18 Best Beaches in Canary Islands

Fuerteventura

FFuerteventura is one of the Canary Islands, known for its vast beaches, dry climate and peaceful atmosphere. It is the second largest island in the archipelago and lies closest to Africa, giving it a desert-like landscape shaped by wind and time. The island feels like the purest version of the Atlantic. Long ribbons of golden sand stretch endlessly, the wind moves gently across the dunes, and turquoise water sparkles beneath a wide open sky. This natural simplicity defines Fuerteventura’s appeal. Popular spots include the Corralejo Dunes, Cofete Beach and Isla de Lobos. Inland viewpoints offer sweeping views of volcanic ridges and open plains. Tourism remains low key, making it ideal for travellers seeking space, nature and quiet.

1.Playa del Medano

A fine, white sandy beach that is extremely wide. The landscape is spectacular and looking outwards towards the sea there is Lobos island only two kilometres away and inland there are the Corralejo dunes. Nudists frequent the beach. Windsurfing opportunities, there is a school on the beach itself. There is a cleaning service, nautical rents, loungers, and sunshades.

2.Playa del Castillo

Near Caleta de Fuste, Playa del Castillo offers calm water and soft golden sand. Families love its safe, shallow sea and the easy promenade behind it. Small boats rest in the bay, and the gentle sound of waves sets the tone for lazy days under the sun. In the evening the light turns honey-gold and the sea glows quietly as the day fades.

3.Costa Calma

True to its name, Costa Calma feels like a place built for peace. The long beach and pale blue water invite slow swimming and unhurried afternoons. The lagoon that forms at low tide reflects the sky like glass. Resorts and hotels line the coast yet it never feels crowded. Time seems to soften here.

4.Playa del Matorral

At the southern edge of Fuerteventura, Playa del Matorral stretches beneath the tall Jandía lighthouse. The beach is wide and wild, open to the Atlantic and brushed by a constant breeze. The view from the dunes is extraordinary, with golden sand meeting an endless horizon. It is a place for reflection, long walks and quiet awe.

Lanzarote

Lanzarote offers a travel experience that is both distinctive and memorable. Upon arrival, visitors are immediately struck by the island’s surreal landscape, where black volcanic rock contrasts with pale sand and the sea transitions from emerald green to deep blue. The air is notably pure, and the terrain exudes a quiet strength that evokes a sense of calm and inspiration. Widely recognised for its volcanic geography and consistent sunshine throughout the year, Lanzarote presents an environment that feels otherworldly. Its natural beauty and artistic appeal have long attracted creatives and explorers. Whether hiking through the lava fields of Timanfaya or relaxing along the coastline, travellers often report a profound connection to the island’s unique character.

5.Playa de los Pocillos

Nestled on the south-eastern coast of Lanzarote, Playa de Los Pocillos is a wide golden crescent that forms part of the Puerto del Carmen resort area. The beach stretches for more than a kilometre, with soft sand and calm water that make it perfect for swimming and long walks by the sea. Although close to the livelier main strip, it keeps a gentler, more relaxed atmosphere where families, couples, and walkers can unwind in peace. The promenade behind the beach is lined with cafés and bars where the sound of laughter drifts in the warm breeze. With its balance of tranquillity and convenience, Playa de los Pocillos is one of Lanzarote’s most inviting spots for an easy-going beach holiday.

6.Playa de Famara, Lanzarote

Playa de Famara captures the wild and untamed beauty of Lanzarote. Located on the island’s north-western coast, this vast stretch of golden sand is framed by the dramatic cliffs of the Risco de Famara, which rise steeply behind the beach and glow red and bronze in the afternoon light. Facing the open Atlantic, the sea here is powerful and alive, with long rolling waves that draw surfers from around the world. It is not a typical sunbathing beach but rather a place that celebrates nature in its purest form.

The wind is part of Famara’s soul, shaping the dunes and filling the air with a soft salt mist. When the tide goes out, the wet sand becomes a perfect mirror that reflects the mountains and clouds above, creating one of the most striking views on the island. The nearby fishing village of Caleta de Famara adds to the charm, with small surf shops, simple seafood restaurants and a laid-back local atmosphere. Whether you come to surf, walk for miles along the shoreline, or simply feel the Atlantic’s energy, Playa de Famara leaves a lasting impression. It is easily one of the best beaches in Lanzarote for those who love wide open space and raw natural beauty.

