Is Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria a good place for a family beach holiday?
Yes, Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria is widely considered an excellent destination for family beach holidays. The main beaches, like Puerto Rico Beach and Amadores Beach, offer calm, sheltered waters ideal for children to swim and play safely. Many facilities are geared towards families, including lifeguards, easy access for prams, and nearby amenities like restaurants and shops. The resort town itself is known for being family-friendly with various activities available.
What's the sand like on the beaches in Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria? Is it natural?
The main beaches in Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, such as Puerto Rico Beach and Amadores Beach, feature golden or white sand. This sand is not native to the area; much of it has been imported. For example, Puerto Rico Beach has sand brought from the Sahara, while Amadores Beach has crushed coral sand imported from the Caribbean. This imported sand is chosen for its pleasant texture and coolness underfoot.
Can you swim in the sea in Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria and what's the water like?
Absolutely. The beaches in Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria, particularly Puerto Rico Beach and Amadores Beach, are well-protected by breakwaters or their natural cove shape, resulting in very calm waters with minimal waves. This makes them ideal and safe for swimming for all ages. The water is also described as clear.
How warm is the sea in Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria throughout the year?
The sea temperature in Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria is generally pleasant for swimming year-round. Average water temperatures range from about 19°C (66°F) in the coolest months (February/March) to around 23°C (73-74°F) in the warmest months (August/September/October). Many find it comfortable for swimming even in winter, though some might prefer a wetsuit for extended periods during cooler months.
Which beach is better: Puerto Rico Beach or Amadores Beach?
Both Puerto Rico Beach and Amadores Beach are popular and have their own appeal, so 'better' depends on your preferences. Puerto Rico Beach is in the heart of the resort, very lively, with golden sand and a wide array of watersports and nearby restaurants. Amadores Beach, a short walk away, is a larger, man-made cove with white crushed coral sand, known for its calm turquoise waters and a more relaxed vibe, though it also has plenty of amenities. Amadores often has rules against ball games and loud music to maintain tranquility.
How do you get from Puerto Rico Beach to Amadores Beach?
It's easy to get between Puerto Rico Beach and Amadores Beach. There is a scenic coastal promenade, approximately 1 kilometer long, that connects the two beaches. The walk takes about 20-25 minutes and offers lovely views. Alternatively, you can take a short taxi ride or a local bus (e.g., line 9, 32, 33) which takes only a few minutes.
Are the beaches in Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria usually crowded?
The main beaches, Puerto Rico Beach and Amadores Beach, can get quite busy, especially during peak season (summer and winter holidays) and on weekends when locals also visit. However, due to their size, you can usually find a spot. If you prefer quieter beaches, you might consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or exploring smaller, nearby beaches like Playa del Cura or Playa de Tauro.
How much does it cost to rent sunbeds and umbrellas on the beaches?
The cost for renting sunbeds and umbrellas can vary slightly between beaches and with time, but generally, you can expect to pay around €7.50 to €12 per day for a set of two sunbeds and one umbrella. Some sources mention individual prices like €2.50 to €3.50 per item (sunbed or umbrella).
Are there any quieter or hidden gem beaches near Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria?
Yes, if you're looking for alternatives to the main busy beaches, Playa del Cura offers a more tranquil atmosphere with dark volcanic sand. Playa de Tauro is another option, known for being less developed and more natural, popular with locals. Anfi Beach, though man-made and popular, has beautiful white Caribbean sand and is a short bus or taxi ride away.
What kind of watersports and activities are available at the beaches?
Puerto Rico's beaches, particularly the main Puerto Rico Beach, offer a wide variety of watersports. You can typically find jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Boat trips, including dolphin and whale watching excursions and glass-bottom boat tours, are also very popular and depart from the harbour. Diving schools also operate in the area.
Is Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria more suited for a lively holiday or a quiet, relaxing one?
Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria can cater to both, but it leans towards a lively holiday destination, especially around the main Puerto Rico Beach and the commercial centers which have numerous bars, restaurants, and shops. However, you can find quieter areas, particularly if you stay further from the main hubs or visit beaches like Amadores (which has rules to maintain tranquility) or the more secluded Playa del Cura. The overall atmosphere is resort-focused and sunny.
What's the best way to get to the beaches if my hotel isn't right on the beachfront?
Many hotels in Puerto Rico are built on the hillsides surrounding the beaches. Walking is an option, though it can involve hills. Local buses are frequent and connect various parts of the resort to the beach areas. Taxis are also readily available and relatively inexpensive for short trips within Puerto Rico. Some accommodations might also offer shuttle services.
Are there specific rules for the beaches in Puerto Rico, like about smoking or BBQs?
Yes, there are some rules. For instance, on beaches like Puerto Rico and Amadores, there are designated smoking areas, and smoking is not permitted outside these zones. Night-time swimming is also often forbidden on these main beaches. Barbecues are generally not allowed on public beaches. It's always good to check local signage for any specific regulations.
Is it easy to find places to eat and drink near the beaches?
Yes, both Puerto Rico Beach and Amadores Beach are backed by promenades lined with a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. You can find everything from quick snacks and ice cream to full meals, catering to different tastes and budgets. Many establishments offer takeaway options as well.
When is the best time of year for a beach holiday in Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria considering weather and crowds?
Puerto Rico de Gran Canaria boasts a sunny climate year-round, making it a good beach destination anytime. Peak seasons are summer (June-August) and winter (December-February), which means more crowds but also a lively atmosphere. For a balance of good weather and fewer crowds, consider the shoulder seasons: spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October). Water temperatures remain pleasant for swimming throughout the year.
