Gran Canaria is the third-largest island of the Spanish Canary Islands which lies just 210km off the coast of Africa and 1250 km away from mainland Spain. It is a popular holiday destination known for its diverse landscapes, beautiful beaches and year-round warm climate. When considering where to stay in Gran Canaria, visitors will find that this Spanish island offers a wide range of holiday resorts to choose from. From the lively atmosphere of Playa del Inglés to the luxurious tranquillity of Meloneras and from the urban beaches of Las Palmas to the charming village feel of Puerto de Mogán, there’s a resort to suit every visitor.
Where to Stay in Gran Canaria: Top 7 Holiday Resorts
It is estimated that approximately 30% of all visitors to the Canary Islands find their way to the tourist resorts on the south coast of Gran Canaria. Sandy beaches run along this stretch of coastline with the best-known being the most well known being the dunes at Maspalomas which are part of the Gran Canaria Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Maspalomas
Situated on the island’s south coast, Maspalomas is one of the island’s most famous and well-developed tourist areas. Known for its expansive golden sand dunes, this resort town offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities. A visit to its iconic sand dunes is one of the best things to do in Gran Canaria which attracts holidaymakers from all over the island.
Maspalomas is home to numerous high-end hotels and holiday complexes, many of which offer all-inclusive packages. The area is particularly popular among families and couples seeking a relaxing beach holiday. The Maspalomas Lighthouse, an iconic landmark, stands at the edge of the dunes and marks the beginning of a long stretch of beach that extends to Playa del Inglés.
The resort boasts excellent dining options, from traditional Canarian cuisine to international restaurants. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to several world-class golf courses. For those interested in nightlife, while Maspalomas is generally quieter than some other resorts, it still offers a selection of bars and clubs, particularly in the Meloneras area.
Playa del Inglés
Adjacent to Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés is Gran Canaria’s largest and liveliest resort. This bustling town caters to a diverse crowd, from young party-goers to families and retirees. The resort’s centerpiece is its long, wide beach, which connects to the Maspalomas dunes. Accommodation in Playa del Inglés ranges from budget-friendly apartments to luxurious hotels. The resort is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs and entertainment venues concentrated in several commercial centres such as the Yumbo Centre.
During the day, visitors can enjoy water sports, sunbathing or shopping at one of the many retail complexes. The promenade along the beach offers a pleasant walk with sea views and is lined with cafes and restaurants. While Playa del Inglés can be quite busy, especially during peak seasons, it offers a lively atmosphere and a wide range of tourism facilities.
Puerto Rico
Located on the southwestern coast of Gran Canaria, Puerto Rico is a purpose-built resort town known for its sheltered beach and marina. The resort is particularly popular among British tourists and offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Playa del Inglés. Puerto Rico is built on hillsides surrounding a central valley, with many accommodations offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The resort features a range of hotels and self-catering apartments to suit different budgets. The town centre, situated near the beach, houses numerous restaurants, bars and shops.
The beach at Puerto Rico is man-made and protected by breakwaters, making it ideal for families with children. Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as jet-skiing, parasailing and diving. For those seeking a change of scenery, the nearby Amadores Beach, offers a quieter alternative with its white sand and clear waters. Puerto Rico is also a good base for exploring other parts of the island, with regular bus services connecting it to other resorts and attractions.
Puerto de Mogán
Often referred to as “Little Venice” due to its network of canals and bridges, Puerto de Mogán is a picturesque fishing village turned resort on Gran Canaria’s southwestern coast. This charming destination offers a more authentic and relaxed atmosphere compared to the larger, more developed resorts. Accommodation in Puerto de Mogán tends to be on a smaller scale, with boutique hotels and apartments rather than large resort complexes. The town is centred around a marina filled with yachts and fishing boats, surrounded by white-washed houses adorned with vibrant bougainvillea.
