Playa del Inglés

This sprawling strip of biscuit-coloured sand is on Gran Canaria’s southernmost tip, and it’s undoubtedly one of Europe’s best-known beaches.

The golden sand stretches for a little under three kilometres, and the rolling dunes dotted along the beach make it one of the more unique stretches of shoreline you’re likely to come across.

On the facilities front, there’s a good mix of big name chain restaurants and independent beach bars dotted along the promenade, and there’s lots of lively nightlife too, which draws in young crowds.

That said, the sheer size of the beach and the number of amenities attracts plenty of families too, but once they’ve packed up for the day, the atmosphere livens up even more as the bars and nightclubs begin to fill up.

Back to the beach, and as you’d expect from such a popular hotspot there are sunbeds and parasols available to hire, along with a thriving watersports scene, with kayaks, jet-skis and a whole host of other activities on the agenda.

If you’re after a laidback beach for some peace and quiet, then this isn’t the one, but if you don’t mind the hustle and bustle, plus an action-packed activity list, then grab your beach towels and make a beeline for this place.