Things to Do in Arguineguín, Gran Canaria

Arguineguín is still a working fishing port as well as a small resort. It has a large Norwegian community, and many of them come for several weeks every winter, so it feels more lived-in than the big resorts further east.

Harbour, promenade and beaches

Get to the harbour early and you can watch the fishermen unload the catch around the cofradía, the fishermen's guild. The guild runs a simple restaurant on the quay at Av. del Muelle 1 serving local fish. It fills up with local families, especially at weekends. A small chapel to the Virgen del Carmen sits on the breakwater and has views along the coast.

The seafront promenade runs west to Patalavaca. La Lajilla, a sheltered natural pool, is at the end of it. Las Marañuelas is the main town beach, with black volcanic sand and calm water thanks to the headland and harbour. Local beach rules apply: don't take or stack stones, use ocean-friendly sunscreen and leave the dog at home, as pets are banned on most beaches.

The Barranco de Arguineguín archaeological site, a few minutes' walk from the centre, shows how islanders lived before the Europeans arrived. Check opening times before you go.

Trips and activities

Few tours actually start in town. Most island-wide and south-coast trips simply pick you up in Arguineguín. The common options:

• Catamaran and sailing trips, mostly from Puerto Rico, of around three and a half to four and a half hours, usually with a snorkel and swim stop and drinks included
• Dolphin-watching trips with a swim
• Private yachts, sold per group
• Diving, snorkelling and boat hire at the harbour, including beginners' try-dives
• Jet skis, buggies, stand-up paddleboard yoga, horse riding and 4x4 safaris
• Full-day island tours, hiking at Roque Nublo and stargazing trips

Tuesday market

The municipal market runs every Tuesday in Plaza Negra, with fruit, vegetables, clothes and souvenirs. A craft market sets up the same day in Plaza de las Marañuelas. Roads into town get busy, so on market day take the boat from Puerto Rico or Puerto de Mogán.

Getting there

Global bus line 91 runs from Las Palmas via the airport to Arguineguín, and line 1 comes through Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas. The Líneas Salmón ferry links Arguineguín with Anfi del Mar, Puerto Rico and Puerto de Mogán all year, with sailings roughly hourly from mid-morning to late afternoon. Peak season here is November to March.