Maspalomas Dunes
Vast, protected sand dunes on Gran Canaria, offering a surreal desert-like landscape meeting the Atlantic Ocean.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Maspalomas Dunes
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vast, protected sand dunes on Gran Canaria, offering a surreal desert-like landscape meeting the Atlantic Ocean.
"It felt like stepping into another world, almost like a small Sahara, but with the unique charm of the island."
👣 Walk Barefoot for the Best Feel
Walking barefoot on the soft, warm sand is a must-do experience! Feel the unique texture and connect with nature.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself while exploring the dunes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Golden Hour Dunes
Maspalomas Dunes
Experience the surreal beauty of vast, golden sand dunes meeting the Atlantic Ocean. Perfect for photography and a sense of escape.
Sunrise Serenity
Maspalomas Dunes
Witness the dunes come alive with soft light and minimal crowds. An unforgettable start to the day, offering a peaceful and unique landscape.
Desert Meets Ocean
Maspalomas Dunes
A unique landscape where arid sand dunes dramatically contrast with the blue expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. A truly breathtaking sight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Dunes
Respect the Nature Reserve
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👣 Walk Barefoot for the Best Feel
Walking barefoot on the soft, warm sand is a must-do experience! Feel the unique texture and connect with nature.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself while exploring the dunes.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer parts of the day. Dehydration can happen quickly in this arid environment.
👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
While walking barefoot is recommended, bring sandals or shoes for the walk to and from the dunes, as the sand gets extremely hot.
Tips
from all over the internet
👣 Walk Barefoot for the Best Feel
Walking barefoot on the soft, warm sand is a must-do experience! Feel the unique texture and connect with nature.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
The sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself while exploring the dunes.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially during warmer parts of the day. Dehydration can happen quickly in this arid environment.
👟 Wear Appropriate Footwear
While walking barefoot is recommended, bring sandals or shoes for the walk to and from the dunes, as the sand gets extremely hot.
📸 Golden Hour Photo Ops
The light during sunrise and sunset is incredible for photos. Capture the magical atmosphere of the Maspalomas Dunes.
🚶♀️ Stick to Designated Paths
Help preserve this protected nature reserve by staying on marked trails and respecting signage.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Maspalomas Dunes' breathtaking, desert-like beauty and the magical experience of walking barefoot on the soft, golden sands. The stunning contrast with the ocean and the peaceful atmosphere, especially during sunrise and sunset, are frequently praised. While generally well-preserved, some note the challenge of finding parking and the intense heat during midday.
"Pretty easy access on foot, a bit of a struggle to find parking. Breathtaking views, especially at sunset. Walking barefoot is an amazing experience, and a MUST! Great ice cream near by. Good destination for a family trip or just by yourself."
Diana Boeșan
"Definitely desert like, at one point I was a little worried with the warming sun, sand and sea breeze, but we made it back alive. Be careful out here. An amazing site to see and a must if you are staying in Maspalomas. A protected area as well, well done all those involved."
Max Daley
"If you’re visiting this island, you absolutely have to check out this place. I’ve never been to a desert before, but these dunes gave me a taste of what it might feel like. It’s a beautiful spot, and you can walk all the way across from one beach to the other. I highly recommend going around sunset — it’s truly magical."
J. Kojzar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Maspalomas Dunes are easily accessible from Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas. You can walk from many hotels or take a local bus. Parking can be a bit of a struggle, so consider public transport or walking if you're nearby. +1
Parking is available but can be challenging, especially during peak times. Some visitors mention it's a bit of a struggle to find a spot.
Yes, you can walk from Playa del Inglés to the Maspalomas Dunes. It's a pleasant walk along the coast, offering beautiful views.
While not strictly necessary, guided tours can offer insights into the unique ecosystem. Camel rides are also a popular way to experience the dunes. +1
For the best photographic opportunities without crowds, aim for sunrise. The light is soft and the dunes are pristine.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Maspalomas Dunes is free as it's a protected nature reserve. You can explore the area without purchasing a ticket.
The Maspalomas Dunes are open 24/7 as it's an outdoor natural area. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee to access the Maspalomas Dunes. It's a public natural space for everyone to enjoy.
As a protected nature reserve, visitors are asked to stay on designated paths and not disturb the environment.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and the lack of lighting. The best experience is during daylight hours, especially sunrise and sunset.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk, hike, take photos, and enjoy the unique desert-like landscape. Camel rides are also a popular activity. +1
Yes, it's generally safe, but be mindful of the sun's intensity and the hot sand. Stick to marked paths and stay hydrated.
Yes, the Maspalomas beach is adjacent to the dunes, offering opportunities for swimming and sunbathing.
Yes, families can enjoy exploring the dunes. It's a unique natural playground, but keep a close eye on children due to the terrain and sun.
The dunes are a protected habitat for various insects and reptiles. Birdwatching is also possible in the surrounding areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography, creating a magical atmosphere.
Capture sweeping landscapes, unique sand formations, the contrast with the ocean, and golden hour portraits. 
The entire area offers stunning vistas. Walking deeper into the dunes provides more secluded and dramatic photographic opportunities.
Drone usage may be restricted in protected nature reserves. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can capture details. A polarizing filter can enhance the sky and reduce glare.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
The soft, warm light creates dramatic shadows and highlights, perfect for capturing stunning landscapes and unique sand formations. The contrast between the golden dunes and the blue ocean provides endless creative possibilities. For those seeking fewer people and pristine shots, sunrise is the ultimate time to visit. Be prepared with wide-angle lenses for sweeping vistas and consider a polarizing filter to enhance the sky. Remember to respect the protected nature reserve and stay on designated paths. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers and Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Maspalomas Dunes: A Natural Wonder
Visitors can explore the dunes on foot, experiencing the soft, golden sands that shift and reshape with the wind. It's a place that invites contemplation and offers a sense of profound tranquility. The contrast between the arid dunes and the nearby Atlantic Ocean is particularly striking, creating a visually stunning environment.
It's crucial to remember that the Maspalomas Dunes are a protected area. Visitors are urged to stay on designated paths to minimize their impact on the fragile environment.
Respecting the natural beauty and adhering to conservation guidelines ensures that this extraordinary landscape can be enjoyed by generations to come. The feeling of walking through these vast sands, with the ocean in the distance, is an experience that stays with you long after you leave. Best Times and Tips for Visiting the Dunes
This allows for unobstructed photography and a more intimate experience with nature. Sunset also offers breathtaking views as the dunes are bathed in warm, ethereal light, though it tends to attract more people. Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon can help you avoid the peak heat of the day, as the sand can become extremely hot under the midday sun. Practical advice from seasoned travelers emphasizes the importance of sun protection, including sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, as well as carrying plenty of water.
For those looking to capture the magic, the golden hour around sunrise and sunset provides unparalleled photographic opportunities.
The shifting sand patterns and the dramatic interplay of light and shadow create stunning visuals. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape, a photography adventure, or simply a unique natural wonder, the Maspalomas Dunes offer an unforgettable experience when approached with preparation and respect. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit