The 10 most beautiful beaches in Gran Canaria

Where are the most beautiful beaches on the multifaceted Canary Island?

Gran Canaria is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Spain. The reason: The weather on the Canary Island is consistently good, there are countless dream beaches, great sights and picturesque mountain villages as well as lots of action-packed activities to experience. So there are the best conditions for a wonderful holiday in Spain. So that your next vacation on the Canary Islands will be a real success, I present you the most beautiful beaches on Gran Canaria.

Basics on Gran Canaria

The Spanish island of Gran Canaria is one of the Canary Islands. It is the third largest Canary Island after Tenerife and Fuerteventura and a popular travel destination for families, couples and water sports enthusiasts.

Gran Canaria is influenced by the trade winds, which ensure optimal wind and weather conditions. They are the reason why so many water sports enthusiasts spend their holidays in Gran Canaria.

1. Playa de Maspalomas – Desert meets sea

Maspalomas is one of the most popular holiday resorts in Gran Canaria. The reason for this is certainly the Playa de Maspalomas. Because over 6 kilometers in length, the fine sandy dream beach has everything a holidaymaker’s heart desires.

The highlight is truly the extensive dunes of Maspalomas with sand mountains up to 20 meters high. When hiking through the breathtaking natural scenery, you could easily think you are in the middle of the desert.

So it’s no wonder that Maspalomas Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on Gran Canaria. East of the dune landscape you will find the landmark of Gran Canaria, the lighthouse Faro de Maspalomas.

By the way, nudism is allowed at Playa de Maspalomas, so you can go swimming without clothes at any time. What more do you want?

Playa de Maspalomas information

How do I get to Playa de Maspalomas? Within the resort you can easily reach the beach on foot. If you have stayed somewhere else, public transport is the best option.
Is Playa de Maspalomas suitable for families? Yes, the beach is a true paradise for your family vacation.
Are there lifeguards at Playa de Maspalomas? There are lifeguards at Playa de Maspalomas.
Are there toilets at Playa de Maspalomas? There are sufficient sanitary facilities on site.
Are there beach bars at Playa de Maspalomas? Your hunger is well catered for. Numerous beach bars and restaurants will satisfy your growling stomach.
Is there parking at Playa de Maspalomas? Yes, there is parking but it is limited. If you want to snag a free one, you need to get there early.

2. Playa del Inglés – the all-rounder

Beach mermaids and sunbathers gather in the south of Gran Canaria, because Playa del Inglés is a dream beach as it is written in books. A wide sandy beach, crystal clear water, lots of restaurants and countless shopping opportunities ensure that holidaymakers have everything they need.

If you are thirsty for water sports, you can test your skills at jet skiing, surfing or flyboarding. At night you can join the party people and celebrate until the wee hours.

Playa del Inglés is also popular with children and adults and is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches on Gran Canaria.

Playa del Inglés information

How do I get to Playa del Inglés? The beach in the south of Gran Canaria is well signposted and cannot be missed. If you are not spending your vacation in the area, you should look out for a suitable bus connection.
Is Playa del Inglés suitable for families? Playa del Inglés is a family-friendly beach.
Are there lifeguards at Playa del Inglés? Lifeguards ensure your safety on site.
Are there toilets at Playa del Inglés? Yes, there are toilets on the beach.
Are there beach bars at Playa del Inglés? There are a few beach bars along Playa del Inglés.
Is there parking at Playa del Inglés? Yes, but these are quickly overcrowded, especially in the summer months.
Tip: Playa del Inglés surf school or jeep safari

3. Playa de Amadores – the romantic bay

A real Gran Canaria tip for couples and lovers is Playa de Amadores on the southwest coast of the island. In a bay sheltered from the open sea, an 800 meter long beach with golden sand and deep blue water welcomes you.

Thanks to its sheltered location, Playa de Amadores only has moderate waves. Although this is not the right beach for water sports enthusiasts, it is all the more suitable for families with children.

The very calm water, a shallow entrance into the sea and lifeguards make Playa Amadores a safe playground for little adventurers. In the evening hours you should not miss the picturesque sunset.

Then you will immediately understand why Playa de Amadores belongs on the list of the most beautiful beaches on Gran Canaria.

Playa de Amadores information

How do I get to Playa de Amadores? Not far from the port of Puerto Rico you will find Playa de Amadores. From Maspalomas, drive about 15 minutes west along the coast.
Is Playa de Amadores suitable for families? The beach is a true paradise for families. The numerous playgrounds make the beach section a special destination.
Are there lifeguards at Playa de Amadores? There are lifeguards at Playa de Amadores.
Are there toilets at Playa de Amadores? Numerous sanitary facilities line the beach.
Are there beach bars at Playa de Amadores? Yes, restaurants and cafés leave nothing to be desired.
Is there parking at Playa de Amadores? There is some parking, but it can fill up quickly, especially in high season.

