If you’re planning a trip to Gran Canaria, the third largest island of the Canary Islands, you’re in for a treat. This Spanish island, located off the coast of Africa, is known for its stunning beaches, warm weather, and diverse landscapes that range from desert-like dunes to lush green mountains.
But there’s more to Gran Canaria than just sunbathing and swimming. Here are 15 activities you should consider doing on the island.
The Importance of Activities in Enhancing Travel Experience
While many people may choose to visit Gran Canaria for relaxation and sunbathing, engaging in activities can significantly enhance your overall travel experience.
Activities provide an opportunity to explore the island’s diverse landscapes and immerse yourself in its culture.
From outdoor adventures like hiking or water sports to cultural experiences like food markets or music festivals, there is always something exciting to do on the island.
Activities also offer an opportunity to connect with locals and other travelers. Participating in group tours or events allows you to meet new people and create lasting memories together.
For these reasons, we highly recommend that visitors take advantage of the many activities available on Gran Canaria during their stay.
In this article, we will explore some of the best things to do on the island that will make your trip unforgettable!
Outdoor Adventures
The Diverse Landscapes of Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is a hiker’s paradise, with diverse landscapes offering trails and nature walks for all skill levels.
From volcanic mountains to lush pine forests, the island’s natural beauty is breathtaking.
For those who want a challenge, hiking to the summit of Pico de las Nieves, the highest peak in Gran Canaria at 1,949 meters, is a must-do.
The Roque Nublo hike takes you through beautiful rock formations and offers stunning panoramic views of the island.
Water Sports for Thrill-Seekers
Water sports are plentiful on Gran Canaria’s beaches. Surfing at Playa de las Canteras is popular among locals and visitors alike.
Windsurfing enthusiasts should head to Pozo Izquierdo where strong winds and waves provide perfect conditions for this exciting sport.
Paddleboarding is another option for those looking for something more laid-back but equally enjoyable. With calm waters and stunning scenery at Mogan Beach, it’s no wonder paddleboarding has become increasingly popular.
Adrenaline Junkies Unite: Rock Climbing & Canyoning
For adrenaline junkies seeking a thrill, rock climbing and canyoning are two activities that will not disappoint.
There are numerous rock climbing routes on the island that cater to all skill levels from beginners to experts; however, Cañon del Aguila located in Agaete offers one of the most spectacular sites with towering cliffs rising over 100 meters high.
Canyoning may be less well-known but it’s just as thrilling!
This sport involves descending through water canyons by rappelling down waterfalls or jumping into pools below; all while enjoying breathtaking scenery along the way!
Tour companies offer guided tours that provide all necessary equipment including helmets and wetsuits.
One popular location for canyoning is the Barranco de los Cernícalos in Telde, where you can expect to jump into deep pools, abseil over waterfalls, and slide down natural water chutes.
Overall, Gran Canaria offers a wide variety of outdoor adventures to suit different interests and levels of fitness. From hiking to rock climbing and canyoning; surfing, windsurfing, or paddleboarding there is something for everyone who seeks an active holiday amidst stunning natural beauty!
Beach Activities
Sunbathing and Swimming
When it comes to beach activities, sunbathing and swimming are the most popular options. Gran Canaria boasts a number of stunning beaches, each with its own unique vibe. Playa de las Canteras is one of the most famous beaches on the island, featuring golden sand and crystal clear waters.
This beach is perfect for lounging in the sun or taking a dip in the ocean.
If you’re looking for something a bit more secluded, head to Playa de Güigüi.
This remote beach can only be accessed by foot or boat, but its pristine waters and unspoiled beauty make it well worth the journey.
Whether you’re looking for a lively atmosphere or a peaceful retreat, Gran Canaria has a beach that’s perfect for you.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
For those who want to explore the underwater world around Gran Canaria, snorkeling and scuba diving are great options.
The island’s warm waters are home to an array of marine life, from colorful fish to sea turtles.
One of the best spots for snorkeling is El Cabrón Marine Reserve.
This protected area is home to over 400 different species of marine life and features crystal clear waters that make it easy to spot colorful fish darting around coral reefs.
Meanwhile, scuba divers can explore shipwrecks off the coast of Gran Canaria at sites like Sardina del Norte or Pasito Blanco.
These dives offer a chance to see fascinating underwater ruins as well as exotic sea creatures.
Boat Tours
For those who want to stay dry while still experiencing Gran Canaria’s stunning marine life up close, there are plenty of boat tours available on the island.
