Gran Canaria, one of the Canary Islands, is a popular destination for beach lovers. With over 100 beaches to choose from, there is something for everyone. From secluded coves to busy resort beaches, Gran Canaria has it all.
One of the most famous beaches in Gran Canaria is Maspalomas Beach. This long stretch of golden sand is backed by impressive sand dunes and is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming. Another popular beach is Las Canteras, located in the capital city of Las Palmas. This urban beach is known for its crystal-clear water and is a great spot for surfing and snorkeling. For those looking for a quieter beach experience, Agaete Natural Pools offer a peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty.
Overview of Beaches in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is a beautiful island with over 100 beaches to choose from. Each beach has its own unique features and characteristics that make it special. Whether you are looking for a secluded spot to relax or a bustling beach with plenty of activities, Gran Canaria has something for everyone.
The beaches in Gran Canaria are known for their fine sand and crystal-clear waters, making them perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Many of the beaches are also surrounded by stunning landscapes, adding to their beauty and allure.
Some of the most popular beaches in Gran Canaria include Playa de Mogán, Playa del Inglés, and Puerto Rico Beach. Playa de Mogán is perfect for families, with its calm waters and plenty of amenities. Playa del Inglés is a great spot for windsurfers, with strong winds and big waves. Puerto Rico Beach is known for dolphin watching and other water activities.
Other notable beaches in Gran Canaria include Anfi del Mar, Güi Güi, and Las Canteras. Anfi del Mar is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, with white sand brought from the Caribbean. Güi Güi is a secluded spot that is perfect for those looking for a quiet escape. Las Canteras is a popular beach in the capital city of Las Palmas, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops nearby.
Maspalomas Beach
Maspalomas Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Gran Canaria, located in the south of the island. It is a long and wide beach, stretching for about 6 kilometers, with golden sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach is backed by impressive sand dunes, which are a protected nature reserve.
Facilities at Maspalomas
Maspalomas Beach is well-equipped with facilities, making it a comfortable and convenient place to spend the day. There are plenty of sun loungers and parasols available for rent, as well as showers and toilets. The beach also has a number of kiosks selling drinks, snacks, and ice creams.
Access to Maspalomas
Access to Maspalomas Beach is easy, with a number of entrances along the beachfront. One of the most popular ways to reach the beach is by walking through the sand dunes from the Riu Palace Maspalomas hotel. The walk takes around 30 minutes and is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area. Alternatively, there is plenty of parking available nearby for those arriving by car.
The Maspalomas Lighthouse is also located nearby, and is a popular attraction for visitors to the beach. It offers great views of the surrounding area and is well worth a visit.
Las Canteras Beach
Las Canteras Beach is the most popular beach in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and is considered one of the best city beaches in Europe. This stunning beach stretches for over 3.5 kilometers and offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Amenities at Las Canteras
Las Canteras Beach is equipped with a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for visitors. Some of the amenities available at the beach include:
- Showers and changing rooms
- Sun loungers and umbrellas for rent
- Lifeguards on duty during the day
- Public toilets
- Beachside cafes and restaurants
Accessibility of Las Canteras
Las Canteras Beach is easily accessible by public transport, with several bus routes stopping nearby. The beach is also wheelchair accessible, with wheelchair ramps and accessible toilets available.
For those who want to surf, Las Canteras Beach is an excellent spot for beginners and experienced surfers alike. The waves are consistent and the beach is home to several surf schools that offer lessons and equipment rental.
Puerto Rico Beach
Puerto Rico Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Gran Canaria, located in the Mogán area of the sunny south. This 280-meter-long beach is known for its golden sand and calm waters, making it perfect for families with children.
Services at Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico Beach offers a range of services to visitors, including sun loungers, sunshades, and showers. The beach also has good toilet facilities, which are well-maintained and clean. There are several restaurants and cafes nearby, where visitors can enjoy a variety of local and international cuisine.
Getting to Puerto Rico
Getting to Puerto Rico Beach is easy, as it is well-connected by public transport. Visitors can take a bus from the nearby towns of Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés, or they can drive and park in one of the nearby car parks. The beach is also accessible by taxi or private transfer.
Playa del Inglés
Located in the south of Gran Canaria, Playa del Inglés is a three-kilometer-long beach that is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island. The beach is known for its fine golden sand, calm waters, and year-round sunshine, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Playa del Inglés Facilities
Playa del Inglés offers visitors a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. These include:
- Showers and changing rooms
- Sun loungers and parasols for rent
- Beach bars and restaurants
- Lifeguards on duty during peak season
- Access for people with disabilities
Reaching Playa del Inglés
There are several ways to reach Playa del Inglés. Visitors can take a taxi or bus from the airport, or rent a car to explore the island at their own pace. The beach is also easily accessible from nearby resorts such as Maspalomas and San Agustin.
Amadores Beach
Located on the south-west coast of Gran Canaria, Amadores Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. With its stunning curved bay, turquoise waters, and white sand, it’s no surprise that Amadores Beach is often referred to as one of the most beautiful beaches in Gran Canaria.
Amadores Beach Services
Amadores Beach offers a range of services for visitors, including showers, toilets, changing rooms, and sun loungers. There are also several beach bars and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. The beach is also wheelchair accessible, with ramps leading down to the sand.
Access to Amadores
Access to Amadores Beach is easy, with several bus routes running to the nearby town of Puerto Rico. If you’re driving, there’s a large car park nearby where you can park your car for a fee. It’s worth noting that the beach can get quite busy during peak season, so it’s best to arrive early to secure a good spot.
In summary, Amadores Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Gran Canaria. With its stunning scenery, range of services, and easy access, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.
