The Canary Islands, a sun-soaked archipelago off the coast of northwestern Africa, are home to some of the world’s most captivating beaches. Whether you’re looking to spend some time lounging on a sun-drenched beach, enjoy a refreshing dip in crystal-clear waters, or take in breathtaking ocean views, the Canaries have something for everyone. Popular with both cruise critic communities and British Isles cruisers seeking winter sun, these islands boast perfect beach weather nearly any time of the year.
In this article, we’ll explore the best beaches across the archipelago, each offering its own unique charm – from bustling shores with modern amenities to secluded coves where nature reigns supreme. So grab your lounger and prepare to discover why the Canary Islands are a beach lover’s paradise.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels in the Canary Islands 💎 :
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Lopesan Costa Meloneras Resort, Spa & Casino
- ✨ 5-Star: Riu Palace Maspalomas
- 🏨 4-Star: AC Hotel by Marriott Tenerife
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Príncipe Paz
- 💸 Cheap: Chez Abel
- 🏢 Apartment: FBC Fortuny Resort
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Fuerteventura Princess
- 🏩 For Couples: Hotel Volcán Lanzarote
1. 🏝️ Top 10 Canary Islands Beaches
🌴 Playa de las Teresitas (Tenerife) – Best for Family-Friendly Swimming
This man-made beach near Santa Cruz is a slice of paradise with golden sand imported from the Sahara. Calm, turquoise waters are protected by a breakwater, making it perfect for swimming. Palm trees line the shore, giving it a tropical feel rare in Tenerife. Arrive early to snag a prime spot under one of the iconic straw parasols. The beach offers excellent facilities and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for families and those seeking a peaceful day by the sea.
Best Hotels Near Playa de las Teresitas 🏨
- AC Hotel by Marriott Tenerife – This modern hotel is located in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, just a short drive from the beautiful Playa de las Teresitas. It features stylish rooms, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool with stunning views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.
- Hotel Taburiente S.C.Tenerife – Situated next to García Sanabria Park in the heart of Santa Cruz, this chic urban hotel is just a 15-minute drive from Playa de las Teresitas. It offers a rooftop pool with park and ocean views, a gym, and two smart restaurants serving Spanish cuisine.
- Principe Paz – This hotel is located in the center of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, within easy reach of Playa de las Teresitas. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving Canarian and international dishes, and a rooftop terrace with city views.
🐪 Playa de Maspalomas (Gran Canaria) – Best for Unique Landscapes and Naturism
Imagine a miniature Sahara meeting the Atlantic Ocean – that’s Maspalomas. Famous for its massive sand dunes, this beach creates a unique landscape perfect for photography enthusiasts. It’s also a haven for naturists, with a designated clothing-optional area. The beach stretches for kilometers, offering plenty of space for sunbathing, long walks, and even camel rides. Don’t miss the iconic lighthouse at one end of the beach.
Best Hotels Near Playa de Maspalomas 🏨
- Hotel Riu Palace Maspalomas - Adults Only – This adults-only hotel is located just a short walk from the stunning Maspalomas Beach and its iconic sand dunes. It features elegant rooms, several swimming pools, a spa, and a variety of dining options, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing beach getaway.
- Lopesan Costa Meloneras Resort & Spa – Set half a mile from Maspalomas Beach, this luxurious resort features a spa, casino, and heated lagoon-style pools set in tropical grounds. Guests can enjoy elegant rooms with private balconies, multiple dining options, and easy access to the beach and nearby golf course.
- FBC Fortuny Resort - Adults Only – This adults-only resort is located just a short distance from Maspalomas Beach and Golf Course. It offers modern rooms with private bathrooms, a heated pool, spa facilities, and a restaurant serving international cuisine, providing a tranquil and convenient base for exploring the area.
🏔️ Playa de Cofete (Fuerteventura) – Best for Untamed Natural Beauty
For raw, untamed beauty, Cofete is unmatched. Located in a nature reserve, this wild stretch of golden sand is backed by dramatic mountains. The sense of isolation is palpable, making it perfect for those seeking to escape the crowds. The powerful waves and strong currents make it unsuitable for swimming, but ideal for long walks and photography. The journey to reach this remote beach is an adventure in itself.
Best Hotels Near Playa de Cofete 🏨
- Fuerteventura Princess – This hotel is located in Playa Jandia, Fuerteventura, near the unspoiled Playa de Cofete. It features comfortable rooms, multiple swimming pools, a spa, and various dining options, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing beach holiday.
