Gran Canaria Vacations

Things To Do in Gran Canaria 

Gran Canaria offers a wide range of activities that make it an ideal destination for any type of vacation. Whether you love adventure, relaxation, or exploring the local culture, there’s something for everyone. Here are some top things to do during your Gran Canaria vacation: 

• Relax on the Beaches: Gran Canaria is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands. Playa de las Canteras in Las Palmas is perfect for swimming and sunbathing, while Maspalomas Beach offers stunning sand dunes and a peaceful atmosphere. You can spend your day lounging in the sun, taking a swim, or even trying water sports like windsurfing or jet skiing. 

• Hiking and Exploring Nature: The island is a hiker's paradise, with stunning trails through volcanic mountains and lush valleys. One of the best hikes is to Roque Nublo, where you’ll enjoy amazing views of the island. If you prefer something more challenging, you can also hike in the Pico de las Nieves area, the highest point on the island, offering spectacular panoramic views. 

• Visit the Maspalomas Dunes: The Maspalomas Dunes are one of Gran Canaria's most famous natural landmarks. You can explore the vast golden sand dunes by foot or take a camel ride through the desert-like landscape. It’s a great place to take in the unique surroundings, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the colours of the sand are breathtaking. 

• Explore Historic Sites: Gran Canaria has rich history and culture that can be explored in its many museums and historic towns. In Las Palmas, you can visit the Casa de Colón (Columbus House), a museum dedicated to the explorer’s travels, or the Santa Ana Cathedral in Vegueta, the island's old quarter. You can also explore charming villages like Teror, known for its colonial architecture and traditional markets. 

• Enjoy Water Parks and Family Fun: If you’re travelling with family, don’t miss a visit to Aqualand Maspalomas, the largest water park on the island. It offers thrilling water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, making it a great way to spend a fun-filled day. It’s a fantastic way to cool off and enjoy some adventure with the kids. 

• Try Local Food and Drink: Gran Canaria offers delicious local cuisine. Don’t miss trying papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce, a traditional Canarian dish. You can also enjoy fresh seafood and other Spanish dishes at local restaurants. For dessert, try bienmesabe, a sweet almond treat that’s popular on the island. 

• Go Shopping at Local Markets: Gran Canaria has several local markets where you can pick up unique souvenirs, fresh produce, and handmade crafts. The San Mateo Market is perfect for fresh island produce, while the Puerto de Mogán Market offers everything from local artwork to clothes. It’s a great way to experience the island’s culture and pick up something special to take home. 

• Nightlife and Entertainment: Gran Canaria is known for its lively nightlife, particularly in the areas around Playa del Inglés and Las Palmas. You’ll find a variety of bars, clubs, and restaurants offering everything from live music to dance floors. Whether you're looking for a relaxed night out or a place to dance into the early hours, Gran Canaria’s nightlife scene won’t disappoint. 

From relaxing on beautiful beaches to exploring historic towns and enjoying outdoor adventures, Gran Canaria vacations offer something for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or excitement, you’ll find plenty to do on this stunning island. 

History, Culture and Nightlife of Gran Canaria 

Gran Canaria is not just known for its stunning beaches and natural beauty; it also has a rich history, vibrant culture, and lively nightlife scene. Here's an overview of the island's history, culture, and nightlife that you can enjoy during your Gran Canaria vacation: 

History of Gran Canaria 

Gran Canaria has a fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. The island was first inhabited by the Guanches, the native people of the Canary Islands, who arrived from North Africa. Evidence of their presence can be seen in archaeological sites like the Cueva Pintada (Painted Cave) in Gáldar, where you can view ancient rock paintings. 

In the 15th century, Gran Canaria became part of Spain after the Castilian conquest. The island’s strategic location made it an important stop for explorers heading to the Americas. Over time, Gran Canaria grew into a hub for trade and exploration. Today, you can visit Las Palmas, the island's capital, and explore historic areas like the Vegueta Quarter, where colonial-era buildings still stand. The Casa de Colón (Columbus House) is a museum dedicated to Christopher Columbus, who stopped in Gran Canaria on his way to the New World. 

Culture of Gran Canaria 

The culture of Gran Canaria is a mix of indigenous, Spanish, and African influences. This blend can be seen in the island’s architecture, music, and festivals. 

Gran Canaria is home to many festivals that showcase the island’s cultural traditions. One of the biggest is the Carnival of Las Palmas, a colourful celebration with parades, costumes, live music, and dancing. The carnival is one of the most famous in Spain and attracts visitors from all over the world. 

Music is another important part of Gran Canaria’s culture. Traditional Canarian music often features folk instruments like the timple (a small guitar) and drums, and it’s common to hear it during festivals and local events. Flamenco, a passionate Spanish dance and music style, is also popular on the island. 

You’ll also see local handicrafts in markets and shops across Gran Canaria, including handmade pottery, woven baskets, and embroidered textiles. These items reflect the island's artistic heritage and make for unique souvenirs. 

Nightlife in Gran Canaria 

When the sun sets, Gran Canaria comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene. Whether you're looking for a relaxed evening by the beach or a night of dancing, the island offers a variety of options. 

Las Palmas, the capital, has a mix of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs, with many venues offering live music or DJ sets. The Vegueta Quarter is known for its charming bars and cafés, perfect for enjoying a quiet drink while soaking in the historic atmosphere. 

In Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas, the nightlife scene is more upbeat, with a wide range of nightclubs, beach bars, and entertainment venues. This area is known for its lively parties, with music styles ranging from Latin and pop to electronic dance music (EDM). The beach bars, or chiringuitos, are perfect for enjoying cocktails by the sea as the night goes on. 

If you enjoy a more relaxed evening, Puerto de Mogán offers a more laid-back vibe. Here, you can find waterside restaurants and bars where you can unwind and enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset. 

Gran Canaria’s nightlife caters to every taste, whether you prefer a quiet evening or an exciting night out.