The SouthThings to do

Things to do in The South

  1. La Cuevita

    Tucked into a natural cave beside the port, where plants dangle from the ceiling and low lighting creates a cosy atmosphere, La Cuevita serves fresh local seafood, such as tuna, vieja (parrot fish), lapas (limpets), chocos (cuttlefish), along with grilled meats, all served with papas arrugadas (wrinkly potatoes) and a tangy red mojo.

    reviewed

  2. Club de Mar

    To learn more about whales and dolphins, contact the Club de Mar. This is both a marine-life investigation centre and a whale-watching outfitter with daily cruises that normally include the presence of a marine biologist, so that you can truly learn something about local marine life. All the cruises set sail from the Vueltas port.

    reviewed

  3. Chinea Morales

    In Playa Santiago itself, splashing in the waves, rambling along the rocky shore and marvelling over the peaceful ocean view will likely take up most of your time. To get out on the water, you can hop on a cruise boat. Tour companies include Chinea Morales. Most trips include lunch and a swim.

    reviewed

  4. Tina

    The motorboat Tina cruises daily around the south and west of the island, towards Los Órganos, a weird rock formation visible only from the water. The day-long trip could include some spontaneous whale or dolphin watching, as well as a little tuna fishing.

    reviewed

  5. A

    Restaurante El Baifo

    For something different come to this Malaysian-French restaurant, where woks and curries are served in a dining room with touches of Asian décor. Vegetarians will find lots of options, which is something rare around here.

    reviewed

  6. Bar Cacatua

    Open all day, this relaxing place serves drinks, salads and sandwiches to a mixed crowd. There's a small bar area indoors, and outside is a large, shady patio with a few scattered tables.

    reviewed

  7. Restaurante La Islita

    This convincingly Italian eatery serves just what you'd expect - a variety of pasta and pizza dishes with plenty of tomato, basil and oregano. The daily special is sure to please.

    reviewed

  8. Restaurante Junonia

    A local favourite with a porch out front and a welcoming, farmhouse style, Junonia serves fresh local fish and other Gomeran specialities on blue-and-white-checked tablecloths.

    reviewed

  9. Tambara Café

    By day nibble on the vegetarian-friendly tapas menu and by night sip cocktails at this friendly bar, where the sound of breaking waves wafts over the breezy terrace.

    reviewed

  10. Absinia

    A cheery sidewalk terrace is the perfect spot to enjoy the house specialities - viejas, tuna fillet with mojo, and papas with everything.

    reviewed

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  12. Diving School

    There's a small Diving School set up below the Hotel Jardín Tecina. You can also buy tickets for various other excursions here.

    reviewed

  13. Ermita del Santo

    A tiny chapel is built into the rock face is surrounded by a recently built mirador showing off the southern landscape.

    reviewed

  14. Tecina Golf Course

    The new 18-hole Tecina Golf Course, yet another Fred Olsen initiative and the island's only golf course, is just outside town.

    reviewed

  15. Tina

    To get out on the water, you can hop on a cruise boat. Tour companies include Tina. Most trips include lunch and a swim.

    reviewed

  16. Fisch & Co Centro de Buceo

    Scuba enthusiasts can head to Fisch & Co Centro de Buceo, which offers dives throughout the day.

    reviewed

  17. Supermercado El Paso II

    Self caterers will find all the basics at Supermercado El Paso II.

    reviewed

  18. B

    Restaurante El Palmar

    Hidden among banana trees, a stone's throw from the main highway, it would easy to drive right by the Palmar, so keep an eye out for the road sign. Both the food and the atmosphere are comfy and welcoming. Try the cazuela (thick fish stew) and be sure to have a chat with the friendly owner.

    reviewed

  19. Bar-Restaurante El Puerto

    Specialising in - what else? - fresh fish, this too-bright (the fluorescent lights lend it a bit of a fast-food air) place by the port is one of the best spots in town to try local delicacies such as grilled peto and medregal (local fish).

    reviewed