If you’re seeking a dreamy getaway where sunshine, beaches, and adventure blend perfectly, Gran Canaria is your ideal spot. Part of the Canary Islands archipelago, this island is a true paradise, offering everything from crystal-clear waters and golden sands to stunning mountainous landscapes and ravines that seem otherworldly.
Gran Canaria truly has it all: breathtaking natural scenery, a vibrant culture, and a wide array of activities to suit everyone. Best of all, its year-round pleasant climate makes it a perfect destination any time of year, always ready to surprise you.
To help you plan your visit, we’ve selected 6 must-do activities during your stay. From its unique beaches and natural landscapes to cultural and gastronomic experiences, these will allow you to discover the best of Gran Canaria. Ready to explore what this magical island has to offer? Let’s begin!
Top activities in Gran Canaria
Here are some of the best things to experience on the island:
1. Cool off on the wonderful beaches
The island boasts an extensive coastline with attractive beaches and coves in both the north and south. Las Canteras beach, in the capital, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, is a standout, recognised as one of the best urban beaches globally. In the south, you’ll find Playa del Inglés in San Bartolomé de Tirajana, famous for its long stretch of golden sand and lively atmosphere.
Both coasts are perfect for enjoying beach days with family and friends, soaking up the sun, sea breeze, and pleasant temperatures courtesy of the Canary Islands’ desirable climate.
2. Visit Tamadaba Natural Park and Roque Nublo
Gran Canaria is home to significant national parks with unique species, such as Tamadaba Natural Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty and a biodiversity sanctuary spanning over 7,500 hectares.
Its lush Canary pine forests, combined with unique endemic species, create a fairytale landscape. Hiking its trails is an unforgettable experience, with each step leading to stunning viewpoints offering panoramic views of the coast and the Atlantic Ocean.
In the heart of the island rises the majestic Roque Nublo, an iconic symbol of Gran Canaria. This imposing monolith, located in Tejeda, stands tall amidst a mountainous landscape that seems to touch the sky. The walk to its base is an adventure in itself, and once there, the panoramic views of the island will leave you breathless.
From this vantage point, you can see the vast ravines, green valleys, and even Mount Teide on the neighbouring island of Tenerife on a clear day.
Both Tamadaba Natural Park and Roque Nublo are ideal for hiking and nature enthusiasts.
These protected areas in Gran Canaria boast great biodiversity and endemism, making them impressive natural gems you shouldn’t miss, not only for their unique beauty but also as the best way to immerse yourself in the island’s spectacular nature.
3. Savour canarian cuisine
Canarian cuisine is a true treasure that has won over taste buds worldwide. Traditional dishes are not only delicious but also a fundamental part of the archipelago’s cultural identity.
Sample the island’s delicacies, starting with the famous papas arrugadas con mojo (wrinkled potatoes with mojo sauce), a simple yet flavourful dish combining the unique texture of boiled potatoes with the explosive flavours of mojo sauce, either picón (spicy) or verde (green).
Don’t leave the island without trying gofio, an ancient food made from toasted and ground grains, served in various forms, such as gofio escaldado, a comforting and traditional mixture. For a sweet treat, bienmesabe, a typical dessert made with honey, egg yolk, and ground almonds, will transport you to a world of sweet flavours and silky textures.
But Canarian cuisine goes far beyond. In Gran Canaria, you can also enjoy dishes like sancocho canario, a salted fish stew with sweet potatoes and gofio, or grilled cheese with mojo sauce, a delight combining the intense flavour of local cheese with the spicy touch of mojo. Accompany your meals with a good local wine, such as those from the Gran Canaria Designation of Origin, known for their quality and uniqueness.
In short, Canarian gastronomy is one of Spain’s most interesting and rich, full of unique aromas and flavours that reflect the diversity and character of the islands. Don’t miss the opportunity to savour these traditional island dishes during your visit!
4. Enjoy water activities
Thanks to its privileged climate, with over 300 days of sunshine a year, Gran Canaria has become a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The island offers ideal conditions for activities like bodyboarding, surfing, kitesurfing, and more:
- Surfing: The island has numerous beaches where you can surf, from Las Canteras beach to El Confital or Las Alcaravaneras.
- Kitesurfing: Gran Canaria has several beaches with good winds, such as Vargas beach or El Burrero, making it ideal for kitesurfing.
- Windsurfing: Southern Gran Canaria is known for its windsurfing conditions, especially at Pozo Izquierdo beach.
- Paddleboarding: An increasingly popular activity, available on several Gran Canaria beaches.
- Diving: The island has a variety of diving spots with impressive coral reefs and rich marine life. Popular areas include Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Arinaga, Sardina del Norte, and Tufia.
5. Explore the rural villages
Gran Canaria is much more than beaches and spectacular landscapes, it’s an island full of rural charm found in its picturesque villages. These spots, preserving their traditional architecture and a tranquil, welcoming atmosphere, offer a glimpse into authentic Canarian life. Each village is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture, traditions, and warmth of the Canarian people.
One of the most notable villages is Tejeda, located in the heart of the island and recognised as one of Spain’s prettiest villages. Surrounded by stunning natural surroundings, with the majestic Roque Nublo as a backdrop, Tejeda invites you to stroll its cobbled streets, admire its traditional architecture, and taste its famous honey, a local product reflecting the richness of its land.
In the north lies Teror, a village full of history and devotion. Its impressive Basilica of Our Lady of the Pine, the patron saint of Gran Canaria, is a pilgrimage site and a symbol of identity for Canarians. Walking its cobbled streets, lined with houses featuring wooden balconies, is like stepping back in time. Don’t leave without trying its famous “chorizo de Teror,” a unique sausage that has won over locals and visitors alike.
In the east, Valsequillo awaits with its vast farmlands and stunning panoramic views. This village is famous for its strawberries, a local product that has become an emblem. Its green landscapes and rural atmosphere make it a perfect place to disconnect and enjoy nature.
These rural villages are just a sample of the cultural and natural richness hidden in Gran Canaria. Each offers a unique experience, full of authenticity and tradition. Exploring them means delving into the purest essence of the island, where time seems to stand still and the warmth of its people makes you feel at home.
6. Enjoy top leisure activities at Holiday World Maspalomas Theme Park
Holiday World Maspalomas is a theme park in southern Gran Canaria, a landmark for families, groups of friends, and travellers seeking a day full of excitement and joy.
Inside the park, you’ll find a wide variety of attractions creating unforgettable moments. From the adrenaline rush of the roller coaster to the classic fun of the carousel or the competitive spirit of the bumper cars, every activity is designed for maximum enjoyment for all ages. The experience doesn’t end there: Holiday World also offers modern options like escape rooms, where you can test your wits, or karaoke, perfect for unleashing your fun side. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the bowling alley, ideal for an afternoon of laughter and friendly competition.
To recharge, head to the Nomad Gastro Market at the top of the park, a culinary zone that’s an experience in itself. Here, you can enjoy a wide variety of culinary options, from traditional Canarian dishes to international flavours, all in a modern and welcoming atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to take a break, share a meal with loved ones, and recharge before continuing the fun.