Gay Beach
The Ultimate LGBTQ+ Beach Experience: Discover the Gay Beach of Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is often hailed as one of Europe’s top LGBTQ+ travel destinations—and for good reason. This sun-drenched island in the Canary Islands boasts beautiful landscapes, a welcoming vibe, and a vibrant gay scene that truly comes alive along its golden coastlines.
If you’re heading to the island and wondering where to go for some sun, sea, and serious socializing, there’s one place you absolutely cannot miss:
the Gay Beach between Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas, centered around the legendary Kiosk No. 7.
What Makes This Gay Beach So Special?
Nestled at the edge of the iconic Maspalomas Dunes, the gay beach area sits proudly between Kiosk 5 and Kiosk 7
With Kiosk 7 being the unofficial (but well-known) epicenter of LGBTQ+ beach life on the island.
Marked by rainbow flags and an unmistakable buzz of energy.
This stretch of beach has become a beloved gathering spot for both locals and international visitors alike.
friendly atmosphere
The atmosphere is open, inclusive, and friendly—perfect whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or in a group.
You’ll see people sunbathing, laughing with friends, swimming in the calm Atlantic waters, and even striking up spontaneous games of beach volleyball.
It’s a place where it’s easy to meet people, make friends, or just enjoy the view (and not just the ocean).
How to Get There
Getting to the Gay Beach is part of the adventure. You have two main routes:
- From Playa del Inglés: Start at the Riu Palace Hotel and walk through the beautiful Maspalomas Dunes. Follow the marked path (you’ll see wooden poles lining the route), and take in the surreal desert-like landscape.
- This path also passes through one of the island’s famous cruising areas, so don’t be surprised if your walk comes with some flirtatious glances or unexpected encounters.
- From Maspalomas (Faro Lighthouse): Walk along the coastline from the lighthouse heading toward Playa del Inglés. It’s about a 15-minute stroll along the sea and brings you directly to Kiosk 7. Along the way, you’ll get sweeping views of the beach, ocean, and towering dunes.
Beach Facilities and Vibe
Once you arrive, you’ll find plenty of soft sand to claim a spot with your towel—or rent a sunbed and parasol for about €5–6.
The beach itself is wide and spacious, so even during the high season, you’ll find room to relax.
Kiosk 7 serves as the beach bar and social hub. You can grab a cold beer, a fresh mojito, or a soft drink, along with light snacks.
The bar is always buzzing, especially in the afternoon, and is a perfect spot to meet new people or reconnect with old friends.
The music, laughter, and constant hum of conversation make it a unique social experience unlike any other beach on the island.
Sun, Sea, and Socializing
This beach isn’t just about laying out in the sun—though you’ll definitely get plenty of that. The water is usually clear and calm, making it great for swimming.
Lifeguards are present, and safety flags are displayed daily:
- Green Flag – Safe to swim.
- Yellow Flag – Be cautious.
- Red Flag – Swimming is not allowed.
Most days you’ll find a green or yellow flag waving, and people enjoying the water or cooling off after baking under the Canarian sun on the Gay Beach.
And if you’re feeling more adventurous?
Take a walk deeper into the dunes for more privacy or exploration—just be respectful of others and the natural environment.
What to Bring
Here’s what you’ll want to pack for a perfect day at the Gay Beach:
- Sunscreen (the sun is strong!)
- Towel or beach mat
- Swimsuit—or not, since clothing is optional in some areas
- Sunglasses and a hat
- Water and snacks (though the kiosk has plenty too)
- A camera or phone—you’ll want to capture this view
- Your best beach attitude
Why It’s a Must-Visit
The Gay Beach of Gran Canaria is more than just a beach—it’s an experience. It’s where sun, freedom, and community meet in one of the most naturally beautiful settings in Europe.
The best place to relax
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax, meet new people, show off your best swimwear, or just soak up the positive vibes, this is the place to be.
Many visitors make it a daily ritual to spend their afternoons here—starting with a morning walk through the dunes, a swim.
Take a drink at the kiosk, and watching the sun slowly dip over the Atlantic before heading into town for dinner or nightlife.
For LGBTQ+ travelers, it doesn’t get much better than this.
Enjoy Playa del Ingles and Maspalomas