10 Best Beaches in the Canary Islands

Playa de Maspalomas is a beautiful and expansive stretch of golden sand with temperate waters year-round. It is quite spacious, so even in high season, you'll easily find room for yourself. Families will appreciate the services such as lounger and parasol rentals, beach cafes and showers.

Take a stroll down the wide boardwalk that stretches along the beach in both directions and enjoy the gorgeous ocean views. Head to the west end and you'll find the impressive Maspalomas Dunes Nature Reserve. Kids (and adventurous adults) will love the fun of rolling themselves down the dunes. Take in a sunset here for a memorable evening and great vacation photos.

Playa de las Canteras is a popular urban beach buzzing with fun activities. Here, you'll almost always find a game of beach volleyball or an open-air yoga class you can join. The calm waters are great for bathing, thanks to the strip of volcanic rock known locally as La Barra ('the bar'), which protects the beach from tides.

After you've soaked up the sun and splashed in the sea, grab some lunch from one of the nearby snack shops, ice cream parlors, or fresh fish restaurants. Make a full day of your excursion and browse the shops and explore the surrounding walking neighborhoods of the city.

Visiting Playa de las Conchas is an unforgettable adventure. It is on the tiny island of La Graciosa, where there are no paved roads and only a few hundred residents. Ride a 4WD jeep, rent a bicycle, or make the roughly hour-long trek on foot. You're rewarded for your efforts upon reaching the protected beach, by its white sand, turquoise water, and the magnificent backdrop of red Mount Bermeja.

The beach is strikingly beautiful, quiet, and untouched, so you'll likely be one of only a few there. Take some time for yourself and sit on the shore in this idyllic setting, all while appreciating the natural beauty around you.

Playa de las Teresitas makes for a fun beach day out for the whole family. This manmade beach with white sand is conveniently close to the road with a large parking area. The water is calm thanks to the breakwaters that have been built there, so you can enjoy a refreshing swim, a casual stroll along the shore or stand-up paddleboarding.

It offers the convenience of wheelchair access and all the services you may need such as toilets, showers, and sun loungers and parasol rentals. Pack a picnic to enjoy under the shade of palms or grab a meal at one of the beach bars and restaurants.

Playa de Sotavento de Jandía stretches on for miles, so you’ll find plenty of space to lounge on. The area is protected and backed by dunes, without buildings or hotels nearby. It has a roomy, free feeling and you'll feel at peace as you take in the beauty of its pristine nature. The pale turquoise water is warm year-round. There are steady trade winds, making this beach a great spot for watersport novices. Experience something new and try windsurfing or kitesurfing with one of the schools here.

Don't miss the opportunity to take some vacation shots, as the vibrant blue waters are spectacular in photos, and will serve as a beautiful reminder of your Canarian trip. 

Puerto de Tazacorte is a volcanic black-sand beach in La Palma. A blissful place with gorgeous views, your eyes will be delighted by the stunning natural surroundings, blue ocean, and striking sunsets.

Enjoy a beach day in a natural setting but with conveniences such as parasol rentals, restaurants, and cafes. The beach is outside the city, but easily accessible with a nearby road and parking area. A breakwater has been built to control the sea currents, so you can swim peacefully. Float in the gentle waves, wiggle your toes in the dark sand and appreciate the relaxing scene.

Playa del Inglés is all about sunshine and sunsets. Here, you are nearly guaranteed sunshine any time of the year to enjoy your day soaking up the rays and playing in the waves. The mountainous backdrop of the beach is an unusual orange-copper color, while the sand is dark and rich, almost black.

There are a few chillout cafes and nice restaurants nearby, though Playa del Inglés itself feels secluded. It's a clothing-optional beach, so if the mood strikes you, feel free to go au naturel. As evening approaches, cozy up on a blanket to watch the spectacular sunset.

Charco Manso is a charming saltwater pool in El Hierro. You'll be delighted as you venture down a red gravel path through natural arches formed by waves hitting the rocks over time. Since the beach is not easily accessible, it's usually quiet and a great place to enjoy solitude in nature or for an out-of-the-ordinary family day out.

You can swim in this natural saltwater pool and spend the day lounging on the warm rocks. Children will love the fun of exploring the tiny caves and arches. Bring water shoes to protect your feet from sharp rocks when entering and exiting the bathing area.

Playa de Papagayo is a wonder, with its fine golden sand, intensely turquoise water, and views of nearby islands. You can easily spend a relaxing day here soaking up its beauty in excellent Lanzaroteweather. The picturesque setting is perfect for your vacation photos, too.

The nice climate and clear, calm water make for great bathing and snorkeling conditions. Be sure to go out early to see the most marine life. Another fun activity is to explore the rock formations, little caves and stretches of beach as you go down the coast. Pack good footwear and make an adventure of exploring the rugged coastline. 

Playa la Tejita is gorgeous, far from tourist crowds, and has great waves. Take in the view of the grand red volcanic crater named Montaña Roja as you soak up rays on the golden sand. Some regulars enjoy wave jumping and windsurfing in the exciting surf. Access the beach down a short path from the road.

The vibe at Playa la Tejita is laidback and relaxed. Feel free to bathe au naturel or in your swimwear – there will be a mix of people doing the same. There are no shops or restaurants, so bring a lunch and beverages for the day. Make a weekend of it by staying in one of the nearby camping and caravan sites or cozy wooden cabins.