Beaches in northern Gran Canaria

Northern Gran Canaria offers a very different beach experience from the south of the island. The coastline is greener, more dramatic and generally less touristy, with a mix of city beaches, local seaside towns, volcanic landscapes and natural swimming areas.

The beaches in the north are often smaller and more varied than those in the south. Some are protected by breakwaters and suitable for swimming, while others are better known for their scenery, local atmosphere or powerful Atlantic waves.

Below, we have gathered some of the most interesting beaches and coastal areas in northern Gran Canaria – including several places we return to again and again.

Beaches in Las Palmas

Las Palmas is home to some of the island’s most famous urban beaches. The city combines beach life with shopping, restaurants, cafés and local atmosphere, making it one of the most versatile destinations in Gran Canaria.

• Las Canteras is one of the best city beaches in Europe and one of our personal favourites in Gran Canaria. The long sandy beach stretches along the centre of Las Palmas and is protected by a natural reef, which keeps the water calmer than on many other beaches along the north coast. The promenade behind the beach is filled with restaurants, cafés and small shops, and the atmosphere changes throughout the day.
• Playa de Las Alcaravaneras is a smaller and calmer city beach located near the marina in Las Palmas. The beach is popular with locals and is especially suitable for water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding because of the sheltered water.
• Playa de La Laja lies on the southern side of Las Palmas and has a very different atmosphere from Las Canteras. The beach is more open to the Atlantic Ocean, with darker sand, stronger waves and a more natural setting. A long promenade connects the beach with the city.

Beaches around Telde

The coastline around Telde has several pleasant local beaches that are popular with residents from Las Palmas and the surrounding towns. The atmosphere is generally quieter and less touristy than in the major resort areas in the south.

• La Garita is a relaxed beach area with dark sand and a local atmosphere. The beach is wide and popular among both swimmers and surfers, especially when the waves are moderate.
• Playa de Melenara is one of the most pleasant beach areas on the east coast of Gran Canaria. The beach has dark volcanic sand, calm surroundings and a nice promenade with seafood restaurants overlooking the water.
• Playa Hoya del Pozo is located between La Garita and Playa de Melenara. It is a smaller and quieter beach, popular with locals looking for a relaxed place by the sea away from the busiest beaches.

Agaete and the northwestern coast

The northwestern coast of Gran Canaria feels wilder and more dramatic than most other parts of the island. Here you will find steep cliffs, volcanic landscapes, natural swimming pools and small coastal towns with a strong local character.

• Puerto de las Nieves is one of the most scenic coastal areas in Gran Canaria. The small beach lies next to the harbour in Agaete and is surrounded by cliffs and mountains. We love the seafood restaurants, natural pools and beautiful sunsets, and Puerto de las Nieves is one of the places we keep returning to in Gran Canaria.
• Sardina del Norte  is a peaceful coastal village with one of the most charming small beaches in northern Gran Canaria. The water is often clear and calm, making the area popular for snorkelling and diving.
• Playa El Puertillo is a small local beach with calm water and a relaxed atmosphere. It is one of the better beaches in the north for swimming and is especially popular with local families during weekends and holidays.
• Piscina Roque Prieto is not a traditional beach, but one of the natural swimming pools that the north coast is known for. The volcanic pools are filled naturally by the Atlantic Ocean and offer a completely different coastal experience from the sandy beaches in the south.

A different side of Gran Canaria

The beaches in northern Gran Canaria are very different from the large resort beaches in the south. Instead of long sandy stretches and major holiday resorts, the north offers local atmosphere, dramatic scenery and a more authentic impression of the island.

Many visitors choose to combine the beaches in the north with mountain villages, hiking routes or a stay in Las Palmas. This combination of city life, nature and coastline is one of the reasons why we keep exploring the northern Gran Canaria.

Best beaches in northern Gran Canaria

Las Canteras is the best choice if you are looking for a lively city beach with restaurants, cafés and plenty of atmosphere. For quieter surroundings and a more local feel, Playa de Melenara, Puerto de las Nieves and Sardina del Norte are among our personal favourites in northern Gran Canaria.