Are you tempted by Gran Canaria’s mild climate and planning a vacation in Maspalomas? What a great idea! This seaside resort at the foot of the basalt mountains is very popular. We loved its lively atmosphere, beaches and luxury hotels, as well as its stunning scenery and theme parks.
Read this article and discover 15 ideas for things to do in Maspalomas, illustrated with photos that will make you want to go. Bonus: useful tips and additional activities.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Content
1. Admire the Maspalomas Dunes
Why visit?
We were won over by the grandiose spectacle of the Maspalomas Dunes. You can admire these golden hills that end in the blue of the ocean from the mirador or the Meloneras promenade, but also from the beach. We also contemplated the lagoon, the Maspalomas lighthouse and the Playa de Maspalomas and del Inglés beaches. An astonishing piece of desert on the Gran Canaria coast, right next to luxury hotels and a lively seaside resort.
See more photos in our dedicated article here.
Practical advice
- Between Meloneras and Playa del Inglés
- Estimated duration: between 15min and 2h
- Difficulties: it’s not easy to get around on the sand if you want to venture into the dunes.
- PRM access to watchtower
- No restaurants in the immediate vicinity, go to Meloneras or Playa del Inglés
2. Enjoy the excitement of Playa del Inglés
Why visit?
Playa del Inglés is one of Gran Canaria’s most popular beaches. Known for its large expanse of sand, crystal-clear waters and hotels, it’s the ideal place to enjoy the sea and the sun. You can also enjoy snorkeling or surfing. The resort is also renowned for its lively entertainment. We found it very lively! In Playa del Inglès, you’ll find a lively party scene, plenty of bars, restaurants and stores of all kinds. The area is also popular with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Practical advice
- East of Maspalomas
- Traffic and parking problems
- Busy tourist area
- Wide choice ofhotels
- Restaurants, stores, bars and clubs
- Leisure activities
WHERE TO STAY IN Maspalomas
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
Méloneras, with its long sandy beach and dunes.
Hotel Unique Club Lopesan – see photos and availability
Playa del Ingles, a lively neighborhood on the cliffs above a long beach.
Santa Monica Suites Hotel – see photos and availability
In the center of Maspalomas, access to stores and attractions.
Hotel Nayra – Adults Only – view photos and availability
See our selection of the best hotels in Maspalomas
3. Enjoy the good life in Meloneras
Why visit?
In Meloneras, summer seemed eternal. We loved the relaxed atmosphere on this pretty seafront to the west of Maspalomas. You can relax in the superb hotels facing the sea, but also enjoy the beautiful beaches of Playa de Meloneras and Playa de Maspalomas. The promenade along the water’s edge invites you to take a stroll. From here, we found the view of the ocean breathtaking. The magnificent Maspalomas Dunes, the lagoon and the pretty Maspalomas Lighthouse are also particularly photogenic. Last but not least, restaurants, bars and boutiques are not to be outdone!
See more photos in our dedicated article.
Practical advice
- West of Maspalomas
- Allow 30 minutes for a simple stroll or a few hours for a swim or restaurant break.
- No parking or driving on the seafront
- Restaurants, bars, stores
- Wide choice ofhotels
- Lively waterfront
A LITTLE MORE patience
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4. Take a boat trip to see the dolphins
Why visit?
If, like us, you love to see whales and dolphins in the open sea, get on board a catamaran, a speedboat or a more conventional boat. We had high hopes, and we were lucky enough to see some dolphins! A wonderful experience at sea, with the Gran Canaria landscape in the background. Sightings are never guaranteed, but in this part of the island, the chances are excellent. Departures are mainly from the port of Puerto Rico, but many tours offer to pick you up at your hotel. Here are some suggestions for excursions:
- Option 1 – speedboat – duration 4h, small group, tapas and drinks, snorkeling and swimming, paddle and parasailing extra – See details and availability
- Option 2 – private luxury sailboat – duration 3h, departure from Pasito Blanco in Maspalomas, aperitif and snorkeling break, – See details and availability
- Option 3 – big boat – duration 2h30, with swimming and snorkeling break – See details and availability
- Option 4 – catamaran – duration between 2h and 3h, fresh drink – See details and availability
Practical advice
- Between 2h and 4h depending on the tour
- Bring sunglasses, sun cream, cap, water bottle, swimsuit and towel.
