Maspalomas Dunes

The Maspalomas Dunes are a protected natural area on the south coast of Gran Canaria, Spain, about 55 km from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The Global express bus from San Telmo or Santa Catalina takes roughly 45-60 minutes and costs about EUR 6-9 each way, with frequent departures, so a rental car is not needed. The reserve covers several square kilometres of golden sand dunes, a palm grove and a lagoon, the Charca de Maspalomas, which attracts resident and migratory birds. The Faro de Maspalomas lighthouse and the long beach of Playa de Maspalomas sit on the seaward edge. Walking across the dunes is a defining experience, though the sand is soft and the effort is greater than it looks, so the trip is classed as moderate. Marked footpaths cross the reserve, and visitors are asked to stay on them to protect the fragile ecosystem. Part of the beach is used by naturists, and the dunes are known to be one of the island's busiest sights. Camel rides are available at the edge of the dunes for visitors who prefer not to walk. A suggested day starts with the morning bus so that the dunes can be crossed while the sand is still cool, followed by time on the beach and lunch at one of the restaurants along the Paseo Costa Canaria or in Playa del Inglés. In the late afternoon, the light on the dunes is at its best, and the sunset at the lighthouse is a popular finish before an evening bus back. Year-round sun makes Maspalomas reliable, but mornings are cooler and midday summer heat can be intense, with little shade. Visitors should bring water, sun protection and closed shoes, as the sand can burn bare feet. Wind can blow sand across the dunes in strong conditions.