Las Galletas is one of the few places in Tenerife South that has retained the character of a traditional Canarian fishing village while still offering a livable and accessible environment for both locals and expats. Located in the municipality of Arona, this seaside town is known for its working harbour, local markets, relaxed atmosphere, and a coastline that feels more lived-in than touristic. It’s a place where daily life moves at a slower pace, and residents often choose it over flashier destinations for its authenticity, affordability, and proximity to both the ocean and surrounding amenities.

Compared to other southern hotspots like Costa Adeje or Los Cristianos, property prices in Las Galletas remain significantly more affordable. You can still find a one-bedroom apartment near the center for under €150,000, while two-bedroom homes range from €170,000 to €250,000 depending on location and condition. Frontline properties or those with sea views naturally command higher prices, but even these are accessible compared to more tourist-saturated zones. Detached houses or townhomes are rarer but do exist in nearby areas like Costa del Silencio or La Estrella, typically starting around €350,000. Given the rising interest in coastal living, Las Galletas has seen a gradual appreciation in real estate values, especially for well-maintained properties near the harbor or beach promenade.

As for running costs, the IBI (local property tax) in Las Galletas is in line with the rest of Arona – moderate and predictable. For a standard apartment, owners can expect to pay around €250 to €400 annually. Community fees are relatively low due to the limited presence of luxury complexes. Most buildings are older and residential, with few amenities beyond elevators or a shared terrace, meaning monthly fees often stay below €80. Newer or renovated developments near the seafront may charge a bit more, especially if they offer private garages or gated access, but even then, costs remain accessible. This makes Las Galletas attractive for residents who want to own a home by the sea without the high carrying costs of resort-style living.

Housing in Las Galletas is typically found in low-rise buildings and traditional apartment blocks. Complexes such as Residencial Atlántico, Primavera, or La Hacienda in neighboring Costa del Silencio offer more modern construction with pools, gardens, and underground parking. However, within Las Galletas itself, most properties are in mixed-use buildings close to shops, cafes, and the port. The upside of this layout is walkability – most residents can reach the beach, supermarket, pharmacy, and restaurants in under 5 minutes. While you won’t find the exclusivity or uniformity of gated complexes here, the area offers something many others don't: a true sense of place and community. Some buildings have been fully renovated, while others retain a more local, lived-in feel – offering both investment opportunities and value for money depending on your preferences.

One of Las Galletas’ strongest draws is its direct access to the sea. The town’s small pebble beach, natural harbor, and marina create a vibrant coastal scene that’s actively used by fishermen, diving schools, and pleasure boats alike. Residents can enjoy fresh fish straight from the docks, morning walks along the promenade, or simply sitting in a café watching boats come and go. The town’s connection to the sea isn’t just aesthetic – it’s part of daily life. For nature lovers, the nearby Malpaís de la Rasca nature reserve and coastal paths offer excellent hiking and cycling with ocean views. Unlike larger resort towns, the vibe here is low-key, with fewer tourists and more year-round residents going about their day. That said, the town center can feel crowded during market days, and parking is often tight, especially near the seafront. Still, with everything close at hand, many residents choose to walk and leave the car behind.

The weather in Las Galletas is typical of Tenerife South – warm, sunny, and consistent throughout the year. Temperatures rarely fall below 20°C in winter or rise above 30°C in summer, making outdoor life possible all year. The town enjoys a slightly more humid microclimate compared to the drier inland zones, but this results in lush greenery and a more pleasant coastal breeze. Rainfall is minimal and usually limited to short bursts during the winter months. Unlike El Médano, Las Galletas is not especially windy, which makes its beaches more appealing for relaxed sunbathing and swimming. Overall, the climate supports an active, outdoor lifestyle that residents quickly adapt to and appreciate.

Demographically, Las Galletas offers a true mix of local and foreign residents. It remains a largely Spanish town in terms of day-to-day culture, with Canarian families living alongside a growing number of retirees, seasonal workers, and international residents – especially from Italy, Belgium, Germany, and South America. The atmosphere is multicultural but still grounded in local traditions. Shops, bakeries, and street life retain a Spanish rhythm, but you’ll hear several languages spoken in cafés and bars. This diversity has created a balanced, welcoming community. Unlike tourist zones where residents often feel like visitors, people who settle in Las Galletas typically integrate more fully – attending local events, shopping at the same markets, and sending children to local schools. The town also benefits from a nearby health center, local police presence, and reliable bus connections to Los Cristianos, Las Américas, and the airport.

In summary, Las Galletas offers something rare in Tenerife South: affordable seaside living in an authentic, working town with real community spirit. It’s not the place for luxury-seekers or those wanting resort-style amenities, but for anyone looking to own property near the sea, enjoy year-round sunshine, and be part of a grounded, diverse population, it’s a compelling choice. With manageable property prices, low ownership costs, and daily life centered around the marina and oceanfront, Las Galletas is proof that you don’t need to sacrifice charm or practicality to live well by the sea in Tenerife.