Maspalomas can be explored through its cultural and natural features: Faro de Maspalomas, the Punta Mujeres archaeological site and a protected area of dunes, lagoon and palm grove. There are also walks by the sea and a range of water sports. When planning, you can choose between cultural heritage, protected nature and activities on the water.

Faro de Maspalomas and Punta Mujeres

Faro de Maspalomas gave its first light signal on 1 February 1890. Its tower is 54.70 metres high. On 12 April 2005, the lighthouse was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural (Asset of Cultural Interest). The first light signal and the later heritage designation mark different milestones in the history of the structure.

The Punta Mujeres archaeological site lies about 150 metres west of Faro de Maspalomas, towards Playa de las Meloneras. Archaeological work carried out there in 2000 and 2001 uncovered the remains of six domestic structures. Punta Mujeres is an example of the coastal settlements found along large stretches of Gran Canaria’s coastline. While the Faro can be viewed as a standalone structure, Punta Mujeres draws attention to domestic structures and settlement patterns along the coast.

Dunes, lagoon and palm grove

The Reserva Natural Especial de las Dunas de Maspalomas covers 403.9 hectares within the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana. The protected area includes the dune system, the brackish-water lagoon ecosystem of Charca de Maspalomas and the palm grove. The area therefore encompasses more than just the dunes: the lagoon and palm grove are also part of it.

When fully formed, the dunes can reach a height of 15 to 25 metres and a width of around 200 metres. The movement of the sand also shapes the landscape: trade winds drive it inland from the coast at Playa del Inglés at a rate of 2 to 5 metres per year. The measurements refer to the dunes when fully formed, while the annual figure describes the movement of the sand. Together, they give an impression of the landscape’s shape and change.

Park and trails in the protected area

Parque Tony Gallardo lies within the boundaries of the reserve. It is the work of Canarian sculptor and fine arts professor Tony Gallardo. Numerous invertebrates and bird species also find shelter in the park. This place therefore brings together a cultural association and an ecological role.

There are marked trails in the Reserva. Visitors exploring the protected area must stay on them and not leave them. Plan your visit around the marked trails.

Seaside walks and water sports

Playa de Maspalomas is known for its dunes and iconic lighthouse. You can walk along the sea there. Water sports available or practised in Maspalomas include windsurfing, sailing, diving and water skiing.

For planning your trip, you can distinguish between a walk by the sea, water sports and a visit to the protected landscape. This comparison can help you prioritise your interests without prescribing a fixed order for visiting the places.

Getting to the Faro

To travel from the capital to the Faro, take the GC-1 south. After 56 kilometres, take exit 46 onto Avenida Touroperador Tui. From there, continue for about 5 kilometres along Avenida Touroperador Tui and Avenida Cristóbal Colón to Plaza del Faro de Maspalomas. The directions cover two sections: the journey to the exit and the onward drive to the plaza. Before setting off, check locally for any road changes that might affect the route.

Discover more destinations: El Tablero, Playa Del Águila, Los Cercados, Pasito Blanco, Fátaga, Montaña La Data, San Agustin, Castillo Del Romenral

For the broader travel overview: San Bartolomé De Tirajana.