Maspalomas Beach in Gran Canaria has been recognised as one of the top ten beaches in Europe, securing eighth spot in a recent ranking by the British travel insurance agency Quotezone. This accolade makes Maspalomas the only Spanish beach to feature in the top ten list for 2024.
Located on the south coast of the island, Maspalomas Beach is nestled within the Special Natural Reserve of the Maspalomas Dunes, alongside the popular beaches of Playa del Inglés and Meloneras.
The beach stretches nearly three kilometres and is famous for its golden sands and the iconic Maspalomas Lighthouse, which has stood since its inauguration in 1861.
The beach is well-equipped to cater to the needs of its many visitors. The area around the Maspalomas tourist centre offers amenities such as sunbed and umbrella rentals, showers, and beach bars. However, the beach's versatility is one of its greatest strengths.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, the area near Punta de Maspalomas provides opportunities for water sports and even nude sunbathing.
Despite its popularity and frequent visitors, the beach's expansive size ensures that it can accommodate large numbers of people without feeling overcrowded. Its ability to satisfy a wide range of visitor preferences has contributed to its high ranking on Quotezone's list.
Topping the list is Nissi Beach in Cyprus, located in Ayía Napa on the southeastern coast of the island. This beach is known for its calm waters, protected by the surrounding bay, making it a favourite destination for both tourists and locals.
In second place is Meilleha Bay in Malta, known for its crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkelling. The third spot goes to Portoroz Beach in Slovenia, a family-friendly destination known for its tranquil waters and mild temperatures.
Following these, Elafonissi Beach in Crete, Greece, and Zlatni Rat in Croatia, with its unique sandy cape, occupy the fourth and fifth positions, respectively. La Pelosa Beach in Sardinia, Italy, and Falesia Beach in Portugal take sixth and seventh places. After Maspalomas, Bournemouth Beach in England and Palombaggia Beach in Corsica, France, round out the list in ninth and tenth positions.
Maspalomas Beach's inclusion in both Quotezone's and TripAdvisor's top beach lists is a testament to its stunning landscapes, favourable climate, and ability to appeal to a diverse array of visitors, solidifying its reputation as one of Spain's premier beach destinations.
