Gran Canaria holidays

A seemingly endless number of restaurants line the beaches and bays of Gran Canaria, so you’re really spoiled for choice when it comes to dining out. You can choose to go local with fresh seafood and traditional island dishes, or get a taste of home from one of hundreds of international menus. The first thing you should try is papas arrugadas – a Canarian speciality. These salted potatoes are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and are always served with the local mojo sauce. This slightly spicy condiment is made from garlic, chillies and bell pepper, and goes perfectly with the potatoes. You’ll find pappa arrugudas on every local menu, as an accompaniment to traditional stews and broths. Paella is another big deal in Gran Canaria. This Spanish favourite can be found all over the island and is typically made with chicken and a variety of seafood including mussels and clams. With large plates meant for sharing, this tasty dish is a fun way to eat as a group. The best of the bunch can be found in Puerto Rico on the island’s southeast coast. Finally, you can’t holiday on Gran Canaria without trying the bananas! These aren’t any old bananas – they’re some of the best you’ll find anywhere – soft, sweet and moreish. In fact, the yellow fruit is so popular, the locals have even made a liquor from it called Canafruit Crema Banana, lovely as an after-dinner drink.

There are more than 80 beaches in Gran Canaria, so you get everything from well-equipped stretches of sand with restaurants and bars, to untouched bays far from the crowds. The protected sand dunes of Maspalamos are a huge draw, with tourists from all over the world flocking to the desert-like landscape at all times of year for photos and sun-soaking. The city of Las Palmas is worth a visit in its own right, but it’s also home to one of the best urban beaches in Europe. Here you’ll find 3km of golden sand decked out with sun loungers, and backed by charming cafes. Awarded a prestigious Blue Flag for cleanliness, Las Cantera Beach is perfect for family days out and safe swimming. Playa del Ingles is one of the most popular beaches on the island and at 8km long, you’ll definitely find a place to lay down your towel! The beach is well-equipped with lifeguards on duty and changing areas. There are countless places to eat behind the beach, while at the western end you’ll find Maspalamos dunes, an exotic spot for catching some rays. The charming small bay at Puerto Mogan makes for a pleasant day out with a relaxed vibe. The beach is sheltered with calm water for swimming and the soft golden sand is the ideal place to work on your tan. A few steps away, you’ll find a pretty fishing village where you can grab refreshments and take in the scenery.

With a myriad of beaches and 204km of coastline, Gran Canaria is the perfect jumping-off point for adventures on the ocean. Whether you choose to explore by boat, kayak, or dinghy, there’s plenty to see on the sea, including whales, dolphins, sealions – and more.

Whale and dolphin watching: This is a once in a lifetime experience and Gran Canaria offers plenty of tours and excursions. Get to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, on a trip designed to be respectful to the animals. Most trips depart from Puerto Rico, on the south coast.

Scuba diving: If you’re after a close up look at life in the water, a beginner’s scuba diving excursion is the way to go. Start off in shallow water to get the basics under your belt, then head out into the deep with a top instructor to swim with sea turtles and colourful fish. Your exciting day under the ocean waves begins at Puerto Rico.

Kayaking: For a chilled-out day of discovery, a kayak expedition can’t be beaten. You can hire a kayak and go under your own stream, but we recommend a guided tour. You’ll be shown all the top caves, nooks and bays for catching a glimpse of sealions and even dolphins, before stopping off for lunch at an unspoiled beach.

There are endless ways to have fun on your Gran Canaria holiday besides sea and sand. Whether you’re a family with young kids after an exciting day out, are you want a bit of an adrenaline boost on your holiday, there are tons of fun activities on the island to keep all ages entertained.

Waterpark: Aqualand Maspalamos is a top day out whether you’re young – or just young at heart. Take on the twists and turns at Snake Falls or race a partner to the finish line on the spine-tingling Kamikaze! For family fun, head to the wave pool and lazy river, and for little ones there’s hours of excitement at the mini shoots and waterfalls.

Horse riding: For lovers of all thing equine, there’s no better way to see the island that a horse riding expedition. There are trips with qualified instructors for all ages and abilities – even if you’ve never sat on a horse before. You’ll get to trek over magnificent volcanic landscape with amazing views of the Maspalamos dunes below.

Go-karting: Maybe you’re after a more adrenaline-fueled day out? Then it’s time to strap on your seatbelt and put your foot down at the Gran Karting Club! Race your partner or friends around the track to see who emerges the ultimate victor, and get valuable bragging rights for the rest of the holiday.