Arrecife first appeared on maps in the 15th century as a small fishing harbour and its maritime roots are still reflected by the old town. About half of the Islands population reside in Arrecife. The skyline is dominated by the tallest building on Lanzarote, the Grand Hotel, it is best described as a bustling, friendly and unpretentious city.

Its name originates from the abundance of reefs and islets along the coast, which form a magnificent sea front promenade. It is the principle commercial area on the island with its main street Castillo y Leon hosting a wide variety of shops and nearby cafes.