Punta de Melenara Lighthouse

Punta de Melenara Lighthouse is a working maritime lighthouse standing on the eastern coast of Gran Canaria, within the municipality of Telde. It's also commonly called Faro de Taliarte, after the nearby coastal settlement of Taliarte that it borders. Built in the 20th century, the lighthouse remains active today, guiding ships safely along this stretch of coastline.

Where exactly is the lighthouse located?

Punta de Melenara Lighthouse sits on a small headland on Gran Canaria's east coast, in Telde — the island's second-largest city, a short drive south of the capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The lighthouse marks the point where land meets ocean, right next to Melenara beach and the small harbour settlement of Taliarte, which gives the lighthouse its alternative name. This stretch of coast is quieter and less touristy than the resort areas in the south, so the surroundings still feel like an authentic fishing-and-beach corner of the island.

How do you get there?

Driving is the easiest option: the coastal road on Gran Canaria's east side connects Las Palmas de Gran Canaria with Telde and continues on to Taliarte and Melenara, from where the lighthouse is clearly visible along the shoreline. Without a car, local buses run between Las Palmas and Telde, and from there it's a short taxi ride or walk down to the coast. It's worth building the visit into a longer walk along the seafront promenade, which links several coastal spots in this part of the island.

What will you see when you visit?

Punta de Melenara Lighthouse is a working navigational aid, not a visitor attraction with an interior open to the public, so plan to admire it from the outside. The tower itself rises above the shoreline and acts as a clear landmark, visible both from land and from boats out at sea. Around it stretches an open view of the Atlantic, with the sandy Melenara beach close by and the small Taliarte harbour, where local fishing boats moor. It's a good spot for an unhurried walk, watching the ocean, and photographing the coastline away from the busier tourist crowds.

When is the best time to visit?

The east coast of Gran Canaria enjoys mild weather year-round, so the lighthouse can be visited at any time of year. Early morning and late afternoon light works best for photos, softening the glare off the water and making a coastal walk more comfortable. If you plan to combine the visit with time on Melenara beach, aim for calmer days, since this side of the island can pick up noticeable wind outside the quieter months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you go inside the lighthouse? No — Punta de Melenara Lighthouse is an active navigational lighthouse, so it's viewed from the outside rather than opened to visitors.

Why is it also called Faro de Taliarte? It sits right next to the coastal settlement of Taliarte, part of the municipality of Telde, which is where the alternative name comes from.

Is the area around the lighthouse good for a relaxed visit? Yes — Melenara beach and Taliarte harbour offer a calmer, more local alternative to the busier resorts on Gran Canaria's south coast.

Can this be combined with other things to see in Telde? Telde is the island's second-largest city with its own historic centre, so a stop at the lighthouse fits naturally into a broader day exploring the east coast.