Gran Canaria Beaches

Bahia Feliz

Bahia Feliz (the bay of happiness) can only be accessed by going through the hotel complex it is actually named after. The beach is predominantly pebbly but it is sandy in some areas and shelves steeply into the water, with tidal conditions that make it unsuitable for children. It is invariably sunny, but there is often a stiff breeze on the beaches making it an excellent location for windsurfing.

Unfortunately, the actual entrance to the beach is not wheelchair accessible, but you can relax on a small terrace above Bahía Feliz, under the shade of sweet little straw canopies.

To reach the sea you will need to cross lots of large stones and rocks but once you have done this there is a small sandy area for swimming and sunbathing and there is also a nice little beach bar and sun loungers available to hire in the summer months.

Maspalomas Dunes

The sand dunes are to be found behind the magnificent beaches that run from the Faro lighthouse at Maspalomas to the far end of Playa del Ingles. Although, there is a constant stream of tourists walking along the firmer sand near the Atlantic Ocean edge there are also many walking trails through the dunes. The main routes are marked by upright poles marked with a coloured band denoting the route. There are maps with the main routes on near the entrances to the dunes.

It can become very hot in the dunes as you no longer have the cooling sea breezes hot so always carry a bottle of water with you but with cafe bar kiosks every 200-300 metres you can always stop for a cold drink, a cup of tea or coffee or a refreshing snack.

Meloneras

Located in southern Gran Canaria quite close to the impressive sand dunes of Maspalomas, Playa de Meloneras is a popular choice for those seeking peace and tranquillity, as it does not get overcrowded. The warm waters are calm and great for swimming, the sand is golden and soft under your feet, perfect conditions for a lazy day on the beach while enjoying the all-year-round sunshine of the beautiful Canary Islands. Just be aware that there are designated areas for nudists, however, many bathers do walk to these areas nude along the seafront.

To grab some shade away from the hot sun you can rent parasols and sun loungers for the day and it's advisable to wear some form of beach shoes as the sand does get extremely hot. What's more, there's a good selection of shops, bars and restaurants to visit when you need a break from the beach.

Playa Del Inglés

Playa Del Ingles beach runs right along the front of the resort but quickly widens out into dunes as you head east. Bordered by the beaches of San Augustin in the east and Maspalomas in the west, the long beach is extremely popular throughout the year.

There are various leisure and sports activities including jet-skiing, sailing, windsurfing, water-skiing and much more if you are feeling energetic. Alternatively, why not make the most of the lovely, sandy beach, hire a couple of sunbeds and a parasol for 7 euros a day and have a snooze, read a book or just watch the world go by.

You will find plenty of toilets and showers along the beach, as well as kiosks selling cold drinks, ice-creams, and snacks. People with disabilities will find various access points where ramps go down to the sand.

Playa Taurito

Playa de Taurito is on the south-west coast of the island of Gran Canaria and is situated between Puerto Rico and Mogán against a mountainous backdrop. The sand is greyish and very fine but at the sides of the bay, there are also a lot of rocks and stones. The beach is usually quiet, the perfect place for just relaxing with a good book, sheltered from the winds by the headland.

There is a car park not far from the beach, near to steps that lead down to the sands. Down the steps, there is a small promenade, where you will find two diving schools, a water sports operator, and three restaurants, plus several small shops selling beachwear, equipment and souvenirs.

If you are feeling energetic, there are a range of water sports and activities, including fishing, jet-skiing, and diving to choose from.

Puerto de Mogán

This is a truly lovely resort for those who prefer relaxing surroundings rather than the hustle and bustle of the larger resorts. A beautiful, sheltered, stretch of golden sand makes it a favourite with families. The water is calm, safe and clear with the sea around the breakwater making a great place for snorkelling as there are a variety of fish to spot.

Holidaymakers can hire sunbeds, parasols, pedalos, and canoes and there's kiosks offering cold drinks, ices and snacks. There's also the option to take a deep-sea fishing boat trip in search of tunas and marlins or why not explore the fascinating underwater world by taking a trip on a yellow submarine? If you want a change from the beach and you are there on a Sunday, then the large, local market is well worth a visit.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is renowned for being the sunniest spot in Gran Canaria and is one of the most popular beaches in the south-west of the island. The beach of Puerto Rico offers a wide range of water sports activities, including jet skiing, sailing, diving, big-game fishing, and windsurfing. You can also take pleasure boat trips along the coast, dolphin-watching cruises or trips in glass-bottomed boats to discover the rich underwater life of the area.

The clean, golden sand of the beach make it a favourite with families. A gentle breeze is always blowing and the sea is calm, offering ideal conditions for a dip in the warm waters of the Atlantic.

The resort provides abundant amenities, with plenty of beachfront bars and cafés, sunbeds, parasols and numerous shower facilities and easy parking. There is also wheelchair access onto the beach.