Your photographer
in Maspalomas
From the iconic dunes to the historic lighthouse, the golden beach and the elegant Meloneras promenade — Maspalomas is one of the most beautiful and diverse areas on Gran Canaria for a professional photoshoot.
More than just dunes —
Maspalomas has it all
Maspalomas is the beating heart of the south of Gran Canaria — and one of the most diverse and photogenic areas on the entire island. Yes, the iconic dunes are here. But so is the historic lighthouse, the wide golden beach, the elegant Meloneras promenade, the tranquil nature reserve lagoon and some of the most spectacular Atlantic sunsets you'll ever witness.
As a photographer based right here in Maspalomas, Gaby Tenda knows every corner of this extraordinary area — from the hidden spots in the dunes to the perfect stretch of beach for a golden hour shoot. Whatever kind of photoshoot you're dreaming of, Maspalomas will deliver the perfect backdrop.
✦ Book your shoot in Maspalomas
Every corner of Maspalomas
tells a different story
Maspalomas offers far more variety than most people realise — here are the most beautiful spots for your photoshoot in the area.
★ Most popular404 hectares of golden sand dunes — the only desert dunes in Europe and a UNESCO-protected natural reserve. Breathtaking at golden hour. The most requested photoshoot location on Gran Canaria.
View dedicated dunes page →
📍 MaspalomasBuilt in 1890 and standing 55 metres tall — the Maspalomas Lighthouse is one of the most recognisable landmarks on Gran Canaria. Where the dunes meet the ocean. Dramatic at golden hour and blue hour.
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📍 MaspalomasA 6-kilometre stretch of golden beach from the lighthouse to Playa del Inglés — one of the longest and most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands. Stunning at sunset with the Atlantic as your backdrop.
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📍 MelonerasThe elegant, palm-lined seafront promenade of Meloneras — home to 5-star hotels, upscale restaurants and boutiques. Sophisticated and beautiful at both golden hour and blue hour. Perfect for couples and weddings.
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📍 MaspalomasA protected natural lagoon at the edge of the dunes — home to over 80 bird species including flamingos, herons and migratory birds. Serene, unique and truly unforgettable as a photoshoot backdrop.
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🚁 AerialSee the full scale of Maspalomas from the air — dunes, beach, lighthouse and ocean in one breathtaking aerial shot. Drone photography available as an add-on to any shoot in the area.
Ask about drone →Real shoots across
Maspalomas & surroundings
A selection of our favourite photoshoots in and around Maspalomas — every location, every light, every story.
Every type of shoot,
every moment in Maspalomas
Whether it's a romantic couple shoot, a surprise proposal or a family holiday memory — we capture it all in Maspalomas.
A romantic session for two across the most beautiful spots in Maspalomas — beach, dunes, lighthouse or promenade. Perfect for anniversaries, honeymoons and holiday memories.
Book this shoot →Planning to propose in Maspalomas? We'll help you plan the perfect location and capture every magical moment completely discreetly — from the nervous anticipation to the joyful "yes!"
Plan your proposal →Create beautiful holiday memories with your family in Maspalomas. We know all the best family-friendly spots — relaxed, fun and full of genuine moments you'll treasure forever.
Book this shoot →Maspalomas is one of the most spectacular wedding photography locations in Europe. From the dunes to the Meloneras promenade — we capture your wedding day in all its beauty.
Book wedding shoot →The warm golden light and serene landscapes of Maspalomas create a beautiful, ethereal atmosphere for maternity and newborn photography. Soft, timeless and deeply personal.
Book this shoot →Looking for stunning content for your Instagram or LinkedIn? Maspalomas provides the perfect backdrop — from the golden dunes to the chic Meloneras promenade.
Book this shoot →The most magical light
on Gran Canaria
Maspalomas at golden hour is something truly special. The warm Atlantic light, the golden sand and the endless horizon combine to create photos that look like they belong in a magazine. We know exactly when and where to capture it.
✦ Book your golden hour shootThe best things to do
in Maspalomas
Maspalomas has far more to offer than just sun and beach. With over 3 million visitors per year to the south of Gran Canaria, Maspalomas is one of the most visited resort areas in Europe — and for good reason. Here are the most popular activities and attractions, all within or just minutes from Maspalomas.
The Maspalomas Dunes are a UNESCO-protected natural reserve covering 404 hectares — the only desert dunes in Europe. Walking through the dunes, especially at sunrise or sunset, is one of the most extraordinary natural experiences the Canary Islands have to offer. The dunes reach up to 10 metres in height and are constantly shaped by the Atlantic trade winds.
Holiday World is Gran Canaria's largest amusement and entertainment park, located right in the heart of Maspalomas. With a 50-metre Ferris wheel (one of the largest in Spain), roller coasters, go-karts, mini golf, bowling, a casino and live shows — it's a complete evening out for families, couples and groups. Open until midnight in high season.
One of the most iconic Maspalomas experiences — a guided camel ride through the golden dunes. The Camel Safari park has been operating for over 30 years and offers rides of approximately 20–30 minutes through the heart of the dune reserve. A unique perspective on the landscape and hugely popular with families and couples alike.
