The best sunrise beach in south Gran Canaria

Most of Gran Canaria's popular tourist beaches don't get great sunrises because they either face south of southwest and are sheltered at the mouth of valleys.

The big exceptions are Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas beaches right at the southern tip of the island. Sunrise here and in the Maspalomas sand dunes is beautiful most days. The best way to appreciate it is to head to the dunes via the Mirador Las Dunas viewpoint at the end of Avenida Tirajana in Playa del Inglés, or to walk along the six kilometres along the shore between the Maspalomas lighthouse and Playa del Ingles resort. 

East Gran Canaria for great sunrises

The best sunrise beach views in Gran Canaria are along the east coast at beaches like El Cabrón, Melenara (with it's Neptune sculpture in the sea) and Salinetas. They take a bit of effort to get to in time for sunrise, especially if you don't have a car. However, the horizon is cloud free most days and you will get a beautiful natural show.

Photographers: Head to La Garita beach and then walk south to the Bufadero blowhole for a great sunrise landscape spot. 

North Gran Canaria sunrise spots

In north Gran Canaria, the sunrise is best at La Laja and Alcaravaneras beach but is also pretty all along the coast between Las Palmas and San Felipe.