- Royal Palm Resort & Spa - Adults Only – Situated in Playa Jandia, this adults-only resort is just a short drive from the pristine Playa de Cofete. It offers stylish rooms, a spa, fitness center, and two restaurants serving Italian and international cuisine, providing a luxurious base for exploring the stunning beaches of southern Fuerteventura.
- Apartamentos Punta Marina by LIVVO – These duplex apartments are located in Morro del Jable, within easy reach of the beautiful Playa de Cofete. They feature tastefully decorated rooms, fully-equipped kitchens, furnished terraces, and an outdoor pool, offering a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the area.
🐠 Playa de Papagayo (Lanzarote) – Best for Snorkeling and Secluded Coves
Nestled within the Los Ajaches Nature Reserve, Papagayo is a series of pristine coves with crystal-clear waters. The white sand and volcanic rocks create a stunning contrast that’s quintessentially Canarian. It’s perfect for snorkeling and exploring the rich marine life. The beach is relatively secluded, so bring supplies for the day. The views from the surrounding cliffs are breathtaking, especially at sunset.
Best Hotels Near Playa de Papagayo 🏨
- Hotel THe Volcán Lanzarote – This luxurious hotel is located in Playa Blanca, Lanzarote, just a short drive from the stunning Playa de Papagayo. It features elegant rooms, a spa, multiple swimming pools, and several restaurants serving gourmet cuisine, providing a perfect base for exploring the island’s natural beauty.
- Hotel Meliá Salinas - Adults Recommended – Situated in Costa Teguise, Lanzarote, this adults-recommended hotel is just a short distance from the picturesque Playa de Papagayo. It offers stylish rooms, a spa, outdoor pools, and a variety of dining options, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing beach getaway.
- Caybeach Papagayo – These apartments are located in Playa Blanca, Lanzarote, just a short walk from the beautiful Playa de Papagayo. They feature comfortable apartments with fully-equipped kitchens, balconies or terraces, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant, providing a convenient base for exploring the area’s stunning beaches.
🏙️ Playa de Las Canteras (Gran Canaria) – Best for Urban Beach Experience
One of the best urban beaches in Europe, Las Canteras in Las Palmas offers city convenience with natural beauty. Its golden sand stretches for nearly 3 km, and a natural volcanic reef creates a calm lagoon perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The promenade is lined with restaurants and shops, making it easy to spend a full day here. It’s also a great spot for learning to surf, with gentle waves in certain areas.
Best Hotels Near Playa de Las Canteras 🏨
- Bull Reina Isabel & SPA – This hotel is located directly on the famous Playa de Las Canteras in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. It features modern rooms with sea views, a spa, outdoor pool, and several restaurants, offering a perfect blend of city life and beach relaxation.
- Sercotel Playa Canteras – Situated just 150 feet from Playa de Las Canteras, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a solarium. Guests can enjoy easy access to the beach and explore the vibrant city of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
- Chez Abel – This charming guesthouse is located in the heart of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, just a short walk from Playa de Las Canteras. It offers cozy rooms, a shared lounge, and a terrace, providing a comfortable and
🎉 Playa del Inglés (Gran Canaria) – Best for Lively Atmosphere and Water Sports
Connected to Maspalomas, this lively beach is the heart of Gran Canaria’s tourist scene. It’s great for water sports enthusiasts, with options for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and jet-skiing. The promenade is buzzing with bars, restaurants, and shops, perfect for those who like a lively atmosphere. The beach is spacious enough to accommodate crowds, with plenty of facilities including sun loungers and parasols for rent.
Best Hotels Near Playa del Inglés 🏨
- Hotel Riu Palace Maspalomas – This adults-only hotel is a paradise nestled among sand dunes and lush gardens. It offers stunning views of the Maspalomas dunes, multiple dining options, and easy access to Playa del Inglés. The hotel features two swimming pools, a wellness center, and elegant rooms with balconies or terraces.
- Aparthotel Partner Playa del Inglés – Located just a short walk from Playa del Inglés, this aparthotel offers comfortable accommodations with air conditioning and balconies or terraces. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, and proximity to local shops and restaurants.
- Smartr Maspalomas Corinto – These bungalows offer a home-away-from-home experience near Playa del Inglés. Each unit features a kitchenette, living area, and private terrace. The complex includes two outdoor pools, a restaurant, and is within walking distance of the beach and Yumbo Centrum shopping center.