Aqualand Maspalomas is one of the largest water parks in the Canary Islands, with over 30 attractions including high-speed slides, a wave pool, a lazy river and a dedicated children's area. It covers more than 50,000 m² and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. A full-day family experience in the Maspalomas sunshine.
Built in 1890, the Maspalomas Lighthouse stands 55 metres tall at the southernmost tip of Gran Canaria. It is one of the most photographed landmarks on the island and marks the dramatic meeting point of the dunes and the Atlantic Ocean. The surrounding area is perfect for a sunset walk and offers some of the most spectacular views on Gran Canaria.
Located just 10 minutes from Maspalomas in a lush subtropical valley, Los Palmitos Park is home to over 1,500 exotic birds, dolphins, butterflies and tropical plants across 200,000 m² of parkland. It is consistently rated as one of the top attractions in the south of Gran Canaria on TripAdvisor, with over 10,000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating.
La Charca de Maspalomas is a protected coastal lagoon and wetland at the edge of the dunes — one of the most important bird sanctuaries in the Canary Islands. Over 80 bird species have been recorded here, including flamingos, grey herons, kentish plovers and numerous migratory species. A peaceful, free attraction that most tourists overlook.
Guided buggy and jeep safaris departing from Maspalomas are consistently among the most booked activities on Gran Canaria. Tours explore the volcanic interior of the island — through mountain villages, ancient ravines and dramatic landscapes. The buggy tour is rated 4.8/5 on TripAdvisor with over 900 reviews and is one of the most popular excursions on the island.
The Meloneras resort area, directly adjacent to Maspalomas, is home to some of the most upscale hotels, restaurants and shopping in the south of Gran Canaria. The Boulevard El Faro shopping centre and the seafront pr
Everything you need to know
about Maspalomas
From the dunes to the lighthouse, from the best time to visit to where to park — all your questions about Maspalomas answered. Still have a question? Send us a message.
Maspalomas is located at the southernmost tip of Gran Canaria, in the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana. It sits between Playa del Inglés (northeast) and Meloneras (west). The area is part of the larger tourist resort zone that stretches along the south coast.
Maspalomas is approximately 55 km from Las Palmas via the GC-1 motorway — around 45–55 minutes by car depending on traffic. Bus line 30 (Global) runs frequently between Las Palmas and Maspalomas throughout the day and costs around €5–6 one way.
Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) is located approximately 25 km north of Maspalomas. Your options:
- Taxi: ~20–25 minutes, approximately €25–35
- Bus (Global line 66): Direct from the airport to Maspalomas, approximately 40 minutes, around €3
- Rental car: Available at the airport, recommended for exploring the island
- Transfer: Pre-booked private transfers available from around €20
Yes — there are several parking options in and around Maspalomas:
- Faro de Maspalomas: Large free car park next to the lighthouse and dunes — the most popular starting point
- Meloneras: Free street parking along Avenida de Mogán and side streets
- Playa de Maspalomas: Paid parking along the beach boulevard
- Holiday World: Large free car park on Avenida Touroperador Neckermann
The Maspalomas Dunes cover 404 hectares and are a UNESCO-protected Especial Natural Reserve. The dunes reach up to 10 metres in height and are constantly reshaped by the Atlantic trade winds. They are the only desert dunes in Europe and one of the most unique natural landscapes in the entire Canary Islands archipelago.
Yes — the dunes are free to enter and open to the public. There are marked paths through the reserve. The most popular route runs from the Faro de Maspalomas lighthouse to the beach at Playa del Inglés and takes approximately 45–60 minutes on foot. Walking barefoot in the warm sand is part of the experience.
Yes — the dunes are a Reserva Natural Especial (Special Nature Reserve), the highest level of nature protection in the Canary Islands. The reserve also includes La Charca lagoon and the surrounding coastal area. Certain activities are restricted within the reserve to protect the fragile ecosystem.
The dunes are most spectacular at golden hour — approximately 1–2 hours before sunset. The warm Atlantic light turns the sand a deep golden colour and the long shadows create a dramatic, almost otherworldly landscape. Sunrise is equally beautiful and far quieter.
- Sunrise: Peaceful, cool, magical light — perfect for photography
- Golden hour (sunset): Most popular, warmest light, stunning colours
- Midday: Harsh light and hot — not recommended in summer
Maspalomas enjoys one of the best climates in Europe — often called the "City of Eternal Spring". The average annual temperature is 22°C, with over 300 sunny days per year and very little rainfall. Even in winter, temperatures rarely drop below 18°C.
Maspalomas is a year-round destination — every season has its appeal:
- Spring (March–May): Warm, pleasant, beautiful soft light, fewer crowds — ideal
- Summer (June–August): Hot (28–32°C), busy, great for beach — book early
- Autumn (Sept–Nov): Still very warm, extraordinary golden light, quieter — our favourite
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Mild 20–22°C, popular with Northern Europeans — busy but never cold
Maspalomas is one of the driest places in Europe. Annual rainfall is extremely low — typically less than 100 mm per year, compared to over 800 mm in most of Northern Europe. Rain is most likely in December and January, but even then, showers are usually brief. The south of Gran Canaria is significantly drier than the north of the island.
