Looking for a vacation in Gran Canaria? Choose Meloneras, one of the island’s most beautiful seaside resorts! We enjoyed the softness of the beach, strolling along the seafront promenade, the scenery and the exceptional services offered by the hotels. Soak up the sun and relax in a setting where summer seems eternal!
Read our article to find out what to do in Meloneras and find all our favorite activities to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
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 lagoon from the promenade
Why we love
At the eastern end of the promenade, the Meloneras waterfront is truly exceptional. We discovered a lagoon! With its rolling mountains, golden sands, shades of blue and exotic shrubs, the landscape will charm you.
Also known as El Oasis or La Charca de Maspalomas, this lagoon is part of the Dunes of Maspalomas nature reserve. Migratory birds and flamingos can sometimes be seen here. Despite our great patience, we only saw one egret. Maybe you’ll have better luck!
Practical advice
- East of the Meloneras promenade
- Exceptional panorama
- Flat path
- Ideal for walking or sport
2. Enjoy Meloneras beach
Why we love
In our opinion, Meloneras beach is the perfect place to relax and swim. The sand is typical of the island, a mixture of blond and black grains. For those who prefer, parasols and deckchairs are also available for hire, so you can spend time in the sun in comfort. We loved the atmosphere here, which seems eternally summery!
Playa de Meloneras is also ideally located, right in the heart of Maspalomas, at the foot of Meloneras. We found everything we could dream of in the surrounding area. Bars, restaurants, stores, etc.
Practical advice
- Allow between 30min and several hours
- Supervised beach
- Black and white sand, a few pebbles near the water
- Showers and toilets
- Deckchairs and parasols for hire
3. Marvel at the Maspalomas Dunes
Why we love
Like us, lovers of beautiful landscapes will appreciate the Maspalomas Dunes. This is one of the most beautiful landscapes in Gran Canaria! We were captivated by this site just to the east of Meloneras. The natural park features immense sand dunes and a green oasis facing the sea. A little piece of desert on the Gran Canaria coast. There are even camels to be seen in the distance!
Go to the Mirador for a breathtaking view. The spectacle of golden hills licked by the blue ocean is grandiose. The dunes also border the superb beaches of Playa de Maspalomas and Playa del Inglès.
Practical advice
- Allow between 30min and 2h for the visit
- Nearby parking lots, but a short walk to the dunes
- No restaurants or toilets in the dunes
- The best time to visit is at sunset!
4. Visit the Maspalomas lighthouse
Why we love
At the very end of Meloneras, to the east, the Maspalomas lighthouse rises up in a straight silhouette. This stone giant dates back to the 19th century and has seen Gran Canaria become a leading tourist destination! We enjoyed admiring this nearly 60-metre-high building. El Faro de Maspalomas is classified as a site of cultural interest. This is one of the oldest lighthouses in the Canary Islands.
At its foot, you can see the old janitor’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
- 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
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
5. Bathing at Maspalomas Beach
Why we love
Maspalomas Beach is to the east of Meloneras, just past the lighthouse. It runs along the dunes for a long distance. We were overwhelmed by the scenery. The sunset panorama is just magnificent.
The beach is so large that you can choose where to sunbathe and swim! The sand is white and soft. A wooden path allows you to walk along part of it without stepping in the sand. We also saw deckchairs and parasols for hire. You can also take a surfing lesson and enjoy the waves!
Practical advice
- Allow between 30min and several hours
- White sand
- Showers
- Deckchairs and parasols for hire
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.
6. Discover a local restaurant
Why we love
In Meloneras, we were able to enjoy the local cuisine in some very nice restaurants! The seaside is teeming with establishments of all kinds. You’ll find everything you need along the way.
Taste the warm tapas but also a cuisine focused on the sea. Seafood and fish are often given pride of place. What’s more, we found the views from the terraces particularly beautiful.
Practical advice
- Numerous restaurants along the waterfront
- Read the menu carefully so as not to be surprised by the prices and menus.
- Enjoy the view and the local cuisine
7. Golf by the sea
Why we love
Do you love golf and the sea? The seaside resort of Meloneras is ideal. After Meloneras Beach, we were struck by the huge golf course stretching out across the ocean. The Lopesan Meloneras Golf Club offers golf in an exceptional setting. The Lopesan Costa and Faro Lopesan 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!
A LITTLE MORE patience
All the photos, maps, information and addresses you need to make your stay in the Canaries a success will soon be available in a single ebook!
If you’d like to be notified when our guide to the Canaries is published, please subscribe:
8. Go shopping
Why we love
In Meloneras, you can also go shopping. Along the seafront and in the narrow streets of the seaside resort, you’ll find numerous boutiques. We also saw several shopping centers. Beachwear, souvenirs, handicrafts, you’ll find everything you need to make gifts!
Practical advice
- Stores on the waterfront and in town
- Be careful, it can get crowded!