🌬️ Playa de Corralejo (Fuerteventura) – Best for Windsurfing and Dune Landscapes
Part of the Corralejo Dunes Natural Park, this beach offers miles of white sand and turquoise waters. It’s a windsurfer’s paradise, with consistent trade winds providing perfect conditions year-round. The dunes behind the beach create a unique landscape, reminiscent of a desert meeting the sea. Despite its popularity, the vast expanse means you can always find a quiet spot.
Best Hotels Near Playa de Corralejo 🏨
- Secrets Bahía Real Resort & Spa – This luxurious adults-only resort offers stunning views of Lanzarote and Lobos islands. It features multiple restaurants, bars, and pools, as well as a spa and direct beach access. Guests can enjoy all-inclusive options, water sports, and elegant rooms with modern amenities.
- Atlantis Palace – Located near Corralejo Beach, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with balconies or terraces. It features multiple pools, including a children’s pool, a buffet restaurant, and entertainment programs. The hotel is within walking distance of the town center and Corralejo Natural Park.
- Calas Beach Corralejo – This beachfront hotel offers direct access to Corralejo Beach and stunning sea views. It features an outdoor pool, sun terrace, and rooms with balconies. Guests can enjoy water sports, nearby restaurants, and easy access to the Corralejo Dunes Natural Park.
🏄 Playa de Famara (Lanzarote) – Best for Surfing and Dramatic Scenery
Surfers, this one’s for you! Famara is known for its excellent waves and dramatic backdrop of cliffs. Even if you’re not into surfing, the sheer beauty of this beach makes it worth a visit. The beach is long and wide, perfect for long walks. At low tide, the wet sand creates stunning reflections of the sky and cliffs. The nearby village offers a laid-back vibe with surf shops and casual eateries.
Best Hotels Near Playa de Famara 🏨
- Casa Frasca – This charming guesthouse is located in the village of Famara, just a short walk from the beach. It offers cozy rooms with a shared kitchen and terrace. Guests can enjoy surfing, kitesurfing, and hiking in the surrounding area, making it ideal for adventure enthusiasts.
- El Charquito – Situated near Famara Beach, this apartment complex offers self-catering units with terraces and sea views. It’s perfect for surfers and nature lovers, with easy access to the beach and nearby hiking trails. The apartments feature fully equipped kitchens and modern amenities.
- Karma Famara II – These stylish apartments are located in the heart of Famara, close to the beach and local amenities. Each unit features a fully equipped kitchen, living area, and terrace. Guests can enjoy surfing, kitesurfing, and exploring the nearby Timanfaya National Park.
🌋 Playa de Benijo (Tenerife) – Best for Photography and Solitude
For a taste of Tenerife’s wilder side, head to Benijo. This black sand beach is framed by the Anaga Mountains and offers stunning views of the Roques de Anaga sea stacks. It’s less crowded than other beaches, perfect for those seeking solitude. The powerful waves and rugged landscape make it more suited for photography and contemplation than swimming. Sunset here is particularly spectacular.
Best Hotels Near Playa de Benijo 🏨
- Albergue Montes de Anaga – This rustic mountain lodge is located in the heart of Anaga Rural Park, offering easy access to Benijo Beach. It features simple dormitory-style rooms and a shared kitchen. The hostel is perfect for hikers and nature lovers exploring the stunning Anaga mountains and coastline.
- Casanaga – This charming rural house is situated in the Anaga mountains, a short drive from Benijo Beach. It offers cozy rooms with mountain views, a shared kitchen, and a terrace. Guests can enjoy hiking, stargazing, and exploring the pristine beaches of the Anaga coastline.
- Casa del Cubano B – Located in the picturesque village of Taganana, this traditional Canarian house offers comfortable rooms and a shared terrace with stunning sea views. It’s a perfect base for exploring Benijo Beach and the surrounding Anaga Rural Park, known for its lush forests and dramatic coastline.
🪁 Playa de Sotavento (Fuerteventura) – Best for Kitesurfing and Vast Open Spaces
This 9 km stretch of golden sand is a beach lover’s dream. It’s particularly popular with kitesurfers due to its reliable winds. At low tide, a shallow lagoon forms, creating a unique and beautiful landscape. The beach is so vast that it never feels crowded. The clear waters are perfect for swimming when the tide is right. It’s worth staying for sunset, when the sky and sea put on a spectacular color show.