Maspalomas offers far more than just beach and dunes. The most popular activities include:
- Walk the dunes at golden hour — free and unmissable
- Visit the Faro de Maspalomas lighthouse (built 1890, 55m tall)
- Camel safari through the dunes (~30 min, all ages)
- Holiday World — Gran Canaria's largest amusement park with a 50m Ferris wheel
- Aqualand Maspalomas — 50,000 m² water park, 30+ attractions
- Los Palmitos Park — 1,500+ exotic birds, 10 min from Maspalomas
- La Charca lagoon — free birdwatching, 80+ species including flamingos
- Buggy or jeep safari — rated 4.8/5 on TripAdvisor
- Meloneras promenade — dining, shopping and sunset strolling
- Professional photoshoot on the beach, dunes or lighthouse
Holiday World is Gran Canaria's largest amusement and entertainment complex, located on Avenida Touroperador Neckermann in Maspalomas. It features a 50-metre Ferris wheel (one of the largest in Spain), roller coasters, go-karts, mini golf, bowling, a casino, restaurants and live entertainment. Open until midnight in high season — perfect for families and couples looking for an evening out.
Yes — Maspalomas is one of the most family-friendly holiday destinations in Europe. The wide, shallow beach is safe for children, and the area has an exceptional range of family attractions: Holiday World, Aqualand, Los Palmitos Park, camel safaris and the dunes themselves. The reliable sunny weather, flat terrain and abundance of family restaurants make it ideal for all ages.
La Charca de Maspalomas is a protected coastal lagoon and wetland at the edge of the dunes — one of the most important bird sanctuaries in the Canary Islands. Over 80 bird species have been recorded here, including flamingos, grey herons, kentish plovers and numerous migratory species. It is free to visit and most beautiful in the early morning.
Maspalomas offers an extraordinary variety of backdrops within just a few kilometres: iconic golden dunes, a historic lighthouse, a wide golden beach, an elegant promenade and a tranquil lagoon. Combined with over 300 sunny days per year and warm Atlantic light, it is one of the most photogenic locations in Europe — and we're based right here.
- Maspalomas Dunes: The most iconic — golden sand, dramatic shadows, unique in Europe
- Faro de Maspalomas: Historic lighthouse where dunes meet ocean — timeless
- Playa de Maspalomas: Wide golden beach, perfect at sunset
- Meloneras Promenade: Elegant, upscale, beautiful at blue hour
- La Charca Lagoon: Serene, unique, flamingos in the background
The warm golden tones of Maspalomas pair beautifully with earth tones, whites and pastels. Our top tips:
- Best colours: White, cream, terracotta, rust, dusty rose, sage green, camel
- For the dunes & beach: Bare feet look stunning — bring easy-to-remove sandals
- For Meloneras: Slightly more dressed-up — flowing dress, linen suit
- Accessories: A flowing scarf creates beautiful movement in the sea breeze
You will receive your private online gallery within 24 hours of your photoshoot — fully edited and ready to download and share. All photos are professionally edited in our signature warm, natural style. The gallery is accessible via a private link and you can download all images in full resolution.
Maspalomas is internationally known for its iconic golden sand dunes — a 404-hectare UNESCO-protected reserve and the only desert dunes in Europe. Beyond the dunes, it is famous for its historic lighthouse (1890), the wide Playa de Maspalomas beach, the elegant Meloneras resort, Holiday World amusement park and over 300 sunny days per year. It attracts over 3 million visitors annually to the south of Gran Canaria.
No — they are two separate resort areas, though they border each other and are often visited together. Maspalomas is located at the southernmost tip of Gran Canaria, centred around the dunes and lighthouse. Playa del Inglés is directly to the northeast, with a more lively, commercial atmosphere. The two are connected by a long beach promenade — about a 20–25 minute walk.
Maspalomas offers options for all budgets. The dunes, lighthouse and La Charca lagoon are completely free. Restaurants range from budget tapas bars to upscale Meloneras dining. Accommodation varies from affordable apartments to 5-star hotels in Meloneras. Gran Canaria is generally considered good value compared to mainland Spain and other European beach destinations.
- Free: Dunes, lighthouse, La Charca, beach, promenade
- Budget: Camel safari from ~€15, bus from airport ~€3
- Mid-range: Aqualand ~€30, Los Palmitos ~€28, Holiday World from ~€10
- Luxury: 5-star hotels and fine dining in Meloneras
The official language is Spanish, but due to the large number of international tourists, English and German are widely spoken throughout Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés and Meloneras. Dutch, Scandinavian languages and French are also commonly heard. As a photographer, we work in Dutch, English, Spanish and German.
Yes — Maspalomas is considered a very safe destination for tourists. Gran Canaria consistently ranks as one of the safest holiday destinations in Europe. As with any tourist area, normal precautions apply — keep an eye on your belongings on the beach and in busy areas. The dunes are safe to walk during daylight hours; we recommend staying on marked paths after dark.
Ready for your photoshoot
in Maspalomas?
Still have a question we haven't answered? Send us a message — we reply within a few hours. Or book your shoot directly and we'll take care of everything.