Beaches in Canary Islands

One of the most famous beaches in Tenerife, Playa de las Teresitas boasts imported golden sand from the Sahara Desert, making it an ideal beach for sunbathing and swimming. With palm trees lining the shore and calm, shallow waters, it’s perfect for families and those seeking a relaxing beach day.

Where: Near San Andrés, northeast Tenerife
Getting There: 10-minute drive from Santa Cruz de Tenerife
Best For: Swimming, families, picnics
Facilities: Restaurants, showers, sunbeds, beach bars

A bustling and iconic beach in Gran Canaria, Playa del Inglés offers miles of golden sand, beach clubs, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s perfect for sunbathing, beach sports, and enjoying the nightlife. The beach also has a large stretch of sand dunes that create a unique, picturesque backdrop.

Where: South Gran Canaria, Maspalomas
Getting There: Bus or car from Las Palmas (~40 minutes)
Best For: Partygoers, sunbathers, beach sports
Facilities: Beach clubs, restaurants, bars, sunbeds

Known for its stunning white sands and turquoise waters, the beaches in Corralejo Natural Park are some of the best in the Canary Islands. The park stretches over miles of coastline, with dunes that form a unique desert-like landscape next to the sea. It’s perfect for both relaxation and water sports.

Where: North Fuerteventura, Corralejo
Getting There: 10-minute drive from Corralejo town
Best For: Nature lovers, watersports, dune exploration
Facilities: Minimal — bring supplies

Playa de Papagayo is one of Lanzarote’s most beautiful beaches, located in a protected nature reserve. The clear waters and natural setting make it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the scenic surroundings. It’s somewhat remote, providing a peaceful and picturesque experience.

Where: South Lanzarote, near Playa Blanca
Getting There: Car access via a gravel road, 15-minute drive from Playa Blanca
Best For: Snorkeling, photography, peaceful retreats
Facilities: Minimal — beach bar open seasonally

A large, stunning beach located in the Jandía Natural Park, Playa de Sotavento is a top spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing due to its consistent winds and spacious coastline. The clear water and golden sand make it equally enjoyable for a relaxed day on the beach.

Where: South Fuerteventura, Jandía
Getting There: Car or taxi from Morro Jable (~15 minutes)
Best For: Watersports, relaxing beach days
Facilities: Beach bars, sunbeds, surf schools

La Palma’s black sand beach, Playa de los Cancajos, is set against steep cliffs and offers a tranquil, less touristy experience. The beach is perfect for swimming and relaxing, with calm waters protected by natural reefs.

Where: La Palma, near the capital Santa Cruz
Getting There: 10-minute drive from Santa Cruz de La Palma
Best For: Quiet retreats, scenic views
Facilities: Restaurants, sunbeds

Another stunning beach in Gran Canaria, Playa de Maspalomas features wide golden sands and impressive dunes that give it a desert-like appearance. This beach is famous for its natural beauty and is a great spot for long walks and sunsets.

Where: South Gran Canaria, near Maspalomas dunes
Getting There: Bus or taxi from Las Palmas (~40 minutes)
Best For: Scenic walks, nature photography, sunsets
Facilities: Sunbeds, restaurants, bars

A unique beach located in the Timanfaya National Park, Playa del Charco de los Clicos has striking green water due to algae and volcanic minerals. The beach is a rare sight and perfect for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Where: Lanzarote, near El Golfo
Getting There: Car or taxi from Arrecife (~30 minutes)
Best For: Photography, volcanic landscapes
Facilities: None — natural setting

A secluded gem in La Gomera, Playa de los Alemanes is a natural, black sand beach surrounded by cliffs and lush greenery. It’s a quiet, off-the-beaten-path beach perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Where: La Gomera, near Valle Gran Rey
Getting There: Car access via steep roads
Best For: Seclusion, nature lovers
Facilities: Minimal — bring your own supplies