Las Canteras beach has raised the 'Q for Tourist Quality 2026' flag this Thursday, certifying its excellence in services, accessibility, and the environment. The capital's beach has now held this distinction for 13 consecutive years.
Las Canteras beach, in the capital of Gran Canaria, has once again excelled in the demanding quality audits. This Thursday, the beach has raised the 'Q for Tourist Quality 2026' flag, a distinction that places it among the best-managed beaches in Spain. The certification, awarded by the Institute for Spanish Tourist Quality (ICTE) following the audit by OCA Global, recognises the constant work of the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria City Council.
An Impeccable Track Record Since 2013
Las Canteras first obtained the Q for Tourist Quality in 2013 and, since then, has renewed it uninterruptedly every year. This consistency demonstrates that the management of the beach is not a fleeting achievement, but a firm commitment to quality. The Councillor for City of the Sea, Pedro Quevedo, highlighted that "this raising of the flag is not an isolated event, but a reflection of the daily work to establish Las Canteras as a beach that offers full guarantees."
This year's audit has focused on the constant evolution of the management system. Among the strengths of the 2026 technical report is the high effectiveness of the new 'Take Care of Your City' programme, which streamlines the resolution of citizen reports and proposals in record time. The provision of modern Corpusl equipment at the central lifeguard station for performing CPR maneuvers more safely has also been positively evaluated, as well as the replacement of gel with foam in public showers to reduce water consumption.
Three Quality Seals Guaranteeing a Beach for Everyone
In addition to the Q for Tourist Quality, Las Canteras revalidates in 2026 two other international standards: ISO 14001:2015 (Environmental Management System), which it has held since 2024, and UNE 170001-2:2007 (Universal Accessibility), which it has maintained since 2012. These three recognitions certify that all services and activities on the beach—from lifeguarding and assisted bathing to toilets and shaded areas—are carried out under strict environmental protection controls, preventing pollution and ensuring equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their age or mobility.
For the locals and tourists who enjoy Las Canteras daily, this translates into a cleaner, safer, and more accessible beach. The adapted ramps, walkways, reserved shaded areas, adapted toilets, and the assisted bathing service with amphibious chairs and specialised staff are just some of the amenities that support these certifications.
The Next Challenge: the 'S for Sustainability'
The City Council is not settling for what has been achieved. Councillor Pedro Quevedo has announced that the council is already working to request the Q for Tourist Quality for Las Alcaravaneras beach, aiming to extend quality standards to other beaches in the city. But the major challenge for Las Canteras will come at the end of 2026: applying for the 'S for Sustainability', a standard awarded by the ICTE that will endorse the beach's commitment to the environment, social responsibility, and local economic development, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
"We want to take a step further," affirmed Quevedo, who emphasised that sustainability is the natural path for a beach that is already a benchmark in quality and accessibility. Las Canteras aspires to be the first beach in the Canary Islands to obtain this seal, which would represent recognition of its comprehensive management and an additional tourist attraction.
For now, bathers can continue to enjoy a beach that, in addition to its natural beauty, offers top-level services. The 'Q' flag is already flying at the lifeguard station, reminding everyone that excellence is not a coincidence, but the result of constant effort. And with the 'S' on the horizon, Las Canteras shows that it still has room for further improvement.
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