Is Meloneras a good place for a beach holiday?
Meloneras is considered an upscale and modern resort area in Gran Canaria, offering a sophisticated and serene beach holiday experience. It features chic boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and luxury hotels. The area boasts the Meloneras beach and is also very close to the famous Maspalomas beach with its dunes. While some hotels have their own sandy areas and large pools, the natural beaches provide a tranquil oasis for sunbathing and swimming in the Atlantic's crystal-clear waters.
What is the sand like on Meloneras beach?
Meloneras beach has golden sand. Some sources describe it as dark blonde, typical of the southwest of Gran Canaria. It's generally fine and soft underfoot, though there can be pebbles and rocks, particularly at the shoreline when entering the water, especially at low tide.
Can you swim at Meloneras beach and what is the water like?
Yes, you can swim at Meloneras beach. The waters are generally calm and clear, making it suitable for swimming and paddling. The beach has received the Blue Flag award, indicating good water quality. However, it can be rocky when entering the water, especially at low tide, so some visitors recommend beach shoes. Lifeguards are on duty, and flags indicate sea conditions.
Is Meloneras beach good for families?
Yes, Meloneras beach is considered family-friendly. Its calm, gentle waves make it suitable for children to paddle and play. The beach is also meticulously maintained, ensuring a clean and safe environment. Several family-friendly hotels are located nearby, and the promenade offers amenities.
What's the best time of year to visit Meloneras for a beach holiday?
Meloneras enjoys a pleasant climate year-round. For the highest temperatures, the best time to visit is between July and September. However, the period from May to November is also very popular, with warm, sunny weather and pleasant sea breezes. Autumn (September to November) is highlighted as particularly favorable due to moderate temperatures (around 20-27°C) and low rainfall, with sea temperatures around 23°C, ideal for swimming. Winter and spring are also popular, offering sunshine when it's colder elsewhere.
Is Meloneras beach very crowded?
Meloneras beach is generally less crowded than its larger neighbour, Maspalomas beach, especially during peak season. It's often described as a tranquil oasis, popular with those seeking a more peaceful and relaxing beach experience.
How does Meloneras beach compare to Maspalomas beach?
Meloneras beach is smaller and generally quieter than the vast Maspalomas beach, which is famous for its extensive dunes. While Maspalomas is more expansive and can be windier (though nets are in place to block sand), Meloneras offers a more sheltered environment, especially on windy days. Meloneras also has restaurants, bars, and shops directly by the sand, offering a different atmosphere. Both are accessible via the promenade that connects them, with the Maspalomas lighthouse as a landmark between them.
Are there sunbeds and umbrellas for rent at Meloneras beach?
Yes, Meloneras beach offers sun loungers and parasols for hire. This is a common amenity that beach visitors look for.
What facilities are available at Meloneras beach?
Meloneras beach provides several facilities for visitors, including lifeguard services, showers, toilets, and access ramps for people with disabilities. There are also restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops along the adjacent promenade, as well as a shopping center nearby.
Is Meloneras beach windy?
Meloneras beach is generally considered more sheltered from the wind compared to the larger Maspalomas beach, especially on windy days. While gentle breezes are common, strong winds are less likely. The area typically experiences a gentle to moderate breeze.
How do you get to Meloneras beach from the main resort area or hotels?
Meloneras beach is easily accessible by walking along the seafront promenade from the Maspalomas lighthouse. If staying in nearby hotels, it's often a short walk. The beach is at the end of the walkway if you head west from the lighthouse. You can also reach it by car, with parking available a few meters from the beach, or by bus and taxi.
Are there restaurants and bars directly on or next to Meloneras beach?
Yes, there is a strip of restaurants, bars, and cafes located right by the sand at Meloneras beach and along its promenade. These offer a variety of Spanish and international food and drinks, with some providing sunset views.
Is Meloneras beach suitable for people with disabilities?
Meloneras beach has decent disabled access, as it can be reached along the seafront boulevard and from the road. There are also access ramps to the beach itself. However, access to the sea might be trickier due to some rocks and pebbles close to the shore.
Are there any nudist beaches near Meloneras?
While Meloneras beach itself is not a designated nudist beach, the nearby Maspalomas beach has a well-known, large designated nudist area, typically found between specific beach kiosks (e.g., between kiosks 3 and 4 when coming from the Maspalomas lighthouse towards Playa del Inglés, or kiosks 5 and 6 if coming from Playa del Inglés). Playa de las Mujeres, also known as Pasito Bea, is another nearby beach where nudism is common, though not officially designated and most visitors keep swimwear on. Other more secluded nudist beaches like Montaña de Arena are also in the wider southern Gran Canaria area.
What is the Meloneras promenade like near the beach?
The Meloneras promenade is a wide, beautifully designed walkway that stretches from the Maspalomas lighthouse past Meloneras beach. It's lined with palm trees, upscale shops, boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and luxury hotels. It's ideal for leisurely strolls, jogging, cycling, and enjoying sunset views. The atmosphere is generally sophisticated and relaxed.
