Sun, sand, and a dash of island soul.

Gran Canaria isn’t called a “miniature continent” for nothing. Within an hour’s coast-to-coast drive, you can hop from wild volcanic coves to golden dune-backed stretches that look like something out of the Sahara. Whether you want to snooze, surf or sip sangria, the island’s coastline has a beach to suit your mood. 

From postcard-perfect to hidden-gem gorgeous: Here's our ten of the best Gran Canaria beaches.

1. Playa de Maspalomas: The Dunes and the Drama
Maspalomas is Gran Canaria’s superstar, where the Sahara meets the sea. The dunes stretch for miles, sculpted by the wind into soft, rolling peaks that beg to be photographed. You can wander barefoot for hours here, eventually stumbling upon the Faro de Maspalomas lighthouse, a sunset spot par excellence. There’s a nudist section tucked discreetly in the middle, and camel rides if you fancy embracing your inner Lawrence of Arabia. Beyond the sand, a promenade lined with cafés and ice-cream stalls keeps civilisation close enough for a cold drink.
 
2. Playa del Inglés: The Sociable Strip
Just east of Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés hums with energy. It’s one of Europe’s most famous resort beaches, and rightly so, a huge, golden arc where the soundtrack is laughter, beach volleyball, and the distant thump of dance music. Here, you can spend the morning swimming, the afternoon people-watching from a chiringuito (beach bar), and the night dancing under fairy lights. If Maspalomas is serene and scenic, Playa del Inglés is its lively younger cousin who never skips happy hour.
 
3. Playa de Amadores: Calm, Classy and Caribbean
If you like your beaches calm and curated, Amadores is perfection. This artificial bay was built for bliss, soft imported white sand, clear turquoise water, and a line of low-key bars serving cocktails by the jug. It’s ideal for families and couples, thanks to its lagoon-like shallows.
The vibe is relaxed and polished; think sunbeds, gentle music, and the occasional floaty unicorn drifting by. Come early evening, stroll the cliffside path to neighbouring Puerto Rico for a drink as the sun dips.
 
4. Playa de Mogán: Picture-Postcard Perfection
Puerto de Mogán is where Gran Canaria gets all romantic. Nicknamed Little Venice for its flower-framed canals and pastel façades, it feels worlds away from the busier resorts.
The beach itself is small but beautiful, fringed by restaurants serving fresh fish straight from the harbour. Snorkelling here is excellent, and a lazy lunch with your toes in the sand is practically mandatory.
 
5. Playa de Las Canteras: The Urban Escape
Right in the heart of Las Palmas, this three-kilometre stretch of honey-coloured sand is often voted one of the best city beaches in the world, and for good reason. A natural volcanic reef, La Barra, shelters swimmers from big waves, creating a perfect lagoon for snorkelling.
Behind it, the promenade buzzes with cafés, tapas bars, and surf schools. Early mornings are serene, evenings are lively, and Sundays feel like half the city’s out for a stroll.
 
6. Playa de Puerto Rico: Watersports Central
This beach is all about activity. Calm waters, a crescent of soft sand, and everything from pedalos to jet skis. Families love it here, there’s always something to do, and nearby restaurants mean you’re never far from fuel for your next adventure.
 
7. Playa de Güigüí: The Wild One
Getting to Güigüí is an adventure, a two-hour mountain trek or a boat trip from Mogán or La Aldea. But when you reach it, you’ll find an untouched sweep of dark sand framed by cliffs that feel prehistoric. No bars, no crowds, no phone signal. It’s raw, rugged, and utterly peaceful, one of those places where you stop, breathe, and realise why you came.
 
8. Playa de San Agustín: The Peaceful Pocket
If you like your beach days mellow, San Agustín is your haven. Smaller, quieter, and with darker sand, it attracts more locals than tourists. There’s a scattering of good restaurants and an easygoing, old-school feel. It’s perfect for lazy swims and afternoon naps.
 
9. Playa del Confital: The Surfer’s Edge
At the far end of Las Canteras, El Confital is wilder and more dramatic. Wooden walkways lead to rocky shelves where locals sunbathe and surfers chase some of the best waves in the Canary Islands. Bring water, a picnic, and your camera, the light here, especially at sunset, is spectacular.
 
10. Playa de Meloneras: Polished and Posh
Meloneras is sophistication by the sea. The beach is clean and calm, with upscale hotels and designer shops lining the promenade. You’ll find elegant loungers, cocktail bars with views, and that lovely sense that you’ve stumbled into the “grown-up” part of the island. End the day walking west towards Maspalomas Lighthouse for a golden-hour glow and a sundowner.