Best Hotels Near Playa de Sotavento 🏨
- INNSiDE by Meliá Fuerteventura – This adults-only hotel is located near the stunning Sotavento Beach. It offers modern rooms with sea views, multiple restaurants, and an infinity pool overlooking the ocean. Guests can enjoy water sports, wellness facilities, and easy access to one of Fuerteventura’s most beautiful beaches.
- H10 Playa Esmeralda – Situated on Costa Calma Beach, part of the Sotavento coastline, this hotel offers direct beach access and sea views. It features multiple pools, restaurants, and a spa. The hotel is ideal for families and couples seeking a relaxing beach holiday with plenty of amenities.
- Le Vele – These modern apartments are located in Costa Calma, close to Sotavento Beach. Each unit features a fully equipped kitchen, living area, and balcony or terrace. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, nearby restaurants, and easy access to the long, sandy beaches of the Sotavento coastline.
2. 🌊 Activities and Water Sports
🏊♂️ Swimming and Snorkeling: The Canary Islands offer crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Playa de las Teresitas in Tenerife is ideal for safe, family-friendly swimming with its calm, protected waters. For snorkeling enthusiasts, Playa de Papagayo in Lanzarote boasts an abundance of marine life in its secluded coves. Playa de Las Canteras in Gran Canaria offers the best of both worlds with its natural reef creating a calm lagoon.
🏄♂️ Surfing and Windsurfing: The Canaries are a surfer’s paradise with consistent winds and excellent waves. Playa de Famara in Lanzarote, known as the “European Hawaii,” offers excellent surfing conditions for all levels. Playa del Inglés in Gran Canaria is great for both surfing and windsurfing, with equipment rentals and schools available. Playa de Corralejo in Fuerteventura is a windsurfer’s dream with consistent trade winds year-round.
🪁 Kitesurfing: For kitesurfing enthusiasts, the Canary Islands offer world-class conditions. Playa de Sotavento in Fuerteventura is one of the best spots in Europe for this exhilarating sport, with its vast open spaces and reliable winds. The long, wide beach provides ample space for takeoffs and landings, while the consistent wind conditions make it suitable for both beginners and experts. Many schools offer lessons and equipment rental, making it easy to try this thrilling sport.
🚣♀️ Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore the stunning Canarian coastline and discover hidden volcanic coves by kayak or paddleboard. La Tejita in Tenerife offers the chance to paddle around the striking red Montaña Roja. In Lanzarote, launch from Playa Blanca to explore the beautiful Papagayo coves from a different perspective. These activities provide a unique way to experience the islands’ dramatic landscapes and secluded beaches.
🐠 Scuba Diving: The volcanic nature of the Canary Islands creates a unique underwater landscape teeming with marine life. Playa del Carmen in Lanzarote offers the chance to explore underwater caves and meet friendly sea turtles. El Cabrón Marine Reserve in Gran Canaria is known for its diverse marine ecosystem. With excellent visibility and warm waters year-round, the Canaries are a diver’s paradise.
3. 💙 Environmental Conservation and Blue Flag Beaches
🏴 Blue Flag Beaches: The Canary Islands boast an impressive number of Blue Flag beaches, guaranteeing high standards of water quality, environmental management, safety, and services. Playa de las Teresitas in Tenerife offers golden sands and calm waters perfect for swimming. Playa del Inglés in Gran Canaria provides excellent facilities and crystal-clear blue waters. Playa Blanca in Lanzarote is known for its white sand and tranquil atmosphere.
🌿 Eco-Friendly Initiatives: The Canaries are leading in environmental conservation with various initiatives. Many beaches organize regular clean-ups, offering a chance to give back and meet locals. Protected marine areas like Charco Azul in El Hierro preserve marine biodiversity. Sustainable water sports operators use eco-friendly equipment and practices, often providing interesting information about local marine life during activities.
🌴 Responsible Beach Enjoyment: Visitors can play a crucial role in preserving the Canary Islands’ beaches. Using reef-safe sunscreen protects the marine ecosystem. Proper trash disposal and using reusable water bottles reduce waste. Respecting local wildlife, especially in areas like the Maspalomas Dunes, helps protect unique plant and animal species. Sticking to designated paths when accessing beaches prevents erosion.
🏞️ Eco-Friendly Attractions: Beyond the beaches, the Canary Islands offer numerous eco-friendly attractions. Loro Parque in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, is a wildlife park known for its conservation efforts. Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote allows visitors to experience the island’s volcanic landscape responsibly. La Gomera’s Garajonay National Park showcases ancient laurel forests.