7.Playa Mujeres, Lanzarote

Hidden within Los Ajaches Natural Park on Lanzarote’s southern coast, Playa Mujeres feels like a secret. After a short walk across soft sand and rocky paths, you reach a long, quiet bay of pale sand and calm turquoise water. With no hotels or crowds, it’s all about peace, nature and the sound of the sea.

Perfect for swimming, sunbathing or a picnic, it offers one of the island’s most natural and beautiful settings. If you visit the Papagayo area, don’t miss this serene escape.

8.Playa de Papagayo, Lanzarote

Playa de Papagayo is Lanzarote’s most iconic cove and a must visit on any island holiday. Tucked inside the Los Ajaches Natural Park, this small sheltered bay has golden sand, calm emerald water and rocky hills that protect it from the wind. It is perfect for swimming, snorkelling and lazy days in the sun. A short walk up the cliffs gives you wide views over the coast and, on clear days, across to Fuerteventura. Simple beach bars keep the atmosphere relaxed and natural. Papagayo is one of the best beaches in Lanzarote for visitors who want clear water, soft sand and unforgettable sunsets in an unspoilt setting.

9.Playa de Papagayo, Lanzarote

Playa Dorada sits on the edge of Playa Blanca and does exactly what the name promises. A sheltered bay of soft golden sand and clear, calm water, protected by low breakwaters so the sea feels more like a gentle lagoon than open Atlantic. It is one of the easiest beaches on Lanzarote for swimming, paddling and floating without thinking too much, which is why families and relaxed couples love it. There are sunbeds, umbrellas, showers and lifeguards in season, plus cafes, shops and hotels just a short stroll along the promenade. You can spend the whole day here drifting between the water, a drink with a view and an evening walk as the lights of Playa Blanca come on.

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is often described as a miniature continent because so many landscapes fit into one island. There are mountain villages, pine forests, dramatic ravines, soft sand dunes and lively coastal resorts. Its beaches reflect that same variety, offering everything from relaxed city shores to sweeping bays of golden sand where the Atlantic feels endless. For anyone planning a beach holiday in the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria gives a mix of comfort, character and adventure.

10.Playa de Las Canteras

Playa de Las Canteras in Las Palmas is one of the finest city beaches in Spain and a favourite for both locals and visitors. The bay stretches for nearly three kilometres and is protected by a natural reef that keeps the water calm and clear. This makes it ideal for swimming, paddleboarding and snorkelling among colourful fish close to the shore.

The promenade behind the beach is full of life throughout the day. People jog, meet for coffee, enjoy seafood on open terraces and listen to street musicians as the afternoon light softens. In the evening, families and friends gather with ice creams or drinks to watch the sun sink into the Atlantic. Las Canteras is more than a beach. It is the heart of the city and one of the best places in Gran Canaria to feel both the ocean and the local way of life.

11.Playa de Maspalomas

Playa de Maspalomas is one of the most distinctive beaches in the Canary Islands, where rolling golden dunes meet the Atlantic in a wide open bay. The famous Maspalomas lighthouse stands at one end of the shore, guiding the view as you walk along the waterfront. Behind the beach, the protected dunes create a desert like landscape that feels peaceful and otherworldly, especially at sunrise and sunset. The sea is usually calm enough for swimming and long paddles along the shore. With its mix of natural beauty, soft sand and easy access to nearby hotels, cafés and coastal walks, Playa de Maspalomas is an ideal choice for visitors looking for a scenic and relaxed Gran Canaria beach holiday.

12.Playa del Ingles

Playa del Ingles offers a livelier and more social atmosphere while sharing the same long sweep of sand along the south coast. This is the place for classic holiday energy, with beach bars, restaurants, water sports and plenty of space to swim and sunbathe. The sand is soft, the entry into the sea is gentle, and the promenade runs for kilometres, perfect for evening walks by the water. It is popular with friends, couples and solo travellers who enjoy a fun, welcoming environment with everything close by. Playa del Ingles is one of the best known beaches in Gran Canaria and a key spot for those planning a vibrant beach break in the Canary Islands.

13.Playa Anfi del Mar

Playa Anfi del Mar sits on the south west coast of Gran Canaria and feels like a carefully crafted tropical escape. The bay is sheltered and the water almost always calm, with pale sand that gently shelves into clear turquoise sea. Palm trees and gardens surround the beach and a small marina completes the picture.

It is a wonderful choice for couples and families looking for comfort, safe swimming and a relaxed setting. Restaurants and cafés line the waterfront, offering views over the bay from morning until sunset. The overall feeling at Anfi del Mar is soft, bright and unhurried, making it one of the most popular beaches in Gran Canaria for an easy, peaceful day by the sea.