Subscribe to our Newsletter
- Get away from it all with Region Lovers’ beautiful destinations!
- Once a month
- Advertising-free
9. Stroll along the promenade
Why we love
Like us, take the time to stroll around and soak up the relaxed atmosphere of the seaside resort. The Meloneras waterfront is very pleasant. We enjoyed strolling along the promenade and admiring the sea along the way. The Atlantic Ocean stretches to the horizon, caressing the island’s black volcanic rocks. On the other side, the town comes alive with bars, restaurants and boutiques. Whether you’re out for a stroll, a drink or a jog, we think this seaside resort has something for everyone!
Practical advice
- Beautiful sea view
- Restaurants, stores
- Flat path, benches for resting
- Ideal for walking or sport
10. See the ruins of Punta Mujeres
Why we love
Along the Meloneras promenade, don’t miss the tiny archaeological site! These are the remains of a house over 1000 years old. It’s 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
- Visible from the seafront promenade
- A single stone structure
11. Bars and clubs
Why we love
Meloneras is also renowned for its bars and clubs. In town and along the promenade, you’ll be spoilt for choice! The seafront location of many establishments is ideal for sipping a cocktail and feeling completely at home. We saw bars with trendy decor and great drinks menus. Those who wish can also enjoy the festive atmosphere of the discotheques.
Practical advice
- Bars and clubs along the waterfront and in town
- Isn’t sunset the best time for a cocktail?
12. Appreciate your hotel’s services
Why we love
Meloneras is famous for its hotels! Superb hotels line the seafront. We stayed in exceptional places with breathtaking ocean views and amenities not to be missed. Infinity pools, spas, gyms and sports activities will delight all holidaymakers! Book your hotel in advance and take a close look at the services it offers to make the most of your stay. Here’s our article on the best hotels in Maspalomas to inspire you (coming soon)!
We particularly liked :
- The Hotel Faro with its 2 swimming pools, golf course and gym!
- The Hotel Lopesan Costa Meloneras Resort & Spa with its 6 pools and extraordinary spa.
Practical advice
- Book your room in advance!
- Read our article on the best hotels in Maspalomas (coming soon).
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 Meloneras: other ideas
Attractions and parks
Meloneras is close to parks and fun tourist attractions! Young and old alike will be delighted.
- Try out the rides and roller coasters at Holiday World(5min drive).
- Have fun in the pools and slides atAqualand (10min drive).
- Meet at the Palmitos Park zoo (20min drive).
Sports activities
We found Meloneras ideal for sporting activities. Why not take a jog along the promenade and enjoy the breathtaking sea views? There’s also plenty to do in and around Meloneras. For example:
- Try this e-bike excursion along the coast to discover gardens and a fishing village.
- Dare to go canyoning with this sensational activity!
- You can also climb via ferrata and take a vertical tour of the island.
Excursions around Meloneras
Located in the south of Gran Canaria, Meloneras is the perfect starting point for exploring the island. Here are some of our suggestions:
- Take a boat trip from the small port of Pasito Blanco!
- Explore the Meloneras area in a buggy, a small off-road vehicle!
- Discover the most beautiful natural spots on the island. You’ll see a small canyon, caves and a charming little village.
Is Meloneras worth a visit?
Without a doubt! The seaside resort has a lot to offer. You’ll be able to enjoy the sea and beaches, as well as superb scenery. Meloneras adjoins the magnificent Maspalomas Dunes, a hint of Gran Canaria’s desert, and is home to a particularly photogenic lighthouse. We found the warm, relaxed atmosphere made for a great vacation!
Useful tips for visiting Meloneras
Where is Meloneras
- South of Gran Canaria
- In the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana
- Next to Maspalomas
- 45min drive from Las Palmas
- 30min from airport
Here is a map to help you find your way:
How to get to Meloneras
Meloneras is easily reached 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.
Meloneras 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 Meloneras
As Meloneras is a popular destination, parking is not always easy! But it is possible to find places on the streets or in parking lots. Please note that parking is not free. We recommend the less expensive blue zones. Depending on your accommodation, you may also be eligible for a place. Most hotels have parking facilities. Please ask at reception or check when booking.
Getting around Meloneras
Meloneras is a relatively small seaside resort. It’s easy to get around on foot. You can also opt for a practical electric bike or scooter!
Where to eat in Meloneras
The seafront and alleyways of Meloneras are packed with small restaurants. Here are some of our suggestions:
- Restaurant El Churrasco for typical Spanish cuisine!
- The Blue Marlin for its breathtaking view of the bay.
Visit Meloneras in winter
Coming to Meloneras 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. Some hotels even offer attractive deals. Read our article on the best hotels in Maspalomas (coming soon) and book your dream room now for your next winter vacation!
FUN in Gran Canaria:activities
Dolphin watching
Buggy / Quad
Snorkeling
Kayaking in the Mogan caves
But also: Canyoning, Horse riding, Via Ferrata, Coasteering… See all options
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
