Playa del Inglés
A bustling tourist hub on Gran Canaria, famous for its expansive sandy beach, vibrant nightlife, and the iconic Maspalomas Dunes.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for dunes
Playa del Inglés
Best Time
Golden hour for dunes

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling tourist hub on Gran Canaria, famous for its expansive sandy beach, vibrant nightlife, and the iconic Maspalomas Dunes.
"Wide beach with good bar facilities, with beautiful views of the famous Maspalomas dunes."
🌅 Sunset Dune Magic
Catch the breathtaking sunset over the Maspalomas Dunes for unforgettable views.
🚶♀️ Explore Hidden Paths
Discover less-crowded viewpoints of the dunes via hidden paths.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Maspalomas Dunes
Western end of Playa del Inglés
Expansive golden sand dunes creating a desert-like landscape, perfect for sunset strolls.

Playa del Inglés Beach
Stretches along the coast
A wide, sandy beach with a cooling breeze, ideal for relaxation and swimming.

Yumbo Centre
Heart of Playa del Inglés
A vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and a lively nightlife scene.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sun and Sand
Navigating Playa del Inglés
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Dune Magic
Catch the breathtaking sunset over the Maspalomas Dunes for unforgettable views.
🚶♀️ Explore Hidden Paths
Discover less-crowded viewpoints of the dunes via hidden paths.
☀️ Beach Breeze Bliss
Enjoy the cooling ocean breeze that makes hot days pleasant.
🛍️ Yumbo Centre Buzz
Experience the vibrant shopping and nightlife at the Yumbo Centre.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Dune Magic
Catch the breathtaking sunset over the Maspalomas Dunes for unforgettable views.
🚶♀️ Explore Hidden Paths
Discover less-crowded viewpoints of the dunes via hidden paths.
☀️ Beach Breeze Bliss
Enjoy the cooling ocean breeze that makes hot days pleasant.
🛍️ Yumbo Centre Buzz
Experience the vibrant shopping and nightlife at the Yumbo Centre.
🏳️🌈 Gay Beach Access
Kiosk 6 is known as the gay beach area, accessible from Playa del Inglés.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa del Inglés is praised for its vast, sandy beach and the cooling ocean breeze, making it ideal for relaxation. Visitors appreciate the proximity to the iconic Maspalomas Dunes and the convenience of on-site amenities. However, some find the general area less picturesque than other Gran Canaria locations and note the presence of nudist sections and persistent vendors.
"Wide beach with good bar facilities , with beautiful views of the famous Maspalomas dunes . On hot days a pleasantly cooling wind with ocean breeze , blowing almost always ."
Rafał Rembiszewski
"A nice enough beach, but was very busy on our visit. Has a few people walking up and down trying to sell you large blankets, but they didn't seem too pushy or anything. Be careful if you have small kids and are walking to the Dunes from here as part of it is a nudist beach! (Took a bit of explaining to the small people...!)"
Andrew Cartwright
"Of course this is not the nicest beach in Gran Canaria, Playa del Ingles in general is not that picturesque. However this beach is huge and the coastline goes on for miles. As a result you get a lot of privacy and can sit peacefully without sitting on top of anyone else. And yes, some parts of the beach are nude, but they’re usually hidden and no one’s walking around flashing anyone! The beach was clean and the water was a beautiful blue colour. If you’re staying at a nice resort here, this beach will do, but personally I’d stay near Puerto Rico / Amadores where the beaches are more ethereal. Of course, you can always take the public bus there :)"
Noemi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient way to reach Playa del Inglés from Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) is by taxi or bus. Buses (like the 66 or 90) are frequent and affordable, taking around 30-40 minutes. Taxis offer a quicker but more expensive option.
Yes, Playa del Inglés is quite walkable, especially along the promenade and to nearby attractions. For longer distances or exploring other parts of the island, local buses are readily available and efficient.
While Playa del Inglés is on Gran Canaria, day trips to other islands like Tenerife or Lanzarote are possible but involve ferry or flight travel, making them longer excursions.
You can walk to the Maspalomas Dunes from Playa del Inglés, which takes about 30-45 minutes along the beach. Alternatively, local buses or taxis can take you closer to the dune entrance.
Absolutely! The bus network in Gran Canaria is extensive, with main bus stations in Playa del Inglés connecting you to various towns and attractions across the island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to Playa del Inglés beach itself is free. There are no tickets required to enter the beach area.
The Maspalomas Dunes are a natural protected area and are free to enter and explore. You can wander through them at your leisure.
The Yumbo Centre has a wide variety of shops and restaurants with varying hours, but it's generally open from morning until late at night, especially for its bars and clubs.
Generally, no. The beach and public areas are free. However, specific attractions, water parks, or ticketed events within Playa del Inglés would require admission fees.
Yes, Playa del Inglés offers a wide range of accommodations, from hotels like Abora Catarina by Lopesan to apartments and Airbnbs. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Playa del Inglés features a wide, sandy beach with a pleasant cooling breeze. It's known for its vastness, offering plenty of space.
