6 Best Sights in Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

One of the best urban beaches in Spain is found at the northwest end of the city. Its yellow sands are flanked by a pleasant promenade that stretches more than 3 km (nearly 2 miles) from the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium in the south, where surfers congregate, to the Playa del Confital in the north. The beach is protected by a natural volcanic reef, La Barra, which runs parallel to the shore and makes for safe swimming. Lounge chairs and sunshades can be rented year-round. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: sunset; surfing; swimming; walking.

The island's most emblematic beach and one of the most beautiful, Maspalomas has golden sand that stretches for 2¾ km (1¾ miles) along the southern tip of Gran Canaria. Behind this beach are the famous Maspalomas dunes as well as palm groves and a saltwater lagoon, which lend an air of isolation and refuge to the beach. Bathing is safe everywhere except at La Punta de Maspalomas, where currents converge. Topless bathing is acceptable, and there's a nudist area at La Cañada de la Penca. This beach is busy year-round. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; showers; toilets. Best for: nudists; sunrise; sunset; walking.

Sandwiched between Playa del Inglés and Playa de San Agustín, this little sandy beach is protected by a breakwall, making it a favorite with families. Small fishing boats are moored in the bay, and the seafront promenade connects the neighboring resorts. Swimming is safe. There are plenty of lounge chairs and sunshades. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; showers; toilets. Best for: sunrise; swimming.

The co-ed Women's Beach is around the corner from the Maspalomas Lighthouse in Meloneras. A natural beach with gray shingles and small rocks, this quiet enclave currently has no amenities, although the expansion of Meloneras, along with the construction of several high-end hotels, may change that in the future. Swimming is generally safe. Amenities: none. Best for: solitude; sunset; walking.

To the east of Maspalomas, this quiet, rocky brown sand beach has lush vegetation nearby, making it one of the most picturesque on the island. Bathing is safe in calm conditions, but watch out for strong currents when the waves get up. Lounge chairs and sunshades line the beach. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: sunrise; walking.

Rivaling Maspalomas for popularity, Playa del Inglés has a lot going for it, including partying at the beach bars, sports, competitions, and concerts. There are nearly 3 km (2 miles) of golden sands, flanked by a pleasant seafront promenade that's great for early-morning and evening strolls. Swimming is generally safe, although windy conditions can create waves—it's a favorite spot with surfers. Lounge chairs and sunshades are available along the beach, and there's also a signposted nudist area. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; showers; toilets; water sports. Best for: nudists; partiers; swimming; windsurfing.