Vista de la playa de Las Canteras rodeada de las casas

Best beaches in Gran Canaria: a complete guide for your ideal vacation

Gran Canaria is a paradisiacal destination with beaches to suit all tastes.
From the vibrant Playa de Las Canteras to the quiet Playa de Amadores, the island offers varied and spectacular options.
The dunes of Maspalomas and the unspoiled Playa de Güigüí are just some of the natural wonders to be enjoyed.
Explore our recommendations for the best beaches on the island.

Table of Contents

When a canari@ says Machango: A person who does foolish things or behaves in a childish way.

Most outstanding beaches in Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is famous for its spectacular beaches, which offer a unique variety of landscapes and experiences.
With crystal clear waters and golden sand, these beaches are the perfect destination to enjoy the sun and sea.
Below are some of the island’s most outstanding beaches:

Las Canteras Beach

La playa más popular en Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Las Canteras Beach

Urban beach of more than 3 kilometers long, has a natural barrier known as "La Barra", which protects from the tides. Ideal place to swim, snorkel and practice sports such as surfing.

Areas of La Playa:

1.
La Cícer

Sports area, especially surfing and body boarding.

It runs approximately from the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium to the rock called “Peña La Vieja”. “Peña La Vieja”.

Points of interest:

2.
Peña La Vieja

The most famous rock of Las Canteras beach.
In this area is the ice cream parlor “Peña La Vieja”, founded in 1936, this mythical ice cream parlor refreshes the locals throughout the year.

3.Playa Chica and Marrero wall

The most familiar area.

Leisure activity:

4.
Playa Grande

Then, after passing Playa Chica.

Tourist area where most of the hotels and apartments are concentrated.

Leisure activities:

5.
La Puntilla

After passing Playa Grande we will come across the fishermen’s area and their boats.

Leisure activity:

6.
El Confital

The walk along the avenue from La Puntilla to Confital is very relaxing.

Leisure activities:

Maspalomas Beach

Playa famosa por sus impresionantes dunas y el icónico Faro de Maspalomas

Maspalomas Beach

The most popular beach in Gran Canaria

This beach stretches from Punta de Maspalomas, where Playa del Inglés begins, to the Faro de Maspalomas.
It has some of the best hotels in the south, with somewhat higher prices.

A must-have:

Leisure activities:

Playa del Inglés

La Playa del Inglés es una de las playas más populares del sur de Gran Canaria

Playa del Inglés

Sister beach of Maspalomas. It is located in the south of the island, almost three kilometers of golden sand and calm waters, next to the Special Natural Reserve of the Dunes of Maspalomas.

Playa del Inglés is one of the most famous tourist beaches on the island of Gran Canaria.

Includes the coastal area from Punta Maspalomas to San Agustín beach.

Beach areas:

  • Central area: Seafront promenade with restaurants and stores.
    Lots of hotels and apartments to stay, with different prices.
    It is a more familiar area, with lots of sun loungers for rent.
  • South zone: Towards the southern end we will find the nudist and gay area, which runs approximately from kiosk number 3 to kiosk number 7, being 7 the gay area.
    In this area sports activities such as surfing, with its schools, take place.

Leisure activities:

Puerto Rico Beach

Puerto Rico Beach

One of the first artificial beaches built in Gran Canaria in the 1960s.

Located southwest of the municipality of Mogán, Puerto Rico is an ideal beach for swimming and very safe, without any waves thanks to the protection of its marina.

Leisure activities:

Amadores Beach

Una de las playas artificiales más populares del sur de Gran Canaria

Amadores Beach

This artificial beach, located in the municipality of Mogán, is known for its white sand and crystalline waters.

It is an ideal beach for families, with no waves and crystal clear waters.
The beach has public bathrooms, and a wide range of dining options.

Leisure activities:

Anfi del Mar Beach

Una de las mejores playas para disfrutar con la familia en el sur de Gran Canaria

Anfi del Mar Beach

One of the most popular artificial beaches on the island.

Known for its fine white sand and calm, crystal clear waters, it is an ideal destination for families and those looking for a relaxing day at the beach.

Leisure activities:

Water sports Luis Molina: Water sports equipment rental.

Anfi Heart Island: Take a walk around the heart-shaped island.

Maroa Club de Mar: Beach club with restaurant, hammocks and where you can have a cocktail.

San Agustin Beach

Playas imprescindibles de Gran Canaria

San Agustin Beach

The beach of San Agustín is characterized for being one of the quietest urban beaches in the south of Gran Canaria.

It is the favorite beach for thousands of local families to spend long days during the summer days.

