Thanks to the year-round sunshine, beach bumming is a serious sport here in Gran Canaria. And so its shorelines come with all the bells and whistles for long days of lounging in the sun. That means they’re kitted out with bags of space, sunbeds for hire, water sports and heaps of nearby amenities. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best (spoiler: they’re all as golden as they come)…

Maspalomas Beach

Now this beach packs in plenty of wow factor. Why? Because it turns into a whopping 400 hectares of dreamy dunes that look more like the Sahara than a Spanish island! Explore the winding paths among the vast sands and you’ll get some pretty good snaps for your socials. Hikers, there are even hefty trails for you to tackle.

Or stay put and hire a sunbed with parasol. There’s plenty of space to spread out along this peaceful patch too. Showers, snacks, water sport zones and nudist areas – they’re all here too.

Fancy a mooch? Pick up the paved prom that runs behind the beach, then explore stacks of shops, bars and restaurants, all within walking distance. Oh, and look out for the lovely lighthouse.

Meloneras Beach

Did someone say swanky? Yep, that’s the vibe around these parts. Top-class golf, sailing and designer boutiques surround this sandy spot. Which are the perfect match for the soft blonde sands and gently lapping waters that sum up the scene by the shore. Aaand relax…

Meloneras Beach is a serene space where you can snooze in peace one minute, then snack on Canarian cuisine in the restaurants right behind the next. It’s a popular place for locals, and it flies the oh-so coveted Blue Flag too. Top tip: you don’t want to miss the sunsets here.

Playa Del Ingles

Welcome to Gran Can’s most famous strip of sand. This beauty is where it all began when Brits first uncovered this sunshine island way back in the 60s, hence its name, “Beach of the English”.

At the northern end, it’s all the usual trappings from shower and toilet blocks to sunbed hire and food kiosks. But walk along the beach towards the Maspalomas Dunes, and you’ll find places for sports like beach volleyball and football. It’s a fab choice for surfers too – you’ll have your pick of surf schools.

When you’re done sunbathing, show off your tan around town at the lively commercial centres nearby.

Puerto Rico Beach

Families, this one’s for you. Fun in the sun is the name of the game on this sheltered, 300-metre-long plot. The water is calm, so there’s paddling aplenty in store for the tots. And those golden grains make for the snazziest sandcastles – you can get all your building supplies from the beach shops nearby.

You’re on the doorstep of Puerto Rico’s bustling resort centre, so you can easily spend a whole day here, bobbing to and from the bars, restaurants and shops whenever you want to.

When it comes to water sports, will it be kayaking or a glass-bottomed boat trip? Best of all, this place is one of the sunniest spots on the whole island, wahoo!

Playa de Amadores

Swit swoo! This amazing golden arc is one of Gran Canaria’s most photogenic beaches. And it’s easy to see why – golden sand and turquoise water make the perfect match here at “lover’s beach”. It gets the Blue Flag stamp of approval too thanks to its services and accessibility.

Ball sports and water sports are big no-nos here at Amadores, so you’re in luck if you’re in it for the siestas. In the mood to go VIP? Then get yourself to Amadores Beach Club to be waited on hand and foot with cocktails at your daybed. Now that’s the life…

If that little lot has got you hunting for your favourite flips-flops, let’s get you to the beach!