Gran Canaria is one of Spain’s Canary Islands, locate off the North West coast of Africa. It is known for it's black lava and white sand beaches. The southern beache resorts include the bustling Playa del Inglés and lively Puerto Rico as well as the quieter resorts of Puerto de Mogán and San Agustín. In the north, the capital city Las Palmas is a major port of call for cruise ships and duty-free shopping.