4. Playa de las Canteras – the capital’s beach

Playa de las Canteras is the main beach of Gran Canaria. In the northeast of the island and in the middle of Las Palmas lies the golden sandy beach.

The urban beach offers the perfect mix of optimal relaxation and vibrant city life. Unlike many other city beaches, Playa de las Canteras is a real gem.

Recreation, shopping, water sports, nightlife – all bundled in one place. This diversity has earned the beach a place among the top beaches in Gran Canaria.

Playa de las Canteras information

How do I get to Playa de las Canteras? The approximately three kilometer long beach in the capital Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is located in the city center. From Maspalomas you need about two hours by public transport to the north of the island.
Is Playa de las Canteras suitable for families? Yes, the versatile city beach is particularly suitable for families.
Are there lifeguards at Playa de las Canteras? Lifeguards ensure your safety on site.
Are there toilets at Playa de las Canteras? At Playa de las Canteras you will find sufficient sanitary facilities.
Are there beach bars at Playa de las Canteras? Along the promenade you will find some beach bars.
Is there parking at Playa de las Canteras? Parking spaces are available in the vicinity.

5. Playa del Confital – Wild & Natural

In Las Palmas de Gran Canaria you will find another, rather inconspicuous stretch of beach next to the main beach. The natural Playa del Confital was awarded the blue flag due to its top water quality.

This beach has perfect wind and water conditions for all kinds of sports. Especially passionate surfers have learned to love this beach.

But also many friends of free physical culture cavort on the specially signposted section of beach. Since there are no loungers, parasols or any tourist facilities on this beach, you should think about enough provisions.

Playa del Confital may not be a typical postcard beach, but it is still one of the most beautiful beaches on Gran Canaria.

Playa del Confital information

How do I get to Playa del Confital? It takes about 20 minutes by car from Las Palmas city center. But be careful: Unless you are driving an off-road vehicle, you should be careful, because the last few meters will lead you over rough gravel roads.
Is Playa del Confital suitable for families? The outdoor paradise is not necessarily suitable for families with small children.
Are there lifeguards at Playa del Confital? Lifeguards are mostly only in the summer months at Playa del Confital.
Are there toilets at Playa del Confital? Toilets are available in high season.
Are there beach bars at Playa del Confital? There are no beach bars at Playa del Confital.
Is there parking at Playa del Confital? There is parking near the beach.

6. Playa de Anfi – Fun & Excitement

The artificial Playa de Anfi is located in the south of Gran Canaria, about 15 minutes by car from Maspalomas, and belongs to the hotel of the same name. But even as non-hotel guests you can relax on the diverse beach and experience an incomparable holiday by the sea.

Due to the varied possibilities, Playa de Anfi is one of the most picturesque beaches on Gran Canaria. In addition to pure relaxation, you have the opportunity to pursue numerous water sports activities.

Your older kids in particular will get their money’s worth here. What do you think of thrill and suspense?

Then you should definitely go jet skiing or race across the sea in a banana boat. You can also stroll through small boutiques on the nearby beach promenade and grab a souvenir or two.

Playa de Anfi information

How do I get to Playa de Anfi? From the resort of Puerto Rico, bus lines 1 and 91 go to Playa de Anfi every 30 minutes. You can also use public transport from Maspalomas.
Is Playa de Anfi suitable for families? The crystal-clear water and the wide range of leisure activities create the perfect conditions for a family holiday.
Are there lifeguards at Playa de Anfi? If you want to spend a day at Playa de Anfi, lifeguards will ensure your safety.
Are there toilets at Playa de Anfi? There are toilets at Playa de Anfi.
Are there beach bars at Playa de Anfi? The gastronomic offer leaves nothing to be desired.
Is there parking at Playa de Anfi? Paid parking spaces are available on site.

7. Playa de Mogán – the paradise for the little ones in the family

Are you longing for a quiet stretch of beach? Then Playa de Mogán, in the romantic holiday resort of the same name, is just right for you.

Before you spread out your towels on the picturesque beach, you should definitely stroll through the cute alleys of Puerto de Mogán and soak up the Mediterranean ambience with its canals.

As soon as you arrive at the beach, you will immediately see why Playa de Mogán is one of the best beaches in Gran Canaria. The man-made breakwater creates a calm bay where your youngest can easily swim.

The area also knows how to convince with an incredible range of water sports. If you want to get closer to nature, you should take part in one of the numerous boat tours – with a bit of luck you can see dolphins in the sea.

