Best Beaches in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria has some of the finest beaches in Europe, and the variety is genuinely impressive. From the sweeping dune-backed sands of Maspalomas to the sheltered, turquoise waters of Amadores, and from the urban charm of Las Canteras to the remote wildness of Güi Güi, the island offers something for every type of beach-goer.
Maspalomas Beach and Dunes
What it is best for: jaw-dropping scenery, long walks, the full Gran Canaria experience.
Maspalomas is the island's most iconic beach. The beach itself stretches for several kilometres, backed by a vast natural reserve of golden sand dunes that roll towards the ocean. The dunes are protected and cannot be developed, which means this stretch of coastline looks much as it has for centuries.
Playa del Inglés
What it is best for: a classic, bustling resort beach with every facility on hand.
Playa del Inglés runs directly into Maspalomas and is one of the longest stretches of sandy beach in the Canary Islands. It is a traditional resort beach in the best sense — wide, sandy, well-equipped with sunbeds and parasols for hire, and lined with beach bars and restaurants.
Amadores
What it is best for: young families, calm water, beautiful setting.
Amadores is a purpose-built resort beach set in a sheltered bay between Puerto Rico and Mogán. The sand is imported and the water is exceptionally calm. It is probably the best beach on the island for young children.
Playa de Mogán
What it is best for: atmosphere, scenery, a quieter day out.
Playa de Mogán is the beach adjacent to the pretty resort of Puerto de Mogán, sometimes called "Little Venice" for its canal-side setting and bougainvillea-covered bridges. The beach is relatively small, with calm, sheltered water and a picturesque backdrop.
Las Canteras, Las Palmas
What it is best for: an urban beach experience, calm water, local character.
Las Canteras is the city beach of Las Palmas, consistently rated among the best urban beaches in Europe. The beach runs for around three kilometres, backed by a lively promenade. What makes Las Canteras special is the La Barra reef, which creates a large, calm lagoon ideal for swimming.
Güi Güi
What it is best for: adventure, seclusion, dramatic scenery.
Güi Güi is accessible only by boat or by a challenging several-hour hike. It is one of the most remote and untouched beaches on the island — a wild stretch of dark volcanic sand backed by towering cliffs, with no facilities whatsoever.
Which Beach Should You Choose?
For spectacular scenery: Maspalomas and the dunes. For families with young children: Amadores or Puerto Rico beach. For a quiet, pretty atmosphere: Playa de Mogán. For a full resort experience: Playa del Inglés. For local character: Las Canteras, Las Palmas. For adventure and seclusion: Güi Güi (by boat).
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