The Canary Islands are home to some of Europe’s most diverse and dramatic coastlines — from golden beaches shaped by Sahara winds to black volcanic shores carved by ancient lava. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly sands, wild surf spots, hidden coves or peaceful nature reserves, every island offers a different beach experience.
This guide highlights the best beaches across all seven islands and helps you choose where to swim, surf, relax or explore. For a deeper look at top areas and highlights, visit: Top Destinations in the Canary Islands.
Why the Canary Islands Have Exceptional Beaches
The archipelago’s beaches are shaped by volcanic landscapes, Atlantic currents and centuries of natural erosion. As a result, the islands offer a rare combination of:
- Golden Saharan-style beaches (Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria)
- Black volcanic beaches (Tenerife, La Palma)
- Calm turquoise lagoons (El Cotillo, Corralejo)
- Dramatic cliffs and wild coves (La Gomera, El Hierro)
- Perfect surf beaches (Famara, El MĂ©dano)
With warm temperatures year-round and sea conditions that vary across the islands, visitors can enjoy the coast in every season. For weather details, check: Canary Islands Weather.
Best Beaches in Tenerife
Tenerife offers both dramatic black-sand beaches and golden resort coastlines. The south is ideal for sunbathing and swimming, while the north provides rugged volcanic beauty.
Playa del Duque (Costa Adeje)
A stylish beach surrounded by calm waters, luxury hotels and promenades. Ideal for families and couples.
Playa de Benijo
Tenerife’s most photogenic black-sand beach, famous for its volcanic cliffs and powerful waves. Best for photography and sunsets rather than swimming.
Playa de las Teresitas
Located near Santa Cruz, this Sahara-imported golden beach is one of Tenerife’s most popular and most scenic coastlines.
Best Beaches in Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria has a “mini continent” coastline — from desert dunes to peaceful coves. Resorts offer family-friendly beaches while the west coast is wild and untouched.
Maspalomas Dunes & Playa del Inglés
One of Europe’s most iconic beach landscapes. Endless golden sand, rolling dunes and warm, shallow water.
Las Canteras (Las Palmas)
One of the best urban beaches in the world. Offers snorkelling, surfing and excellent beachfront dining. Combine it with city attractions: Things to Do in the Canary Islands.
Gui-Gui Beach
A remote, wild and unforgettable beach accessible only by hiking or boat. A paradise for adventure-seekers.
Best Beaches in Lanzarote
Lanzarote’s volcanic landscapes create deep contrasts between dark rock, golden sands and bright turquoise water.
Playa Papagayo
A picture-perfect cove with calm emerald water — ideal for swimming, snorkelling and photography.
Famara Beach
One of Europe’s top surf beaches, framed by giant volcanic cliffs. Perfect for surfing and long, scenic walks.
Playa Flamingo
A family-friendly white-sand beach in Playa Blanca with crystal-clear water and relaxed atmosphere.
Best Beaches in Fuerteventura
Fuerteventura is the “beach capital” of the Canary Islands. Known for long golden shores, turquoise lagoons and a relaxed island vibe.
Corralejo Dunes
Massive white-sand dunes transition into calm, shallow beaches perfect for swimming and wind sports.
El Cotillo Lagoons
Crystal-clear natural pools protected by lava reefs. Ideal for families and snorkelling.
Sotavento Beach
A surreal, mirror-like lagoon beach famous for windsurfing and kiteboarding competitions.
Best Beaches in La Palma
La Palma’s beaches are mostly black-sand, framed by lush forests and volcanic cliffs — perfect for those seeking peaceful nature.
Puerto Naos
A long volcanic beach with palm trees and calm waves. Great for ocean lovers and sunset watchers.
Charco Verde
A small and quiet volcanic cove with emerald water — ideal for relaxing swimming.
Best Beaches in La Gomera
La Gomera’s beaches are dramatic and wild — fewer visitors, deeper nature, and peaceful coastlines.
Valle Gran Rey
A calm, relaxing beach surrounded by cliffs and colourful houses. Perfect for slow days and natural scenery.
Playa de Alojera
A remote volcanic beach ideal for travellers seeking quiet sunsets and local seafood nearby.
Best Beaches in El Hierro
El Hierro doesn’t have long sandy beaches — instead it has unique natural pools created by volcanic formations.
Charco Azul
A natural rock pool with deep blue water. One of the most beautiful natural swimming spots in the islands.
La Maceta
A set of natural swimming pools perfect for families and safe saltwater bathing.
Types of Beaches Across the Islands
1. Golden Sand Beaches
Mostly found in Fuerteventura, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria. Ideal for swimming and long beach days.
2. Black Volcanic Beaches
A dramatic and unique landscape typical of Tenerife, La Palma and La Gomera.
3. Natural Pools
Spectacular volcanic formations offering safe, clear-water swimming — especially in El Hierro.
4. Surf Beaches
- Famara (Lanzarote)
- El MĂ©dano (Tenerife)
- Las Canteras (Gran Canaria)
Best Time for Swimming
The Canary Islands are swimmable year-round, but conditions vary:
- June–October: Warmest water and calm seas.
- November–May: Cooler water but still comfortable for most travellers.
- Summer: Best for families.
- Winter: Best for surfers.
For detailed weather information, visit: Canary Islands Weather.
Safety Tips for Beach Visitors
- Always check the beach flag system.
- Beware of strong Atlantic currents in open beaches.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
- Bring water and shade for remote beaches.
- Natural pools are safer at low tide.
Where to Go Next
- Top Destinations in the Canary Islands
- Things to Do in the Canary Islands
- Food & Drinks in the Canary Islands
- Restaurants in the Canary Islands
With golden beaches, volcanic shores, wild coves and inviting turquoise waters, the Canary Islands offer a coastline for every traveller. Whether you’re chasing surf, sunsets or calm sands, this archipelago delivers unforgettable beach experiences year-round.
