Things To Do
in Canteras

Canteras is a coastal neighborhood in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria famed for its long sandy beach and lively promenade. The area blends sun washed beaches, seafood tavernas, and a vibrant market scene. Strollers and surfers share the shoreline as palm trees line the promenade.

With compact streets and reliable public transport, Canteras is easy to explore on foot and by bike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day by wandering through the charming streets of Las Palmas' historic center, Vegueta. Admire the stunning architecture of the Cathedral of Santa Ana, and take a moment to appreciate the intricate details of its facade. Don’t forget to stop by the local artisan shops and pick up unique souvenirs.

afternoon
:

After a delicious lunch at a local tapas bar, head to the Casa de Colón, where you can explore exhibits on Christopher Columbus’s voyages. Stroll through the picturesque Plaza de Santa Ana, enjoying the lively atmosphere and perhaps catching a local performance. As the sun begins to set, make your way to the nearby market to sample some local delicacies.

evening
:

In the evening, find a cozy restaurant in Vegueta to savor traditional Canarian dishes, such as papas arrugadas with mojo sauce. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the lit streets, soaking in the vibrant nightlife. End your night with a relaxing drink at a rooftop bar overlooking the historic district.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Begin your day at Las Canteras Beach, known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Grab a coffee at a beachfront café while soaking in the stunning ocean views and watching the surfers ride the waves. After your morning caffeine fix, rent a paddleboard or kayak for some fun on the water.

afternoon
:

Post-lunch, take a break from water sports and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade, lined with palm trees and local shops. Stop for a refreshing gelato and watch the world go by as you bask in the sun. If you’re feeling adventurous, join a snorkeling tour to explore the underwater beauty of the nearby marine reserve.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a beachside restaurant to indulge in fresh seafood, such as grilled octopus or local fish. Enjoy your meal with a glass of Canarian wine while listening to the soothing sound of waves crashing on the shore. After dinner, take a romantic walk along the beach, where the moonlight dances on the water.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee or drink in cafe$2-5
🍽Three course meal for two$25-60
🚆One way public transit ticket$1-2
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$70-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Excellent beach access and pleasant climate
  • Vibrant food scene with fresh seafood and local dishes
  • Compact and walkable with good public transport
  • Easy day trips to natural parks and cultural sites
  • Tourist crowds in peak season
  • Some areas can be pricey for dining on the coast
  • Limited late night public transport on weekends late night
  • "¿Dónde está la playa?" - Where is the beach?
  • "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
  • "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
  • "¿Puede recomendar un plato típico?" - Could you recommend a local dish?
  • "Estoy perdido/a" - I am lost

Places to Visit in Canteras

Visit one of these nice places.

Paseo de Las Canteras

Wide ocean promenade with sea wall, surfers and dramatic sunsets.

El Confital Lookout

Cliffside vantage point with sweeping views of the Atlantic and waves crashing below.

Parque Santa Catalina

Grove of palm trees near the port with lively portions perfect for candid street photography.

Casco Viejo Vegueta streets

Cobbled lanes and colonial architecture ideal for atmospheric city shots.

Mirador del Puerto

Harbor viewpoint offering boats and city skyline together at dusk.

Culinary Guide

Food in Canteras

Canteras offers a rich mix of fresh seafood, tapas, and traditional Canarian dishes. Expect mojo sauces, gofio, and a range of fish caught daily in surrounding waters.

Canteras Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Papas arrugadas con mojo

Wrinkled potatoes served with green and red mojo sauces.

Must-Try!

Pescado fresco a la plancha

Grilled fresh fish with lemon and herbs.

Arroz a banda

Seafood rice dish cooked in the seafood stock.

Gofio con miel o mojo

Milled grain flour served as a side or dessert.

Bienmesabe

Sweet almond dessert popular in the Canaries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Central de Las Palmas

Historic market stalls offering fresh produce, seafood and local snacks.

Mercado del Puerto

Harbor market with fish stalls and casual eateries along the quay.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area enjoys a mild subtropical climate year round. Summers are warm but moderated by sea breezes, while winters remain mild and pleasant with cooler evenings. Average highs range from the mid 20s C in summer to around 15 C in winter. Rain is rare, mostly confined to the winter months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a friendly hola or buenos dias. Politeness matters in social interactions.

Siesta and dining hours

Lunch and dinner times are later in the day; plan meals accordingly.

Photography

Ask for consent before taking photos of people, especially in intimate settings.

Taxis and tipping

Taxi etiquette similar to the rest of Spain; round up the fare if you are satisfied.

Safety Guide

Safety

Canteras is generally safe for travelers with typical urban precautions. Watch valuables on crowded beaches and in transit. Use trusted taxis or rideshares at night and be aware of your surroundings near nightlife areas. In case of emergency dial 112.

Tipping in Canteras

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Restaurant service charges are not always included. A tip of 5 to 10 percent is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards widely accepted; cash is still common for small purchases; contactless pay is common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with sea breezes; expect crowds on the beach and long evenings.

Autumn

Mild temperatures with fewer crowds; great for outdoor dining and walking tours.

Winter

Mild and comfortable; sea remains active for surfers and coastal walks are pleasant.

Spring

Blooming landscapes and pleasant temperatures; ideal for hiking along the coast.

Nightlife Guide

Canteras at Night

The nightlife around Canteras is lively and varied. Beachfront bars and terraces stay open late with a mix of live music, DJs, and casual vibe. The Vegueta and La Avenida areas offer clubs, tapas bars, and cultural evenings. Expect a friendly, social atmosphere with late night eats available along the promenade.

Hiking in Canteras

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Roque Nublo

Iconic volcanic rock formation with scenic hiking trails through pine forests.

Caldera de Bandama

Crater hike with panoramic island and ocean views.

Barranco de Guayadeque

Canyon and cave dwelling area with scenic paths and viewpoints.

Airports

How to reach Canteras by plane.

Gran Canaria Airport (LPA)

Main international and domestic gateway to the island, about 25-30 minutes by car from Canteras.

Tenerife North Airport (TFN)

North Tenerife airport offering regional connections; longer transfer to Canteras.

Tenerife South Airport (TFS)

South Tenerife airport with many sun holiday flights; longer transfer to Canteras.

Getting Around

Walkability

Canteras is highly walkable with a continuous seafront promenade, flat sidewalks, and short distances between attractions. The area is well served by buses and a nearby tram, making car free exploration easy. Pedestrian zones and bike lanes encourage safe cycling along the coast. Parking can be challenging near the beach during peak hours.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Locals

Canary Islanders and residents who form the core community.

Students

University and college students who study in the city.

Retirees

Seasonal or permanent residents who enjoy the mild climate.

International visitors

Tourists and expats attracted by the coast and cultural sites.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

The most popular sport with local club games and enthusiastic crowds.

Surfing

The waves at Las Canteras attract surfers of all levels.

Water sports

Stand up paddle boarding, kayaking and snorkeling along the coast.

Transportation

Traffic

Public transport is reliable with buses and a tram in Las Palmas. Traffic can be heavy during peak commuting hours and tourist season. Parking can be scarce near the beach during peak hours. A car is useful for day trips but not essential for staying in Canteras.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Canteras.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most places offer vegetarian options. Look for mojo potatoes, vegetable plates, or gofio based dishes and ask for goat cheese salads.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Public healthcare is accessible through the national health system with hospitals and clinics in Las Palmas. In emergencies dial 112. Major hospitals nearby include Hospital Universitario Doctor Negrin and Hospital Universitario Insular. Private clinics and dental services are also common in the city, with English speaking staff available in larger facilities.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

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