Things To Do
in Arico el Nuevo
Arico el Nuevo is a small, traditional Canarian village on the southeast coast of Tenerife, set between dramatic volcanic cliffs and terraced farmland. The town retains a rural character with whitewashed houses, narrow streets and views out to the Atlantic and nearby rugged coastline. It is a quiet base for exploring coastal walks, local agriculture (vineyards and avocado terraces) and nearby beaches and ports.
Visitors come for low-key village life, outdoor activities and access to larger tourist hubs within a short drive.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Spanish pastries and fresh coffee. As the sun rises, stroll through the charming streets of Arico el Nuevo, admiring the well-preserved colonial architecture. Visit the beautiful Church of San Juan Bautista, where you can appreciate its intricate interior and serene atmosphere.
After lunch, head to the nearby archaeological site of the Guanches, the indigenous people of Tenerife, to explore ancient caves and learn about their fascinating history. Spend some time at the local artisan market, where you can browse handmade crafts and sample delicious local delicacies. Enjoy a scenic walk along the paths that surround the village, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
As the sun sets, unwind at a cozy restaurant, indulging in a traditional Canarian dinner featuring local specialties like 'papas arrugadas' and fresh seafood. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll under the stars, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of the village. If you’re lucky, catch a local folk music performance that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Canary Islands.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, fueling up for an exciting day at the beach. Head to the nearby Playa de Los Cristianos, where golden sands and crystal-clear waters await you for a morning of sunbathing and relaxation. Engage in some water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking, perfect for those looking for a bit of adventure.
After a refreshing swim, enjoy a beachfront lunch at one of the local seafood restaurants, where fresh catch of the day is always on the menu. Spend your afternoon sunbathing or exploring the nearby coastal cliffs on a guided snorkeling tour to discover the vibrant marine life. Let the warm sun and gentle sea breeze rejuvenate your spirit as you take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
As the day winds down, take a leisurely walk along the promenade, enjoying the lively atmosphere filled with shops and street performers. Find a seaside bar to sip on a refreshing cocktail while watching the sun dip below the horizon. For dinner, choose from a variety of international cuisines offered at local eateries, ensuring a satisfying end to your beach day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍷Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| ☕Coffee / pastry | $2-4 |
| 🚍Local bus fare (one-way) | $1.50-3.00 |
| 🛌Basic guesthouse / small hotel per night | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic, quiet Canarian village atmosphere
- Great access to coastal cliffs, rural scenery and outdoor activities
- Milder year-round climate and sunny days
- Close enough to larger tourist centers for amenities without the crowds
- Limited nightlife and fewer dining options than resort towns
- Some services and shops may close for siesta or be seasonal
- Public transport options are limited compared to larger towns — a car makes exploring easier
- Smaller medical and shopping facilities locally; may need to travel for certain needs
- "Hola / Buenos días" - Hello / Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Puede ayudarme?" - Can you help me?
- "Sin gluten / soy / frutos secos, por favor" - Gluten-free / soy / nuts, please
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "¿Hay una parada de autobús cerca?" - Is there a bus stop nearby?
Places to Visit in Arico el Nuevo
Visit one of these nice places.
High coastal cliffs offer dramatic ocean vistas, layered volcanic terraces and excellent sunset colors — ideal for wide landscapes and seascapes.
Small port with fishing boats, textured stone piers and rustic seaside scenes perfect for intimate coastal photography and golden-hour shots.
Narrow lanes, colorful doors and traditional Canarian wooden balconies make compelling street and architectural photos with a quiet, authentic atmosphere.
Agricultural terraces, vineyards and palms create layered compositions — great for morning light and showing island traditions.
Food in Arico el Nuevo
Arico el Nuevo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small wrinkled potatoes served with spicy red (mojo rojo) or herbaceous green (mojo verde) sauce; available in nearly every restaurant and guachinche.
Must-Try!
A traditional Canarian staple made from roasted grain flour used in soups, desserts or as a side — try it in local desserts or breakfast dishes.
Local catches such as vieja or parrotfish, grilled simply with olive oil and lemon — best at coastal restaurants and small fish houses.
