Fish Farm waste forces closure of 17 beaches in Gran Canaria
Seventeen beaches across Gran Canaria were closed to bathers on Friday after oily organic waste, believed to be decomposing fish remains from offshore fish farms near Melenara (Telde), washed up along the coastline.
The closures come at the height of the winter tourist season, prompting concern among local authorities and international tour operators.
The affected beaches, which have been displaying red flags for several days, contain a mix of fish fats and feed residues. Although the impact on visitors has so far been limited, major tour operators warn that “such images must be avoided in the media,” especially during high season.
Beaches affected (north to south):
Telde: Melenara, Salinetas, Aguadulce, Tufia, Ojos de Garza
Santa Lucía de Tirajana: El Yodo
Mogán: Tauro, Taurito, Mogán, Playa del Cura, Puerto Rico, Patalavaca, Las Marañuelas, Anfi del Mar, El Perchel, Amadores, Costa Alegre
In Agaete, similar residues were detected at Playa Vieja, but all beaches there were already closed as a precaution due to Storm Claudia.
Mogán hit hardest and considering legal action
Mogán, Gran Canaria’s second-largest tourism municipality, has suffered the most damage. All its beaches have been forced to close despite the municipality receiving over 8 million overnight stays in 2024, nearly 29% of the island’s total.
Mayor Onalia Bueno expressed her frustration, confirming that the council is considering legal action against “whoever is responsible”. She highlighted the injustice of Mogán suffering the consequences of incidents originating in another municipality, especially given its heavy economic reliance on beach tourism. She also expressed hope that the strong waves associated with Storm Claudia will help clean the water.
Tourists mostly unfazed, but industry issues warning
Claes Pellvik, Communications Director of Nordic Travel Leisure Group, one of the largest tourism groups in the Nordic countries, told Tourinews that guest reactions have been minimal so far.
“Up to now, there has been little response from our guests regarding the beach closures linked to the fish farms,” he said, while urging authorities to resolve the issue quickly. He added a clear warning: “It is important to avoid these kinds of images in the media.”
At the time of going to press, seven beaches have reopened for swimming as follows: Patalavaca, Anfi, Amadores, El Perchel, El Yodo, Puerto Rico and Playa de Mogán, whilst the other ten remain closed for bathing under a red flag.
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