The Canary Islands are a paradise of golden sand and more, crystal clear waters and breathtaking landscapes, but what are they? the 7 most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands? With over 500 beaches Scattered between Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and the other islands, choosing the most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands is not easy.
In this article, we will take you Discovering the 7 best beaches in the Canary Islands, in our humble opinion, perfect for your Canary Islands holiday, with details on what makes them unique and a curious anecdote to spark your imagination. Get ready to immerse yourself in the Canary Islands' must-see beaches you'll never forget!
Are you ready?
Why are the beaches of the Canary Islands unmissable?
The Canaries offer a mild climate all year round (20-28°C), making their beaches an ideal destination in every season. First of all, the variety is astonishing: golden, black, volcanic sand or pebblesEvery island has something special. Furthermore, many of the Canary Islands' most beautiful beaches have Blue Flag status, synonymous with cleanliness and safety. For example, whether you're looking for relaxation, snorkeling, or spectacular scenery, you'll find your perfect beach.
But what are the most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands?
Here is our top 7.
The 7 most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands
1. Playa de Las Teresitas, Tenerife
Located near Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Capital of the Province of the same name), Playa de Las Teresitas is one of the best beaches in the Canary Islands for its golden sand imported from the Sahara. 1.3 km long, It is protected by breakwaters that make the water calm, ideal for families on a Canary Island holiday. Palm trees and amenities like bars and showers complete the experience. It's a man-made oasis that's the perfect choice for a must-see Canary Island beach.
2. Playa de Maspalomas, Gran Canaria
Playa de Maspalomas is famous for its dunes, a natural desert that extends to the sea. With over 6 km of fine sand, it connects the tourist resorts of southern Gran Canaria "Playa del Ingles" and "Meloneras", and is among the most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands for its contrast between dunes and ocean. Perfect for walking or relaxing, it also offers nudist and water sports areas. During your Canary Islands holiday, it's a must for those who love unique scenery. See for yourself!
3. Playa de Papagayo, Lanzarote
Hidden among volcanic cliffs in the south of Lanzarote, Playa de Papagayo is a bay of white sand and turquoise waters. It's one of the most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands for its wild beauty and tranquility. Accessible by car or on foot, it's perfect for snorkeling and picnics. A gem among the Canary Islands beaches, a must-see if you're on holiday in Lanzarote. And honestly... we at Toda Canarias are in love with it!
To Know: There is a fee to access Playa del Papagayo by car. The cost for residents is approximately 3 euros. The purpose of this fee is to limit access and preserve its natural surroundings.
4. Playa de Sotavento, Fuerteventura
Playa de Sotavento, 9 km long, is a paradise forfor lovers of the sea and water sports. At low tide, they form natural lagoons, making it one of the best beaches in Fuerteventura and the Canary Islands for swimming and windsurfing. The golden sand and endless horizon make it stand out among the most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands. Not at home is one of the beaches most frequented by influencers and vloggers, in fact just search on Instagram, Fuerteventura and you will realise that it is present in almost all the reels and posts.
5. Playa de Nogales, La Palma
Playa de Nogales, located on the north coast of La Palma, is a black sand beach Surrounded by high cliffs. Less touristy, it is among the most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands for its wild charm and tranquility. Reached by a short walk, it is ideal for those seeking pure nature during a holiday in the Canary Islands.
Let's say that Playa de Nogales represents what this beautiful island, nicknamed "“The Beautiful Island“: mountains, enchanting paths, lava, ocean and so much greenery… We repeat….a true paradise for nature lovers!
6. Playa de Valle Gran Rey, La Gomera
On the quiet island of La Gomera, Playa de Valle Gran Rey combines black sand and pebbles with a picturesque village in the background. It is one of the Canary Islands beaches worth seeing for its spectacular sunset and the relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for swimming or simply enjoying the silence, it's a treasure among the best Canary Islands beaches.
7. Playa de El Golfo, El Hierro
Playa de El Golfo, in El Hierro, is one volcanic beach with black sand and a green lagoon nearby, the Charco de los Clicos. Among the most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands, it offers a dramatic landscape and unspoiled. It's less accessible, but perfect for those who love adventure during their holidays in the Canary Islands.
An extra beach
Although this article wants to offer you a Top 7 Best Beaches of the Canary Islands, we at Toda Canarias we want to add an extra one, in case any of you are not satisfied with this list... So we propose one of the most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands but less visited due to its location:
Playa La Francesa, La Graciosa Island
La Francesa Beach, located on the island of La Graciosa, is one of the most fascinating beaches in the Canary Islands. Reachable on foot from the port of Caleta de Sebo, this natural wonder captivates with its golden sand and crystalline turquoise waters. Surrounded by a breathtaking volcanic landscape, is the ideal place to relax away from the crowds, immersed in a wild and unspoiled atmosphere. The sheltered bay makes the sea calm and perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Playa La Francesa is a true paradise for nature lovers, ideal for those seeking tranquility and authentic beauty.
A curious anecdote: the secret of the heart of Playa de Sotavento
Here's a story that makes this list special: in the 90s, a group of surfers discovered that during a storm at Sotavento Beach, the lagoons had joined together forming a perfect heart visible from above. The photo, taken from a helicopter, went around the world, establishing the beach as one of the most beautiful in the Canary Islands. Locals swear the heart still appears on rare occasions: could you be the one to spot it on your Canary Island holiday?
Practical tips for visiting the most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands
How to reach them
If your intention is to visit these wonderful beaches in the Top 7 list, then rent a car (e.g. in Tenerife or Gran Canaria) or use bus local (“guaguas”). For example, Playa de Papagayo requires a short dirt road ride, while Las Teresitas is well served by Santa Cruz. To travel between the islands, rely on Binter Canarias airline or Fred Olsen Express for ferry transfers.
What to bring
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes for the wilder beaches like Nogales or El Golfo. A beach towel and snorkeling mask are perfect for enjoying the must-see Canary Islands beaches.
When to go
Spring and autumn are ideal for avoiding the crowds, but the Canary Islands shine all year round. Read more Easter Holidays 2025 in the Canary Islands for seasonal ideas
Why choose the Canary Islands beaches for your holidays?
In conclusion, the 7 most beautiful beaches of the Canary Islands they offer an experience for every tasteRelax at Las Teresitas, explore Sotavento, and enjoy the wild nature of Nogales. These most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands are the heart of a Canary Island holiday, combining natural beauty and accessibility.
Whether you're looking for golden or black sand, the best Canary Islands beaches await you.
What do you say… don't you think it's time to plan your seaside getaway?
