The Maspalomas Dunes are one of Gran Canaria’s best-known landscapes, and also a protected place.
What it is
The dunes form a Special Nature Reserve (Reserva Natural Especial) of 403.9 hectares, in the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana. The reserve has three ecosystems, palm grove, lagoon and dunes. The lagoon, La Charca, has great ecological value and is a nesting and resting place for birds. Protected plants and birds live there, along with insects linked to African fauna.
The key rule: stay on the marked paths
The official tourism site asks visitors to always keep to the marked-out areas and the authorised path. This protects a fragile natural environment.
The island council is also paying closer attention to visitor access. According to local press in July 2026, it is installing drones, cameras, sensors and signage to protect the reserve, and it stresses visitor awareness.
How to enjoy it
- Enjoy the beach, the promenade and the marked paths. The lighthouse is 55 metres high and first shone on 1 February 1890. A promenade nearby has restaurants and gift shops.
- Follow the signs you find on site.
- Learn how to help. The official MasDunas project has recommendations for visitors who want to protect the dunes.
Nudism on the beach takes place in designated areas, between beach bars 3 and 4 and between bars 5 and 6. Our beaches guide has the details.
Want to see the beach first? Watch the Maspalomas live webcam.
Where to stay
Moon Dunes is in Playa del Inglés, a two-minute walk from the Yumbo Centre. See the apartment.
Last checked: 6 October 2026. Rules and signage can change, so follow the signs on site.