San Agustín

Gran Canaria’s Quiet Achiever with a Scandinavian Flavour

If Playa del Inglés is a carnival and Maspalomas a desert catwalk, San Agustín is the older sibling who’s learned to enjoy life at a gentler pace.

Tucked just east of Playa del Inglés, it’s one of the island’s earliest resorts. It’s a place that hasn’t gone chasing neon lights or karaoke nights, but instead sticks to what it knows, relaxation and sea views with a unique Scandinavian vibe.

San Agustín feels lived-in, not staged. Apartments outnumber hotels, and many regulars come back year after year for the calm atmosphere. It’s a resort where you’ll hear “hej” as often as “hola”, thanks to its popularity with Nordic visitors.

Sun-bathers will find San Agustín’s beach broad, volcanic, and far less crowded than its brasher neighbours. The sand is darker, the waves a little livelier, and the vibe altogether quieter. Locals and long-stay visitors dot the sunbeds here, reading thick paperbacks or dozing under umbrellas.

This isn’t the spot for adrenaline-junkies. San Agustín instead excels at strolls along the coastal promenade, lingering meals, and long swims. The nearby Thalassotherapy centre draws wellness seekers who swear by its sea-water treatments. If you do fancy more buzz, Playa del Inglés is a 15-minute walk away, close enough for fun, far enough for peace.

When it’s time to eat, you’ll find San Agustín peppered with excellent restaurants, many run by Nordic families who settled here decades ago. Seafront terraces dish up fresh fish, and there’s nothing quite like a sunset grilled tuna with a glass of local white wine.

Come to San Agustín if you like your holidays to be more about conversations, healthy pursuits and sea breezes than late night neon and thumping basslines. Gran Canaria’s understated oasis quietly awaits you.
 
 

San Agustín, Gran Canaria - FAQs for Visitors

Why choose San Agustín over the bigger resorts?

Because sometimes less is more. San Agustín is Playa del Inglés’ quieter cousin, fewer neon lights, fewer late-night congas, and far more room to hear yourself think. It’s where you come if you want relaxation without total isolation.

What’s the beach like?

A wide sweep of dark golden sand with rolling Atlantic waves. It’s not as powdery as Maspalomas’ dunes, but it has character and space. Great for long walks, sunbathing with a novel, or simply zoning out to the rhythm of the ocean.

How’s the local transport?

Very good. Regular buses connect San Agustín with Playa del Inglés, Maspalomas and Puerto Rico. From the airport it takes around 20 minutes by car. Unless you’re heading inland, you don't really need a hire-car.

Is it walkable to Playa del Inglés?

Yes, and it’s a lovely stroll along the coastal promenade. About 15 minutes and you’re in the thick of it, which makes San Agustín the perfect “quiet base, lively neighbour” option.

What about San Augustin's nightlife?

It’s there, but low-key. Expect live music in hotel bars, quiet terraces with cocktails, and maybe the odd pub showing football. If you want foam parties and drag shows, see above.

What’s the shopping like?

Modest. A couple of small shopping centres with minimarkets, pharmacies, and boutiques selling clothes, shoes, and souvenirs. For serious retail therapy, hop over to Playa del Inglés or Las Palmas.

Who tends to holiday here?

Scandinavians in particular, Norwegians, Swedes, and Finns have been coming here for decades. You’ll hear “hej” and “takk” as often as “hola”. That gives the resort an international, but still mellow, flavour.

Any cultural attractions?

To be honest, not really. San Agustín isn’t about museums or monuments. The culture here is all about Canarian and Nordic dining, the laid-back lifestyle, and the feeling of living more like a local than a tourist.

What’s the “don’t miss” moment?

A slow dinner at one of the seafront restaurants, watching the sun sink into the Atlantic while the waves keep up their steady applause. It’s San Agustín in a nutshell, peaceful, scenic, and quietly memorable..

What’s the weather like?

Almost unfailingly sunny. Being on the south coast, San Agustín gets some of the island’s driest and warmest weather. It’s basically a safe bet for a year-round tan.