A new international ranking places Las Canteras beach, in the capital of Gran Canaria, as the best urban beach in Europe. The classification highlights its calm waters, year-round atmosphere, and cultural offerings.
Las Canteras beach, in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, has been recognised as the best urban beach in Europe in a ranking published this Monday by the travel platform European Best Destinations. The list, which evaluates over 500 beaches across the continent, places the Gran Canaria capital ahead of destinations such as La Concha beach in San Sebastián and Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro, the latter being outside Europe but included as a reference.
A recognition that validates its unique character
According to the organisers of the ranking, Las Canteras stands out for its combination of nature and urban life. The presence of La Barra, a natural rock formation that protects the coast, turns its waters into a calm lagoon, ideal for swimming and water sports. This geological phenomenon, combined with the trade winds that keep the average temperature at 25 degrees during July and August, makes it an appealing destination year-round.
The Councillor for Tourism of the Las Palmas de Gran Canaria City Council, Pedro Quevedo, has positively assessed the news:
This recognition is not a coincidence. Las Canteras is the heart of our city, a place where sports, gastronomy, and culture coexist. It is a pride to be positioned as a European reference.The councillor has recalled that the beach receives an average of 3 million visitors a year, including tourists and residents.
More than a beach: a lifestyle
The ranking not only values the quality of the water or sand but also the atmosphere generated in its surroundings. Las Canteras is the hub of social life in the capital: in the mornings, traditional sailing boats navigate the bay; at noon, restaurants and terraces fill with diners; in the afternoon, beach volleyball matches and impromptu concerts take place; and as night falls, the terraces remain open, with the sunset as a backdrop.
For the residents of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, this lifestyle is nothing new. The city maintains an intense cultural agenda throughout the year, with events such as the International Festival Canarias Jazz & Más, which this July celebrates its 35th edition with artists like Jacob Collier and the Gran Canaria Philharmonic Orchestra. The Alfredo Kraus Auditorium, located on the edge of the beach, is one of the most emblematic venues.
The night of San Lorenzo, the crowning glory
One of the most anticipated moments of summer in the capital is the night of San Lorenzo, on August 9. The San Lorenzo neighbourhood, which was an independent village until less than a century ago, recovers its own identity with a half-hour fireworks display simulating erupting volcanoes. The event attracts around 60,000 people and has been recognised since 2022 as a Festival of Tourist Interest in the Canary Islands.
The Councillor for Festivities, Inmaculada Medina, has indicated that this year a record attendance is expected:
San Lorenzo is the clearest example of something that defines this city: Gran Canarians do not need a special occasion to go out into the street, but when there is one, they celebrate it in a big way.The fireworks will be launched from San Lorenzo Park, a natural viewpoint with views of the entire city.
For tourists wishing to enjoy the beach, the City Council recommends visiting Las Canteras early in the morning to avoid crowds and take advantage of the gentle breeze. Additionally, the beach offers umbrella and sunbed rentals, water activities, and a wide range of beach bars and restaurants along the promenade.
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