Best Public Barbecue Spots in Gran Canaria: A Quick Guide to Recreational Areas with Parrillas
Gran Canaria isn’t just sun and sea. It’s also a surprisingly great island for nature-lovers who enjoy grilling their lunch surrounded by pine trees. Scattered across the island are well-maintained public barbecue zones (áreas recreativas) where you can bring your own supplies, fire up a parrilla, and spend the day breathing in fresh mountain air.
Here’s a quick rundown of the main spots. Just don’t forget your charcoal, tongs, and maybe a few extra servilletas.
🔥 Llanos de la Pez (Tejeda)
One of the island’s most iconic recreational areas, Llanos de la Pez is nestled high in the Nublo Rural Park, surrounded by towering pine forests. At over 1,600 meters altitude, it’s refreshingly cool in summer and occasionally even snowy in winter. Expect plenty of shade, picnic tables, and built-in barbecues. Popular with hikers and families alike.
🌲 Ana López (Vega de San Mateo)
Perched on the central ridge of the island, this peaceful barbecue area is part of the Protected Landscape of the Cumbres. Ana López is smaller and quieter than others, making it perfect for a mellow weekend cookout far from the crowds.
🌴 Ermita de Santiago (San Bartolomé de Tirajana)
The southernmost barbecue spot managed by the island’s environment office, this one is ideal for anyone based around Maspalomas or Fataga. While you’ll still find pine trees and mountain air, it’s drier and sunnier—classic south Gran Canaria.
💧 Presa de las Niñas (Tejeda)
Another Tejeda gem, this area is built beside the stunning Cuevas de las Niñas reservoir. With a mix of water views and forest shade, it’s one of the most scenic spots to spend a day grilling and chilling. You might even spot a few campers nearby.
🐓 El Galeón (Santa Brígida)
Up in the upper Guiniguada ravine, El Galeón blends rural vibes with easy access. It’s part of a working agropecuary estate, so expect a more “finca-style” atmosphere. Rustic and relaxing.
🌄 San José del Álamo (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria)
If you’re based in the capital and don’t want to drive too far, this is your spot. Just 400 meters above sea level and inside the Pino Santo protected area, it’s a handy green escape that still feels like you’re “out of the city.” Bring your marinated goodies and pretend you’re deep in the countryside.
🌿 Osorio (Teror)
Set inside the Doramas Rural Park, Osorio is a favourite for its lush greenery and proximity to the charming town of Teror. Great for combining a barbecue with a cheese stop or a stroll through colonial streets.
🌳 Santa Cristina (Santa María de Guía)
Within the El Brezal Natural Reserve, this area is rich in biodiversity and perfect for nature fans who like their grilling with a side of birdwatching. Shady, peaceful, and full of tall trees.
🧀 Monte Pavón (Santa María de Guía)
A local favourite for weekend picnics, this one comes with stone tables, barbecues, and serious countryside vibes. If you’re lucky, the fog will roll in just enough to make you feel like you’re barbecuing inside a fairytale. Bonus points if you bring some Flor de Guía cheese to melt on top of your panini.
🌲 Tamadaba (Artenara)
Way up in the Tamadaba Natural Park, this barbecue area is remote, dramatic, and beautifully pine-scented. A top pick for the more adventurous day-tripper looking to combine a hike with a hot lunch.
🔍 Check Before You Go
Before you load up the cooler and head for the hills, it’s worth checking whether your chosen area is actually open. Some spots may close temporarily for maintenance, weather alerts, or fire prevention. Luckily, the Cabildo de Gran Canaria has a live map showing which recreational areas are currently open or closed. You can find it here: https://cabildo.grancanaria.com/acampadas-areas-recreativas-albergues-aulas-naturaleza/-/categories/645802
⚠️ Fire Risk and Cleanup
During the dry summer months, especially when temperatures soar, barbecue areas can be temporarily closed due to fire risk. Always check the official Cabildo de Gran Canaria website before heading out. Even when open, make sure you use only the designated grills—no DIY campfires or rogue flames. And please, clean up after yourself! Take your rubbish home, douse any embers completely, and leave the area exactly as you found it (or cleaner, if you’re feeling heroic). These green corners only stay beautiful if we all do our bit.