Anfi del Mar
Anfi del Mar is a stunning beach located in the south of Gran Canaria. It is known for its tranquil waters and fine, white sand, making it an ideal destination for tourists looking for a peaceful and relaxing beach experience.
Anfi del Mar Amenities
Anfi del Mar offers a wide range of amenities to cater to the needs of its visitors. The beach has sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent at a reasonable price of 12 Euros for two sunbeds and one umbrella. The beach is also equipped with toilets, showers, and changing rooms.
The beach is perfect for families with children as it has a shallow and calm shoreline, which is safe for swimming. There are buoys in the water that indicate how far you can venture out into the ocean, making it easy to keep an eye on children.
Getting to Anfi del Mar
Anfi del Mar is easily accessible by car or public transport. If you are driving, there is ample parking available near the beach. If you are using public transport, you can take a bus from the nearby towns of Puerto Rico, Maspalomas, or Playa del Ingles.
San Agustín Beach
San Agustín Beach is located in the south of Gran Canaria and is part of the resort town of San Agustín. This beach is known for its calm and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great spot for relaxation and sunbathing.
Facilities at San Agustín
San Agustín Beach offers a range of facilities to visitors, including showers, toilets, and changing rooms. There are also several restaurants and cafes nearby where visitors can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink. The beach is also equipped with sun loungers and parasols, which can be rented for a fee.
Access to San Agustín
San Agustín Beach is easily accessible by car and public transport. There are several bus routes that stop near the beach, making it easy to get to from other parts of Gran Canaria. Parking is also available near the beach, although it can be limited during peak season.
Less Crowded Beaches
If you’re looking for a more secluded and peaceful beach experience on Gran Canaria, there are a few hidden gems that are worth checking out. Here are three less crowded beaches that you may want to consider:
Güi Güi Beach
Located on the western coast of Gran Canaria, Güi Güi Beach is a remote and secluded spot that requires a bit of effort to reach. To get there, you’ll need to hike for about 2-3 hours along a rocky trail that can be challenging at times. However, the effort is well worth it once you arrive at the beach. With its crystal-clear waters, pristine sand, and stunning mountain backdrop, Güi Güi is a true paradise for nature lovers and adventurers.
Playa de las Nieves
Situated in the charming fishing village of Agaete, Playa de las Nieves is a beautiful and tranquil beach that is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. The beach is relatively small, but it boasts calm and clear waters that are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Additionally, there are several restaurants and cafes nearby where you can enjoy some fresh seafood and local delicacies.
Sardina del Norte
Located on the north coast of Gran Canaria, Sardina del Norte is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists. The beach is small and secluded, with black volcanic sand and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming and diving. There are also several caves and rock formations nearby that are worth exploring. While Sardina del Norte may not have the same amenities and facilities as some of the more popular beaches on the island, it offers a unique and authentic beach experience that is well worth the visit.
A cool shot of the silhouette of a windsurfer in the air at golden hour
Activities on Gran Canaria Beaches
Gran Canaria’s beaches offer a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day soaking up the sun or an adrenaline-filled adventure, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.
Families
Many of Gran Canaria’s beaches are perfect for families with children. The calm waters of Playa de Amadores and Puerto Rico Beach make them ideal for swimming and playing. Playa de Mogán is another family-friendly option with its shallow waters and gentle waves.
Sports and Activities
For those who enjoy sports and activities, Gran Canaria’s beaches offer plenty of options. Playa del Inglés is a popular spot for windsurfing, while Las Canteras Beach is a great place for beach volleyball. Hiking enthusiasts will love the rugged coastline and scenic trails that lead to secluded coves and hidden beaches.
Diving and Watersports
Gran Canaria’s clear waters make it a popular destination for diving and watersports. The island has several dive centers that offer courses and guided dives for all levels of experience. Playa Taurito and Playa de Mogán are popular spots for snorkeling, while Puerto de Mogán is a great place for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
Nightlife and Dining
Gran Canaria offers a vibrant nightlife and dining scene that caters to all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a lively bar, or a night of dancing, you’ll find plenty of options to choose from.
Restaurants on the island range from traditional Canarian cuisine to international favorites. Some of the most popular restaurants include Restaurante El Novillo Precoz, which serves delicious steaks, and Restaurante La Aquarela, which specializes in seafood. For those looking for a more casual dining experience, there are plenty of tapas bars and cafes serving tasty snacks and drinks.
When it comes to nightlife, Gran Canaria has something for everyone. The island is home to a variety of bars and clubs, ranging from laid-back pubs to high-energy nightclubs. The Yumbo Centre in Playa del Ingles is one of the most popular nightlife spots on the island, with a wide range of bars and clubs catering to all tastes.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed evening, head to one of the island’s many beachfront bars and restaurants. The beachfront promenade in Las Palmas is a great place to enjoy a drink or meal while taking in the stunning ocean views.
Accommodation Options
Gran Canaria has a wide range of accommodation options to cater to all budgets and preferences. From luxurious beachfront resorts to budget-friendly hostels, there is something for everyone.
Hotels are the most popular type of accommodation on the island, with options ranging from basic to extravagant. Many hotels offer all-inclusive packages, which can be a great option for those looking to save money on food and drinks.
Some of the most popular hotels on Gran Canaria include the Radisson Blu Resort, the Gloria Palace Amadores Thalasso & Hotel, and the Seaside Palm Beach. These hotels offer a range of amenities, including swimming pools, restaurants, and spa facilities.
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, there are plenty of hostels and guesthouses on the island. These options are ideal for backpackers and solo travelers, as they offer affordable accommodation in a social environment.
Some of the most popular hostels on Gran Canaria include the Albergue Gran Canaria, the Big Fish Hostel, and the Sun & Moon Hostel. These hostels offer dormitory-style accommodation, as well as private rooms for those who prefer more privacy.