Living in Tajao: A Peaceful Fishing Village with Authentic Flavour

Tajao is a small coastal village located in the municipality of Arico, on the southeastern shore of Tenerife. Known across the island for its traditional seafood restaurants and quiet atmosphere, Tajao has remained largely untouched by mass tourism. It’s a place where fishing boats still dock daily, where locals gather for long meals by the sea, and where buyers can find an affordable home just steps from the Atlantic — all while enjoying one of the most peaceful coastal environments in the south.

Property prices in Tajao are still very accessible. One-bedroom apartments start around €100,000, with two-bedroom units ranging between €130,000 and €170,000. Small houses or terraced homes with partial sea views usually fall between €180,000 and €250,000. Frontline properties or homes with rooftop terraces are rare but highly sought after, sometimes exceeding €300,000. Inventory is limited due to the village's small size, but demand remains steady from both locals and foreign residents looking for a simple life by the sea.

IBI is low, typically under €200 per year. Most properties have no community fees, or very minimal ones — often less than €30–40 per month — due to the absence of large communal services. This keeps ongoing ownership costs low, making Tajao attractive for retirees, seasonal residents, and those looking for a low-maintenance holiday base.

The housing is modest but well-situated. You’ll find low-rise buildings, small apartments, and a handful of village houses with patios or rooftop access. Many homes are within walking distance of the sea and the village's handful of restaurants. New developments are very limited, preserving the area’s local character and protecting it from overdevelopment.

Daily life in Tajao is relaxed and authentic. There are a few local shops for basics, but for supermarkets, schools, and larger services, residents drive to nearby towns like San Isidro, El Médano, or Abades — all less than 15–20 minutes away. The TF-1 motorway is also close, offering direct access to the south airport and Santa Cruz. The village’s small beach and rocky coastline are perfect for fishing, snorkelling, and watching the sunset in peace.

The climate is one of the best in Tenerife. Tajao enjoys a dry and sunny microclimate with little rainfall and cooling sea breezes, especially during summer. Temperatures stay comfortable all year round, averaging 27–30°C in summer and 20–24°C in winter, making it an ideal place for outdoor living.

The population is predominantly local, but there is a growing community of international residents who have fallen in love with the area's calm and authenticity. Spanish is the main language in everyday life, but you’ll often hear Italian, German, and English from visitors and homeowners who return year after year. There’s no nightlife or tourist infrastructure — and that’s exactly what makes Tajao so special.

In summary, Tajao offers a rare chance to live close to the sea in an unspoiled, genuinely Canarian setting. With affordable property, low costs, and a lifestyle focused on simplicity, nature, and community, it’s the perfect spot for those seeking peace, good food, and the true rhythm of Tenerife’s coast.