La Cícer (Playa de Las Canteras)

Imagine an endless stretch of golden sand where powerful Atlantic waves meet the city bustle—this is La Cicer. Located at the southern end of the famous Las Canteras beach in Las Palmas, this location is considered a mecca for water sports enthusiasts. Unlike the rest of the beach, which is protected by a reef, the ocean here shows its true strength, making Spain one of the best surfing destinations in Europe.

La Cícer (Las Canteras Beach). Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The main feature of this place is its unique landscape. The beach is divided by a natural barrier called La Barra—a long reef rock. While calm lagoons ideal for family swimming form behind the reef, the La Cicer zone remains open to the waves. This creates a unique contrast: professional surfers and calm snorkeling enthusiasts can be found just a few hundred meters from each other.

The area got its name from an old power plant that once stood right on the shore. Today, it is a modern space where the industrial past is harmoniously interwoven with a beach atmosphere, cozy cafes, and surf schools, attracting thousands of tourists with its energy and sense of freedom.

To plan your visit to the southern part of Las Canteras Beach, it is helpful to know the exact address. While there are no official contact numbers or email addresses specifically for the beach area, you can always reach out to the city's tourist information centers.

The main draw of La Cicer is, without a doubt, surfing. Thanks to its exposure to the ocean, excellent waves form here that are suitable for both experienced athletes and beginners. Numerous surf schools line the shore, where you can rent equipment or hire an instructor to catch your first wave in one of the Atlantic's most iconic spots.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, a \"natural aquarium\" reveals itself near the La Barra reef during low tide. This is the perfect time for snorkeling and diving: the clear water allows you to observe the rich marine life of the Canary Islands right off the coast. If you are traveling with family, the beach's protected lagoons provide safe and comfortable swimming.

It is equally pleasant to simply stroll along the Paseo de Las Canteras promenade, which stretches for more than 3 kilometers. Here, you can encounter street performers, duck into authentic restaurants serving traditional Canarian cuisine, or simply sit on a terrace with a sunset view, watching the white yachts bob on the waves in the Los Muellitos harbor.

Getting to the La Cicer area in Las Palmas is very easy thanks to its convenient location. If you are staying near the cruise terminal or Santa Catalina Park, the walk will take no more than 10–15 minutes. You can follow the scenic promenade, enjoying the sea breeze and ocean views.

For those who prefer public transport, the city buses (known locally as guaguas) are an excellent option. Lines 1, 2, 12, 21, and 30 all make stops in the immediate vicinity of Las Canteras beach. If you are coming from Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), it is most convenient to take bus No. 60 or a taxi—the trip will take about 20–30 minutes.

If you are traveling by rental car, keep in mind that parking along the promenade fills up quickly during the high season. It is recommended to use paid underground parking lots in the nearby blocks to avoid wasting time looking for a spot on the narrow streets.

The history of this coastline dates back to the 15th century when it was known as Playa del Arrecife. In those days, the La Barra reef served as a natural barrier, and getting from the port to the city often required a boat. Later, in the 19th century, Spain began to actively use the area's natural resources: sandstone (cantera) was quarried from the reef to build iconic buildings, including the city cathedral, which gave the beach its current name—Las Canteras.

The La Cicer section earned its modern name from the C.I.C.E.R. (Compañía Insular de Colonial Electricidad y Riesgos) power plant, built here in 1928. This massive building served as a symbol of the neighborhood for many years. Although the station ceased operations in the 1960s, the name remained firmly attached to this part of the coast in the memory of local residents.

In the 1990s, the area underwent a major renovation. Old industrial buildings gave way to the modern Paseo de Las Canteras promenade, which has become a favorite spot for walking. Today, you can still find historical buildings from the early 20th century, such as the San José Clinic or the Naval Command, which serve as reminders of this coastal neighborhood's rich past.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of La Cicer, most travelers need between 2 to 4 hours. If you plan to take a surfing lesson or simply swim in the lagoons, set aside at least two hours for water activities.

Additional time should be allocated for a leisurely stroll along the Paseo de Las Canteras promenade and lunch at one of the local restaurants. This spot is perfect for spending half a day, combining active sports with relaxed downtime to the sound of the Atlantic surf.

La Cicer Beach is a public space and is open to visitors 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can come here at dawn to catch the best waves or late in the evening to enjoy the city's night lights.

However, if you plan to rent surfing gear or visit the seaside cafes, it is recommended to check their specific operating hours individually or visit the official websites of particular establishments, as they typically close by the evening.

After relaxing on the ocean shore, it is worth spending some time exploring the surroundings, as Las Palmas is full of amazing places. A walk through the adjacent neighborhoods will allow you to better feel the Canarian flavor and see the city from different perspectives.