The Best Beaches in the South of Gran Canaria: Which to Choose and for Whom
The south of Gran Canaria is where the island's best beaches are: turquoise water, golden sand, and a climate that holds up almost all year. I live here, and this is my honest pick — which ones are genuinely beautiful, which are best for families, and the practical tips that make the difference on the ground.
A local's tip first: the best time is September to June. In peak July and August the south fills up and gets hotter; the rest of the year you get sea, sun and far more enjoyable beaches. And unlike other areas, here weekends aren't a problem — it doesn't get as packed as Maspalomas.
Playa de Amadores — the prettiest for a beach day
If I had to name one beach in the area, this is it. A sheltered bay of golden sand, calm turquoise water, perfect for families with kids because the sea is gentle. Bars, restaurants and services all around. There's a section with sunbeds and parasols for hire, plus free space too.
Best for: families, anyone wanting calm sea and comfort close at hand.
Anfi del Mar — white sand and postcard water
One of the south's most scenic beaches: white sand, crystal-clear and very calm water inside a bay. A family favourite precisely for the still, shallow water. Shops and a supermarket behind to sort out your day.
Best for: those after the "Caribbean" look and natural-pool calm sea.
Puerto Rico — beach plus life and activities
A golden beach inside a well-organised bay, with all services. Puerto Rico's bonus is that it's also the harbour boat trips leave from (dolphins, sea excursions): handy if you want to combine the beach with a day experience.
Best for: those wanting an easy beach plus activities and life around.
Playa de Maspalomas — the dunes, the island's icon
The most famous, and for good reason: the beach opens onto the Maspalomas Dunes, a desert-by-the-ocean landscape unique to the Canaries. A wide, scenic beach, perfect for long walks and spectacular sunsets. Practical note: it's very exposed, so the sea can be choppy — less suited to small children than Amadores or Anfi. Sunbeds and parasols are cheap (around €7-8).
Best for: those wanting the iconic scenery, the walks and the sunsets. Less ideal for small kids due to the waves.
Puerto de Mogán — the village to visit (more than the beach)
Here I'll be straight with you: Mogán is worth it as a village, not as a beach. The beach is small. But the village — white colonial-style houses, canals, red bougainvillea, nicknamed "little Venice" — is one of the prettiest on the island. You go to stroll, eat, see the little harbour, not for a beach day.
Best for: those wanting half a day of beauty, photos and lunch with a view. Pair it with one of the real beaches above.
Practical tips (from a local)
- Parking: available in all these areas, but usually paid. Arriving not too late helps you find a spot.
- Best time: September to June — great climate, fewer crowds.
- Weekends: in the south they're fine, the beaches cope well.
- For kids: Amadores and Anfi del Mar (calm sea). Avoid Maspalomas with small children (waves).
Planning your holiday in the south? See also our guide to where to eat in Maspalomas and around — the real Italian restaurants of the area.
Getting there and moving between the beaches
All these beaches are in the south, a few minutes from each other and from Gran Canaria airport (LPA). To move between Amadores, Anfi, Puerto Rico and Mogán a rental car is easiest; there's also a bus line connecting the main ones. If you're planning your trip from Italy, check the flights below first.