Located at the tip of the southern tip of Gran Canaria, the Maspalomas Lighthouse is a must-see building in the famous seaside resort of the same name. At the foot of its slender silhouette lies a gentle promenade, an immense beach and the ocean as far as the eye can see. A breathtaking landscape that won over the photo enthusiasts in our group!
Here are some useful tips for planning your visit to the Maspalomas Lighthouse in Gran Canaria.
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
Is a visit to the Maspalomas lighthouse worthwhile?
Yes, it’s worth a visit. Between the pretty seafront of Meloneras and the stunning Maspalomas Dunes, the Maspalomas Lighthouse silhouettes itself against the Atlantic Ocean. This stone giant dates back to the 19th century and has seen Gran Canaria become a leading tourist destination! We enjoyed admiring it and visiting its small ethnology museum devoted to traditional crafts. El Faro de Maspalomas is classified as a site of cultural interest. It’s one of the oldest lighthouses on the Canary Islands and one of the best things to do in Maspalomas!
What you can see
A slender lighthouse
We could see the lighthouse from afar! Almost 60m high, it marks the separation between the Meloneras promenade and Playa de Maspalomas. A landscape well worth the detour.
The former janitor’s house
At the foot of the lighthouse, admire the old keeper’s house. We liked its black volcanic stone walls, large windows and rectangular shape.
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.
Typical Canarian architecture
The architecture of the lighthouse and keeper’s house is typical of the Canarian style. We appreciated the contrast between the basalt stone exterior and the more refined interior. The rooms’ red and white tiles, columns and balconies will immerse you in the traditional world of a colonial house.
Museum of Ethnology
We visited the Lighthouse Museum, a small space that showcases local history and know-how.
An exhibition on the history of the island
First, you’ll learn about the history of Gran Canaria and its colonization. We particularly appreciated the touchscreen display, which shows, for example, old objects dedicated to navigation.
Traditional craftsmanship
The exhibition continues with local crafts. We admired objects made of straw, stone, wood and fabric, as well as the various tools used to make them.
A panoramic terrace
After climbing some spiral stone staircases, we arrived at the museum’s terrace. The view from here is breathtaking. You’ll be able to take in all the sights!
View of the beach and dunes
Whether at the foot of the lighthouse or from the top of the museum terrace, you can admire the immense Playa de Maspalomas beach and the Maspalomas Dunes, a real piece of desert with an oasis!
A walk at the foot of the lighthouse
Take the time to enjoy the Meloneras promenade next to the lighthouse. We enjoyed strolling around and sipping a cocktail with our feet practically in the water!
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
Maspalomas lighthouse in San Bartolomé de Tirajana: how to get there
Where to find the lighthouse
- In the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana
- In the seaside resort of Maspalomas
- Between the Meloneras seafront, Playa de Maspalomas and the Dunes of Maspalomas
Here is a map to help you find your way:
Access by car and parking
You can park near the lighthouse, Plaza del Faro or Avenida Cristóbal Colón. Pay parking is available.
Public transport access
Several buses will drop you off near the lighthouse, at the start of Avenida Cristóbal Colón, routes 18, 25, 30, 36, 66 and 90. It’s a 5-minute walk to the building.
If you’re staying in Maspalomas, you can also opt for a practical electric bike or scooter!
Access on organized tours
Various tours are available to discover the Maspalomas lighthouse. We advise you:
- A 2-seater e-scooter chopper tour of the lighthouse and dunes.
- Stroll around Maspalomas on a Segway and stop for a photo session in front of the lighthouse, which is particularly photogenic!
Visiting difficulties
There are stairs and an elevator. There are no particular difficulties for visitors.
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
Useful tips for visiting the Maspalomas lighthouse
Schedules and prices
The lighthouse museum is open daily from 10.30am to 5pm.
How long
Allow 30 minutes to 1 hour to visit the museum, admire the lighthouse and take photos!
Best moment
Any time is a good time to visit the lighthouse! We particularly enjoyed contemplating it at sunset. The light is exceptional.
Direction of visit
There’s no set way to visit the lighthouse, but we recommend you start by admiring its slender silhouette from the outside, and the architecture of the old keeper’s house. Then enter the building and explore the floors, ending up on the terrace to enjoy the superb view!
Eating out
The location is close to Meloneras and its promenade, which is home to numerous restaurants.
We really enjoyed it:
- Restaurant El Churrasco, serving Hispanic cuisine
- the Blue Marlin Restaurant with its breathtaking view of the bay
Why not pack a picnic too? The seafront or the beach are ideal places for an outdoor lunch!
Hotels
You’re right in the heart of Maspalomas, where the hotel offer is the stuff of dreams. Here’s our article on the best hotels in the resort. The lighthouse is also located to the east of Meloneras, one of the most pleasant areas of Maspalomas and home to some extraordinary hotels.
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
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
