Charco de San Lorenzo - Image 1
1 / 3

Charco de San Lorenzo

4.6
·81 reviews·Moya, Spain

Discover Charco de San Lorenzo, Gran Canaria's serene natural pools. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Low tide mornings

Calm waters, best access

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Charco de San Lorenzo - Image 1

Charco de San Lorenzo

Best Time

Low tide mornings

Calm waters, best access

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Charco de San Lorenzo, Gran Canaria's serene natural pools. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun.

4.6
(81 reviews)

"A wonderful spot on the coast of Moya, with clean pools ideal for swimming and snorkeling."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Tide Times First! :ocean:

Visit during low tide for the best swimming and snorkeling conditions. High tide can make access difficult.

Arrive Early for Parking :car:

The parking lot fills up fast, especially on weekends. Aim to arrive early to secure a spot.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Natural Swimming Pools

Natural Swimming Pools

Coastal area of Moya

Two pristine, sea-water pools that fill with the tide, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Snorkeling Opportunities

Snorkeling Opportunities

Within the pools

Clear waters and rocky formations make it an ideal spot for observing marine life with goggles.

Coastal Sunbathing Area

Coastal Sunbathing Area

Adjacent to the pools

A comfortable space to relax and soak up the sun after a refreshing dip in the ocean.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for the Tides

Charco de San Lorenzo's natural pools are best enjoyed at low tide when they are most accessible and tranquil. Check tide times before you go to maximize your swimming and snorkeling experience. High tide can make access challenging and the water less clear.

Parking Can Be Tricky

While there's a parking area, it fills up quickly, especially with local visitors. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk if you visit during peak times. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the weekend rush.

Best Times

When
Low tide mornings
Why
Calm waters, best access
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, good light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dive into paradise! 🌊✨ Gran Canaria is home to a lot of stunning natural pools! Here’s the top 5! 1. Las Salinas 2. Charco Azul 3. Roque Prieto 4. Charco de San Lorenzo 5. Los Charcones Get ready to explore these incredible aquatic wonders! 📍Roque Prieto Natural Pool, Gran Canaria, Canary Islands 💌 Save & share this post for your next trip to Gran Canaria! Thanks for sharing @nat.heme ❤️ ...
grancanariasecrets
152 likes • 4K views

Check Tide Times First! :ocean:

Visit during low tide for the best swimming and snorkeling conditions. High tide can make access difficult. Instagram

Arrive Early for Parking :car:

The parking lot fills up fast, especially on weekends. Aim to arrive early to secure a spot. Reddit

Charco de San Lorenzo y San Felipe. Gran Canaria. #charcodesanlorenzo #sanfelipe #grancanaria #canarias
likeaphoenix87
26 likes • 359 views
•El Charco de San Lorenzo, esta en la costa de Moya, en Gran Canaria. Pueden poner en Google Maps “charco san lorenzo” y llegarán sin perdida. El parking es accesible y muy cerca del destino. Como pueden ver en el video hay 2 tipos de piscinas naturales, las piscinas habilitadas y para los mas curiosos y aventureros 😉 pueden ir por por la parte derecha , entre las rocas y disfrutar de pequeños c...
villagrancanaria
285 likes • 12K views

Bring Your Snorkel Gear :mask:

The clear waters are perfect for exploring marine life. Don't miss the chance to snorkel! Reddit

Explore Both Pool Types :wave:

There are designated pools and more adventurous areas for those seeking a bit more exploration. Instagram

Enero en El Charco de San Lorenzo 🌊🏖️ #chiringuito #comidarica #playa #roca #diversion #barelcharcodesanlorenzo #grancanaria #islascanarias #moya #comidarica
barelcharcodesanlorenzo
16 likes • 197 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Tide Times First! :ocean:

Visit during low tide for the best swimming and snorkeling conditions. High tide can make access difficult. Instagram

Arrive Early for Parking :car:

The parking lot fills up fast, especially on weekends. Aim to arrive early to secure a spot. Reddit

Bring Your Snorkel Gear :mask:

The clear waters are perfect for exploring marine life. Don't miss the chance to snorkel! Reddit

Explore Both Pool Types :wave:

There are designated pools and more adventurous areas for those seeking a bit more exploration. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(81 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Charco de San Lorenzo for its beautiful, clean natural pools perfect for swimming and snorkeling, especially at low tide. It's a popular spot for locals, offering a tranquil escape with nearby dining options. Some find it 'nothing special,' but most highlight its natural charm and free access.

