The Canary Islands are the perfect paradise for a getaway at any time of year, and the beaches in Gran Canaria are always a safe bet.
The island of Gran Canaria boasts some of the most beautiful and spectacular beaches of the archipelago. You will find long golden beaches that seem to have no end, but also coves hidden between cliffs, and natural pools that are great to go snorkelling or with children. And the best part: Thanks to the subtropical climate, you can enjoy everything the island has to offer practically all year round.
The people of Gran Canaria claim that their island is like a small continent, and when you visit it you will understand what they mean. The south is warm and dry, with large beaches and calm waters. On the other hand, the north is much wilder, with more volcanic landscapes and even natural pools between rocks. And both in the east and in the west there are perfect places to disconnect or practice water sports. If you are looking for relaxation, here are the best beaches in Gran Canaria.
Maspalomas, one of Gran Canaria's must-see beaches
Surely the most recognised of our selection, because it is the most famous and the protagonist of many snapshots of the island of Gran Canaria. It has huge sand dunes that form a desert landscape by the sea. You can walk, relax on the sand or simply enjoy the silence like nowhere else.
In the background, the Maspalomas Lighthouse marks the beginning of a promenade full of bars and terraces. The beach is very wide, has many quieter areas and other more lively ones. It is also perfectly equipped with all the necessary services.
Pro Tip: If you like to walk on the sand, you can walk along the beach from Maspalomas to Playa del Inglés. It is almost 4 miles, but the views are stunning.
Las Canteras Beach: Las Palmas' urban jewel
Another of the beaches in Gran Canaria that you simply have to visit is Las Canteras, located in the capital (Las Palmas) and considered one of the best urban beaches in Europe. It is perfect for combining a day at the beach with a good meal, an afternoon of shopping or simply taking a stroll through the historic centre.
What makes this beach special is its 'barra', a natural volcanic rock formation that acts as a breakwater and creates a natural pool where you can swim, snorkel or dive safely. When the tide goes out, large puddles appear, perfect for the little ones.
The calm waters of Playa de Amadores
In the south of the island of Gran Canaria, between Puerto Rico and Mogán, you will find Playa de Amadores, a perfect spot if you are looking for complete tranquility. It is an artificial beach with white sand and turquoise waters, quite well protected from the waves. For this reason, it is one of the beaches in Gran Canaria that families with children choose to visit.
It is one of the best beaches in Gran Canaria as it has all the services you need while on holiday: sunbeds for rent, toilets, showers, bars, shops, etc. It also has a walkway that connects to Puerto Rico in case you feel like taking a stroll at night looking out over the sea.
Playa de Güigüi, a secret jewel suitable only for the most adventurous
If adventure and discovering places with fewer tourists is your thing, head for the Playa de Güigüi. It is located on the west coast of Gran Canaria, in a protected natural area, and the hardest part is that to get there you will have to walk about 3 miles from the small village of Tasartico. The path is not easy, but the reward is worth it.
Güigüi is a virgin beach, with no services, roads or crowds. Just sea, black sand, cliffs and the sound of the ocean. If you like hiking, nature and secluded beaches, this is going to be one of your favourites.
One piece of advice: bring water, food and make sure to watch the tide, because access can become complicated if it gets too high. If you want a more comfortable option, it is also possible to reach the beach by boat from Mogán.
These are some of the best beaches in Gran Canaria, although there are also many hidden coves and natural pools, such as El Agujero (Gáldar), Los Charcones (Arucas) or Roque Prieto (Santa María de Guía).
The best way to explore Gran Canaria to the fullest and at your own pace is to rent a car with OK Mobility in Gran Canaria. Choose the model that best suits you and you can make a route of the best beaches in Gran Canaria, because it is the best way to discover all the charms of the island.
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