If your ideal vacation involves relaxing on a beach blanket or a cushy lounge chair with a cool drink, warm sand and blue waves, you'll want to learn more about the beautiful beaches in Spain's well-loved Canary Islands.

Geography
The Canary Islands are made up of seven main islands and several smaller ones.

Best Beaches
The island Fuerteventura is known for having some of the best beaches in the Canary Islands. Sotavento is one of the largest and is popular with windsurfers and kite flyers.

Bars and Nightlife
Tenerife is known more for the many bars and restaurants lining its beaches than for the beaches themselves.

Family Beaches
Famara Beach and the resort at Playa del Carmen, both located on the island of Lanzarote, are popular family-friendly beaches, as is the Puerto Rico resort on Gran Canaria.

Nude Beaches
Topless sunbathing is common in the Canary Islands and there are several nude beaches. Two popular choices are Playa de los Patos and Playa de la Tejita on Tenerife.

Secluded Beaches
Those who dislike crowds and prefer quiet beaches will be happy to learn there are many secluded natural beauties on the Canary Islands. Two to try are Plaza Chica in Puerto del Carmen on Lanzarote and Playa de la Cueva on the tiny island of La Gomera.