Candelaria lies on the southeast coast of Tenerife, some 25 kilometres from the capital, Santa Cruz. The town is renowned throughout the Canary Islands for being the home of the image of Virgen de Candelaria, patron saint of the archipelago, in its basilica. This makes Candelaria the centre of annual celebrations that attract over two million visitors a year. Known as Villa Mariana, Candelaria has a resident population of around 17,000 people and covers an area of 50 square kilometres.
The streets of this coastal town, with its great fishing tradition and popular character, have been able to adapt to the changing times without losing its very authentic character, combining tradition and modernity in a natural and masterful way. As a result, we may find picturesque and beautiful corners close to very modern shopping and leisure centres.
Candelaria is currently in the midst of significant demographic and urban development, with its resident population increasing by around 1,000 inhabitants a year.
The town has deep historical roots, and offers its visitors excellent seafood gastronomy and a pleasant ambience, helped undoubtedly by the amiable and welcoming character of the locals. This is even more pronounced during the celebrations of the festivals of Santa Ana and El Carmen in July, and those held in August to honour the Virgen de Candelaria.
Candelaria´s beaches, with their dark sand of clear volcanic origin, are in contrast with the greenery of its hillsides. The villages and towns of Araya, Barranco Hondo, Cuevecitas, Igueste, Las Caletillas and Playa la Viuda are also worth a visit.