Maspalomas Beach
A breathtaking expanse of golden sand dunes meeting the Atlantic, offering a unique desert-like landscape and a vibrant beach experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Maspalomas Beach
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking expanse of golden sand dunes meeting the Atlantic, offering a unique desert-like landscape and a vibrant beach experience.
"The dunes are the highlight, worth walking through at least once."
🌅 Sunrise for Photos
Capture stunning, tourist-free photos of the dunes at sunrise. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the Dunes
Wander through the dunes, but stay on marked paths to protect the ecosystem. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Maspalomas Dunes
Adjacent to Maspalomas Beach
A breathtaking desert landscape of golden sand dunes stretching for miles. Feels like stepping into another world.
Maspalomas Beach Promenade
Along the coastline
A vibrant promenade perfect for sunset strolls, with plenty of shops and restaurants. Great atmosphere.
Gay Beach Area (Kiosk 7)
Near Faro de Maspalomas
A well-known, relaxed spot for the LGBTQ+ community to socialize and enjoy the sun.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Dunes
Sun, Sand, and Sea Smarts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunrise for Photos
Capture stunning, tourist-free photos of the dunes at sunrise. +1 :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the Dunes
Wander through the dunes, but stay on marked paths to protect the ecosystem. +1 :hiking_boot:
💰 Sunbed Costs
Sunbeds and umbrellas can cost around €7.50. Arrive early or be prepared for service fees. :moneywithwings:
🌊 Swim with Caution
The sea can have strong currents and large waves. Swim in designated areas with lifeguards. :ocean:
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunrise for Photos
Capture stunning, tourist-free photos of the dunes at sunrise. +1 :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the Dunes
Wander through the dunes, but stay on marked paths to protect the ecosystem. +1 :hiking_boot:
💰 Sunbed Costs
Sunbeds and umbrellas can cost around €7.50. Arrive early or be prepared for service fees. :moneywithwings:
🌊 Swim with Caution
The sea can have strong currents and large waves. Swim in designated areas with lifeguards. :ocean:
🗺️ Navigate to Gay Beach
Don't rely solely on Google Maps for the gay beach; look for Kiosk 7 and follow local signs. :map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Maspalomas Beach is celebrated for its stunning, vast sandy shores and the unique, desert-like dunes. Visitors love the vibrant atmosphere, especially in the popular gay beach area, and the beautiful promenade for sunset strolls. However, some find the strong winds and sand can be bothersome, and the sea currents require caution when swimming.
"Love this beech its amazing to watch the people walking along with no cares at all, lots of vending places to get refreshments too. Lovely vibe too the waves are huge too so be careful if you like to swim in the sea as its a very strong current too. All in all its beautiful and you have dunes too but we never got that far but looked amazing too. Nice walk along the prom too and plenty of shops along the way."
alan herr
"Nice beach! If its too windy you will be covered in sand...
We had dinner on the boulevard nearby most nights and there is a lovely atmosphere all around."
Jannina
"Wide, sandy, and dramatic, Playa de Maspalomas stands out thanks to the dunes and open sea views. It stretches a long way, so you can always find space, whether you want to sunbathe, walk, or just sit and watch the waves. The dunes are the highlight, worth walking through at least once. Some areas are more lively and busy, especially near the lighthouse and beach bars. Other parts are quieter or naturist-friendly. There’s a mix of families, couples, and solo visitors. Facilities are decent: toilets, loungers, lifeguards, and places to eat within walking distance. Just bring water and sun protection, it gets hot with little shade."
Patrik Krizek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a direct bus (like the 66 or 90) from Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) to Maspalomas, which takes about 40-50 minutes. Taxis are also readily available. Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring the island, including Maspalomas.
Parking can be challenging, especially during peak season. There are paid parking lots near the beach and promenade, but they fill up quickly. Consider arriving early or using public transport.
Yes, Maspalomas Beach is adjacent to Playa del Inglés. You can walk along the promenade or directly on the beach, which takes about 30-45 minutes depending on your starting point.
The dunes are directly accessible from Maspalomas Beach. You can walk from the promenade or explore them by following the paths that lead into the reserve. +1
Yes, the public bus network (Global) connects Maspalomas to various towns and attractions across Gran Canaria, making it accessible from other parts of the island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Maspalomas Beach itself is free to access. The Maspalomas Dunes are a protected natural reserve, and while walking through them is free, there might be designated entry points or visitor centers with information. +1
Maspalomas Beach is open 24/7 as it's a public beach. However, lifeguard services and facilities operate during daylight hours. The dunes are accessible during daylight.
