Living in Los Gigantes and Puerto Santiago: Scenic Living on the West Coast

22 de julio de 2025
Diana Jeste


Tucked beneath the dramatic cliffs of Acantilados de Los Gigantes, the neighboring towns of Los Gigantes and Puerto de Santiago offer one of the most unique residential experiences in southern Tenerife. Located within the municipality of Santiago del Teide, these two coastal towns blend natural beauty, small-town charm, and a loyal international community. While Los Gigantes is known for its marina and spectacular views of the cliffs, Puerto Santiago offers a more down-to-earth atmosphere with excellent amenities and a strong local presence. Living here means waking up to sea breezes, watching dolphins from the coastline, and enjoying a slower, quieter pace of life far from the bustle of resort centers.

Property prices in both towns are relatively moderate, though increasing steadily due to demand and limited space. In Puerto Santiago, one-bedroom apartments typically start around €160,000 to €200,000, while two-bedroom flats range between €200,000 and €300,000. In Los Gigantes, which is slightly more exclusive due to its cliffside position and marina access, prices are higher – sea-view apartments can easily surpass €300,000, and penthouses or luxury properties can climb above €450,000. Villas and townhouses are rare and command premium prices, especially those with ocean-facing terraces or private pools. Buyers appreciate the balance between views, location, and value – this is one of the few areas in the south where you can enjoy spectacular scenery without the prices of Costa Adeje.

Annual property taxes (IBI) are aligned with the Santiago del Teide municipality and tend to be quite reasonable. Apartment owners generally pay between €250 and €400 per year, while villa owners may pay between €500 and €700 depending on size and location. Community fees vary, with simpler older buildings charging as little as €40 per month, while more modern or resort-style complexes with pools, lifts, and garages can range between €100 and €180 monthly. Several well-managed communities such as Tamara, Gigansol del Mar, Drago, and California are popular among foreign residents for their sea views, solid construction, and proximity to either the marina or the town center.

Both Puerto Santiago and Los Gigantes offer a wide range of residential options, from traditional low-rise apartments to modern complexes with shared pools and panoramic terraces. Los Gigantes is the more picturesque and touristic of the two, built along the slopes facing the iconic cliffs. Many of its residences feature open sea views and walking access to the marina, beach, and viewpoints. It’s a quieter, more upscale setting – ideal for those looking for scenery and serenity. Puerto Santiago, just next door, is more residential and functional, with schools, supermarkets, banks, and medical centers all within easy reach. Buildings like Residencial Playa de la Arena, Eva, and Sunflower offer practical homes close to beaches and local services. For families or retirees, Puerto Santiago provides the comfort of a lived-in community, while Los Gigantes attracts those wanting exclusivity and unforgettable views.

Both towns offer immediate access to the ocean and natural surroundings. Playa de la Arena, located between the two, is a blue-flag volcanic sand beach known for its cleanliness and calm water. Los Gigantes’ marina serves as the departure point for whale and dolphin watching excursions and offers private moorings and watersports. A long, scenic promenade connects both towns and is a favorite among locals for evening walks. Although nightlife is limited, there are plenty of seaside cafés, quiet bars, and local restaurants serving Canarian dishes and fresh seafood. Supermarkets, gyms, pharmacies, and weekly markets cover all daily needs, while larger shopping areas in Adeje are just 25–30 minutes away by car. The pace of life is tranquil, but never boring – perfect for those who value natural beauty and daily rituals over crowds and flash.

The weather in this part of the island is one of its greatest assets. With an average of over 300 days of sunshine per year and a sheltered location beneath the cliffs, the climate in Los Gigantes and Puerto Santiago is stable, dry, and warm. Winter temperatures hover around 22°C, while summer months typically reach 28–30°C with a cooling breeze from the Atlantic. The unique geography also provides stunning sunsets and a sense of being close to nature. Rainfall is minimal, and the towns rarely experience strong winds – making them perfect for year-round outdoor living, swimming, or simply enjoying meals on your terrace with a sea view.

The community in Los Gigantes and Puerto Santiago is a well-established blend of local residents and European expats. Retirees from the UK, Belgium, Italy, and Germany make up a significant portion of the foreign population, many of whom live here full-time. Spanish remains the everyday language, especially in shops and services, but English is widely spoken, particularly in Los Gigantes. There’s a friendly, small-town feel where neighbors know each other and daily life happens at a human scale. Social activities often revolve around shared interests – from yoga to hiking or local volunteering – and integration is easier here than in larger tourist towns. It’s a place where people come to slow down and stay, not just visit.

In conclusion, Los Gigantes and Puerto Santiago offer a rare mix of spectacular scenery, calm living, and accessible real estate on Tenerife’s west coast. Whether you're drawn to cliffside sunsets or a more grounded town feel, this area delivers both. With moderate property prices, low maintenance costs, and a welcoming international community, it’s no surprise that more and more people are choosing to call this corner of Tenerife home.

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