Gran Canaria is often compared to a small continent due to its incredible diversity, which includes golden beaches, sandy dunes, pine forests on volcanic peaks and dramatic canyons. Each area of the island offers a unique atmosphere, from tranquil wellness centers to vibrant social destinations. Whether you are looking for thalassotherapy, family relaxation, golf with ocean views or exploring the local culture, Gran Canaria allows you to experience a holiday tailored to your needs. Choosing the right area and hotel is therefore key to ensuring that your stay perfectly matches your rhythm and your ideas of the ideal holiday.
The south of the island is home to most of the most developed resorts, each offering a different character and experience. Meloneras is characterized by elegance and tranquility, making it the ideal place for couples and adult travelers. The seaside promenade, Paseo de Meloneras, is lined with palm trees, boutiques and sophisticated restaurants, while prestigious golf courses and thalassotherapy centres are also nearby.
Maspalomas is famous for the Dunas de Maspalomas nature reserve, with its vast sand dunes and iconic lighthouse. This area is perfect for families and travellers looking for peace and quiet in harmony with nature. It offers accommodation in the form of boutique wellness hotels as well as larger apartment complexes close to safe beaches.
Playa del Inglés is the heart of the fun and endless entertainment options, with a long beach and active nightlife in the Yumbo and Kasbah centres. At the same time, it also offers quieter corners for those who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle.
Neighboring San Agustín, on the other hand, is all about peace and relaxation. The resort prefers low-rise buildings and wellness services, where you can enjoy special thermal treatments and massages with a view of the sea. Easy connections to the airport and inland villages add to the convenience of this place.
Your choice of hotel should match your daily rhythm and interests. If you are looking for regeneration and deep relaxation, focus on the hotel thalasso centres in Meloneras or San Agustín, which use minerals and seawater from the Atlantic. For families, hotels in Maspalomas or at the western end of Playa del Inglés are suitable, where you will find children’s clubs and shallow pools ideal for the little ones.
Golf enthusiasts should choose accommodation near the golf courses in the financial district or Maspalomas, which offer challenging and scenic courses with ocean and mountain views. Cultural experiences are not limited to the capital Las Palmas – the south also offers traditional Canarian architecture, markets and coastal paths to experience the authentic atmosphere of the island.
Devote the first day to the stunning Maspalomas dunes at sunrise. Walk barefoot on the sand and visit the iconic lighthouse. Spend the afternoon on the elegant Meloneras promenade, where there are plenty of galleries, sea-view cafes and light snacks.
On the second day, travel along the west coast. Puerto de Mogán, with its picturesque canals and white houses, will charm you with its “little Venice”. Don’t forget to sample the fresh seafood in Agaete and explore the natural pools in Puerto de las Nieves, a scenic route along the GC-200 offering breathtaking views over the Atlantic.
On the third day, head into the volcanic heart of the island. Visit Roque Nublo, a sacred volcanic monolith, and explore the picturesque village of Tejeda, known for its almond sweets. Enjoy the spa atmosphere and the scent of pine trees in the mountainous heart of the island.
On the fourth day, explore Las Palmas. Stroll through the historic district of Vegueta with the Santa Ana Cathedral and the Casa de Colón museum. Relax on the urban beach of Las Canteras, with its natural cliffs and crystal-clear water. The return journey to the south takes around 45 minutes by car along the GC-1.
Gran Canaria is famous for its thalassotherapy activities, which use minerals and alkaline seawater from the Atlantic to regenerate both body and mind. Many hotels offer hydrotherapy, wraps and thermal circuits, especially during the spring and autumn months, when temperatures are at their most pleasant and there are fewer people.
The hotels in Meloneras are ideal for couples looking for peace and quiet, while adult travellers can take advantage of the dedicated wellness programmes at the adults-only hotels. Even families will find relaxation areas adapted to the needs of children in accommodation throughout the south of the island.
Gran Canaria offers two top-class golf courses in the south – the historic Maspalomas Golf and the modern Lopesan Meloneras Golf, with stunning views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. Both are open to the public, with equipment hire and lessons available.
In addition to golf, the island is also a great place for easy walks: from watching the sunset in the evening on the dunes, to the coastal paths at Playa Amadores, to short boat trips to snorkel among tropical fish. The view from Mirador de Fataga or the Amadores cliffs is a well-deserved end to the day, requiring a minimum of physical effort but giving a maximum of experiences.