- Children also enjoy this activity
- Onboard catering available depending on tour
- See all boat tour options
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Gran Canaria
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- If you’re planning to explore the mountains, don ‘t take the smallest cars. A more powerful engine will be more comfortable.
- But don’t take too big a car either, as some roads are narrow.
- There’s a lot of demand and it’s an island, so book early.
5. Discover Palmitos Park
Why visit?
Located in the heart of a landlocked valley near Maspalomas, the park boasts a zoo and tropical gardens. We saw many birds and beautiful palm trees. Surrounded by lush vegetation, you can discover numerous species of animals and plants. The park also offers shows featuring birds of prey, exotic birds and dolphins.
See more photos in our dedicated article.
Practical advice
- Include, for example:
- Estimated time: between 2 and 4 hours
- 10km from Maspalomas
- Accessible by bus, lines 45 and 70
- Dedicated parking
- Catering
- Open daily from 10 am to 6 pm (more details on the official website here).
- Price: €13 for children under 5, €26 for children aged 5 to 10 and €35 for children aged 11 and over.
- Book your ticket now.
6. Fun at Aqualand
Why visit?
With its 40 slides and myriad water games, Aqualand is Gran Canaria’s largest water park. Located just a few minutes’ drive from the center of Maspalomas, it’s a fun place to be. We’ve seen crowds! You can try the Anaconda, a thrilling slide, or the water maze. There’s also a Polynesian park and gardens. Children are king here!
See more photos in our dedicated article.
Practical advice
- Duration: half-day or full day
- Difficulties: lots of people, queues to get in and try a slide or attraction
- Catering
- A souvenir store
- Access from age 3
- Price: under 5 €15, 5-10 €26, over 11 €35, senior €26
- Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in winter and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. the rest of the year (see official website for updates ).
- Book your ticket now
7. See the sunset at Playa de Maspalomas
Why visit?
Like us, you’ll fall under the spell of Playa de Maspalomas. Located between Meloneras and Playa del Inglés, this long stretch of golden sand is perfect for strolling, swimming and lounging. The view of the dunes and the Meloneras lighthouse is magical, especially at sunset! In our opinion, this is one of the most beautiful beaches on Gran Canaria.
Practical advice
- Located between Meloneras and Playa del Inglés
- Time to plan: time for a walk or an afternoon on the beach!
- PRM access possible along a wooden path that runs along part of the beach
- Restaurants near Meloneras
- Toilets and showers, changing rooms
- Umbrellas and deckchairs for hire
- Fine golden sand
- Surf schools and surf lessons
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8. Visit the Maspalomas lighthouse
Why visit?
At the very end of Meloneras, to the east, the Maspalomas Lighthouse rises to a height of over 60m. We loved admiring this building, one of the oldest lighthouses in the Canary Islands. At its foot you can see the old keeper’s house, with its typical Canarian appearance. Today, it’s a small ethnographic museum displaying treasures of local craftsmanship. We learned a lot about the know-how of the Canaries. The view from the museum’s roof is also worth the detour!
Practical advice
- Visit duration: between 30min and 1h
- Located on the eastern tip of Meloneras, near the Maspalomas Dunes
- Lighthouse Museum open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Magnificent scenery and views
9. Fun at Holiday World
Why visit?
Come and have fun at Holiday World, a theme park in the center of Maspalomas that’s a welcome change from the beaches. We’ve found it a fun place for children and adults alike. The little ones will enjoy the Ferris wheel, pony rides, carousel or bumper cars on the water, while the older ones will be entertained by thrill rides or escape games. For adults, there’s a bowling alley, billiards, table tennis, gym, karaoke and restaurant bars.
Practical advice
- Estimated time: between 2h and 4h
- Difficulties: crowds depending on the season, queues
- Nearby restaurants
- Price: adults 13€, children 17€, seniors 6€.
- Schedules vary according to activity, more info on the official website here
- Avoid the queues and take your ticket!
10. Go shopping
Why visit?
In Maspalomas, there’s no shortage of choice. Whether in Meloneras with Boulevard El Faro, Yumbo Centrum in the center or the many boutiques of Playa del Inglès and San Augustín, shopping in Maspalomas is possible everywhere. We’ve seen everything from pretty gifts to souvenirs you can take home to brighten up your everyday life.
