Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain

Arucas Beaches

Overview

Arucas, on Gran Canaria's north coast, presents a unique coastal charm. It offers a more local and rugged experience compared to the island's southern resorts. Expect a captivating mix of sandy areas, pebble shores, and distinctive natural volcanic rock pools, ideal for an authentic seaside visit.

Key coastal attractions in Arucas include Puertillo, the area's primary hub with its sandy beach and pools. The natural volcanic formations of Los Charcones de Arucas are a local favorite, offering calm waters perfect for families. For breathtaking scenery, Guayedra provides a relatively untouched escape with dramatic cliffs. Many also venture to the iconic dunes of Playa de Maspalomas or the lively urban sands of Las Canteras in nearby Las Palmas.

Arucas offers still more to explore along its coast, including quieter spots like Playa Las Salinas. Swimming is generally pleasant, especially in the sheltered natural pools and calmer beach areas, making it enjoyable for various visitors. Discover the full range of Arucas's coastal gems in our detailed list of beaches.

FAQ

Is Arucas a good destination for a beach holiday?

Arucas offers a coastal area with several beaches and natural pools, making it a potential destination for a beach holiday, particularly for those looking to experience the north coast of Gran Canaria. It's known for a mix of pebble and sand beaches, as well as natural swimming pools like Los Charcones. While not as famous for vast sandy beaches as the south of the island, it provides a more local and rugged coastal experience.
Los Charcones de Bañaderos
Los Charcones de Bañaderos

What are the main beaches in Arucas?

The main coastal spots in Arucas include Playa de El Puertillo, a sandy beach, and Los Charcones, which features natural swimming pools. Playa de San Andrés is another beach in the area. These locations offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Puertillo
Puertillo

Are the beaches in Arucas sandy or rocky?

Arucas has a mix of beach types. For example, Playa El Puertillo is described as a sandy beach, sometimes with black lava rock around the bay. Other areas might be more pebbly or feature natural rock pools like Los Charcones.
Puertillo
Puertillo
Los Charcones de Bañaderos
Los Charcones de Bañaderos

Can you swim in the sea in Arucas? What are the conditions like?

Yes, you can swim in Arucas, both at its beaches like El Puertillo and in the natural pools of Los Charcones. El Puertillo is noted for calm waters, sometimes protected by natural rock barriers, making it suitable for swimming. Los Charcones offers calm bathing in its natural pools. However, some coastal areas can experience strong waves, so it's always good to check local conditions.
Puertillo
Puertillo
Los Charcones de Bañaderos
Los Charcones de Bañaderos

Are Arucas beaches good for families with children?

Yes, some areas in Arucas are suitable for families. Los Charcones natural pools are mentioned as a spot where children and adults can enjoy the water. Playa El Puertillo, with its calmer waters and amenities, can also be family-friendly.
Los Charcones de Bañaderos
Los Charcones de Bañaderos

What is the best time of year to visit Arucas beaches?

The best time to visit Arucas for beach and hot-weather activities is generally during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is typically warm and sunny, with ideal water temperatures for swimming and water activities.

How do I get to the beaches in Arucas from Las Palmas or other parts of Gran Canaria?

Arucas is about 12-17 km from Las Palmas. You can reach Arucas by car via the GC-2 and then GC-20 or GC-301. Public transport is also an option; several bus lines (e.g., 205, 206, 210, 234) connect Las Palmas (San Telmo station) to Arucas town. From Arucas town, local transport or a short taxi ride might be needed for specific beaches if not driving.

Are there natural swimming pools in Arucas?

Yes, Arucas is well-known for its natural swimming pools, particularly Los Charcones. These pools offer a unique and often calmer bathing experience compared to open beaches and are a popular attraction in the area.
Los Charcones de Bañaderos
Los Charcones de Bañaderos

People Also Ask

What facilities are available at Arucas beaches (e.g., toilets, showers, lifeguards)?

Facilities vary by location. Playa El Puertillo is mentioned as having amenities like restrooms, showers, and lifeguards. Los Charcones natural pools also have services such as nearby parking, sundecks, showers, and easy access. It's always best to check for specific beaches.
Puertillo
Puertillo
Los Charcones de Bañaderos
Los Charcones de Bañaderos

Are Arucas beaches suitable for surfing?

Yes, some beaches in Arucas are mentioned as being good for surfing. For instance, Playa de Las Salinas and Los Enanos are noted as surf spots. El Puertillo also has a surf practice area.
Puertillo
Puertillo

Are there any nudist beaches in Arucas?

Yes, Playa Las Salinas in Arucas is mentioned as a nudist beach. It's described as being in an unspoiled and quiet, isolated area.

What is the difference between El Puertillo and Los Charcones?

El Puertillo is primarily a sandy beach, though it may have some rocky areas, and is known for calmer waters suitable for swimming. Los Charcones, on the other hand, consists of natural rock pools, offering a different kind of bathing experience, often sheltered from stronger waves. They are located close to each other.
Puertillo
Puertillo
Los Charcones de Bañaderos
Los Charcones de Bañaderos

Are there restaurants or cafes near Arucas beaches?

Yes, the coastal area of Arucas, particularly around El Puertillo and Los Charcones, offers a variety of bars and restaurants where you can find fresh fish and local gastronomy. The promenade at El Puertillo is lined with kiosks and restaurants.
Puertillo
Puertillo
Los Charcones de Bañaderos
Los Charcones de Bañaderos

Is it easy to find parking near the beaches in Arucas?

Parking availability can vary. Los Charcones natural pools are mentioned as having nearby parking. For other beaches like El Puertillo, parking is generally available, but it can get crowded, especially on weekends and holidays.
Los Charcones de Bañaderos
Los Charcones de Bañaderos
Puertillo
Puertillo

Are Arucas beaches generally crowded?

The level of crowding can depend on the specific beach and the time of year. Some sources suggest El Puertillo can have a high occupancy rate, and Los Charcones can also be popular. Smaller, more isolated spots like Playa Las Salinas might be quieter. Weekends and holidays tend to be busier.
Puertillo
Puertillo
Los Charcones de Bañaderos
Los Charcones de Bañaderos

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The fastest way to find the best Arucas Beaches

Arucas Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Arucas: Weather Today

📅 Friday, July 25, 2025
It's an average beach day in Arucas. The maximum air temperature will be 23.8 °C. The sea temperature is 22.2 °C. Expect some clouds in the sky today, but no rain. The wind might be a bit strong at times. The waves are high. The UV index is 8.35, so make sure to apply sunscreen.
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Air

Low / High18.3°C/23.8°C
Feels Like (High)25°C
🌊

Sea

Sea Temperature22.2 °C
Wave Height2.1 m
🌧️

Rain

Rain Chance0%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
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Sun

Sunrise / Sunset07:20/20:56
Sunshine Hours12.0 hrs
UV Index8.35
Cloud Cover33%
💨

Wind

Speed25.3 km/h
Gusts41 km/h
DirectionNW

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