Leisure activities:

Best beaches in the south of Gran Canaria

General characteristics of the southern beaches

The south of Gran Canaria stands out for its beaches of crystal clear waters and golden sand, ideal to enjoy the sun and the sea in a quiet and cozy environment.
With a pleasant climate all year round, the southern beaches are perfect for relaxing and disconnecting from routine.

Beaches in the municipality of Mogán

  • Mogán Beach

    Playa de Mogán is known for its calm waters and its charming promenade lined with restaurants and stores.
    It is a perfect place to take a stroll, enjoy a meal in front of the sea or just relax in the sun.

  • Taurito Beach

    Taurito is a smaller and quieter beach, ideal for those seeking a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.
    With calm waters and fine sand, it is a perfect place to rest and enjoy nature.

Playa del Inglés

  • Environments and public in Playa del Inglés

    Playa del Inglés is one of the most popular beaches in the south, with a wide variety of services, restaurants and activities for all tastes.
    From families to young people looking for fun, this beach attracts a diverse and cosmopolitan public.

  • Activities and events in Playa del Inglés

    In Playa del Inglés you can practice water sports such as windsurfing and paddle surfing, as well as enjoy lively events and parties in the coastal area.
    The nights in Playa del Inglés are also lively, with a wide range of nightlife.

Best beaches in the north of Gran Canaria

The north of Gran Canaria is home to beaches with unique charm and beauty.
From the impressive Playa de Las Nieves in Agaete to the picturesque Playa de Sardina del Norte, this place offers options for all tastes and preferences.

Las Nieves Beach (Agaete)

Playa de Las Nieves in Agaete is known for its crystal clear waters and its quiet and picturesque environment.
Surrounded by cliffs and fishermen’s houses, this beach is ideal to relax and enjoy the serenity that the north of the island offers.

Sardina del Norte Beach

Sardina del Norte Beach is a hidden treasure in Gran Canaria.
With its calm waters and dark sand, it is perfect for those looking for a secluded place to disconnect.
It also offers a variety of underwater activities for sea lovers.

-Underwater activities in Sardina del Norte

At Sardina del Norte Beach, visitors can enjoy exciting underwater activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving.
Its crystal clear waters allow visitors to explore the rich marine life that inhabits the area, creating unforgettable experiences for ocean lovers.

-Services at Sardina del Norte beach

For the convenience of visitors, Sardina del Norte Beach has services such as sun loungers and umbrellas for rent, as well as beach bars where you can enjoy the local gastronomy in front of the sea.
In addition, its accesses are adapted for people with reduced mobility, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this beautiful corner of Gran Canaria.

Urban beaches of Gran Canaria

Las Canteras Beach

Las Canteras Beach is one of the jewels in the crown of Gran Canaria.
With its golden sand, crystal clear waters and lively atmosphere, it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sea.
Here you will find a wide range of services and amenities to make your day at the beach as comfortable as possible.

-Aquatic activities in Las Canteras

  • Surf and bodyboard
  • Snorkeling and diving
  • Kayak and paddle surf

-Services and amenities in Las Canteras

  • Sun loungers and umbrellas for rent
  • Showers and restrooms
  • Beach bars and restaurants on the beachfront

Las Alcaravaneras Beach

Las Alcaravaneras Beach is another of the most popular urban beaches of Gran Canaria.
With its quiet and familiar atmosphere, it is ideal to spend a relaxing day by the sea.
Here you can enjoy services and facilities designed for your comfort.

-Aquatic activities in Las Alcaravaneras

  • Kayaking or paddle surfing
  • Sailing or windsurfing lessons
  • Boat trips along the coast

Best beaches for families

San Agustin Beach

San Agustin Beach is an ideal destination for families in Gran Canaria.
With its golden sand and calm waters, it offers a relaxed and safe environment for children.
It also has a wide variety of services such as sun loungers, umbrellas and beach bars where you can enjoy snacks and refreshing drinks.

Amadores Beach

Located in a sheltered bay, Amadores Beach stands out for its crystal clear waters and soft white sand, making it another excellent option for families.
Here you can spend hours swimming in a natural and quiet environment, perfect for families.
The services and amenities available on the beach guarantee a pleasant experience for everyone.

Anfi del Mar Beach

Anfi del Mar Beach is known for its white sand imported from the Caribbean, its turquoise water and its natural protection against currents, making it a safe place for families with children.
The quality facilities and water activities available make it a family beach par excellence in Gran Canaria.

Virgin and natural beaches

Güigüí Beach

Playa de Güigüí, located in the west of Gran Canaria, is a hidden gem of golden sand and crystal clear waters.
Its access can be a bit challenging, but the reward is worth it.
To get to Güigüí, you can opt for a hike through trails with breathtaking panoramic views.
Once there, visitors enjoy the tranquility and unspoiled beauty of this beach, ideal for those seeking an untouched natural environment.

