The Maspalomas Dunes viewpoint boasts views of truly otherworldly scenery. This privileged spot offers visitors the chance to discover some of the Canary Islands’ most emblematic scenery.
What can I see from the Maspalomas Dunes Viewpoint?
The sweeping views from the Maspalomas Dunes viewpoint take in the desert and dunes that give it its name. Visitors are sure to fall in love with these impressive views. From here you’ll be able to admire the huge sand dunes, some reaching over 25 metres in height. All with the shimmering blue of the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop. Once you arrive at the viewpoint, you’ll be able to explore a range of perspectives and experiences thanks to the many different platforms and zones that make up the Gran Canaria Dunes viewpoint.
Maspalomas Dunes viewpoint: the sunrise of your dreams
The most spectacular moment to contemplate the dunes from the viewpoint is at dawn. At this time of day, the dunes are immaculate, not a single footprint in sight. The only marks you’ll see are the patterns left on their surface by the wind. You’ll witness how the initial shadows swiftly disappear, leaving nothing more than sinuous outlines perfectly highlighted in the pure dawn light.
After sunrise, the full extent of the desert-like landscape is revealed, bordered by regional vegetation and the ocean. The dunes’ various forms have two very different sides. On the one hand, the windward side is gently sloping, while the leeward side is the steeper, more vertical side of the dunes. What’s more, on certain occasions, you will see that the dunes take on a special shape: that of a crescent moon, i.e. with ‘horns’ pointing in the direction of the wind.
This makes the Maspalomas Dunes viewpoint the ideal place to enjoy the first rays of the day.
Experience Gran Canaria’s most stunning sunset
As with sunrise, another of the most beautiful moments to visit the dunes is at sunset, arguably the most sublime spot to experience this moment on the island. Pay a visit to the Maspalomas Dunes viewpoint and take in the magic of this unique setting at dusk.
The intensity of the colours as the sun sinks below the horizon is sure to make an impression. Observe how the dunes gradually lose their golden hue as the dusk shadows dominate the desert landscape.
Flora and fauna
The Maspalomas Dunes Viewpoint also offers visitors the opportunity to observe various species of animals. In particular, birds such as Berthelot’s pipits, Iberian grey shrikes, hoopoes, Kentish plovers, dunlins, little egrets and black-winged stilts.
There are also many plant species that can be observed: Ruppia maritima, date palms, Peruvian ground cherries, houseleeks and Canary tamarisks, among others.
How do I get to the Maspalomas Dunes Viewpoint?
If you’re wondering how to get to the Maspalomas Dunes viewpoint, there are various options. Even so, we recommend parking on Avenida Tirajana. Once you’ve parked, all you’ll have to do is cross the lobby of Hotel Riu Palace Maspalomas and you’ll have arrived! All that’s left to do is relax and enjoy the views at this fantastic location.
It may feel as if you’re entering the hotel without permission. But don’t worry, your visit is very much welcome. In fact, the foyer has been adapted to provide access to the observation platforms. What’s more, the Dunes Interpretation Centre is located within the hotel. Pay a visit to the Centre to learn more and complete your trip to the dunes.
Another option is to walk through the dunes. A section of this Special Nature Reserve is protected. As long as you follow the indications on the signs provided, it’s possible to explore the sand dunes of this impressive landscape on foot. We recommend you wear closed-toed shoes to explore the dunes, as the sand can get very hot. Sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water are also essential.
Viewpoint history and fun facts
The refurbishment work on the Dunes viewpoint was completed in 2015. The Maspalomas Gran Canaria Committee was the body in charge of the restoration work.
This institution proposed the rehabilitation and adaptation of this key attraction. This location is of particular importance as it is the final junction linking El Inglés Beach and Maspalomas. It was therefore conceived as an accessible, continuous space and a must-see for visitors to contemplate the dunes’ unique landscape.
It’s possible to observe how the space has been designed using a series of lines inspired by the context of the dunes. Specifically, the zone’s topography and the influence of the wind and sun. This combination of factors gave rise to the site’s unique geometrical layout.
The Dunes, a Special Nature Reserve since 1994
This spectacular desert landscape is defined as a Protected Natural Space, forming part of the category Special Nature Reserve since 1994. This unique space belongs to the San Bartolomé de Tirajana municipal area, standing out for both its beauty and the diversity of the ecosystems to which it is home.
The area encompassing the dunes is unique on the island. Various different ecosystems coexist within its borders. These zones are differentiated primarily by the sands’ movement and the flora present.
An interesting fact is that these mobile dunes form a natural border between the El Inglés beach, where they are generated, and the Charca de Maspalomas lagoon. Their defining characteristic? The presence of large accumulations of sand in constant movement due to the action of the wind.
Come to see the Maspalomas Dunes Viewpoint
Without a doubt, the Maspalomas Dunes viewpoint is a site of great importance in the south of Gran Canaria. Its unique setting exudes grandeur and magic. What are you waiting for? You can choose from two different bungalows: Modern Bungalow Dragón Club II or Stunning Bungalow Dragón Club II. We also offer a charming villa.
