Beach · La Aldea de San Nicolás
Playa de Güigüí
Playa de Güigüí is one of the most remote and wildest beaches on Gran Canaria. The beach is located on the west coast, framed by high rock walls, and can only be reached on foot or by boat. If you make the long journey, you'll be rewarded with tranquility, dark sand, and a nature experience.
A Beach at the End of the World
Playa de Güigüí belongs to the municipality of La Aldea de San Nicolás in the west of the island. The beach lies in a remote bay framed on three sides by steep cliffs. There are no roads, no bars, and no sun loungers. The beach consists of dark volcanic sand and remains so pristine mainly because it's only accessible via a challenging hiking trail or by sea. That's exactly what makes it special: it's quiet here, and the Atlantic is close and wild.
Actually, there are two beaches: the smaller Güigüí Grande and the significantly longer Güigüí Chico, which at around 850 meters is more than twice as long.
The Hike from Tasartico
The usual access is the well-signposted hiking trail S-79 from the village of Tasartico.
- Length: Depending on the source, about 9 to 11 kilometers round trip.
- Elevation gain: Around 900 to 1,000 meters of ascent and descent.
- Duration: About 4 to 5 hours for the round trip, plus time at the beach. Outward journey about 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Route: First, the trail climbs through a gorge up to the Degollada de Aguasabina at about 550 meters elevation. From there, it descends steeply to the beach. You return the same way, so the ascent comes at the end.
- Difficulty: Difficult. The trail is well marked, but long, steep, and sunny. Sure-footedness and good fitness are definitely required for this tour!
- Sun and wind: Hardly any shade, plan for sun protection (!), a hat, and a windbreaker
- Shoes: Sturdy hiking boots, not beach footwear.
- Check the weather: Don't set off in heat, calima, or severe weather warnings. Check the forecast for both coast and elevation.
And this tip is serious: if you decide to do the hike, choose a day with moderate temperatures. - Mobile reception: In many gorges and at the beach, there's no reception. The emergency number is 112.
- Start early: Begin in the morning so you're back in daylight. The return journey with the ascent is more strenuous than it seems.
- Rules: Wild camping and open fires are prohibited, including on the beach. Take your rubbish with you.
The easier and more relaxed way: By boat
If you want to avoid the long hike, you can also reach Playa de Güigüí from the sea. Several operators travel along the west coast and drop guests off at the beach for a few hours. Getting there by boat is significantly less strenuous than the walk, and the journey along the cliff coast is an experience in itself. Still, allow a whole morning or afternoon.
Playa de Güigüí is not for spontaneous trips or beginners. If you're fit and well-equipped, you'll experience one of the island's most beautiful natural destinations. Combine the hike with a visit to La Aldea de San Nicolás and Mirador del Balcón.
Lage
In der Nähe
Aussichtspunkt
Mirador del Balcón
Ein magischer Ort am Rande Gran Canarias! Vom Mirador del Balcón genießt du einen spektakulären Blick auf die steil abfallende Küste und den endlosen Atlantik. Bei guter Sicht zeigt sich am Horizont sogar der imposante Teide auf Teneriffa. Ein Moment zwischen Himmel und Meer, den du so schnell nicht vergessen wirst
Natur
Los Azulejos - Regenbogenfelsen
Mitten in der kargen Vulkanlandschaft im Südwesten von Gran Canaria leuchten die spektakulären Felswände von Los Azulejos de Veneguera in intensiven Grün-, Blau- und Rottönen. Das geologische Naturwunder erinnert an bunte Fliesenmosaike und lässt sich am besten direkt von einem Aussichtspunkt an der kurvenreichen Panoramastraße GC-200 bestaunen.
Common questions
How do I get to Playa de Güigüí?
Playa de Güigüí can only be reached on foot via a challenging hiking trail from Tasartico or by boat. The hiking trail S-79 is approximately 9 to 11 kilometers long and involves around 900 to 1,000 meters of elevation gain. Alternatively, you can reach it by boat.
How long does the hike to Playa de Güigüí take?
The hike to Playa de Güigüí takes about 4 to 5 hours for the round trip, plus time at the beach. The way there alone takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
Can you swim at Playa de Güigüí?
You can swim at Playa de Güigüí, but with caution, as the beach is on the open Atlantic coast and you need to expect waves and currents. There are no lifeguards, so you should only go into the water in calm conditions and stay close to shore.
What should I bring for the hike to Playa de Güigüí?
For the hike to Playa de Güigüí, you should bring significantly more water than you think you'll need, provisions like energy bars, sun protection, a hat, a windbreaker, and sturdy hiking boots. Good fitness and sure-footedness are also necessary, as the trail is long, steep, and sunny.
Is there an alternative to hiking to Playa de Güigüí?
Yes, Playa de Güigüí can also be reached by boat, which is significantly less strenuous than walking. Several operators travel along the west coast and drop guests off at the beach for a few hours.