Mirador del Sendero Azúl

Mirador del Sendero Azúl is a small lookout point on the coast of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, tucked away at the northern edge of the city where the cliffs drop toward the Atlantic. There's no visitor infrastructure here — just a simple bench facing the ocean, set against a volcanic backdrop, that has become increasingly popular thanks to photos and videos shared on social media.

Where exactly is it?

The viewpoint sits in the El Rincón area, right where Las Canteras beach gives way to a rocky stretch of coastline leading toward Confital Bay. It stands next to "El Atlante," a sculpture by artist Tony Gallardo — a lava-stone figure nearly nine metres tall, recognised as a Cultural Heritage asset (Bien de Interés Cultural). That sculpture is the easiest landmark to look for when you're trying to find the mirador.

How do you get there?

The simplest way is to walk or jog the Sendero Azul (Blue Trail), a coastal path connecting the area around the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium (or the Guanarteme neighbourhood) with El Rincón and onward to Peña La Gaviota. The route runs parallel to the shoreline, covers roughly 5 km (about 7 km round trip if you continue to Confital Bay), and has only gentle elevation changes — the whole walk usually takes 1 to 1.5 hours at an easy pace. It's a well-used path among local runners and residents out for an evening stroll, so signage and surface conditions are reliable.

What will you see along the way?

Information panels are placed along the route, explaining the geology, biology and history of the Las Canteras and Confital coastline — one of the few stretches on Gran Canaria where the seaside landscape is explained to visitors in this much detail. The mirador itself is an intimate spot: open views across the Atlantic, the sound of waves breaking below, and a steady ocean breeze. It doesn't draw the crowds you'd find on the city's main beaches — it's more of a quiet pause along the trail than a standalone attraction with facilities or parking.

When is the best time to visit?

Late afternoon or sunset is the most rewarding time, when the light hits the cliffs and ocean at its best and temperatures are comfortable for walking. Mornings work well too, before the day heats up and while the trail is quieter. It's worth avoiding the midday hours in summer, since the exposed path can get quite intense under direct sun.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entry fee for the viewpoint? No, it's a public lookout point, free to access year-round with no set opening hours.

Is the trail suitable for children or less active visitors? Yes, the Sendero Azul has a gentle profile and a paved surface, making it a good option for families with children or anyone looking for an easy walk without steep climbs.

Are there restrooms or food options near the mirador? Not right at the spot itself — the nearest facilities and dining options are around Las Canteras beach or in the Guanarteme neighbourhood, a short walk away.

What is the El Atlante sculpture next to the mirador? It's a work by Canarian artist Tony Gallardo, made from lava stones and standing almost nine metres tall, recognised for its cultural value — it serves as the natural landmark marking the start of the trail.