Gran Canaria is home to some of the most famous beaches in the Canary Islands. The southern coast of the island is known for its warm climate, long sandy beaches, and calm waters that attract visitors all year round. Many of these beaches are located near the island’s main tourist areas and offer excellent facilities including restaurants, beach bars, sunbeds, and water sports. They are perfect for visitors who want beautiful scenery combined with comfort and easy access.
Maspalomas beach
Maspalomas Beach is one of the most iconic beaches on Gran Canaria. The beach stretches for several kilometers along the southern coast and is famous for the spectacular Maspalomas sand dunes, where rolling golden dunes meet the Atlantic Ocean.
Walking through the dunes feels like exploring a small desert before reaching the beach. Near the lighthouse you’ll find restaurants, shops, and beach bars, while the eastern side connects with Playa del Inglés.
Anfi del Mar
Anfi del Mar is famous for its white imported sand and crystal-clear water. Palm trees and a small marina create a tropical atmosphere that makes this beach one of the most picturesque on the island.
The calm water makes it especially popular with families and visitors looking for a relaxing beach day.
Playa de Amadores
Playa de Amadores is known for its calm turquoise water and soft golden sand. The beach lies in a protected bay on the southwest coast, making it perfect for swimming and relaxing.
Restaurants and cafés line the promenade above the beach, offering beautiful views over the ocean and the surrounding cliffs.
Playa del Inglés
Playa del Inglés is one of the most popular beaches on the island and attracts visitors from around the world. The wide sandy beach offers plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and long walks along the coast.
Because it connects directly with Maspalomas Beach, many visitors enjoy walking along the shoreline between the two beaches while enjoying views of the famous dunes.
Playa de San Agustin
Playa de San Agustín is a quieter alternative to the nearby beaches of Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas. The dark golden sand and calm water make it a relaxing place to swim and sunbathe. A long seaside promenade connects the beach with neighboring resorts and offers several restaurants and cafés with ocean views.
Playa de Mogán
Located next to the charming harbor village Puerto de Mogán, this beach offers calm water and a peaceful atmosphere. The beach is protected by the harbor and is ideal for swimming.
After visiting the beach, many visitors explore the beautiful streets of Puerto de Mogán, often called “Little Venice”.
Meloneras beach
Meloneras Beach lies west of the Maspalomas lighthouse and offers a quieter alternative to the busy resort beaches nearby. The long seaside promenade is lined with restaurants and shops.
From the beach you can enjoy beautiful sunset views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Playa de Puerto Rico
Located in the resort town of Puerto Rico, this beach sits in a sheltered bay that provides calm swimming conditions. It is popular with families and offers a wide range of water activities.
Nearby restaurants and cafés make it easy to spend the whole day by the sea.
Playa de Taurito
Playa de Taurito is a small beach located between steep cliffs near the town of Taurito. The sheltered location protects the beach from strong waves, making it a good place for swimming.
The surrounding cliffs create a unique and dramatic setting.
Playa del Cura
Playa del Cura is a relaxed beach located close to Tauro and Amadores. It offers a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views over the ocean.
The beach is especially popular for its spectacular sunsets.
Playa de Patalavaca
Playa de Patalavaca is a quiet beach located near Arguineguín. Compared to the larger resort beaches nearby, this beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere.
Local restaurants and cafés along the promenade make it a pleasant place to spend the day.
Playa de Tauro
Playa de Tauro is a beautiful beach located between Amadores and Playa del Cura on the southwest coast of Gran Canaria. The golden sand and clear water create a relaxing atmosphere that is usually quieter than the nearby resort beaches. It is also known for its spectacular sunsets, when the sun sets directly over the Atlantic Ocean.
Playa de las Marañuelas
Located in the fishing town of Arguineguín, this beach has a very local and authentic atmosphere. The calm bay is often used by local fishermen and small boats, giving the area a traditional coastal feel. The nearby promenade and restaurants make it a pleasant place to spend the afternoon.