Best beaches in Canary Islands

The Canary Islands offer a diverse range of coastal environments, from the golden dunes of Maspalomas and the volcanic sands of Benijo to the urban, reef-protected Las Canteras. This selection includes specialized spots like the six-kilometer surfing hub of Famara in Lanzarote and the remote, wind-swept shores of Cofete in Fuerteventura. Many locations, such as Mogán and Los Cristianos, provide calm waters protected by breakwaters, while others feature extensive amenities for water sports, dedicated nudist zones, and accessible seaside promenades.

Best Beaches — Map

Alumnado Módulo ITG / CC BY 2.0

A

Benijo Beach

Nothing but you and the sea. A beach well-hidden from most of the tourists, offers beautiful views of the surrounding bay and impressive…

Pepelopex / CC BY-SA 3.0

B

Las Canteras Beach

Beautiful sandy beach running right along the centre of Las Palmas. It is protected by a natural reef, therefore the waves are mild.

Sygic Travel User / CC-BY-SA

C

Playa de las Américas

A hub for surfing and kayaking, this area features several man-made beaches with golden sand. It is characterized by breakwaters that create manageable waves for beginners and intermediate surfers.

Gessi694 / CC-BY-SA-3.0

D

Mogán beach

Beach adjacent to a picturesque fishing village transformed to the upscale holiday resort. Protected beach popular with families.

Chridtina Sikorski / CC-BY-SA

E

Famara Beach

The longest beach in Lanzarote stretches to six kilometres. Beautiful and very popular beach; its strong waves attract surfers.

Sygic Travel User / CC-BY-SA

F

Playa de Los Cristianos

Located next to a major ferry port, this beach features calm, shallow waters and golden sand. It is fully accessible and connected to a wide pedestrian promenade lined with shops and restaurants.

Wouter Hagens / Public domain

G

Inglés Beach

One of the most popular beaches. Packed and lively place with lots of various amenities and sport facilities.

Hansueli Krapf / CC BY-SA 3.0

H

Cofete Beach

More of a scenic view than a beach, because of the very strong currents. The road here is harsh, but rewarding, with many stunning vistas.

JUAN RAMON RODRIGUEZ SOSA / CC BY-SA 2.0

I

Maspalomas Beach

One of the most popular beaches in the area. It's divided into different zones suited for families, nudists or gay community.

Ayuntamiento de la Histórica Villa de… / GFDL

J

Troya Beach

A superb beach with crystal-clear water, golden sands and many amenities. A very nice place to spend the afternoon.

Mataparda / CC BY 2.0

K

Torviscas Beach

Nice beach on the edge of town, close to all the resorts, with clean water and sand. Many cafés and amenities nearby.

L

Playa del Confital

A natural extension of Las Canteras Beach featuring volcanic rock and dark sand. It is recognized for its right-hand surf break and scenic views of the Isleta peninsula. Parts of the beach are clothing-optional.

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