location.beaches.beaches_subtitle
One of Europe's most famous beaches stretching 2.7 km along the southern coast of Gran Canaria. It connects with the iconic Maspalomas Dunes and beach to the west, creating an uninterrupted coastline. The area is the largest tourist resort in the Canary Islands with massive infrastructure of hotels, shopping centers, restaurants, and nightlife. The beach transitions from a family-friendly north end to wilder sections near the dunes with naturist areas
Stretching 3.2 km along the northern coast of Las Palmas, Las Canteras is consistently rated among Spain's best urban beaches. A natural volcanic reef called La Barra creates a calm natural swimming pool with crystal-clear water. The beach is divided into distinct zones including the La Cicer surf area and the main swimming beach. The promenade is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops serving fresh seafood and traditional Canarian cuisine. Blue Flag certified for water quality with year-round mild temperatures
faq.subtitle Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is part of Spain and Schengen zone. EU citizens need only ID. Others require Schengen visa or exemption (US, UK, Canada, Australia). Max stay 90 days in 180 days.
Yes, very safe. Canary Islands have low crime rates in Spain. Just watch for pickpockets in tourist areas and avoid free offers (timeshare scam).
Weather is pleasant year-round (18-24C). For beach: May-October. To avoid crowds: April-May or September-November. For hiking: November-March.
Buses (Global for island, Guaguas for city) are affordable. Rental car best for exploring mountains. Taxis are cheap. From airport: bus to Las Palmas 3EUR, taxi 30-35EUR.
Maspalomas (famous dunes), Playa del Ingles (lively resort), Amadores (calm, family-friendly), Las Canteras (city beach), Puerto Rico (wind-protected).
Useful tips for visiting Gran Canaria
Get a TransGC card for cheaper bus rides. Can be bought and topped up at bus stations or kiosks.
Beware of timeshare scam: avoid free scratch cards, free trips, or camera offers in tourist areas.
Use SPF 30+ sunscreen even on cloudy days. Island is close to equator and UV rays are strong.
Pay attention to beach flags: red = no swimming, yellow = caution, green = safe. Currents can be strong.
Try local dishes: Papas Arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes with mojo), Sancocho (fish stew), Queso de Flor cheese.
Rent a car to explore the mountainous interior. Roads are good but winding. Roque Nublo is worth visiting.
Choose euros when paying by card. Selecting your home currency adds 3-5% conversion fee.
No tourist tax in Canary Islands. The price you see is the price you pay for hotels.
Average temperature by month
location.transport.subtitle
| location.transport.title | location.transport.price | location.transport.app | location.transport.note |
|---|---|---|---|
location.transport.bus | 1.4 € ~1.6 $ | — | Global bus: city routes 1.40-2.50 EUR, long-distance 6-9 EUR. Las Palmas — Maspalomas ~8 EUR. TransGC card for discounts. Cash or card payment. Modern air-conditioned buses |
location.transport.taxi | 3.15 € ~3.7 $ | — | Tariff 1 (day): flagfall 3.15 EUR + 1.10 EUR/km. Tariff 2 (night/weekend): 3.45 EUR + 1.26/km. Airport +1.70 EUR. Port +0.70 EUR. Booking +0.50 EUR. All metered. Airport — Maspalomas ~35-45 EUR |
Cost of food, accommodation and services
Prices are approximate and may vary by season and area.
Hotels and rental prices
Prices are approximate. Book in advance during high season.
location.payment.subtitle
Cards widely accepted. Cash useful for small shops and markets.
Euro (EUR). Cards accepted everywhere. ATMs widespread. Avoid airport exchange.
10% appreciated in restaurants. Not mandatory.
Attractions and points of interest