The Canary Islands Government has launched the ambitious “Costas Afortunadas” project, an initiative designed to recover, highlight, and protect the rich cultural, historical, and natural heritage of the archipelago’s coastal areas. This program aims to strengthen the connection between Canarians and their coastline, ensuring its preservation for future generations. We’re discussing it on our First Minute Excursions and Last Minute Transfer blog.

The “Costas Afortunadas” Project

The “Costas Afortunadas” project began its journey on May 24, 2025, in the picturesque coastal town of Tufia, in the municipality of Telde, Gran Canaria. This initial stage marked the start of a tour that will cover all eight islands of the archipelago in the coming months.

Pablo Rodríguez, the Minister of Public Works, Housing, and Mobility for the Canary Islands Government, highlighted that “Costas Afortunadas” not only values the natural heritage but also the cultural and historical aspects of the island’s coasts. The initiative seeks to emphasize the essence of these places, which have been living witnesses to the collective identity and way of life of Canarians for centuries.

The project takes an integrated approach, combining environmental awareness with the recovery of historical memory. It aims to actively involve citizens, giving a voice to local residents to revive and disseminate their legacy.

Activities and components

The activities and components that characterize “Costas Afortunadas” project include cultural and theatrical performances.

The Salsipuedes Cultural Association actively participates, offering interactive re-enactments that evoke the historical memory of the coastal areas, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in local history.

There will also be tours and visits. The project will travel across all eight islands, visiting different coastal enclaves to highlight their uniqueness and value.

Furthermore, environmental awareness will be promoted. The initiative seeks to inspire greater commitment among citizens towards protecting the coastal environment and its biodiversity.

Finally, the project aims to enhance the value of heritage. To achieve this, efforts are made to highlight the importance of these areas not only as landscapes but also as guardians of Canarian culture and roots.

It kicks off in Tufia, an example of how people have always lived in close connection with the coast and the sea. This underscores the Canary Islands Government’s intention to celebrate and share the rich history that the coastline represents for all Canarians.

“Costas Afortunadas” is shaping up to be a declaration of principles regarding the relevance of these coastal areas as pillars of Canarian memory and identity. At the same time, it serves to foster collaboration among various ministries and organizations like Puertos Canarios and the General Directorate of Coasts.