These tours take visitors out into the ocean where they can spot dolphins, whales, and other creatures in their natural habitat.
One of the most popular tours is the Dolphin Watching Catamaran Tour.
This tour takes visitors out onto the Atlantic to see bottlenose dolphins in action.
Visitors can watch as these intelligent creatures play and jump out of the water, putting on a show that’s sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an exciting adventure out on the ocean, Gran Canaria has plenty of activities to keep you entertained.
So grab your sunblock and dive into all that this beautiful island has to offer!
Cultural Experiences
Visiting historic sites such as the Cueva Pintada Museum or Roque Nublo
Gran Canaria has a rich history that is worth exploring. One of the best ways to do this is to visit its historic sites.
The Cueva Pintada Museum is one such site that provides a glimpse into the life of the Guanches, Gran Canaria’s pre-Hispanic inhabitants.
This museum showcases cave paintings and other artifacts that were found during excavations on the island.
The Roque Nublo, on the other hand, is a natural monument that dates back millions of years.
It is a volcanic rock formation that stands at 80 meters tall and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Sampling local cuisine at traditional restaurants or food markets
No trip to Gran Canaria would be complete without indulging in its delicious local cuisine. The island’s unique blend of Spanish, African, and Latin American influences has resulted in a variety of mouth-watering dishes.
One popular dish is papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes), which are small potatoes boiled in salt water until their skins wrinkle up.
They are usually served with mojo sauce, which comes in green (made with coriander) or red (made with chili peppers) varieties.
For those who are interested in trying out different types of food, visiting one of Gran Canaria’s many food markets is highly recommended.
One such market is Mercado de Vegueta, which offers an array of fresh produce, seafood, meat products and more– all under one roof!
Attending cultural events such as music festivals or carnivals
Gran Canaria hosts several cultural events throughout the year which offer great entertainment for locals and tourists alike.
Among these events is Carnival de Las Palmas – an annual carnival that is held in February.
This carnival is a spectacular display of color, music, and dance.
There are parades, live music performances and competitions during which participants show off their elaborate costumes.
Another popular event is the WOMAD (World of Music, Arts and Dance) Festival held every November in Las Palmas.
This festival features an eclectic mix of international musicians, artists, and performers who come together to celebrate cultural diversity.
Gran Canaria offers a unique blend of history, culture and gastronomy to its visitors.
Whether you are interested in exploring the island’s historic sites or attending one of its many cultural events or simply sampling local cuisine at traditional restaurants or food markets – there is something for everyone!
Family-Friendly Fun
Theme Parks for All Ages: Palmitos Park and Aqualand Maspalomas
Gran Canaria is home to several theme parks that provide family-friendly fun. The two most popular among tourists are Palmitos Park and Aqualand Maspalomas. Palmitos Park is a nature park located in the south of the island.
Visitors get to explore a wide range of flora and fauna from different parts of the world. The park has over 1,500 animals including exotic birds, dolphins, reptiles, and primates.
There are also entertaining shows featuring parrots or birds of prey to keep visitors engaged. Aqualand Maspalomas is another must-visit theme park for families traveling with kids.
It’s the largest water park on the island, featuring water slides of various sizes for all ages. Toddlers can enjoy shallow pools with miniature slides, while older kids can experience adrenaline-pumping rides like Kamikaze or Tornado.
Zoos and Aquariums on the Island
The island has several zoos and aquariums where families can learn about different animal species while having fun at the same time. The Sioux City Park is a Wild West themed zoo located in San Bartolomé de Tirajana offering live shows, cowboy duels and a petting farm where kids can interact with goats and rabbits. Poema del Mar is an aquarium located in Las Palmas that features over 350 species including sharks, turtles, jellyfishes and corals from different regions around the world such as Australia or Polynesia.Oceanographic features allow visitors to learn more about marine life.
Mini Golf Courses, Go-Karting Tracks & Other Fun Activities for Kids
If your kids love mini-golf or go-karting tracks, then Gran Canaria has got you covered.
There are several mini-golf courses on the island located in popular tourist areas like Maspalomas, Meloneras, or Puerto Rico. Some of them have 18-hole courses with different themes such as pirate adventures or tropical islands.
Go-karting tracks are also a hit with kids, and Gran Canaria has several options to choose from. The most popular ones are the ones located in Maspalomas and Puerto Rico.
They offer different types of karts for adults and children, ensuring everyone will have fun.
If you’re looking for something less adrenaline-fueled but equally enjoyable for kids, there’s a trampoline park located in Las Palmas where they can jump around safely for hours!