No, tickets are not required for Maspalomas Beach. You can visit anytime. If you plan to rent sunbeds and umbrellas, you can usually arrange this on-site.
Yes, the Maspalomas Dunes are a protected area. Visitors are asked to stay on marked paths to avoid damaging the fragile ecosystem and to respect the natural environment. +1
Renting a sunbed with a parasol typically costs around €7.50 per day. Prices can vary slightly, and it's advisable to confirm with the vendors on the beach.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can sunbathe, swim (with caution due to currents), walk along the extensive beach and promenade, explore the Maspalomas Dunes, and enjoy water sports. There are also beach bars and restaurants. +1
Yes, Maspalomas Beach is generally family-friendly, especially in the areas closer to the promenade with calmer waters. However, always supervise children closely due to potential strong currents.
Yes, lifeguards are present at Maspalomas Beach, particularly in the more popular and central areas. They are there to ensure visitor safety.
Facilities include public toilets, showers (though some reviews mention a lack of them), sunbed and umbrella rentals, and numerous beach bars and restaurants along the promenade.
Yes, certain sections of Maspalomas Beach are designated as naturist-friendly, particularly further away from the main tourist hubs.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The promenade and nearby areas offer a wide range of dining options, from casual beach bars serving snacks and drinks to restaurants offering local Spanish cuisine and international dishes.
Yes, many restaurants along the Maspalomas promenade and in the Meloneras area boast excellent sea views, perfect for enjoying a meal at sunset.
Most restaurants in tourist areas like Maspalomas are accustomed to catering to various dietary needs and usually offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's always best to check menus or ask staff.
Prices at beach bars can vary. While some offer affordable snacks and drinks, others might be more upscale. Expect to pay a premium for beachfront locations.
Yes, there are several supermarkets and convenience stores located a short walk from Maspalomas Beach, making it easy to pick up supplies if you're self-catering or want to pack a picnic.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing the Maspalomas Dunes, creating beautiful shadows and golden hues. +1
The rolling dunes, the iconic Faro de Maspalomas (lighthouse), the expansive beach itself, and the vibrant promenade at sunset are all highly photogenic. +1
Drone usage may be restricted in protected natural areas like the Maspalomas Dunes. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the dunes and beach. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or distant shots. Protect your gear from sand and sun.
Yes, there are several 'miradors' (viewpoints) offering panoramic views of the dunes. One hidden path near the Riu Maspalomas hotel leads to a fantastic viewpoint.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring plenty of sun protection, hats, and water, as shade is limited. Renting a sunbed and umbrella can provide a comfortable base for the day. The promenade offers easy access to amenities like toilets and places to grab snacks or meals, making it convenient for families. Exploring the edges of the dunes can also be an exciting adventure for younger visitors, offering a taste of a different landscape.
🏳️🌈 LGBTQ+ Travelers
Beyond the dedicated gay beach, the entire Maspalomas area, including its hotels and resorts, is known for its welcoming and liberal atmosphere. Many accommodations cater specifically to LGBTQ+ travelers, offering a safe and enjoyable stay. The vibrant nightlife and numerous gay bars and clubs further enhance the experience.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Utilize the public bus system for transportation to and from the airport and around the island, which is significantly cheaper than taxis. Enjoy the free natural attractions like the beach and the dunes, focusing on exploration rather than expensive activities. Many of the beach bars offer more affordable options if you're looking for a casual bite.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Maspalomas Dunes
For the best experience, visit during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. The low-angled sun casts long shadows, creating a dramatic and photogenic landscape. Early mornings also mean fewer crowds, allowing for a more serene and immersive experience. Many visitors find the dunes to be the absolute highlight of their trip to Gran Canaria, a truly unforgettable natural wonder.
While exploring, remember that shade is minimal, so bring plenty of water, sun protection, and wear comfortable footwear suitable for walking on sand. Some areas of the dunes are also designated naturist zones, so be aware of your surroundings.
Navigating Maspalomas Beach and its Vibe
A significant part of Maspalomas' appeal is its vibrant and inclusive atmosphere, particularly around the area known as the 'Gay Beach' near Kiosk 7. This section is a popular meeting point for the LGBTQ+ community and is known for its friendly and open vibe.
Regardless of which section you choose, be prepared for the sun and the sea. While the water is inviting, strong currents and large waves can be present, so swimming requires caution. Lifeguards are on duty in busier areas to ensure safety. The promenade running alongside the beach is a hub of activity, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It's a perfect place for an evening stroll, enjoying the sunset, or people-watching. The combination of the natural beauty of the dunes and the lively beach culture makes Maspalomas a unique destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit