7 beaches for snorkelling in Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria

When people think of Gran Canaria, it’s usually the beaches, year-round mild climate and laid-back atmosphere that come to mind. But beneath the surface, the island hides another treasure. Beyond sunbathing and seaside relaxation, Gran Canaria offers a unique experience for those who love exploring the underwater world with just a mask and snorkel. Across numerous points along the coast, you’ll find crystal-clear waters filled with tropical fish, volcanic seabeds and even sea caves.

In this article, we’ll take you on a route through seven beaches where diving into Canarian biodiversity becomes an unforgettable adventure.

And if you want to explore the island properly, hiring a car is the smartest move. Many of these secluded coves aren’t reachable by public transport. Discover them at your own pace, with stops at incredible viewpoints and charming villages.

The best beaches for snorkelling in Gran Canaria

If snorkeling’s on your Gran Canaria list, good call — this place is the place-to-be for underwater adventures. Its coastline blends golden sandy beaches with volcanic rock formations that create perfect habitats for fish, octopus, starfish and other species. The water remains crystal clear for most of the year, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 19 to 24°C. Add to that a network of protected marine areas, such as the El Cabron Marine Reserve, and the opportunity to snorkel practically anywhere along the island’s shores.

Thanks to low tidal ranges, excellent visibility and varied seabeds — from sandy to rocky and volcanic — both beginners and pro snorkellers can find ideal spots to suit their style. Here’s a tour of the best beaches to snorkel in Gran Canaria:

1. Amadores Beach

Located on the southwest coast between Puerto Rico and Mogan, Amadores Beach is a favourite among visitors seeking calm, clear waters. Despite being in a built-up area, it offers ideal conditions for beginner snorkellers: little to no waves, gentle sea access and excellent visibility.

At either end of the beach, near the rocky sections, you’ll often spot schools of fish, sea urchins and even cuttlefish. To avoid the crowds, it's best to explore early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

2. El Cabron (Arinaga)

No snorkelling guide to Gran Canaria would be complete without El Cabron. Situated near the fishing village of Arinaga on the eastern coast, this site forms part of a protected Marine Reserve. Here you will swim close to rocky seabeds, seagrass meadows and natural caves.

Snorkelling here borders on scuba diving — expect to see large schools of sardines, groupers, rays, moray eels and, if you're lucky, turtles. Access is more challenging (a car and sturdy footwear are recommended), but absolutely worth the effort.

3. Las Canteras Beach

Right in the heart of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Canteras is an urban beach protected by a natural volcanic rock barrier known as “La Barra,” which shelters the shoreline and keeps currents at bay.

On days when the tide is low, you’ll spot a wide variety of fish between the cracks of the rock. Being in the capital, the beach offers all kinds of amenities — showers, lifeguards and easy access.

4. Tufia Beach

Small, but full of charm, Tufia Beach sits tucked away at the end of a narrow lane near the airport, close to the town of Ingenio. Its main characteristic is its dark volcanic sand, which contrasts beautifully with the vibrant blue waters.

Surrounded by cliffs and rock formations, the marine environment here is perfect for snorkelling. Reef fish are a common sight, alongside patches of underwater vegetation that provide shelter for a wide variety of marine species.

5. Sardina del Norte Beach

Up in the north of the island near Galdar, Sardina del Norte was once a humble fishing village and now attracts divers and snorkellers alike. The pier and beach offer easy access to the sea, and the diversity of marine life will for sure surprise you.

It’s one of the few northern spots where the waters are calm and easily accessible. Expect to see moray eels, trumpetfish, nudibranchs and even seahorses. A great place to visit by car and spend the day — with nearby restaurants adding to the convenience.

6. Tauro Beach

Halfway between Amadores and Mogan, Tauro Beach has grown in popularity recently as a peaceful alternative to its neighbours. It’s easiest to reach by car due to limited bus services, and its natural surroundings make it ideal for those seeking relaxation without missing out on snorkelling.

7. Playa del Medio

For those wanting to break away from the usual tourist routes, Playa del Medio has to be on your list. Located between Güigüi and Tasartico, it’s only accessible on foot or by sea, making it a favourite for adventure-seekers.

Its loneliness guarantees an untouched setting — perfect for enjoying the ocean alone.

Best way to reach Gran Canaria's top snorkeling sites

While some beaches are located near urban centres, many of Gran Canaria’s best snorkellingspots lie off the beaten track or require detours down secondary roads. That’s whyhiring a car with DoYouSpain is essentialif you want to reach hidden corners, avoid public transport schedules and travel with your snorkel gear, backpacks or lunch in tow.

With your own wheels, you can craft your own road trip, stop wherever the sea calls and linger until the sun begins to dip. The island’s compact size means you can explore several beaches in a single day.

Hire your car with DoYouSpain and discover Gran Canaria at your own pace

On an island like Gran Canaria, where most of its top attractions sit outside traditional routes, hiring a car equals freedom. DoYouSpain lets you compare prices across suppliers, book in advance and collect your car right at the airport or key locations around the island.

Gran Canaria is home to a stunning underwater world, ready to be explored by any traveller armed with a snorkel, mask and a sense of adventure. Touring these beaches slowly and spontaneously by car is one of the best ways to experience the island’s true spirit.

Plus, when you book your car with DoYouSpain, you’ll have access to online support, a virtual assistant and direct help via phone at +34 964 830 995 — so your journey runs smoothly from start to finish.