The beach at Puerto de Mogán is relatively small but well-maintained and sheltered, making it suitable for swimming and sunbathing. On Fridays, the town hosts a popular market that attracts visitors from all over the island. While nightlife in Puerto de Mogán is low-key compared to other resorts, the harbour area offers a selection of restaurants serving fresh seafood and Canarian specialities. This resort is ideal for those seeking a quieter holiday destination without sacrificing comfort and amenities.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
As the capital city of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas offers a different experience from the purpose-built beach resorts. Located in the northeast of the island, it combines urban attractions with beautiful beaches, making it an excellent choice for those interested in culture and history alongside their beach holiday. Las Palmas is home to several beaches within the city limits, the most famous being Playa de las Canteras. This 3-kilometre-long urban beach is protected by a natural reef and offers excellent conditions for swimming and snorkelling. The promenade along the beach is lined with restaurants, cafes and shops. Accommodation in Las Palmas ranges from international hotel chains to boutique hotels and holiday rentals.
The city is divided into several districts, with Vegueta, the old town, being of particular interest to history enthusiasts. Here, you can explore narrow cobblestone streets, visit museums and admire colonial architecture. Las Palmas offers a wide array of dining options, from traditional Canarian taverns to modern fusion restaurants. The city also provides excellent shopping opportunities, particularly along Calle Mayor de Triana. For nightlife, the area around Santa Catalina Park is popular, offering numerous bars and clubs. Staying in Las Palmas allows visitors to experience authentic Canarian city life while still enjoying beach activities. It’s also a convenient base for exploring the northern part of the island.
Meloneras
Meloneras, located next to Maspalomas, is one of Gran Canaria’s newer and more upscale resort areas. Known for its sophisticated ambiance, Meloneras attracts visitors seeking a luxurious and tranquil holiday experience. The resort features several high-end hotels, many of which offer spa facilities and golf packages. The promenade in Meloneras is a highlight, offering a pleasant walk with views of the ocean and lined with upscale shops, restaurants and cafes.
While Meloneras itself has a small beach, it’s within walking distance of the large Maspalomas beach and dunes. The area is home to some of Gran Canaria’s best golf courses, making it a popular choice among golf enthusiasts. Nightlife in Meloneras is more subdued compared to Playa del Inglés, focusing on sophisticated bars and lounges rather than busy nightclubs. This makes it an ideal choice for couples or mature holidaymakers seeking a refined atmosphere.
San Agustín
Situated between Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas, San Agustín offers a quieter alternative to its more famous neighbours. This small resort is known for its relaxed atmosphere and is popular among those seeking a peaceful beach holiday. San Agustín’s beach is composed of dark volcanic sand and is less crowded than those in the neighbouring resorts. The area offers a range of accommodation options, from apartments to all-inclusive hotels, many of which have direct access to the beach.
While San Agustín is quieter than other resorts, it still provides a good range of amenities including restaurants, bars and shops. For those seeking more action, the livelier Playa del Inglés is just a short distance away and easily accessible by bus or taxi. The resort is also home to the Sioux City Park, a theme park replicating an American Wild West town, which can be an interesting diversion for families with children.
FAQs About Holidays in Gran canaria
When is the Best Time to Visit Gran Canaria?
The climate in Gran Canaria is what makes it one of Europe’s great all year round holiday destinations. Summer temperatures will generally be in the high 20’s but the sea breeze stops it being too oppresive and these months are very dry with little or no rainfall.
Its winters are very mild with temperatures seldom falling below 15ºC although you will find that from around November until April or May you’ll need some warm clothes for wearing in the evenings. The winter months are the wettest but bear in mind that it is all relative and in fact there are very few days of rainfall at any time of the year.
Where is the Airport in Gran Canaria?
Gran Canaria Airport lies on the east coast of the island of Gran Canaria some 25km from the main tourist resorts in the south of the island and 18km from the island’s capital of Las Palmas. It is often referred to as Las Palmas Airport and is the busiest of all the airports in the Canary Islands with over 10 million annual passengers.
Bus transport from the airport and all around the island is provided by Global. The two main services used by arrivals at the airport are as follows:
- Route 60: Airport – Las Palmas City
- Route 66: Airport – Faro de Maspalomas
You can check bus timetables on the Global website. Of course there are many taxis waiting at the official rank outside the arrivals area which will take you to anywhere on the island..
