe various whale and dolphin species in their natural habitat; check in advance which trips are available.

In Zona Alta, traditional Canarian cuisine featuring local produce, regional cheeses and stews is highlighted as part of a rural setting. This lets you weigh up the historic townscape, hiking trails, coastal activities and regional cuisine when planning your trip. If you are looking for a hotel in Arona, use these interests to decide which aspects of your trip matter most when choosing where to stay.

Discover more destinations: Chayofa, Costa Del Silencio, Las Galletas, Playa De Las Américas, Palm Mar, Valle De San Lorenzo, La Camella, Costa Adeje.

For the broader travel overview: Tenerife.