Practical advice
- Take time for window shopping
- Shopping malls have food outlets and boutiques are close to restaurants.
- Possible parking problems
11. Golf in the great outdoors
Why visit?
Do you love golf but also love vacations? Then the seaside resort of Maspalomas is ideal. After Meloneras Beach, we were drawn to the immense golf course that stretches out in front of the ocean. The Lopesan Meloneras Golf Club offers golf in an exceptional setting. The Lopesan Costa Meloneras Resort & Spa and Faro,a Lopesan Collection- Adults Only hotels offer shuttle services to take you there.
Golf enthusiasts will also find something to their liking a little further inland at the Salobre Golf Club, part of the Salobre Hotel Resort & Serenity. The view over there is of the dark Canary Mountains!
Practical advice
- Remember to contact the club or hotel beforehand
- Don’t forget to bring appropriate clothing and footwear.
- Enjoy the sport and the view
12. Surfing in the Atlantic Ocean
Why visit?
In Maspalomas, we saw waves and surfers! The Atlantic coast is ideal for this sport. You’ll find several surf schools on the resort’s various beaches. There’s something for every level:
- Rendezvous at Playa del Inglès in a small group for beginner surfing
- Try this course with SouthCoast surf school for all levels
- Why not try bodyboarding too?
Practical advice
- Estimated time: between 3 and 4 hours
- Remember to wear sunscreen and bring a towel.
13. Admire the view from the Mirador Astronómico de la Degollada de las Yeguas
Why visit?
The Mirador Astronómico de la Degollada de las Yeguas is a viewpoint located 9km from Maspalomas.
We found the road leading to it very beautiful.
From this observatory, you can admire the volcanic valley by day and the starry sky at night.
The sunlight on the basalt mountains and the arrival of the stars made our observation a poetic moment.
Stay and contemplate the stars or the starry showers and enjoy the mild evening temperature.
A romantic moment guaranteed!
Practical advice
- Duration: 30min to 1h
- Difficulties: located on high ground
- Dedicated parking
- No restaurants nearby
- No toilets
14. Stroll through the botanical gardens
Why visit?
Come and cool off in the shade of the trees at Maspalomas Botanical Park. We really enjoyed this nature break. Located in the center of Maspalomas, the garden showcases the flora of the Canary Islands as well as exotic species. The well-laid-out paths allow you to discover the different plant species while enjoying a soothing natural setting. It’s the perfect place to relax away from the hustle and bustle.
Practical advice
- Duration: 1 hour
- PMR access
- Nearby restaurants
- Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday
15. Contemplating the ruins of Punta Mujeres facing the sea
Why visit?
Along the Meloneras promenade, don’t miss Yacimiento Punta Mujeres, one of the island’s many archaeological sites! It’s the remains of a house over 1,000 years old. It’s very easy to see from the path, and informative signs explain what you’re looking at. We were amazed to discover these stone remains. The millennia-old foundations of the ancient dwelling can be seen.
Practical advice
- Tour duration: 15min
- Visible from the seafront promenade
- A single stone structure with information panels
DISCOVER Maspalomas
- Best things to do in Maspalomas
- Most beautiful beaches (coming soon)
- Best hotels
- Best restaurants (coming soon)
- Maspalomas dunes
- Aqualand
- Excursions from Maspalomas
Things to do in Maspalomas: other ideas
Other attractions in Maspalomas
- Explore Tony Gallardo Park. Admission is free and the landscape is tropical.
- Venture into the ExpoMeloneras cultural venue, which hosts concerts, exhibitions, fashion shows and conferences.
- Immerse yourself in the world of the American Indians at Sioux City Park near San Augustin.
Other beaches in Maspalomas
Maspalomas has other beaches to offer. Here are just a few examples:
- The tranquil Playa de las Burras, on the western tip of San Augustín
- Nudists can visit the Playa Montaña Arena nudist beach.
- Playa El Veril, just beyond Playa del Inglès
- Playa del Aguila east of San Augustín
Things to do in Maspalomas with children
Going to the beach with the whole family for sandcastles, shopping, walks and swimming can be a great option! Some hotels also offer swimming pools and games dedicated to children. We were impressed, for example, by the water park at theHotel Maspalomas Princess!
