The El Cochino beaches are less windy that Playa del Ingles and Maspalomas and sheltered from the waves. Great for families and people who find the dunes a bit too big and a bit too naked.

Excellent question! Finding a less windy beach in Gran Canaria is key to a relaxing holiday, as the island is known for its consistent trade winds, especially on the south and east coasts.

The general rule is: head to the southwest and west coasts for calmer conditions. The winds (the trade winds) come predominantly from the northeast, so the southern and western shores are in the “wind shadow” of the island’s mountainous interior.

Here are the best areas and specific beaches known for being more sheltered:

1. Puerto Rico & Playa de Amadores (The Top Choice)

This is the most famous and reliable calm area. Playa de Amadores: A beautiful, man-made beach with golden sand and crystal-clear, turquoise water. It’s enclosed by breakwaters, making it almost always calm, perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and families with children. Puerto Rico Beach: The main beach in the resort is also in a very sheltered bay. While it can get some wave action, it’s significantly less windy than beaches further east like Maspalomas.

2. Puerto de Mogán (The “Little Venice”)

Just west of Puerto Rico, this picturesque harbour town has a lovely beach protected by the marina and a breakwater. The water is typically very calm here, ideal for paddleboarding and swimming. The charming canals and village make it a delightful spot.

3. Taurito Beach

A smaller, secluded beach nestled in a steep valley between cliffs. Its unique geography provides excellent natural shelter from the wind. It’s a pebbly/sandy beach with very calm waters, often used for water sports like