A traditional salted fish stew served with potatoes and mojo, commonly found in family-run eateries and seasonal menus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small weekly market days in Arico or nearby towns where local farmers sell fruit, vegetables, cheese and honey — a great place to buy fresh produce and local snacks.
Occasional stalls or small fish shops at nearby ports where you can buy very fresh fish or tapas-style snacks to eat nearby.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple 'Hola' or 'Buenos días' and a friendly nod or handshake are customary when entering shops or meeting locals.
Morning and late-afternoon working patterns and a relaxed pace mean mealtimes and siestas can affect opening hours — plan accordingly.
Casual dress is normal but be respectful and modest in churches or rural community events; beachwear is for the beach, not for village streets or restaurants.
Spanish is the local language; a few words in Spanish are appreciated and often met with friendliness.
Safety
Tipping in Arico el Nuevo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Spain; leaving small change or rounding up for cafés and bars is common, and a 5–10% tip for good service at restaurants is appreciated. Taxi drivers and tour guides may expect small tips for good service.
Cards are widely accepted in restaurants and shops, but small village businesses, markets and guachinches may prefer cash — carry some euros. Contactless payments are common and ATMs are available in larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, dry and sunny with temperatures often in the mid-20s–30°C (mid-70s–90°F); inland and south-facing cliffs can be hot. Expect clear skies, busy coastal spots on weekends and a risk of strong sun—bring sunscreen, water and shade.
Pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists make this an excellent time to visit; occasional short showers and slightly elevated sea temperatures make swimming pleasant.
Mild daytime temperatures (15–22°C / 60–72°F) but cooler evenings; Teide’s higher altitudes can have snow and dramatic contrasts between coast and mountains. The village is quieter and many hiking days are comfortable.
Blooming wildflowers and mild weather create attractive hiking conditions; temperatures rise steadily and spring winds can occasionally blow off the sea.
Arico el Nuevo at Night
Hiking in Arico el Nuevo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A local gorge offering trails through volcanic rock, terraced farmland and views of ravines and cliffs; good for moderate hikes and observing local flora.
Low coastal walks between small ports and rocky beaches with opportunities for photography, birdwatching and short swims where conditions allow.
Accessible within an hour or so by car, Teide offers a range of volcanic trails from easy walks to challenging routes around Roques de García and the high-mountain environment — bring warm clothes at altitude.
Airports
How to reach Arico el Nuevo by plane.
Main airport serving the southern part of Tenerife, about 20–40 minutes’ drive from Arico el Nuevo depending on exact location; offers international and domestic flights and good car hire connections.
Located near Santa Cruz de Tenerife, further away (roughly 60–90 minutes by road); convenient for domestic flights and some European routes, but less direct to the southeast coast.
On a neighboring island; accessible by short flight or ferry and useful as an alternative international gateway if combining island travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-established island families engaged in agriculture, fishing and local services; maintain traditions and local festivals.
People working in agriculture, greenhouses and seasonal service jobs — visible in rural and farming activity.
Visitors seeking rural, coastal and outdoor experiences; numbers increase in spring and autumn.
A smaller but growing group attracted to the mild climate and lower living costs compared to continental Europe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the Canary Islands; local amateur teams and youth clubs are common.
Coastal breaks elsewhere on Tenerife attract surfers, and nearby beaches and coves offer water-sport opportunities for different skill levels.
With volcanic terrain and coastal cliffs, hiking and trail running are very popular among locals and visitors.
Road cycling is widespread due to varied terrain and quiet rural roads offering challenging climbs and scenic routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arico el Nuevo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but more limited in small villages; request vegetable stews, salads, papas arrugadas, gofio dishes or tomato-and-cheese plates. Larger towns and tourist areas offer more vegetarian and vegan choices.
Vegan and gluten-free needs can be accommodated in bigger restaurants and supermarkets; in village eateries communicate restrictions clearly (Spanish phrases below) and consider buying supplies in larger nearby towns before heading out.
Spanish-language cards stating allergies are helpful in small establishments; cross-contamination can be an issue in traditional kitchens, so ask staff directly.