14.Playa de Amadores

Playa de Amadores, meaning lovers beach, is designed for rest and quiet enjoyment. The bay is protected by curved breakwaters which keep the sea calm and smooth, so the water feels like a clear lagoon. The sand is light, the entry to the sea is gentle, and everything about the setting encourages slow time in the sun.

Sun loungers line the shore, and a walkway connects Amadores with nearby Puerto Rico, offering beautiful coastal views. As the day draws to a close, the sky often turns shades of pink, orange and violet, reflecting on the still water. Playa de Amadores is one of the best beaches in Gran Canaria for visitors who want a calm, romantic or family friendly place with warm water and no rush at all.

Tenerife

Tenerife is the largest island in the Canary Islands and offers an impressive mix of landscapes. Mount Teide rises above clouds in the centre, forests and traditional villages dot the north, and sunny resorts line the south. Its beaches range from soft golden coves to dramatic volcanic shores. This variety makes Tenerife perfect for travellers who want both comfort and character in one holiday.

15.Playa de Las Teresitas

Just a short drive from Santa Cruz, Playa de Las Teresitas is one of the most beautiful beaches in Tenerife. A wide arc of golden sand, calm shallow water and rows of palm trees give it a relaxed, tropical feel. The bay is protected, which keeps the waves gentle and makes it ideal for families with children, couples and anyone looking for easy swimming.

Mountains rise behind the beach, wrapping the bay in a dramatic backdrop that looks stunning in photographs yet feels very natural in person. Local visitors come at weekends, bringing food and music, which adds to the friendly atmosphere. For many people, Las Teresitas is the perfect place to enjoy a classic Tenerife beach day.

16.Playa del Duque

In Costa Adeje, Playa del Duque offers a more refined beach experience. The sand is pale and soft, the water clear, and the surrounding area filled with stylish hotels, boutiques and cafés. Despite the facilities, the beach remains calm and comfortable, with a peaceful atmosphere that suits couples and guests looking for a touch of luxury.

Playa del Duque is one of the best beaches in Tenerife for travellers who want good service, relaxed surroundings and a beautiful setting without loud crowds. Gentle waves, clean facilities and a lovely promenade make it a natural choice for a full day by the sea.

17.Playa de la Arena

On the western coast near Santiago del Teide, Playa de la Arena is known for its dark volcanic sand and deep blue water. The contrast between the black shore and the bright ocean creates a striking scene that feels uniquely Tenerife. The beach is compact but welcoming, surrounded by restaurants, cafés and sea view terraces.

The waves can be stronger here, but that is part of the appeal. Visitors come to sit by the water, listen to the sound of the Atlantic and enjoy sunsets that often light up the sky beyond the nearby cliffs. Playa de la Arena offers a more local, lived in charm and is ideal for those who want a beach with character.

18.Playa Maria Jiménez

Close to Santa Cruz, Playa Maria Jiménez remains a small, authentic spot that many visitors overlook. Fishing boats rest on the sand, families gather at weekends, and the sea feels open and honest. There are no big developments, just the impression of everyday island life by the water. It is a simple place, but a meaningful one for travellers who enjoy quiet corners away from the main resorts. The beach gives a glimpse of real Tenerife, where the connection between people, land and sea still feels close.

Useful tips for visiting the Canary Islands beaches

Planning a beach holiday in the Canary Islands is easy, but a few simple details can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Weather and best time to go
The Canary Islands are known for year round mild weather. Winter feels like a soft spring and summer rarely becomes uncomfortable. For many visitors, March to June and September to November are ideal, with warm seas, long sunny days and fewer crowds. If you want winter sun, December to February is perfect in the south of Tenerife and Gran Canaria and along the main resorts in Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.

Sea conditions and safety
The Atlantic can change quickly. On many beaches you will see coloured flags. Green means generally safe conditions, yellow advises caution, and red means do not swim. Fuerteventura and parts of Lanzarote in particular can have stronger currents. Always follow lifeguard advice, stay within the marked areas and keep an eye on children even in shallow water.

Wind and waves
Some of the best beaches in the Canary Islands are also popular with surfers and wind sports. If you prefer calm seas, look for sheltered bays such as Anfi del Mar, Amadores, Playa del Duque, Playa de las Teresitas, Playa de los Pocillos and many resort beaches in the south. If you enjoy waves, head to spots like Famara in Lanzarote or more open sections of Fuerteventura.