Nightlife Options
Bars and Clubs in Playa del Ingles
Gran Canaria is famous for its nightlife, and Playa del Ingles is the heart of the party scene.
The Kasbah Centre is a popular destination with multiple bars, clubs, and restaurants.
The main dance floor at Pacha is always packed with tourists and locals alike, while Linekers Bar offers live music to keep you entertained until the early hours of the morning.
In addition to the clubs, there are plenty of smaller bars around that are perfect for socializing with friends or meeting new people.
The Nightlife in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico has a lively atmosphere with some great nightclubs situated around the marina.
The most popular nightclub here is Waikiki Beach Club which has indoor and outdoor areas for dancing along with a great selection of drinks.
At weekends this club can get pretty busy so we recommend arriving early to secure your spot on the dance floor.
List Of 15 Things To Do
1. Visit the Dunes of Maspalomas
The Dunes of Maspalomas are a natural reserve located in the southern part of the island.
They cover an area of about 400 hectares and are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. You can explore the dunes on foot, by bike, or on a camel ride.
2. Go Hiking in the Mountains
Gran Canaria has several hiking trails that are suitable for all levels of experience.
One of the most popular routes is the Roque Nublo trail, which takes you to the top of a volcanic rock formation with stunning views of the island.
3. Visit the Cueva Pintada Museum
The Cueva Pintada Museum in Gáldar is a must-visit for anyone interested in the island’s history. The museum is built around a pre-Hispanic cave that has been restored and painted with original designs.
4. Explore the Historic District of Vegueta
Vegueta is the old town of Las Palmas, the capital of Gran Canaria. The district is home to several historic buildings and landmarks, including the Cathedral of Santa Ana and the Columbus Museum.
5. Go Scuba Diving
Gran Canaria is a popular destination for scuba diving thanks to its clear waters and abundant marine life. There are several diving centers on the island that offer courses and guided dives.
6. Visit the Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo
The Jardín Botánico Canario Viera y Clavijo is a botanical garden located in Tafira Alta. The garden has over 500 plant species from the Canary Islands and other parts of the world.
7. Take a Catamaran Cruise
A catamaran cruise is a great way to explore the coast of Gran Canaria. You can choose from several different routes that offer different views of the island and its beaches.
8. Go Surfing
Gran Canaria has several surf spots that are suitable for all levels of experience. The most popular spot is Las Canteras, a beach in Las Palmas that has consistent waves all year round.
9. Visit the Roque Bentayga
The Roque Bentayga is a natural monument located in the center of the island. It is a volcanic rock formation that was considered a sacred site by the indigenous people of Gran Canaria.
10. Try Local Cuisine
Gran Canaria has a rich culinary tradition that combines Spanish, African, and Latin American influences. Some local dishes you should try include papas arrugadas, a type of boiled potato, and gofio, a type of flour made from roasted cereals.
11. Visit the Puerto de Mogán
The Puerto de Mogán is a picturesque fishing village located in the southwest of the island. It is known for its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and marina.
12. Go Whale Watching
Gran Canaria is one of the best places in Europe for whale watching. Several species of whales and dolphins can be seen off the coast of the island, including killer whales, pilot whales, and bottlenose dolphins.
There are several companies that offer whale-watching tours, and most tours last for around two to three hours. You’ll be able to see these amazing creatures up close and learn more about them from experienced guides.
It’s a great way to experience the beauty of Gran Canaria’s marine life and create unforgettable memories.
13. Take a Day Trip to Tejeda
Tejeda is a small town located in the heart of the island. It is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The town is also famous for its almond trees, which bloom in January and February.
14. Visit the Caldera de Bandama
The Caldera de Bandama is a volcanic crater located in the north-east of the island. It is one of the best-preserved craters in Gran Canaria and offers stunning views of the island.
15. Go Shopping in Triana
Triana is a district in Las Palmas that is known for its shopping and nightlife. The district has several boutiques, department stores, and restaurants.
Gran Canaria has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or culture.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a destination that offers an array of activities during both day and night, then Gran Canaria should be on top of your list.
From relaxing on stunning beaches to enjoying high-adrenaline water sports or exploring rich cultural sites, it has something for everyone.
And when night falls, Gran Canaria transforms into a lively hub of entertainment catering to all ages.
With such diversity in entertainment options available across different regions on this beautiful island, it’s no wonder that this place attracts thousands upon thousands each year; whether they are families or groups of friends seeking adventure or couples looking for relaxation!
So pack your bags today and come explore all that Gran Canaria has to offer!
