Curated guide · Gran Canaria
31 verified sandy beaches, ranked with Blue Flag certifications first.
Curated by the Beach Atlas team · Updated June 2026
Sandy beaches in Gran Canaria come in three distinct colours: pale golden sand (often Saharan, carried across on the trade winds), bright white shell sand, and the dramatic black volcanic sand the islands are famous for. All share gradual shallow entries and are comfortable underfoot, suiting families with young children, anyone with mobility considerations, and visitors who prefer to wade in from shore rather than off rocks.
Below are the sandy-classified beaches we've verified in Gran Canaria. Surface type is one of the most-asked questions before booking, so we keep this filter strict — only beaches whose primary surface is sand are included. See the full beach inventory for Gran Canaria for every surface type.
Showing #1 – #10 of 31 ranked beaches
Best for: soft sand underfoot, organized setup
Playa del Burrero is a sandy beach on the east coast of Gran Canaria. It is an organized beach with lifeguard services and a small parking area. The sea here is typically moderate, offering pleasant conditions for swimming and relaxation.
Best for: soft sand underfoot, organized setup
Playa del Hombre is a sandy beach on the east coast of Gran Canaria, near Telde. It is a known surf spot with consistent waves suitable for surfing and bodyboarding. The beach is organized with lifeguard services and limited parking. Its exposure to Atlantic swells creates surfable conditions.
Best for: soft sand underfoot
Guayedra is a sandy beach on the rugged west coast of Gran Canaria, facing the open Atlantic. Its exposed location often produces moderate to strong waves, making it more suitable for experienced swimmers.
Best for: soft sand underfoot
Muelle viejo is a sandy beach on the east coast of Gran Canaria, exposed to the prevailing trade winds. The wave conditions are moderate, with consistent swell that can vary in strength. This beach is popular for swimming and sunbathing, and its proximity to roadside parking makes it easily accessible.
Best for: soft sand underfoot, calm shallow water
Playa de las Mujeres, also known as Pasito Bea, is a sandy beach on the sheltered south coast of Gran Canaria. Its leeward position relative to the prevailing northeast trade winds ensures calm, clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach is easily accessible with roadside parking nearby.
Best for: soft sand underfoot, calm shallow water
Playa de Agua Dulce is a sandy beach on the southeast coast of Gran Canaria. Its sheltered location results in typically calm waters, making it suitable for swimming. The beach is accessed by roadside parking and offers a quiet atmosphere away from the larger resort areas.
Best for: soft sand underfoot, calm shallow water
Playa de Amadores is a man-made sandy beach on the southwest coast of Gran Canaria, sheltered by breakwaters. Its calm, crystal-clear waters make it a popular choice for swimming and families. The beach is well-maintained and offers a tranquil seaside experience.
Best for: soft sand underfoot, calm shallow water
Playa de Cochino is a small sandy beach located on the southern coast of Gran Canaria. Sheltered from the prevailing northeast trade winds by the island's geography, the sea here is typically calm and gentle. This makes it a suitable spot for swimming in a quiet, less crowded environment.
Best for: soft sand underfoot, calm shallow water
Playa de La Garita is a small sandy beach located on the east coast of Gran Canaria, sheltered within a natural cove. Its calm waters, protected from strong Atlantic swells, make it a popular spot for families and relaxed swimming. The beach offers a peaceful setting with roadside parking nearby.
Best for: soft sand underfoot
Playa de La Laja is a sandy beach on the east coast of Gran Canaria. It is a popular spot for surfing due to its consistent waves, which are often suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers. The beach has a natural setting with roadside parking and is frequented by locals and tourists.
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