Getting around the islands
Local buses work well between most main resort areas and towns. Taxis are easy to find and reliable for shorter journeys. To reach quieter coves, natural parks, viewpoints and some of the most beautiful beaches, hiring a car is often the best choice. Roads are generally good and distances are shorter than they appear on the map.

What to bring to the beach
For resort beaches you only need the basics, as there are umbrellas, sunbeds, showers and beach bars available. For natural beaches such as Papagayo, Playa Mujeres, Famara, some parts of Fuerteventura and smaller coves in Tenerife and Gran Canaria, bring water, snacks, sun protection, a hat and suitable footwear for rocky paths.

Respecting nature and local rules
Many dune areas and coves are protected spaces. Keep to signed paths, do not remove stones or sand, avoid walking on fragile plants and always take your litter away with you. Music, drones and late night gatherings are restricted in some areas. A little care keeps these places beautiful for everyone.

Which Canary Island is right for you

Choosing the right island is often the hardest part. Here is a clear way to guide your visitors, and gently lead them to your hotel links.

Fuerteventura
Best for guests who love space, natural beauty and long sandy beaches. Ideal for windsurfing, kitesurfing and quiet coastal walks. Popular areas include Corralejo, Costa Calma and Jandia. A good choice for couples and families who like a relaxed atmosphere and wide horizons.

Lanzarote
Perfect for travellers who appreciate volcanic landscapes, design, art and peaceful coves. Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise offer easy resort stays, while Papagayo, Playa Mujeres and Famara bring wild scenery and clear water. Excellent for couples, walkers and anyone who wants a stylish but calm Canary Islands holiday.

Gran Canaria
A strong all round choice. Playa de Las Canteras suits city and culture lovers, Maspalomas and Playa del Ingles mix dunes, sun and nightlife, while Amadores and Anfi del Mar are ideal for gentle, relaxed days by the sea. Good for families, groups and visitors who want variety without changing islands.

Tenerife
Offers a bit of everything. South Tenerife has soft sandy beaches, many hotels and reliable sunshine. North Tenerife feels greener and more local with dramatic coastline. Highlights include Playa de las Teresitas, Playa del Duque, Playa de la Arena and smaller local beaches close to Santa Cruz and Puerto de la Cruz. Ideal for couples, families and explorers who might want a trip to Mount Teide along with their beach time.

Canary Islands beach FAQ

Are the Canary Islands warm enough for a beach holiday in winter
Yes. Daytime temperatures often sit between eighteen and twenty four degrees, especially in the south of Tenerife and Gran Canaria and in many parts of Fuerteventura and Lanzarote. The sea is cooler but still comfortable for many swimmers.

Which Canary Island is best for families
Gran Canaria, Tenerife south and Fuerteventura are very good for families. Look for sheltered beaches with facilities such as Amadores, Anfi del Mar, Las Teresitas, Playa del Duque, Costa Calma, Jandia and resort areas with lifeguards, restaurants and easy access.

Which island is best for couples
Tenerife south, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria all have excellent options for couples. Quiet coves like Papagayo, Playa Mujeres, Amadores, parts of Costa Adeje and small hotels near scenic bays work well for romantic stays with sunset views, good food and relaxed evenings.

Where should I go for surfing or wind sports
For surfing and kite or windsurfing, Fuerteventura and Lanzarote stand out. Spots like Corralejo, Sotavento and Famara are known across Europe. Some beaches are better for experienced surfers, so new visitors should book lessons or ask local schools for guidance.

Do I need a car to explore the best beaches in the Canary Islands
To enjoy main resort beaches you do not need a car. For natural coves, remote viewpoints and less crowded stretches, hiring a car for a few days is very useful. It gives more freedom to discover beaches like Papagayo, some parts of Fuerteventura’s south coast and smaller bays away from the main bus routes.

Is it safe to swim on all beaches
Many beaches are safe and have lifeguards, but some open Atlantic spots have strong waves and currents. Always check the flag system, avoid swimming alone in rough conditions and stay within supervised areas, especially with children.

Can I drink the tap water in the Canary Islands
Tap water is treated and safe in most areas, although it may taste different as much of it is desalinated. Many visitors prefer bottled water for drinking. For brushing teeth and general use, tap water is normally fine.

The Canary Islands are a promise of blue skies in winter, soft evenings in summer and beaches that feel made for slow, easy days. When you are ready to plan your island break, explore hotels and holidays with SpainHotelsDirect across Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura, where you can compare great value stays, choose secure and reliable payment options, benefit from low deposit deals and select ATOL protected packages from trusted partners, giving you the reassurance that your sunshine holiday is in safe hands from the moment you book.