"Enough large natural swimming pool (with sea water). Free entry.
Mainly local tourists. There is a parkplace to let your car.
Clean water."

laurent G

"Nothing special. Not worth a visit."

peter testen

"Super😍"

attidamana rodriguez moreno

What People Like

Clean natural pools
Free entry
Snorkeling opportunities

What People Dislike

Parking fills up

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can easily find Charco de San Lorenzo by searching 'charco san lorenzo' on Google Maps. The parking is conveniently located nearby. Instagram Many visitors arrive by car, but be aware that parking can fill up quickly. Reddit

While specific public transport routes aren't widely detailed, it's advisable to check local bus schedules for routes serving Moya. Driving is generally the most straightforward method. Instagram

Once you arrive at the general area, the pools are clearly visible. Follow signs or simply head towards the coastline. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Charco de San Lorenzo is completely free. It's a natural attraction open to everyone. Reddit

As a natural attraction, there are no set opening or closing hours. You can visit anytime, but it's best to go during daylight and check tide times. Instagram

No booking is required as it's a free, natural site. Just show up, but be mindful of parking availability. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can swim in the natural pools, snorkel to see marine life, sunbathe on the rocky areas, and enjoy the coastal scenery. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's a wonderful spot for families. The protected pools are safe for children to play in, and there's space for sunbathing. Reddit

While you can technically be in the water at high tide, the pools are less defined, and access can be more challenging. Low tide is ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Instagram

Swimwear is essential. Water shoes can be helpful for navigating the rocky areas. Reddit

Information on specific facilities like restrooms isn't widely available, but there are restaurants nearby. It's best to come prepared. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are two restaurants located at either end of the site, offering food and drinks. InstagramReddit

Picnicking is generally allowed in natural areas, but it's always good practice to check local regulations and clean up after yourself. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the stunning natural pools, the rugged coastline, and the interplay of the sea with the rocks. Sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local drone laws and respect privacy before flying. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Charco de San Lorenzo is a fantastic destination for families. The natural swimming pools provide a safe and shallow environment for children to play and splash around, especially during low tide. Reddit The clear, calm waters are perfect for little ones to enjoy the sea without the worry of strong waves. Parents can relax on the adjacent sunbathing areas while keeping an eye on their children. Reddit

Remember to bring water shoes for the kids to protect their feet on the rocky surfaces. While there are restaurants nearby, packing some snacks and drinks is always a good idea for a family outing. Arriving earlier in the day can help secure a good spot and avoid the midday crowds, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Charco de San Lorenzo is a dream come true. Entry is completely free, making it an accessible natural attraction for everyone. Reddit You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the coastline without spending a dime on admission fees. Reddit

To keep costs down, consider packing your own picnic lunch and drinks. While there are restaurants on-site, bringing your own food will significantly reduce your expenses. Instagram Focus on enjoying the natural beauty and the refreshing ocean water, which are the main draws of this location. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Understanding the Natural Pools

Charco de San Lorenzo is a unique coastal feature characterized by its natural swimming pools formed by volcanic rock formations. These pools are essentially tidal pools that fill with seawater during high tide and become tranquil, shallow swimming areas at low tide. The water is known for its cleanliness, making it ideal for a refreshing dip. Visitors often describe them as 'super' and 'wow' experiences, highlighting their natural beauty and the clarity of the water. Reddit

For those who enjoy underwater exploration, the pools offer excellent snorkeling opportunities. The rocky bottoms and clear waters allow for easy viewing of small marine life. It's recommended to bring goggles or a snorkel mask to fully appreciate the underwater world. Reddit Some areas are more developed for swimming, while others offer a more adventurous experience for those willing to explore a bit further. Instagram

Navigating Your Visit: Parking and Access

One of the most frequently mentioned practical tips for visiting Charco de San Lorenzo is regarding parking. While there is a dedicated parking area, it is known to fill up quickly, especially during peak times and on weekends. Reddit Many visitors, including locals, flock to this spot, so arriving early is highly recommended to secure a convenient parking space. If the main lot is full, be prepared for a short walk from alternative parking spots. Instagram

Access to the pools themselves is generally straightforward, particularly at low tide. The area is well-suited for both adults and children, offering a safe environment for families. Reddit However, it's crucial to check the tide times before your visit. Visiting during low tide ensures the pools are accessible and at their most enjoyable for swimming and exploring. Instagram High tide can make the pools less defined and potentially more challenging to access. Instagram

You may also like