Calm reigns on this beach in Mogán, in the south of Gran Canaria.

The winds encourage folk to let out their sails and push their boat through the placid southern waters once again. The timid flock of white clouds grazing on the warm mist on the horizon reminds us that the north of the island is still there. Anfi beach, at the mouth of the Verga de Mogán Ravine, is now a stage set with golden sand and turquoise water, lightly stirring as it waits.

Las Canteras Sand Nativity is one of many attractions in Gran Canaria’s warm Atlantic Christmas.

A reef that you can spot at low tide protects Las Canteras beach from the pounding ocean, like a long protective arm shielding Las Palmas de Gran Canaria’s emblematic sands. Seen from dry land, it’s just a brush-stroke on the horizon. The sand bar now also forms part of the island’s gentle Christmas. At the northern end of the beach, the skylight on the Alfredo Kraus Auditorium plays the role of the Christmas Star.