Arguineguín in Gran Canaria is a relaxed fishing village, very popular with Scandinavians who like to spend the winter here. There are several nice and unique beaches ranging from the typical dark Gran Canarian sands to the light golden sands preferred by tourists. With many great fresh fish and tapas restaurants, a long coastal promenade for relaxed evening walks, and Anfi Del Mar and Puerto Rico nearby, it is easy to understand why many people like to stay here for weeks, months or even the entire winter.
Beaches
Playa de Arguineguin is by far my favourite beach here now. It has recently got an upgrade to a vastly more attractive golden sand beach with a tiny and cosy feel. There are also some excellent restaurants next to it for a snack or dinner in the evening. There is also a beach bar and a small saltwater pool.
Playa las Marañuelas is the larger beach in town, with darker, blacker sand and a few restaurants and shops next to it.
Also, a recent addition to this area is the Playa de Costa Alegre beach. An artificial beach protected from the waves by a breakwater. Making it a great place to swim on windy days or with small children. If you don’t like the sand, there are also Balinese beds and sun loungers you can rent in the beach club next to the beach, right next to the beach
Charco Las Graditas is the least attractive place to swim, with many rocks and grey sand. However, it is a nice, safe place to snorkel.
Where to stay in Arguineguin
Arguineguin has many private holiday letting apartments and houses that are very popular, as many people like to stay in this area for more extended periods during the winter. Mostly older Scandinavians who stay here for weeks or months. These can also be great, but if you want a more typical holiday, the following are great options.
- Sunwing Arguineguin Seafront: Budget-friendly and great for families with lots of entertainment and activities. This hotel is primarily popular with Scandinavians.
- Bull Dorada Beach & Spa: An all-inclusive beach holiday. From the hotel’s back gate, you have instant access to the Playa Costa Alegre.
- Sunset Ocean View: Budget-friendly modern apartments.
- Arguineguin Park by Servatur: One of the newer apartment complexes in this area. Very well equipped and clean, but located uphill and in the back of the resort, so not ideal for everyone.
This list is of things to do in or near Arguineguin. But there is much more to see and do on the island. You can find a full list of the top things to do and not do in Gran Canaria here.
Things to do in Arguineguin
- Market: There is a market each Tuesday.
- Anfi Del Mar: Visit nearby Anfi Del Mar for a change of scenery, more shops or the fantastic beach.
- Watersports: You can do kayaking from Arguineguin. For most motorised and action watersports, these are available at Anfi Del Mar.
- Promenade: You can walk all the way from Arguineguin to Anfi Del Mar along the beach promenade.
- Boat tours and taxis: Many boats stop at the local marina to take you to nearby beaches and towns.
- Playa del Pajar: Walk to this little beach and village if you want to be active and explore a bit outside of Arguineguin.
- Hiking: If you want to do something challenging and sporty, hike up to Norskeplassen, a picnic spot and viewpoint created by the large Norwegian community in this area.
- Puerto Rico: For more restaurants, bars or some of the best shopping centres on the island, take the bus or taxi to nearby Puerto Rico.
Restaurants
Along the coastline here, you will find mostly restaurants focused on fresh fish, seafood and tapas, as this is a typical fishermen’s village. All of these have a relaxing vibe and a typical Spanish feel. Especially near the local port, you will find plenty of excellent seafood restaurants. At the Ancora Shopping Centre, you will find a wider variety of international cuisine.
Nightlife
Nightlife in Arguineguin is very relaxed. It is mostly old ladies and men and locals sitting and chatting on benches on the street. There are a few lovely beachside bars and cocktail bars to enjoy.
If you want a more lively nightlife, you can always walk or take a taxi to nearby Anfi Del Mar. Still don’t expect too much, as this area isn’t really for clubbing. Puerto Rico is not far away by taxi and has some of the most lively clubs, bars and nightlife on the island.
Gran Canaria airport to Arguineguin
- Public transport (4.95 €/pp): Cheap, good option for daytime arrivals.
- Shuttle bus online (13.74 €/pp): Better service with guaranteed seating on the bus and a connection if your flight is delayed. Dropped off at your hotel, not a random bus stop.
- Taxi (82.20 €) or minibus (112.65 €) online: Best option for a taxi if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with children who need child safety seats. Also, for nighttime or weekend arrivals, a better option than a standard taxi. If you are more than 4 people, you should book a minibus.
- Taxi at the airport (65.00 €): Best option if you are travelling during the day on weekdays. Sundays and nighttime are more expensive. Maximum 4 people.
Here, you can find the timetables and prices for public transportation in Gran Canaria and easily book a minibus, shuttle, or taxi.
When to go
Arguinenigeuin is most popular during winter, as many people from colder Scandinavian countries like to come here to escape the cold in their countries. Many are older couples who stay here for many weeks or even months. But also families with children like to visit here, especially during school holidays.
Yet Arguineguín can be visited year-round thanks to Gran Canaria’s excellent climate.
May is by far the cheapest month here, but know that this area can feel relatively quiet and empty. The end of September and June are generally the best choices for a bit more lively resort, excellent weather and overall excellent value for money.
Is Arguineguin the best holiday destination for you?
Arguineguín is most popular among older Scandinavians who like to spend several months or weeks relaxing in a mostly authentic Gran Canarian village with good restaurants and a variety of beaches to choose from.
This holiday destination is not ideal for families who want lots of nightlife, shops, or family-friendly attractions. For teenagers or older children, this place will feel rather dull.
If you’re not sure if Arguineguin is the best holiday destination for you in Gran Canaria, have a look at where to stay in Gran Canaria.
