Puerto de las Nieves is an authentic Spanish coastal village, with clear waters, pebble beaches, and natural saltwater pools. There is very little tourism here because this town is far from most of the island’s tourist attractions. However for those who enjoy authenticity and relaxation it is a great place. The fresh fish and tapa restaurants here are excellent. Evenings and nightlife it is very quiet here.
Beaches
Playa de las Nieves is not your typical beach. It is all rocks and pebbles with a bit of sand mixed in. This might not sound very attractive, but it ensures the water is extremely clear here, which is great for snorkelling. Do watch out, as a large part of this beach is closed due to falling rocks.
If you want a more tourist-friendly beach, Playa de Puerto de Agaete beach is an excellent choice. Here you have the same rocky, pebble beach, but they have built wooden platforms for more relaxed sunbathing. Also, this area is protected from the sea by the marina’s breakwaters, so the waves are smaller here.
For a truly unique swimming experience, you can also go to the Agaete Piscina Natural. A natural saltwater pool, just outside of town.
Where to stay in Puerto de las Nieves
- Private holiday lettings: Most of the accommodation here is private holiday lettings, but at a lower price than much of the rest of the island.
- Occidental Roca Negra: If you do want a hotel with a pool, then this hotel is ideal for an adults-only holiday close to the natural saltwater pools in this area.
- Puerto de las Nieves: This is a good, small boutique-style hotel if you want to be closer to the beach.
Things to do in Puerto de las Nieves
Puerto de las Nieves is far from the islands’ attractions and is pretty relaxed and quiet. There are a few hiking trails, but that is about it. For the best experience, it is a good idea to hire a car for your holiday, also as it will get you here easily from the airport.
With a hire car you can:
- Visit mountain villages.
- Try authentic tapas and restaurants in nearby villages.
- Drive up to the start of many hiking trails.
- Visit nearby beaches
- Even drive across the mountain or take the express road to the more touristy areas in Gran Canaria for a day.
This list is of things to do in or near Puerto de las Nieves. But there is much more to see and do on the island. You can find a full list of the top things to do and not do in Gran Canaria here.
Restaurants
The restaurants here are excellent at fresh fish, seafood, tapas and typical Canarian specialities. This is because they have mostly local customers rather than many tourists. However, from my experience, the restaurants are very welcoming to tourists.
Nightlife
Nightlife in this area is nonexistent. There are a few restaurants next to the beach where you can have tapas and a few drinks in the evenings, but that is about it. Local Spanish people can be found walking around, chilling on benches and on the open squares. So all in all, a friendly, relaxed, tranquil vibe.
Gran Canaria airport to Puerto de las Nieves
- Public transport: Yes, it is possible, but not advisable, as you will have to transfer onto a 2nd bus in Las Palmas
- Shuttle bus online: This service is not available to Puerto de las Nieves from the airport in Gran Canaria.
- Taxi (97.42 €) or minibus (127.86 €) online: A good option if you are travelling with a lot of luggage or need child safety seats. If you are more than 4 people, then book a minibus.
- Taxi at the airport (82.00 €): A good taxi option if you are arriving during the day and on weekdays. Nighttime and Sundays are more expensive. Maximum 4 people.
Here, you can find the timetables and prices for public transportation in Gran Canaria and easily book a minibus or taxi.
When to go
Puerto de las Nieves does not really have such a big difference between high and low season as many of the more touristy holiday destinations on the island. It mostly gets busy on weekends and in the summer months, especially August, when many Canarian families come here for holidays.
Prices here are much lower at any time of year than in many of the big holiday destinations in the south of the island, except for a bit higher prices in August.
Is Puerto de las Nieves the best holiday destination for you?
If you are a couple looking for a small, authentically Spanish coastal village to relax, Puerto de las Nieves is ideal. Especially if you enjoy the more unique beaches and swimming opportunities in this area.
If you are travelling as a family with older children or teenagers, you might want to avoid this area, as there is very little for them to do. Also, there is no lively nightlife, attractions, or parks nearby.
If you’re not sure if Puerto de las Nieves is the best holiday destination for you in Gran Canaria, have a look at where to stay in Gran Canaria.
