The 10 Best Beaches in Gran Canaria for an Unforgettable Coastal Escape

Gran Canaria, often called a miniature continent, boasts a diverse range of landscapes, from golden dunes to rugged cliffs and volcanic black sand beaches. Whether you’re seeking a lively tourist hotspot, a hidden natural retreat, or a paradise for water sports, this island has it all.

In this guide, we explore the 10 best beaches in Gran Canaria, showcasing their unique charm and why they deserve a visit.

1. Playa de Maspalomas – The Iconic Dunes and Golden Sand

🌍 Location: Southern Gran Canaria
🏖 Best for: Sunbathing, photography, nature lovers

Playa de Maspalomas is one of the most famous beaches in Gran Canaria, stretching for several kilometers along the stunning Maspalomas Dunes, a protected natural reserve. The golden sand and warm, shallow waters make it ideal for relaxing walks and sunbathing.

Why visit?
✅ Breathtaking sand dunes, perfect for photography
✅ Long beach with plenty of space
✅ Close to bars, restaurants, and resorts

2. Playa de Amadores – A Tranquil Bay with Turquoise Waters

🌍 Location: Puerto Rico, Southwest Gran Canaria
🏖 Best for: Families, couples, calm waters

Playa de Amadores is a man-made beach with golden sand and crystal-clear water, designed for relaxation. The bay is protected from strong waves, making it perfect for swimming and families with children.

Why visit?
✅ Calm, warm waters, ideal for swimming
✅ Plenty of sunbeds and restaurants nearby
✅ Stunning sunset views

3. Playa de Las Canteras – The Best Urban Beach in Spain

🌍 Location: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
🏖 Best for: Surfing, snorkeling, city life

Playa de Las Canteras is considered one of the best city beaches in Europe. This long, golden beach is famous for La Barra, a natural reef that protects swimmers from strong waves while offering excellent snorkeling spots.

Why visit?
✅ Great mix of city life and beach relaxation
✅ Calm waters in some areas, perfect for families
✅ Excellent surf conditions on the northern side

4. Playa de Güi-Güi – A Hidden Paradise

🌍 Location: West coast, only accessible by hike or boat
🏖 Best for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers

Playa de Güi-Güi is an untouched, remote beach surrounded by towering cliffs. It's only accessible via a challenging hike or by boat, making it one of the most secluded beaches in Gran Canaria.

Why visit?
✅ Wild, unspoiled natural beauty
✅ Peaceful and far from the crowds
✅ Perfect for those seeking adventure

5. Playa de Anfi del Mar – White Sand and Luxury Vibes

🌍 Location: Near Arguineguín, Southwest Gran Canaria
🏖 Best for: Swimming, relaxation, families

Anfi del Mar is an artificial beach with white Caribbean-style sand, imported to create a tropical paradise. The beach offers crystal-clear water, luxury resorts, and plenty of water sports options.

Why visit?
✅ Beautiful white sand and clear waters
✅ Excellent facilities (restaurants, sunbeds, showers)
✅ Family-friendly and easy to access

6. Playa del Inglés – A Lively Tourist Hotspot

🌍 Location: Southern Gran Canaria
🏖 Best for: Nightlife, socializing, long walks

Playa del Inglés is one of the busiest beaches in Gran Canaria, famous for its wide stretch of sand, vibrant atmosphere, and lively nightlife. Whether you want to sunbathe, party, or enjoy a long walk along the shore, this beach has something for everyone.

Why visit?
✅ Perfect for socializing and nightlife
✅ Long promenade with bars and restaurants
✅ Great spot for beach sports

7. Playa de Tauro – A Quiet Alternative to Amadores

🌍 Location: Southwest Gran Canaria
🏖 Best for: Relaxation, fewer crowds

Located close to Playa de Amadores, Playa de Tauro is a smaller, less crowded alternative. The sand is golden, the water is calm, and the atmosphere is much quieter than the main tourist beaches.

Why visit?
✅ Fewer crowds than other nearby beaches
✅ Relaxing atmosphere, perfect for couples
✅ Beautiful turquoise waters

8. Playa de Agaete – Natural Pools and Rocky Beauty

🌍 Location: Northwest Gran Canaria
🏖 Best for: Swimming, photography, relaxation

While not a traditional sandy beach, Playa de Agaete is home to stunning natural rock pools, offering a unique swimming experience with dramatic volcanic landscapes.

Why visit?
✅ Unique rock formations and pools
✅ Great spot for snorkeling
✅ Tranquil, scenic setting

9. Playa de Sardina del Norte – A Diver’s Paradise

🌍 Location: Northern Gran Canaria
🏖 Best for: Snorkeling, diving, local atmosphere

This small fishing village beach is famous for its excellent diving conditions and authentic Canarian charm. Playa de Sardina del Norte is a hidden gem for those looking to escape the touristy south.

Why visit?
✅ Great snorkeling and diving opportunities
✅ Calm, clear waters
✅ Less touristy, more local fee

10. Playa de Tufia – A Traditional Canarian Fishing Spot

🌍 Location: East coast, near Telde
🏖 Best for: Snorkeling, peace and quiet

Playa de Tufia is a tiny, charming black sand beach, located in a traditional fishing village. The beach has crystal-clear waters, making it an excellent snorkeling spot.

Why visit?
✅ Authentic Canarian charm
✅ Great snorkeling opportunities
✅ Quiet and peaceful

📌 Which Gran Canaria Beach Is Right for You?

• For families: Playa de Amadores, Anfi del Mar, Playa del Inglés
• For adventure seekers: Playa de Güi-Güi, Playa de Agaete
• For relaxation: Playa de Tauro, Playa de Maspalomas
• For snorkeling & diving: Playa de Sardina del Norte, Playa de Tufia

Gran Canaria’s coastline is incredibly diverse, offering something for every traveler. Whether you’re looking for secluded natural beauty, exciting nightlife, or the perfect spot for a family vacation, you’ll find it here.