Gran Canaria is one of the islands of the Spanish autonomous community of the Canary Islands, off northwest Africa. It is known for its white sand and black lava beaches. To the south, the bustling beaches of El Inglés and Puerto Rico stand out, as well as the quieter beaches of Puerto de Mogán and San Agustín. To the north, the capital city of Las Palmas is a main stop for cruise ships and a duty-free shopping area. The interior of the island is rural and mountainous.