A golden beach stretches 6km along Gran Canaria's south coast, with a 56m lighthouse and vast sand dunes. Spot migratory birds at La Charca lagoon or explore desert-like landscapes.
Maspalomas spreads along Gran Canaria's southern coast, where a 56-meter lighthouse from 1890 watches over 6 kilometers of golden beach. Walk through sand dunes rising up to 10 meters high, ride camels across the desert-like landscape, or watch migratory birds at La Charca lagoon. The beachfront ranges from calm family areas near the lighthouse to the livelier Playa del Inglés, where you'll find shopping centers and bars open late into the night.
The Natural Dunes Reserve
Walk through 404 hectares of protected sand dunes that create a miniature Sahara next to the Atlantic Ocean. The reserve contains three distinct ecosystems: a palm grove, a saltwater lagoon, and the rolling dunes. Follow the marked walking paths between different beach sections, or sunbathe in the naturist area between beach bars 3 and 4. Look for unique plant species like the Canary Island date palm and local succulents that thrive in the sandy soil.
Beaches and Swimming
The main beach runs for nearly three kilometers, with different sections catering to various preferences. Natural barriers protect the shoreline from strong currents, creating safe conditions for swimming year-round. At 75 meters wide, the beach has plenty of space even during peak season. You'll find showers every 200 meters, restrooms near the main access points, and beach chair rental stations charging around €5 per day.
Getting Around Maspalomas
Catch buses at the Faro de Maspalomas station near the lighthouse to reach other parts of Gran Canaria, including the airport (45 minutes) and Las Palmas (1 hour). The flat terrain makes walking easy - stroll along the beachfront promenade to reach most attractions. Walk to San Agustín in 30 minutes or Playa del Inglés in 45 minutes using either the beach or the paved promenade.
Things to Do
Rent jet skis, try parasailing, or book diving lessons at the water sports centers along the beach. The lighthouse area has a promenade with cafes and small shops selling beachwear and souvenirs. Browse through Boulevard el Faro and Oasis shopping centers for both everyday items and local crafts. Join morning dolphin watching trips (typically 3 hours) or take day tours to explore Gran Canaria's mountain villages and wine regions.
Climate and Weather
The temperature stays mild throughout the year, with winter nights dropping to 13°C (55°F) and summer days reaching 28°C (82°F). The desert-like climate means very little rainfall, particularly from June to September. Winter months (December-February) see occasional wind and brief showers but remain warm enough for beach visits. Summer brings the largest crowds, especially in July and August when advance booking becomes essential.
