Tajao

San Miguel de Tajao is a fishing village in the municipality of Arico, in southeastern Tenerife, where seafaring traditions remain strong. From the moment you arrive, the atmosphere is peaceful and straightforward: low-rise houses, boats by the water, and a natural harbor that organizes village life around the sea. Everything here has a clear connection to the coast and fishing.

Walking through Tajao is like exploring a compact and easy-to-navigate space, always accompanied by the sound of the ocean. The beach combines pebbles and volcanic sand, with calm swimming areas and small coves that blend seamlessly into the landscape. The sea is often present not only as a backdrop but also as an active part of daily life in the village.

One of Tajao's greatest strengths is its gastronomy. The seaside restaurants are known for serving fresh fish, and dining here is a natural part of any visit. Sitting at a table overlooking the Atlantic completes the experience of the place without needing anything else.

The natural environment surrounding the village is arid and volcanic, very characteristic of the south of the island. The slopes of tuff and basalt, the cardonal-tabaibal scrubland, and the absence of large green areas create a dry, luminous landscape, shaped by wind and water. In this context, the Arco de Tajao stands out, a natural rock formation sculpted by marine erosion on volcanic tuff, where the contrast between the dark rock and the lighter volcanic sand is clearly visible.

From Tajao, coastal hiking trails offer a deeper understanding of this geology and its history, such as the path to the arch or the routes that cross former quarry areas, now integrated into the landscape. Visitors can also explore the stone ecomuseum, which connects the natural environment with traditional human activity.

Tajao is a place to enjoy the sea, walk, eat well, and observe how the volcanic landscape and maritime life continue to define the character of the village. Here, everything fits together naturally, at a leisurely pace, with a very clear identity.