Renting a Kayak in Gran Canaria: The Best Spots, Prices and How It Really Works

If you’ve ever stood on a beach in Gran Canaria thinking “I wish I could just hop into the ocean right now”, kayaking is your answer. Easy, affordable, no experience needed, and you’ll get the kind of ocean views that make you wonder why you didn’t try this earlier.

Here’s your friendly, locally flavoured guide to renting a kayak on the island, based on community recommendations and what’s actually open and working right now.

🛶 Playa Chica, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: The Easiest Spot to Try Kayaking

Best for: Total beginners, spontaneous fun, staying in the city
Provider: Salitre Sport
Location: Playa Chica, Las Canteras, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

If you’re looking for the most fuss-free option, Salitre Sport is your friend. As Timo shared, they rent two-person kayaks right on Playa Chica during low tide, when the natural rock formations create a calm pool that’s ideal for first-timers.

No pre-booking needed. You literally walk up, pay, pop on a life jacket and off you go. Since it’s right on Las Canteras, you can finish with a smoothie or a cold drink nearby. Just check tide times before heading out because they only operate when conditions are safe.

Website: https://www.salitresport.com/

🌊 El Pajar, Arguineguín: Calm Waters for a Relaxed Paddle

Best for: South-island sunshine, smooth water, day trips
Provider: Kayak El Pajar

Andy wasn’t wrong recommending this one. Kayak El Pajar, near Arguineguín, is a fantastic spot for calmer conditions thanks to the sheltered bay. Perfect if you’re staying in the south or want a break from the city breeze of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

They rent single and double kayaks, and you can paddle out along the cliffs toward Arguineguín or simply stay close to shore and enjoy the view of the colourful village and local fishermen heading out to work.

Website: https://kayakelpajar.com/

🏖️ Playa de Mogán: Kayaking With Holiday Vibes

Best for: Postcard scenery, families, clear water

Playa de Mogán, with its bright blue water and pretty harbour, also offers kayak rentals from the small beachside stands. If you want smooth water, colourful fish beneath you, and a very easy launch area, this is the place. It’s casual: walk up, rent, go.

No advance booking usually needed, but in peak season (Christmas, Semana Santa, August), arrive early.

🌅 Taurito & Amadores: Resort Beaches With Kayaks on Demand

Best for: Visitors in the south, predictable weather, super-stable conditions

Both Taurito and Amadores usually have beach kiosks renting kayaks, often for 30 minutes or 1 hour, and sometimes including transparent-bottom kayaks. The launch is simple and the water is famously calm, thanks to breakwaters.

It’s not a wild adventure, but it’s relaxing, sunny, and perfect for a low-effort ocean outing.

🧭 Practical Tips Before You Paddle

• Check tides if heading to Playa Chica. Low tide only.
• Wear sunscreen, especially in the south. You will cook.
• Bring water and a dry bag for your phone.
• Ask for a life jacket. Most places give one by default.
• Start early in popular beaches like Mogán or Amadores.

🏁 Final Paddle

Kayaking in Gran Canaria is one of the easiest, most affordable ways to get out on the water without needing lessons or fancy gear. Whether you pick the city convenience of Playa Chica or the postcard-perfect bays of Mogán and El Pajar, you’ll get sunshine, clear water, and an excuse to grab an ice cream afterwards.

If you try any new kayak spots not mentioned here, drop a message on Slack so we can keep this article freshly updated for everyone.