Gran Canaria, the third largest island in the Canary Islands, has 236 kilometers of coastline with 60 kilometers of beaches and is unsurprisingly, a supremely popular holiday destination. Many of Gran Canaria's beaches are considered some of the finest in the Canary Islands, and with 60 kilometers of them to choose from, there is bound to be something for everyone.
Maspalomas beach is considered one of the finest on the island. This long stretch of beach has sweeping golden sands set against shallow, clean blue waters. Well-kept and guarded by local police, you can feel safe and secure with children on this beach. However, there is one caveat, this beach is divided into four areas and one of those is nudist. Section 1 is for families, 2 and 4 are for nudists and 3 is frequented by the vibrant gay community.
Located on the southern tip of Gran Canaria just to the west of Maspalomas beach, Playa del Ingles is one of the most famous beaches in Europe. Just under three kilometers long, this beach allows holidaymakers to play beach volleyball, play music and offers water sports like sailing, water skiing and jet skiing. Like many other beaches, the Playa del Ingles has local vendors selling refreshments, ice cream and other goods like sunscreen you'll need it!
Many of Gran Canaria's busiest hotels are located in Puerto Rico and so is its busiest beach. The golden sand of this beach attracts countless people who want to swim, sail, dive and take boat trips out onto the inviting sea. There is also a public swimming pool, golf courses, water park and shopping centre within a short walk from the beach, so you can plan an afternoon of activities without extra travel time. Because of its central location, this beach is easily accessible by local buses and even shuttles from particular hotels.
The popular, hot place to be during the summer months has to be Las Canteras Beach in the capital city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. It is three kilometers long and usually full of beachgoers when the weather is warm. In the waters off the beach is a barrier reef of coral sandstone called La Barra. Because of this barrier reef, swimmers can enjoy warm, tranquil waters within it. Just south of the beach is an area packed with locally run shops, cafes and open-air restaurants.
Located on the southwestern coast of Gran Canaria near Puerto Mogan and the Playa del Ingles, the Playa Taurito is an oasis amid busier beaches. This small stretch of beach has soft sand and a convenient location. You can easily walk to nearby cafes, restaurants and local shops. It's easy to get to whether or not you have a car because it is close to a bus stop and has an underground parking structure.
On the southwestern side of the island is the Playa de Amadores, which earned a Blue Flag award in 2004. A Blue Flag award is given to beaches that have met strict environmental, safety and water quality standards. This 800 meter long stretch of beach has soft, clean golden sand set against clear, calm waters. Its name alludes to the type of crowd it attracts: couples. Playa de Amadores means "Lover's Beach" in Spanish. This is a peaceful beach because the city does not permit games or loud music to be played.
If you're staying in the capital city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, you can visit the Playa de las Alcaravaneras, which is located within city limits. This beach is wonderfully relaxing, due in part to the tranquil waters off of its shores. While it is a peaceful beach, you are free to play a game of beach volleyball or rent a kayak or sailboat. On both the north and south ends of the beach are sailing clubs that you can visit to rent a boat or just to see the expensive ships. If you are staying within the capital city, many hotels offer shuttles between the facility and the beach.
Puerto de Mogan, a quaint fishing village on the southern coast of Gran Canaria, has a charming stretch of beach that is loved by families. There is clear, blue calm waters with areas to snorkell and are perfect for children learning how to swim. Visitors to the beach can rent umbrellas, kayaks and canoes as well as stop at a local vendor to pick up something cool to drink and eat. With its location on the southern coast of the island and close proximity to many other attractions, this beach can easily fit into a busy schedule while you are travelling to other attractions.
If you're looking for a relaxing and serene environment while on the beach, Playa Meloneras is perfect. This 500 meter beach attracts families because it is less crowded than others on the southern end of the island. The warm, calm waters are perfect for swimming and cooling off after sunbathing. It is only a short walk to nearby well-rated eateries, chic shops and four-star resorts.
Another relaxing beach on Gran Canaria is Playa de San Agustin. This beach is far away from the other busy stretches on the island and their tourist crowds. This sandy beach is less than 700 meters long and is much quieter than many others. It is less frequented so you'll have room to sprawl out or throw a Frisbee if you'd like. Nearby are great restaurants, bars and locally run shops if you'd like a break from beach bumming.