Posted on Monday, 27 March 2023

Each of the Canary Islands has its own character, but arguably none are as distinct as Gran Canaria, the archipelago's third largest island.

What is Gran Canaria famous for?

Gran Canaria is probably most famous for its spectacular sand dunes, Dunas de Maspalomas and it’s not so natural lively resort, Playa de Ingles, developed in the 1960s specifically as a tourist area.

But Gran Canaria has so much more to offer.

Gran Canaria – A naturally beautiful island

Boasting a diverse set of ecosystems, you can lounge on excellent beaches to the south, hike subtropical rainforests and mountains in the centre, and explore leafy, verdant landscapes in the north.

For both couples and families, Gran Canaria presents a wealth of attractions and things to do - far more than the gaudy beach resort brochures might suggest.

When is the best month to go to Gran Canaria?

With average winter temperatures of 20 degrees, and summer averages of 26, there's never really a bad time to visit Gran Canaria.

However, if you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, avoid Gran Canaria in the peak summer and winter months.

It can be tricky to book excursions during these busiest of periods, and hotel rooms can fill up quickly.

How many days is enough for Gran Canaria?

Gran Canaria is large enough that you can still discover new places to explore weeks, or even months into your stay.

On the plus side, the island is also small enough that you can easily travel by bus or car without having to endure arduous journeys to get places.

Gran Canaria for couples

Whether your idea of a romantic holiday involves relaxing together on a sun-kissed beach, or climbing a rugged sub-tropical mountain, Gran Canaria offers both - and much else besides.

Night life for couples in Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria has a multitude of superb restaurants - many with romantic sea-views which are ideal for candlelit dinners.

Nightclubs and casinos are in abundance if you need extra kicks. The resorts of Playa del Inglés, Las Palmas and Puerto Rico offer the best nightlife options if clubbing is your scene.

Add in a wide range of top-notch hotels and love is sure to be in the air.

Gran Canaria for families

Gran Canaria has been welcoming families for decades, so it's no surprise there are dozens of attractions on offer, providing more than just a beach holiday.

From dolphin-spotting boat trips to camel tours, from theme parks to zoos - it's difficult not to enjoy yourself on this island, whether you're five - or fifty.

Accommodation for families in Gran Canaria

With some of the best family-friendly hotels on the entire archipelago, you might spend half your time lounging by one of the amazing resort pools, sipping a cool drink as the kids splash around.

Isn't Gran Canaria all sun-burnt Brits and fry-ups?

Gran Canaria remains a popular spot for UK package tourists, thanks to the sprawling resorts that occupy the south and eastern coasts - places where it is indeed easy to find a traditional English breakfast (and lobster-coloured compatriots).

if you prefer a relaxing holiday in quiet resorts, some of the places to avoid in Gran Canaria include areas where mass tourism is prevalent, such as the resorts of Playa del Ingles and Maspalomas.

The island offers so much more than this, with diverse landscapes to explore, and a myriad of activities to enjoy.

Top activities in Gran Canaria for couples

Beach romance

Gran Canaria's beaches are splendid for relaxing with your favourite person.

What is the nicest beach in Gran Canaria?

Our pick of the best beaches in Gran Canaria include Playa de Maspalomas for water-sports and sunbathing, and Playa de Las Canteras for easy swimming and rewarding snorkelling.

For some real alone time, head to the isolated and beautiful Gui-Gui beach, which can only be reached by foot or by boat.

For a more accessible amorous seaside locale, head to Playa de Amadores - which translates as "lover's beach".

Romantic dining in Gran Canaria

A wonderful array of romantic restaurants guarantee some memorable candlelit dinners.

For a dress-up meal, try the superb La Aquarela - but make sure you book your table in advance.

Other great restaurants in Gran Canaria include the Valle de Mogan restaurant, with wonderful views of the Mogán ravine, from its three beautiful terraces nd La Magnolia Arguineguin, with spectacular bay views.

Explore 'Little Venice'

The fishing village of Mogan is known as ‘Little Venice' because of its network of canals.

This picturesque little town is perfect for strolling hand-in-hand, before enjoying a sundowner drink by the sea.

Romantic hotels for couples in Gran Canaria

Mogan

Located in romantic Mogan, Cordial Mogan Playa is the perfect base for exploring this wonderful little town.

Puerto Rico

If you're planning to stay in Puerto Rico, the Marina Suites offer spacious bedrooms with balconies that overlook the sea and the hotel's impressive infinity pool.

What is the best resort in Gran Canaria for older couples?

In our opinion, the best resort for older couples in Gran Canaria has to be Bahia Feliz Bahia Feliz.

There’s a pretty, pedestrianised village square lined with pavement cafés and great restaurants and the resort is small enough for everything to be with a short walking distance.

