The best places in the Canary Islands for retirees spending the winter are flat, sunny towns with health services within walking distance: Los Cristianos in Tenerife, San Agustín and Playa del Inglés in Gran Canaria, Puerto del Carmen in Lanzarote and Caleta de Fuste in Fuerteventura.
What matters most for retirees
- Flat streets and promenades for daily walks.
- Healthcare close by: a health centre, pharmacies and private clinics.
- Supermarkets within walking distance.
- Good bus links so a car is optional.
- A community of other winter visitors.
Top choices compared
| Town | Island | Flat and walkable | Health services | Community |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Cristianos | Tenerife | Yes | Very good | Large |
| Puerto de la Cruz | Tenerife | Mostly | Very good | Large, long-established |
| San Agustín | Gran Canaria | Mostly | Good | Large, Scandinavian and British |
| Playa del Inglés | Gran Canaria | Yes | Very good | Large |
| Puerto del Carmen | Lanzarote | Yes | Good | Large |
| Caleta de Fuste | Fuerteventura | Yes | Fair | Medium |
Health and insurance
UK pensioners can use the GHIC for necessary state treatment, but long-stay travel insurance that covers pre-existing conditions is essential. See Travel Insurance for Over-70s Wintering in the Canary Islands.
Staying longer than 90 days
Retirees from the UK and other non-EU countries are limited to 90 days in any 180. To winter for longer, many apply for Spain’s non-lucrative visa. See our stay rules guides.
Our verdict
For most retirees, Los Cristianos or Playa del Inglés offer the easiest combination of sunshine, flat walking and services.