Located to the north of Las Palmas, Playa de las Canteras is a large urban beach. We found it perfect for punctuating our cultural visits with a swimming break. Golden sands, boardwalk strolls and sunsets await you!
In our article you’ll find lots of photos of Playa de las Canteras and our tips to help you plan your visit: map, access, sand, conditions…
This review is completely independent, we visited the area anonymously and paid our bills in full.
Why visit Playa de las Canteras?
Is Playa de las Canteras worth it?
Playa de las Canteras is reputed to be one of the best beaches in Europe. In our opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful in Gran Canaria! Divided into several sections, this long urban beach encompasses Playa Grande, Playa Chica, Playa Peña Vieja and Playa la Cicer. Bordered by a beautiful promenade, it offers a wide range of facilities, bars and restaurants. It is also very popular with water sports enthusiasts, such as diving and snorkeling. We loved the lively atmosphere!
Why choose this beach?
Here are our top 3 reasons for choosing Playa de las Canteras:
- Perfect for sea bathing and sunbathing: refreshing waters and a relaxed atmosphere guaranteed.
- Its proximity to Las Palmas attractions: ideal for combining swimming and sightseeing.
- An urban beach: easy access from the city.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Gran Canaria
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- If you’re planning to explore the mountains, don ‘t take the smallest cars. A more powerful engine will be more comfortable.
- But don’t take too big a car either, as some roads are narrow.
- There’s a lot of demand and it’s an island, so book early.
Access and map – Playa de las Canteras (Las Palmas)
Where to find Playa de las Canteras
- In the city of Las Palmas
- North-west
- Walking time from downtown: 25min
- 15 minutes by car from the old town
Here is a map to help you find your way:
How to get there – access road
Playa de las Canteras is not accessible by car, as the seafront is entirely pedestrianized. If you have a car, we recommend that you park in town or on the nearby streets, and then walk to the beach by public transport or cab.
Numerous buses bring you close to the beach. For example, we recommend buses 1 and 2 to the Tomas Miller stop (Playa de Las Canteras), which stop very close to the beach.
Parking
Parking is available on the streets around Playa de las Canteras and elsewhere in town. Please note that parking is subject to a charge.
On the sand and in the water…practical advice
Best time to visit
Playa de las Canteras is great to enjoy all year round! Temperatures remain mild in the Canaries in winter and there are a few less crowds. In summer, we recommend early mornings and weekdays to avoid the crowds. The beach is very popular and attracts large crowds.
Beach type and size
Playa de las Canteras is a large urban beach with several sections and a long promenade.
We found fine golden sand in which we loved to dip our toes!
Conditions for swimming
Playa de las Canteras has a gentle slope and a depth ideal for swimming. Protected by a coral reef (the Barra) that attenuates waves, the sea is generally calm. We found the water quality to be good. We also saw signs explaining the marine flora and fauna, which bodes well for snorkelling conditions!
A LITTLE MORE patience
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Facilities and activities
Monitoring
We didn’t see any surveillance posts.
Showers, toilets, deckchairs…
You’ll find showers and toilets, as well as colorful changing cubicles. We also appreciated the parasols and deckchairs available for hire, perfect for enjoying the beach in comfort!
Shadow
There are a few shady areas in Playa de las Canteras near the palm trees. You can also rent a pitch with deckchair and parasol for protection from the sun.
Nautical activities
The choice is yours when it comes to water activities! Here are some of our suggestions:
- Admire the seabed while snorkeling.
- Try diving!
- Take a boat trip to explore the coast.
Catering
You’ll find numerous snack bars, bars and restaurants all along the waterfront. You can also venture into the city and follow our suggestions for good addresses.
Information for children, mobility, dogs, naturism…
Playa de las Canteras with children
At Playa de las Canteras, you’ll find children’s playgrounds where your little ones can enjoy themselves in complete safety. Beach volleyball nets are also available for those wishing to practice this seaside sport.
Playa de las Canteras with a dog
Unfortunately, you can’t bring your dog to Playa de las Canteras. We read it on the information board.
Playa de las Canteras with reduced mobility
The site has specially designed facilities for people with reduced mobility, offering easy access to the beach and water, walkable paths and access ramps.
Playa de las Canteras and naturism
Playa de las Canteras is not a naturist beach.
What to see on and around the beach
Enjoy the beach, the sea and idleness. You can also take a stroll along the promenade. We loved the sunset view!
The beach is not far from other Las Palmas attractions such as the Poema del Mar Aquarium and the Elder Science and Technology Museum!
Other beautiful beaches nearby
Close to Playa de las Canteras, we also enjoyed the wild Playa del Confital and Playa de las Alcaravaneras near the port. Read our article on the most beautiful beaches in Las Palmas to find out more!
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