Things to do in Gran Canaria for families

Dolphin trips and sea fishing

Adults and children alike cannot help but adore a day spent dolphin spotting.

There are also plenty of sea-fishing trips, with smaller rods available for little fingers to hold.

Gran Canaria water parks and theme parks

Unless you're staying for a month, you're unlikely to squeeze in all the theme parks and water parks on Gran Canaria.

Gran Canaria theme parks for younger children

However, if you're travelling with under-10s, don't miss Sioux City Park, San Augustin, with its incredible wild horse stampede and fun-packed showdowns.

Another hit with younger children is the Angry Birds Activity Park, with buggy rides, adventure playgrounds and a truly bonkers crazy golf course.

Activities for older children

For older kids, head to Hangar 37, a super-realistic shooting game that puts laser tag and paintballing in the shade.

A scrupulous approach to safety will put parents' minds at rest.

Gran Canaria zoos and animal parks

Palmitos Park offers an incredible botanic garden, a large aviary and a must-visit dolphinarium.

For a classic zoo experience, head to Cocodrilo Park, where plenty of activities are available, alongside a selection of well-cared for exotic animals.

If you fancy your chances on the back of a camel, head to Camel Park Arteara, where you can also meet donkeys, pigs, sheep and more.

 

What is the best resort in Gran Canaria for families?

Puerto Rico is a great resort for a family holiday in Gran Canaria.

With a large number of family-orientated hotels and a great selection of restaurants within resort, Puerto Rico is also blessed with two family friendly beaches, the Blue Flag Playa Amedores and Puerto Rico beach.

Add to that two public swimming pools mini-golf courses, tennis courts and amusement arcades within resort and Lago Taurito waterpark just a 10-minute drive away, it’s easy to see why families return to Puerto Rico for their Gran Canaria holidays, year after year.

Family-friendly hotels in Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria offers a wealth of great hotel options for families. Here’s our pick some of the best hotels on offer:

Playa del Ingles

For a five-star stay, Seaside Palm Beach in Playa del Ingles offers a kids' mini club, a children's pool with polo goals, tennis courts and a full children's menu.

Puerto Rico

The Altamar Aparthotel in Puerto Rico offers one of the best hotel all-inclusive stay options for families looking to stay in this popular resort, with a Mini Club, children's playground and kid’s pool on site, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

San Bartolomé de Tirajana

For a more rustic experience, consider Hotel Rural Las Tirajanas, with its Alpine looks and family-centric service. Archery, volleyball, table tennis and more are available, plus easy access to some great hiking trails.

 

Gran Canaria best hotel booking tip

It's a good idea to book a hotel near where you plan to spend most of your time, as some hotels are located on hillsides away from the coast.

If you're travelling to Gran Canaria on your holidays with prams or young children, taking taxis or buses down to the beach every day could prove stressful - and costly.

Hidden gems in Gran Canaria for both couples and families

El Bufadero de la Garita

This strange basalt rock formation by the sea features a large hole which fills with seawater, which then spurts out like a fountain.

Be sure to keep at a safe distance.

El Pico de las Nieves

This is the highest peak in Gran Canaria, and while not suitable for young kids, older children are sure to love the ascent.

The views are impressive - especially since you can see Spain's highest mountain on the neighbouring island of Tenerife!

Presa de las Niñas (The Girls' Dam)

Hidden in a pine forest in the island's south, this stunning lake is perfect for camping. A spot steeped in mysteries - some of which are very spooky indeed.

Mistakes people make when visiting the Canary Islands

Ignoring Beach Flags

The beaches are a big draw for many holidaymakers to the Canary Islands.

12 beaches in Gran Canaria were awarded the coveted Blue Flag award in 2022, with over 50 beaches in the Canary Islands as a whole, holding Blue Flag status.

However, you should not ignore the coloured flags on the beaches, which are an indication of how safe it is to swim:

• Red flags  - strong currents unfit for swimming
• Yellow flags - moderate surf or currents. 
• Green flags - calm conditions
• Purple flags - there are sightings of jellyfish, stingrays, and/or sharks in the water.
  
  

Not being careful with their valuables

As with many tourist destinations petty crime such as pick pocketing is not uncommon on the main tourist islands in the Canaries; Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote

To minimise the risk of theft, store valuables in your hotel safe and exercise caution when carrying valuables such as money, credit cards and expensive gadgets when in public.

Thinking there is little more to the Canaries than beaches and nightlife

Whilst the Canaries may be renowned for the party central resorts of Playa Las Americas in Tenerifre and Playa del Inglés in Gran Canaria, there is certainly much more on offer in the Canaries than beaches and bars.

Animal parks, boat trips, trekking and vineyard tours are just some of the great activities on offer in the Canaries, whilst the capital of Gran Canaria, Las Palmas offers a variety of historical monuments and museums to explore.

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