Explore the Island

Things to Do in Gran Canaria

From sun-soaked beaches to volcanic mountain trails — discover activities and attractions for every type of traveller.

Dramatic red sandstone rock arch in the Barranco de las Vacas ravine Nature

Barranco de las Vacas

Discover Gran Canaria's own "mini Grand Canyon" — a stunning red-rock gorge with wind-sculpted sandstone arches that's perfect for photography and easy walks.

Agüimes Free
Snorkeller exploring clear shallow waters along the Gran Canaria coast Beach

Snorkelling Adventures

Grab a mask and explore crystal-clear Atlantic waters teeming with colourful fish, sea turtles, and volcanic rock formations just metres from the shore.

Multiple locations From €15
Angel shark resting on the sandy seabed off the coast of Gran Canaria Beach

Marine Wildlife Encounters

Gran Canaria is one of the last strongholds of the endangered angel shark. Spot rays, turtles, dolphins, and tropical fish in the island's marine reserve.

Las Canteras, Sardina Free–€45
Roque Nublo silhouette at sunset rising above the clouds with Tenerife on the horizon Adventure

Roque Nublo Summit Hike

An iconic 3-hour return hike to Gran Canaria's famous volcanic monolith. Moderate difficulty with incredible views over the island and towards Tenerife.

Tejeda 3 hrs
Group of mountain bikers at a viewpoint overlooking a volcanic canyon in Gran Canaria Adventure

Mountain Cycling

Tackle epic switchback roads through volcanic valleys and pine forests. Gran Canaria is a world-class cycling destination with routes for every level.

Island-wide From €25
Scuba diver swimming alongside a massive school of fish in Gran Canaria waters Adventure

Scuba Diving

Discover vibrant marine life, volcanic reefs, and even sunken ships. Crystal-clear visibility and warm waters make Gran Canaria ideal for divers of all levels.

Arinaga, Mogán From €45
Bougainvillea-draped white houses and flower-lined streets of Puerto de Mogán Culture

Puerto de Mogán

Known as the "Little Venice of Gran Canaria" — wander bougainvillea-lined streets, cross canal bridges, browse the famous Friday market, and dine by the harbour.

South-West Coast Free
Natural volcanic cave formation with light streaming through in Gran Canaria Culture

Aboriginal Cave Sites

Explore the ancient cave dwellings and sacred sites of the original Canarians. From Cenobio de Valerón's 300 chambers to painted caves in Gáldar — history carved in stone.

Gáldar, Guayadeque Free–€6
Aerial view of a road winding through Tamadaba Canarian pine forest Nature

Tamadaba Pine Forest

Immerse yourself in one of the most ancient Canarian pine forests. Pristine trails through 7,500 hectares of UNESCO-listed nature, with breathtaking viewpoints and clean mountain air.

West Coast Highlands Free
Colourful Angry Birds Activity Park with slides and play areas in Gran Canaria Family

Angry Birds Activity Park

The ultimate outdoor playground for kids! Mini-golf, trampolines, go-karts, and themed play zones based on the famous Angry Birds — fun for children of all ages.

Puerto Rico From €12
Telescope pointed at the Milky Way during a stargazing experience in Gran Canaria mountains Nature

Stargazing Experiences

Gran Canaria holds Starlight Reserve certification. Join guided astronomy sessions in the mountains with professional telescopes — see planets, nebulae, and the Milky Way like never before.

Roque Saucillo, Pico de las Nieves From €40
Interior of the submarine with panoramic underwater viewing windows lit in blue Family

Submarine Adventure

Dive beneath the waves without getting wet! A real submarine takes you 20 metres below the surface to see marine life, shipwrecks, and coral reefs.

Puerto de Mogán From €35
Young surfer riding a wave on a blue surfboard in turquoise Canarian waters Adventure

Surfing & Surf Lessons

World-class breaks for experts and gentle beach breaks perfect for beginners. Group and private lessons available with all equipment — stand up on your first day!

Las Canteras, El Confital From €35
Santa Ana Cathedral facade with twin bell towers and palm trees in Vegueta, Las Palmas Culture

Vegueta Historic Quarter

The founding neighbourhood of Las Palmas — 500 years of colonial architecture, the majestic Santa Ana Cathedral, Casa de Colón museum, and vibrant tapas bars.

Las Palmas Free–€4
Crystal-clear turquoise water at the sheltered Amadores beach in Gran Canaria Beach

Amadores Beach

A crescent of golden sand lapped by impossibly turquoise, calm waters. Sheltered breakwaters make it one of the safest swimming spots on the island — ideal for all ages.

Mogán Free
Canarian tapas with mojo sauces, cheese, and cured meats Culture

Food Tours & Tapas Tastings

Guided tours through local markets, wine bodegas, and salt pans. Sample mojo sauces, local cheeses, and fresh seafood.

Las Palmas, Agüimes From €55
Child in an aeroplane cockpit at Museo Elder science museum in Las Palmas Family

Museo Elder Science Museum

Interactive science museum in Las Palmas with a real cockpit, planetarium, and hands-on exhibits. Kids absolutely love it — easily a half-day visit.

Las Palmas €6 adults / free under 6
Kids playing on a crocodile sculpture at Cocodrilo Park Gran Canaria Family

Cocodrilo Park

Rescue zoo with crocodiles, tigers, monkeys, and parrots. Small, affordable, and brilliant for younger kids. About 30 minutes from the south coast resorts.

Agüimes From €9.50
Underwater view at Poema del Mar aquarium in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria Family

Poema del Mar Aquarium

Spectacular modern aquarium in Las Palmas with one of the largest curved glass windows in the world. Three zones: jungle, reef, and deep ocean.

Las Palmas From €24
Tropical birds and botanical gardens at Palmitos Park Gran Canaria Family

Palmitos Park

Zoo and botanical garden in a stunning valley setting. Dolphin shows, bird of prey displays, and a butterfly house. One of the island's best family days out.

Maspalomas From €34
Child jumping into a swimming pool in the sunshine in Gran Canaria Family

Aqualand Maspalomas

The island's biggest water park with slides for all ages, a lazy river, and a wave pool. Guaranteed fun for a full day — bring your own food to save money.

Maspalomas From €28
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Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

The top things to do include visiting the Maspalomas Sand Dunes, hiking to Roque Nublo, exploring the historic Vegueta quarter in Las Palmas, relaxing on Amadores Beach, and visiting family attractions like Aqualand and Palmitos Park. The island also offers excellent surfing, diving, and mountain biking.
Absolutely! Gran Canaria is one of Europe's best family destinations. Beaches like Amadores and Anfi del Mar have calm, shallow waters perfect for young children. Theme parks like Aqualand and Palmitos Park cater to all ages, and the year-round warm weather means no risk of rain ruining your holiday.
Gran Canaria enjoys warm weather year-round, making it a great destination at any time. Peak season is November to March when northern Europeans escape the cold. Summer (June–September) is hottest and busiest. Shoulder months (April–May, October) offer the best balance of warm weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices.
Renting a car is the best way to explore the island's diverse landscapes and hidden gems. The bus network (Global) is reliable and affordable for major routes. Taxis are available everywhere, and many resorts offer shuttle services. For the adventurous, the island has excellent cycling routes too.
Yes, many of Gran Canaria's best experiences are completely free! The beaches, hiking trails (including Roque Nublo), the Jardín Canario botanical garden, wandering through Vegueta old town, and enjoying the Maspalomas dunes all cost nothing. Free festivals and markets also happen regularly across the island.

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