Playa de Mogan info

How do I get to Playa de Mogán? The beach is right in the authentic Puerto de Mogán. From Maspalomas you drive about 20 minutes by car. There are also regular buses along the west coast.
Is Playa de Mogán suitable for families? Due to the breakwater, the shallow water is ideal for families. In addition, numerous activities ensure a lot of fun.
Are there lifeguards at Playa de Mogán? Yes, there are lifeguards on site.
Are there toilets at Playa de Mogán? You will find toilets on the beach.
Are there beach bars at Playa de Mogán? On the promenade, several restaurants will take care of your physical well-being.
Is there parking at Playa de Mogán? There is a paid parking garage. But with a bit of luck you will find a parking space in the surrounding streets.

8. Playa de Güigüí – pure tranquility and idyll

A true paradise awaits you in the west of the island and one of the loneliest beaches on Gran Canaria. If you want to explore the island away from the tourist hustle and bustle, you should definitely find out more about Playa de Güigüí.

Surrounded by wild rocky landscapes, the unique scenery will literally take your breath away. If you are not arriving on one of the boat tours by sea, you have to expect a longer walk.

To do this, drive your car to the small town of Tasartico. Once there, you should park your car at the end of the town and follow a gravel road towards the coast.

After almost a kilometer over hill and dale you have a fascinating view of the roaring Atlantic. Due to the tranquility and idyll, the beach is a welcome change, especially for the friends of naturism among you.

Playa de Güigüí information

How do I get to Playa de Güigüí? As mentioned before, you have to arrive with your own rental car or take part in one of the tours offered (tip: dolphin watching and Güigüí Beach).
Is Playa de Güigüí suitable for families? Due to the remote location, the beach is not necessarily suitable for families.
Are there lifeguards at Playa de Güigüí? There are no lifeguards on the beach.
Are there toilets at Playa de Güigüí? You will not find any sanitary facilities on site.
Are there beach bars at Playa de Güigüí? There are no beach bars at Playa de Güigüí.
Is there parking at Playa de Güigüí? Also, there is no parking on the beach.

9. Playa de Tasarte – away from the tourist hotspots

If you long for the originality of Gran Canaria, Playa de Tasarte is an ideal destination. The stone beach in the west of the island is surrounded by imposing rocky landscapes and impresses with its rough atmosphere.

The journey alone over steep, narrow serpentines promises pure excitement and will make you sweat from time to time. But as soon as you reach the small, tranquil town of Tasarte, an incredible sense of calm will surround you.

Due to the stony ground, you should definitely think of sturdy shoes – otherwise you won’t be able to swim. But you will quickly notice that this is not necessarily the main reason why Playa de Tasarte is one of the top beaches on Gran Canaria.

Because the sleepy ambience, the unique panorama and the Oliva restaurant make this place a special place. If you want to taste the delicious dishes, you should definitely ask the locals for some insider tips – it’s worth it!

Playa de Tasarte information

How do I get to Playa de Tasarte? From Puerto de Mogán you drive about an hour by car or bus. Once in Tasarte, the beach cannot be missed.
Is Playa de Tasarte suitable for families? Due to the nature of the beach, it is not necessarily suitable for families.
Are there lifeguards at Playa de Tasarte? There are no lifeguards.
Are there toilets at Playa de Tasarte? At Playa de Tasarte you can use a toilet.
Are there beach bars at Playa de Tasarte? There is a restaurant on the beach.
Is there parking at Playa de Tasarte? There is parking above the beach.

10. Playa de la Garita – Relaxation on the east coast

Also on the east coast of Gran Canaria you will find some beaches where you can relax for hours and let your soul dangle. You should be familiar with Playa de la Garita near the second largest city of Telde.

After you’ve explored the streets of Telde, you’re bound to long for a dip in the cool water. At Playa de la Garita, in the town of the same name, a family-friendly, dark sandy beach awaits you.

You should also think about a stopover at Playa de Melenara. In addition, La Garita is known for the natural spectacle El Bufadero.

Whenever the water makes its way through the surf holes at high tide, there is an impressive roar that you should not miss during your stay in the small town.

Playa de la Garita information

How do I get to Playa de la Garita? From Telde you drive about five minutes by car.
Is Playa de la Garita suitable for families? Yes, the beach is particularly suitable for families.
Are there lifeguards at Playa de la Garita? Lifeguards ensure your safety on the beach.
Are there toilets at Playa de la Garita? You don’t have to do without sanitary facilities.
Are there beach bars at Playa de la Garita? You will find a restaurant on the beach.
Is there parking at Playa de la Garita? There are some parking facilities on site.