Did you know that the Canary Islands get over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year? No wonder it’s a haven for beach lovers. Gay travelers have a number of options, from a dedicated gay beach area complete with a beach bar to quiet secluded ones where you’ll likely be the only people there. Then there are those famous dunes…more on those shortly.
So, where is the best place for gay travelers to stay if they want to spend time at the beach? As the first two beaches listed are connected to each other and both are equal distance from the Yumbo Centre where all the gay venues are, either staying at Playa del Ingles or Meloneros are great choices, with the second option being the closest to the recognized gay beach.
Playa del Ingles (English Beach)
The first on the list is Playa del Ingles, as it’s the most accessible and is really close to some of the best accommodation options on Gran Canaria. The streetfront next to the beach has cafes and restaurants and even a McDonald’s.
It’s easily the most popular beach on the island, and while there are tons of shirtless men everywhere, some of them may be there with their families. It’s predominantly a tourist beach, and while gay-welcoming, it’s not officially a gay beach. This means if you’re looking to get your cruise on or show off your new “nearly there” swimwear, this may not be the right beach for you (Maspalomas coming up next, though, is ideal)
How to Get to Playa del Ingles
Playa del Ingles is the easiest beach to get to; it’s 5 minutes in a taxi (or just under 20 minutes by leisurely walk) from the Yumbo Centre, where all the gay venues are. It’s accessible by foot from Carrer la Duna (Dune Street).
Where to Stay at Playa del Ingles
Atlantic Sun Beach Gay men only apartment style hotel, every room has a balcony and a kitchenette and the beach is 5-minutes walk.
Villa Adler Hotel The highest-ranked gay only property on Booking.com, this intimate resort has 8 bungalows equipped with kitchens and private terraces. 15-minute walk to the beach
Bungalows Tenesoya For guys on a budget, these gay-men-only bungalows are great value for money and only a 10-minute walk to the beach.
Playa Maspalomas (Maspalomas Beach)
While not officially a gay beach, it’s the one gay guys flock to for many reasons. It’s 3 km on the very south of the island and has a dedicated nudist area. There’s also Kiosk # 7, a vibrant beachfront bar and snack truck. Sun loungers and umbrellas can be hired from there, along with food and drinks. It gets very busy during summer, and there’s wall-to-wall male flesh as far as you can see.
Between Maspolomas Beach and the city are the famous Dunes. This ‘desert by the sea’ is fascinating as the winds move the sand around, making it a constantly changing landscape. Historically, the dunes have been known to be a popular cruising area if you pick your time right. Most guys have had the best success late in the evening or very early in the morning. However, the local government has decided to crack down on sexual activity in the dunes, claiming that it’s damaging to the wildlife. Patrols have been increased, and people caught can be fined. It’s your call if you still want to hunt for some action, you may be fine, if you’re worried, there are many dedicated cruise bars in the Yumbo Centre.
How to Get to Playa Maspalomas
To get to the gay area of Maspalomas Beach, you’ll need your walking shoes. The easiest way is from del Faro Street, it’s just over a 10-minute walk to Kiosk # 7. You could also walk all the way around the point from English Beach. It’s about 3 km from there. Walking across the dunes is the most popular way, starting from the Riu Palace Hotel, it’s 2 km.
Where to Stay at Playa Maspalomas
Seaside Palm Beach A popular resort with a bright color theme, three pools, a gym, and a tennis court. Best of all, it’s only a 3-minute walk to the beach.
Lopesan Baobab Resort 5-star resort with an African theme, seven outdoor pools, and some rooms have ocean views. It’s a 10-minute walk to the beach.
Seaside Grand Hotel Residencia The only Leading Hotels of the World property in Gran Canaria, this luxury property has stunning 2-story villas with shady terraces. There’s a pool with a bar, a gym, and a state-of-the-art spa. It’s only a 5-minute walk to the beach.
Las Canteras Beach
If you’re heading up to the city of Las Palmas on the north of the island, be sure to visit Las Canteras Beach. Unlike the other two beaches, it’s partly protected by a coral reef, so there aren’t any waves at the northern end, which has a lagoon-like feel to it. For those into surfing, head to the southern end of the beach. It’s a touristy beach, so expect visitors from all walks of life here.
For gay visitors, Sauna Portugal, the only sauna on the island, is one block from the beach. Conveniently, it opens at 4 pm, so it’s a great excuse to head there after relaxing in the sun and doing some other form of relaxing. There’s a bar and snack food available, so why not turn up in just your speedos!
How to Get to Las Canteras Beach
Las Canteras Beach is at the north of the island and is easily accessible from the promenade that stretches the entire length of the beach, which has plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Where to Stay at Las Canteras Beach
Bull Reina Isabel & Spa This luxury 5-star property is only two blocks from the beach. It has a rooftop pool and spa, there’s a fitness center, and many rooms have sea views.
NH Imperial Plaza For direct beach access, this hotel is many travelers’ pick. It’s a 4-star property in a modern design, and the rooms face the sea. It’s at the north of the beach.
Lemon & Soul Las Palmas Budget gay travelers will love this property. It’s a little cozier than others in the area and provides really friendly service. This no-frills hotel is only a block away from the beach.