In Maspalomas, children can also have fun at the resort’s theme parks. They can see many animals at Palmitos Park, have fun at Aqualand and Holiday World, or discover the past of the Canaries’ first inhabitants at Mundo Aborigen.
Things to do in Maspalomas when it rains
Fortunately, it rarely rains in Maspalomas, where the weather is mild all year round. Occasionally, however, a little rain is on the horizon. Then you can simply enjoy your hotel. In Maspalomas, they are often equipped with a spa, wellness center and sometimes games rooms.
Why not visit the Gran Casino Costa Meloneras or store at the Boulevard El Faro shopping center or Yumbo Centrum? The latter features 3 floors of stores of all kinds, bars and restaurants.
We also recommend a visit to the Maspalomas Lighthouse and its ethnographic museum, which displays treasures of local craftsmanship. We learned a lot about the know-how of the Canaries.
Excursions around Maspalomas
Read our article on the best excursions around Maspalomas here (coming soon). In the meantime, here are a few suggestions:
- Try this buggy tour and discover the surrounding area with this little off-road car!
- Take an e-bike tour along the coast to discover gardens and a fishing village.
- Embark on an equestrian adventure in the mountains opposite Maspalomas and admire the view of the dunes from the heights.
Useful tips for visiting Maspalomas
Where is Maspalomas?
- South of Gran Canaria
- In the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana
- 45min drive from Las Palmas
- 30min from airport
- Here is a map to help you find your way:
How do I get to Maspalomas?
It’s easy to get to Maspalomas by car. In fact, it’s the best way to get around the island. If you’re looking to rent a car in Gran Canaria, read all our advice in our dedicated article.
Maspalomas is also accessible by public transport. From Las Palmas, bus routes 30 or 50 will take you to the seaside resort. From the airport, take lines 66 and 90.
Parking in Maspalomas
If you’re driving, you’ll certainly be able to park in your hotel’s parking lot. We advise you to find out in advance whether your hotel has a parking lot, and what the rates are. At the seaside and near the beaches, parking is less straightforward, given the crowds!
However, the city does have a number of paid parking lots, such as Parking Maspalomas, Aparcamientos/ParkPlatz and paid street parking spaces. We recommend the blue zones, which are less expensive! The Free Parking Plaza del Hiero is free.
Getting around Maspalomas
Maspalomas stretches for over 10km and includes different areas: Meloneras, the town center, Playa del Inglès and San Augustín. Getting around by car may be necessary. If you’re also planning to explore the island, we think it’s the ideal vehicle. Find all our advice on renting a car in Gran Canaria here.
There is also a bus network serving the whole of Maspalomas. Alternatively, if you want to be free and have no parking problems, you can:
- Rent a bike to get around easily.
- Use your scooter or e-scooter to go faster and be 2!
Where to eat in Maspalomas
Maspalomas is bursting with restaurants. By the sea, in town, in a hotel, local and international cuisine, there’s something for everyone! Here are some of our suggestions:
- Restaurant 360° in Playa del Inglès, on the top floor of theHotel Bohemia Suites & Spa, with a panoramic view over the bay.
- Restaurant La Terrazza by El Oasis for its classic cuisine.
- Restaurant El Churrasco in Meloneras for its view of the promenade and the sea.
Visiting Maspalomas in winter
Coming to Maspalomas in winter is great fun! In Gran Canaria, temperatures remain very mild this time of year, at around 20° Celsius. The weather is also sunny. In our opinion, it’s the ideal place to soak up the sun in the middle of winter. In fact, some hotels offer great deals and heated swimming pools. Read our article on the best hotels in Maspalomas and book your dream room now for your next winter vacation!
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Gran Canaria
- Best of
Best things to do in Gran Canaria
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful towns and villages
Most beautiful beaches
Best natural pools
Archaeological sites
Best museums
Best boat tours (coming soon)
Secret places, off the beaten track
- Practical advice
25 tips for a successful trip to Gran Canaria
When to go?
How to get around
How to rent a car in Gran Canaria
Driving tips
Best excursions (coming soon)
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 7 days – 10 days
- The must-dos
Las Palmas and its historic center
Dolphin watching in Gran Canaria (coming soon)
Maspalomas dunes
Puerto de Mogan (Little Venice)
Agaete and its natural pools
The magnificent town of Agüimes
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