-Access and routes to get to Güigüí

To get to Playa de Güigüí, you can take a hiking route from the Veneguera ravine, a route that offers panoramic views of cliffs and breathtaking landscapes.
Another option is access by boat, which provides a different view of the coast of Gran Canaria.
Regardless of the route chosen, Playa de Güigüí provides a unique and authentic experience for nature lovers.

-Natural landscapes and unspoiled environment

Güigüí Beach stands out for its natural beauty and unspoiled environment.
Surrounded by cliffs and lush vegetation, this beach offers a haven of peace and tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of tourist areas.
Here, visitors can connect with nature, explore the surroundings and enjoy a relaxing day in a paradisiacal setting.

El Confital Beach

El Confital Beach is known for being one of the wildest and most natural beaches of Gran Canaria.
Located at the northern tip of the island, this beach offers a breathtaking landscape with cliffs, golden sands and crystal clear waters.
Surrounded by a protected natural environment, El Confital is the perfect place for nature and tranquility lovers.

Tasarte Beach

Playa de Tasarte is another hidden treasure of Gran Canaria, with its black volcanic sand and crystal clear waters.
Located in the west of the island, this unspoiled beach is ideal for those seeking a quiet escape away from the crowds.
With its unspoiled natural surroundings and serene atmosphere, Tasarte invites visitors to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Gran Canaria.

Water activities on Gran Canaria's beaches

Surf and bodyboard

The beaches of Gran Canaria offer excellent conditions for surfing and bodyboarding.
With waves suitable for all levels, from beginners to experts, you can enjoy exciting sessions in the Atlantic.

Snorkeling and diving

Dive into the crystal clear waters of Gran Canaria to discover the rich marine life that lives beneath the surface.
With numerous diving and snorkeling spots, you will have the opportunity to admire colorful fish, turtles and corals.

Kitesurfing and windsurfing

Gran Canaria’s constant winds and wide beaches make it an ideal destination for kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Whether you are a beginner or looking to challenge new maneuvers, you will find the perfect place to enjoy these water sports.

Jet ski and kayak rental

If you prefer a dose of adrenaline, the jet ski rental is an exciting option to explore the coast of Gran Canaria at full speed.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a quieter experience, kayaking will allow you to discover unique natural spots from the sea.

Beach services and accessibility

Discover the services and facilities offered by the beaches of Gran Canaria to enjoy a comfortable and accessible experience during your visit:

Sun loungers and umbrellas for rent

  • On many beaches of Gran Canaria, you will find the option of renting sun beds and umbrellas to relax and protect yourself from the sun.
  • This service will allow you to enjoy a carefree day at the beach, with everything you need at your fingertips.

Access and services for people with reduced mobility

  • The beaches of Gran Canaria strive to be inclusive, so many have adapted access and special services for people with reduced mobility.
  • Ramps, amphibious chairs and other elements facilitate access to the beach and ensure the comfort of all visitors.

Beach bars and restaurants on the beaches

  • Enjoy the local gastronomy in the beach bars and restaurants located on the beaches of Gran Canaria.
  • Taste delicious fresh fish dishes, paellas and tapas while you contemplate the sea and relax under the Canarian sun.

Tips for an unforgettable visit

If you are planning to visit Gran Canaria, it is important to keep in mind some tips to make the most of your stay in this wonderful island.
Here is some useful information about the best time to visit, how to get to the main beaches and recommendations for accommodation nearby:

Best time to visit Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria enjoys a subtropical climate all year round, so any time is a good time to visit the island.
However, the summer season (June to September) tends to be the most popular due to the warm temperatures and constant sunshine.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds, the spring and autumn months offer pleasant weather and more affordable prices.

How to get to the main beaches

  • To access the main beaches of Gran Canaria, you can choose to rent a car for greater comfort and freedom of movement.
    The road network of the island is excellent and will allow you to reach the different beaches quickly and easily.
  • If you prefer to use public transportation, there are buses that connect the main tourist areas with the most popular beaches.
    Check schedules and routes to plan your trip efficiently.
  • For sea lovers, there is also the option of reaching some beaches by boat or catamaran, enjoying a pleasant promenade and breathtaking views from the water.

Lodging recommendations near the beaches

In Gran Canaria you will find a wide variety of accommodation options for all tastes and budgets.
If you want to stay near the most spectacular beaches of the island, we recommend you to look for hotels, apartments or villas in the coastal areas.
Places like Maspalomas, Puerto Rico, Mogán or Las Palmas de Gran Canaria offer a wide range of hotels and a privileged location near the most emblematic beaches.

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