4. ✔️ Practical Information for Visit Canary islands
🌞 Best Time to Visit
The Canary Islands offer a year-round spring-like climate. Peak season (July-August) sees busy beaches and higher prices. Shoulder season (May-June, September-October) offers perfect weather, fewer crowds, and better deals. Winter (November-April) is ideal for escaping colder climates, with temperatures still warm enough for beach days. For cruise enthusiasts, many Caribbean and European itineraries include the Canaries in winter, providing a unique island-hopping experience.
🚗 Transportation and Getting Around
Exploring multiple islands is highly recommended. Inter-island flights offer quick connections between main islands. Ferries provide a scenic travel option, especially for closer islands. Car rental is best for exploring individual islands and reaching secluded beaches. Public buses are efficient and budget-friendly, particularly on larger islands. Consider purchasing a travel pass for frequent public transport use.
🏖️ Beach Facilities and Amenities
Most popular Canary Islands beaches are well-equipped for comfort. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, typically costing €3-€7 per item daily. Showers and toilets are common at organized beaches. Beach bars (chiringuitos) offer refreshing drinks and local snacks. Many beaches provide water sports facilities with equipment rentals and lessons. Bringing your own beach umbrella and towels can save money, especially for extended stays.
🏛️ Beyond the Beach
The Canaries offer diverse experiences beyond beautiful beaches. Take a stroll along Puerto del Carmen’s promenade, visit the Auditorio de Tenerife in Santa Cruz for modern architecture, or explore Puerto de la Cruz’s charming old town. Don’t miss attractions like Timanfaya National Park’s volcanic craters in Lanzarote, the Cueva de los Verdes lava tube, Mount Teide cable car ride in Tenerife, or Garajonay National Park’s laurel forests in La Gomera. These attractions showcase the islands’ unique volcanic landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
💡 Practical Tips
Save money by bringing your own beach gear. Many hotels and tour operators offer excursions to popular attractions, but exploring independently can be more rewarding and cost-effective. For the best beach experience, arrive early to secure a good spot, especially during peak season. Always check local weather conditions and beach flags for safe swimming. Respect the environment by taking your trash with you and using eco-friendly sunscreens to protect the marine ecosystem.
5. Canary Islands Beach Culture and Etiquette
👙 Beach Dress Code: The Canary Islands have a relaxed attitude towards beach attire. Topless sunbathing is generally accepted on most beaches, while nudist beaches are available in designated areas. When leaving the beach, it’s polite to cover up, especially when entering cafes or restaurants. Take cues from locals if unsure about appropriate dress. Remember, comfort and respect for local customs are key. This relaxed approach contributes to the laid-back atmosphere the Canaries are famous for.
🌱 Beach Etiquette: Respecting others and the environment is crucial on Canarian beaches. Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life. Avoid playing loud music, letting the natural sounds of the ocean prevail. Always clean up after yourself, leaving only footprints in the sand. Smoking is prohibited on many beaches. Bringing a small trash bag is an easy way to keep the beach clean and show respect for the local environment.
🍹 Beach Bars and Restaurants: Beach bars, or “chiringuitos,” are central to Canarian beach culture. They typically offer a mix of Spanish and international cuisine. Local specialties like papas arrugadas with mojo sauce are must-tries. Many beach bars transform into lively nightspots as the sun sets.
⏳ Embracing Island Time: Beach culture in the Canary Islands embodies a relaxed, unhurried lifestyle. Take your time and enjoy each moment, whether you’re lounging on a sandy beach in Lanzarote or sipping a cocktail in Tenerife. Don’t rush your meals or activities – the laid-back Canarian approach is all about savoring experiences. Spend time at beach cafes, engage with locals, and immerse yourself in the tranquil island atmosphere.
FAQs about Trip to Best Beaches in the Canary Islands ❔
Which is the most beautiful Canary Island?
La Palma is often considered the most beautiful Canary Island, known for its green landscapes, flowers, and volcanoes.
Which Canary Island has the most beautiful nature?
Again, La Palma stands out for its natural beauty, with breathtaking landscapes, volcanoes, and deep forests. It’s also a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
Canary Island is best for swimming?
Tenerife is often recommended for swimming, with its 43 miles of white and black sand beaches and good year-round climate for open water swimming.
Is it safe to swim in the sea in Canary Islands?
Generally, yes. Most beaches have marked swimming areas where it’s safe to swim in calm, shallow water. However, it’s important to be cautious, follow local advice, and pay attention to any warning flags or signs.