Yes, parts of the beach, particularly closer to the Maspalomas Dunes, are designated nudist areas. These are usually marked and often discreet.
Activities include sunbathing, swimming, walking along the beach and dunes, shopping, dining, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife, especially around the Yumbo Centre.
While it has a lively atmosphere, Playa del Inglés can be family-friendly with its wide beach and amenities. However, some areas, like the Yumbo Centre at night, are more adult-oriented.
Playa del Inglés enjoys a warm climate year-round, with plenty of sunshine. Temperatures can reach into the high 20s or low 30s Celsius, especially in summer.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Playa del Inglés offers a diverse culinary scene, from casual beach bars and cafes to international restaurants and local Spanish cuisine. The Yumbo Centre also has many eateries.
While the dunes themselves are natural, there are restaurants and cafes located near the access points and along the promenade leading to them.
Yes, with its diverse tourist population, you can find vegetarian and vegan options at many restaurants throughout Playa del Inglés. It's always good to check menus or ask staff.
The Yumbo Centre is famous for its nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs offering drinks and some serving late-night snacks.
Yes, several supermarkets are located within Playa del Inglés, making it convenient for those staying in aparthotels or self-catering accommodations.
📸 📸 Photography
The Maspalomas Dunes at sunset offer stunning photographic opportunities. The beach promenade and viewpoints overlooking the coast are also great.
Yes, the Maspalomas Lighthouse is an iconic landmark and a popular subject for photos, easily accessible from the promenade.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of people's privacy, especially in crowded areas or if photographing individuals.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the best light for beach photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The contrast between the golden sand dunes and the blue ocean, or capturing the vibrant atmosphere of the Yumbo Centre, can lead to unique shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Yumbo Centre is known for its nightlife, it also has shops and restaurants that cater to families during the day. Consider visiting the nearby Aqualand Maspalomas or Palmitos Park for dedicated family entertainment. Be mindful of the nudist sections on the beach and dunes, which are usually well-marked.
🏳️🌈 LGBTQ+ Travelers
The gay beach area, typically around Kiosk 7 near the Maspalomas Dunes, is a popular spot for socializing and sunbathing. The entire resort embraces a welcoming and open spirit, making it a comfortable and exciting destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.
☀️ Sun Seekers & Beach Lovers
Combine your beach time with explorations of the Maspalomas Dunes for a unique natural spectacle. Many hotels are located within easy reach of the beach, offering convenient access for a truly sun-drenched holiday.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Maspalomas Dunes
Accessing the dunes is straightforward, with several entry points from Playa del Inglés and the nearby promenade. Be aware that a section of the dunes, particularly towards the western end near Kiosk 7, is a nudist area. While generally discreet, it's something to be mindful of, especially if you have children. The sheer scale of the dunes means that even when busy, it's often possible to find a quiet spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Many visitors combine a visit to the dunes with a stroll along the adjacent beach. The Maspalomas Lighthouse (Faro de Maspalomas) marks the western edge of the resort and is a popular landmark. From here, you can walk along the promenade, which offers stunning views of the dunes and the ocean, and leads back towards Playa del Inglés.
Playa del Inglés Beach Experience
The beach is well-equipped with amenities, including sunbed rentals and beach bars, making it convenient for those who prefer to have everything on-site. While the water is clean and a beautiful blue, the sand can sometimes make the seabed less visible, which is a minor point for some swimmers. Visitors often enjoy long walks along the shoreline, with the Maspalomas Dunes forming a dramatic backdrop at one end.
It's worth noting that, like the dunes, certain sections of the beach are designated nudist areas. These are typically found further along the coast towards the dunes. While not everyone participates, it's a common feature of this stretch of coastline. For those seeking a more commercial beach experience close to hotels and amenities, Playa del Inglés fits the bill perfectly.
The Vibrant Yumbo Centre
During the day, the Yumbo Centre is a bustling marketplace where you can find a variety of shops selling everything from souvenirs and clothing to electronics and local crafts. Numerous restaurants and cafes also line its walkways, offering a wide array of international and local cuisines. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, making it a popular spot for both daytime browsing and evening entertainment.
Navigating the Yumbo Centre is straightforward, with its multi-level layout. It's easily accessible on foot from most hotels in Playa del Inglés. Whether you're looking for a place to party, enjoy a meal, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere, the Yumbo Centre is an essential part of the Playa del Inglés experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit