Yr-round sunshine, a family-friendly welcome and an opportunity of camels? With so many issues to do in Gran Canaria with children, the Canary Islands are at all times one in all my favorite household journey locations – my daughter’s very first journey was to Lanzarote, which I’ve visited repeatedly together with Tenerife.
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Neglect the old school repute of high-rise resorts and towels on the loungers at daybreak – there are at all times much more issues to do within the Canary Islands than sunbathe (although loads of that too). Staying close to Maspalomas, we explored as far west as Puerto Mogan, past Puerto Rico, north to Arucas and headed into the mountains.
So for those who’re questioning what to do in Gran Canaria, listed here are my prime 21 strategies, together with concepts for those who’re visiting Gran Canaria with a toddler.
The seashores
With 60km of shoreline, there are much more seashores to find than you can attempt in a single vacation (though it’s a enjoyable problem to tackle). Principally, you’ll be spoiled for selection, so don’t overlook to pack a bucket and spade.
It’s price figuring out that nudist sunbathing for adults is frequent however normally restricted to sure areas, significantly one stretch close to Maspalomas – one other stretch right here is aimed toward households.
Maspalomas
One of the crucial well-known stretches of sand on the entire island, Maspalomas isn’t solely a seashore, it’s a desert too with these well-known golden sand dunes.
Whenever you’re performed pretending to be misplaced within the Sahara, there are lifeguards and solar loungers to rent on the seashore itself, in addition to locations to get snacks (although be warned, no public bathrooms) – to not point out an enormous quantity of room to unfold out and construct sandcastles.
You can too take a stroll right down to the lighthouse for those who’re trying to burn off some extra ice cream vitality.
Playa de Las Canteras
This metropolis seashore is thought for its sandcastle sculptors, but it surely’s acquired a great declare to be the very best seashore in Gran Canaria for households.
In the event you’re visiting Gran Canaria with toddlers and little ones, there’s calmer water on the north finish, in addition to loads of golden sand to play in. In the event you’ve acquired older children, tweens and youths, there are larger waves on the south finish for wannabe surfers.
Plus loads of locations to purchase an ice cream, loungers and seashore umbrellas to hire, lifeguards, bathrooms and showers, to not point out an enormous stretch of seashore so there’s room to unfold out. The central part is taken into account probably the most household pleasant.
Playa de Amadores
One in all my very own favorite south coast seashores, with extremely clear water – and whereas the identify means lovers’ seashore, it’s excellent for households as nicely.
The water is sort of shallow and calm near shore, so it’s nice for little ones to paddle in – my daughter beloved splashing about within the waves aged two.
There are additionally loads of loungers and umbrellas to hire across the curve of the seashore too, in addition to an entire string of locations to eat and (paid) bathrooms to make use of. In the event you fancy one thing extra energetic than simply lounging, it’s also possible to rent pedalos to get out onto the water.
Anfi
One other white sand, turquoise water nook of Gran Canaria that’s nice for households – it’s a bit of extra effort to get to than Amadores, however there are lifts at Anfi Resort for those who don’t need to stroll up and down the hill with all of your seashore necessities.
There are calm waters right here too, due to the breakwater, and for those who really feel such as you’ve been transported to the Caribbean, there’s a great motive for that – the white sand was initially imported from the Bahamas with a couple of palm timber to finish the impact.
There’s a bit of kiosk right here to get the necessities (together with ice cream and occasional), and there are bathrooms close by as nicely. You can too discover some watersports on the seashore, together with pedalo and stand-up paddleboard rent.
Puerto de Mogan
Whether or not you go to the seashore or not, you shouldn’t miss a time out in Puerto de Mogan, which is among the prettiest locations on Gran Canaria.
However it’s very simple to mix exploring with a go to to the seashore, which is a shell’s throw from the marina and whitewashed streets. Whereas it’s not the island’s largest seashore, you’ll discover lifeguards, in addition to bathrooms close by, plus the standard loungers and parasols. There are pedalos to rent, and loads of locations to eat within the close by marina.
Parking is restricted, however it’s also possible to arrive by boat, utilizing the little water taxi which hops alongside this a part of the coast as we did.
Puerto Rico seashore, between Puerto de Mogan and Amadores, is one other pretty household seashore – it’s onerous to go incorrect anyplace alongside this entire stretch of coast!
Arguineguin
In the event you’re on the lookout for a change from the golden seashores and powder white stretches of sand alongside the coast, the darker sand of Arguineguin seashore makes it a extra memorable place to place your towel.
Whereas it’s not the longest seashore on the island, the darkish sand and large rocks imply it’s properly dramatic, when you’ve acquired the close by city’s outdated quarter simply behind, with loads of locations to eat. Higher for older children who would possibly fancy mixing city and sea, but it surely’s additionally a great spot for those who’ve acquired youthful kids who simply need some seashore proper now.
Pozo Izquierdo
Undoubtedly an choice for older children, the surf and wind at Pozo Izquierdo make it a world-class windsurfing vacation spot, in addition to a well-liked place to surf.
In the event you’re not tempted to tackle the situations, it does imply there’s at all times loads to see right here as nicely, if you wish to watch from shore. There are additionally windsurfing classes and outlets for those who’re trying to study or need to brush up your abilities although.
Close to Vecindario, it’s a bit of manner east up the coast from Maspalomas.
San Agustin
This family-friendly seashore in Gran Canaria has been known as Playa del Ingles in miniature, and when you’ve acquired loads of area and amenities, it’s much less touristy than Playa del Ingles itself.
The sand is a darker, virtually reddish gold right here as nicely, whereas the waves make it higher for older children than toddlers – there’s additionally a play space by one of many eating places simply off the sand.
It’s simple to park close by as nicely, which isn’t at all times the case across the island, with free parking and loads of buses from Maspalomas.
Pasito Bea
One of many quietest seashores in Gran Canaria, it’s also called ladies’s seashore, or Playa de las Mujeres – though anybody can go to now. The nickname dates from the times when the land right here was used to develop tomatoes, and the ladies who labored within the fields would come right here to wash.
It’s a small seashore, however tempting for the wonderful turquoise color of the ocean (and the possibility to take pleasure in a little bit of peace and quiet). It’s one to go to when the climate is nice although, because the water is calm and heat, though there’s an undercurrent when the seas are rougher so remember with youthful and smaller children particularly.
The west finish of the seashore is for nudists however you’ll discover loads of folks swimming with their costumes on. There aren’t any amenities right here both, and there’s a 10-minute stroll from the highway which is pedestrian-only – you may park on the highway, or buses going between Maspalomas and Arguineguin will cease (ask the drive) – so another excuse why it’s higher with older children than toddlers.
Dolphin/whale-watching boat journeys
Round a 3rd of the world’s whales and dolphins will be seen swimming off the coast of the Canary Islands and several other firms run journeys to identify them, like this whale-watching boat tour. Lasting two and a half hours, it’s appropriate for all ages, though realistically I’d advocate it as one of many actions in Gran Canaria that’s greatest for older kids.
For an extended journey, this dolphin watch cruise with snorkeling contains an opportunity to identify whales in the course of the catamaran journey, whereas this dolphin and whale watching cruise guarantees a 97% success fee in relation to recognizing wildlife.
Most whale watching journeys go away from Puerto Rico, though this four-hour dolphin recognizing boat journey leaves from Puerto de Mogan, and is for small teams solely.
Boat journeys round Gran Canaria
In the event you’d like to get out on the ocean round Gran Canaria with children however aren’t as fussed about recognizing dolphins and whales, there are nonetheless loads of choices.
This boat journey from Puerto Mogan contains an opportunity to snorkel at El Perchel, in addition to some incredible views of the cliffs. The family-friendly journey lasts three hours and contains lunch.
There are extra water sports activities throughout this half-day boat tour of Gran Canaria, with food and drinks included, an opportunity to snorkel and an optionally available speedboat trip, plus the possibility so as to add on every thing from a donut to a jetski trip.
Or go for a half-day catamaran cruise with pick-up from some places within the south of Gran Canaria, plus snorkeling, SUP paddleboards and kayaking, with lunch and drinks.
In the event you’d like a ship journey different, water taxis/ferries run alongside the south of the island, from fairly Puerto Mogan to Arguineguín, together with half-hour hops like our journey. Underneath fives trip free.
Try our expertise and extra concepts of issues to do in Puerto Mogan.
Take a submarine tour
In addition to boat excursions above the waves, you may head down underneath the ocean on a submarine tour from Puerto Mogan, appropriate for teenagers aged 2+.
In addition to the possibility to see fish and marine vegetation, it’s also possible to spot shipwrecks from the home windows of the Golden Shark submarine.
Heading right down to 25 metres, it’s a novel probability to find life underneath the Atlantic Ocean, spending round 40 minutes underneath water. Departs from Puerto de Mogan.
Poema del Mar aquarium
In the event you’d like to find a number of the world’s undersea wonders with out getting moist, then the Poema del Mar aquarium, set on the waterfront within the island’s capital Las Palmas is ideal.
Divided into a number of totally different zones – together with deep ocean, reef and jungle – you may uncover 35 separate ecosystems, together with native Canary Islands species.
However there’s additionally the possibility to get a style of the Amazon jungle and dive right down to the darkish waters of the deepest ocean throughout your go to.
Purchase skip-the-line tickets with free cancellation right here
Aqualand water park
There are a number of water parks in Gran Canaria however Aqualand in Maspalomas is a good choice because it has totally different areas for various ages, in addition to being the most important water park in Gran Canaria.
There are a number of separate areas aimed toward children, together with one for the youngest, sealions to identify and big water slides for extra adventurous kids. In whole, there are over 40 slides, in addition to a water labyrinth to find.
Underneath threes, or these underneath 90cm, get free entry and in addition to particular person tickets with free cancellation, you may get joint entry with Palmitos Park for those who guide direct.
Try my overview of our day at Aqualand – there’s additionally a second water park close to Puerto de Mogan, known as Lago Taurito
Palmitos Park
House to the most important butterfly venue in Europe, Palmitos Park can be well-known for its unique birds in addition to a string of various species of animals from orang-utans to komodo dragons.
It’s price figuring out that the Palmitos Park web site additionally has a dolphinarium with three swimming pools of round 3,000 metres sq. containing over 4 million litres of water – and 5 dolphins.
Whereas it’s an added attraction for some households, others will favor to keep away from anyplace with dolphins in captivity and it’s not one thing I personally advocate – you may go to and keep away from this space although.
Particular person tickets with free cancellation can be found, or you may get a joint ticket to this zoo and dolphinarium with Aqualand.
Learn extra about our go to to Palmitos Park with a toddler
Camel safari
Within the protected dunes of Maspalomas, you may solely journey by foot or by camel, and 65 dromedaries give rides and excursions throughout the sand.
Youngsters underneath three can share camels with their dad and mom (though I’m undecided I’d advocate a camel trip with toddlers), whereas the journeys final round half an hour. Guide tickets with free cancellation right here
Longer choices, akin to this camel trip by means of the Oasis of the 1000 Palms and separate donkey treks are additionally an choice on the island.
Simply probably the most uncommon issues to do in Maspalomas, click on right here to see what I believed.
Offended Birds Exercise Park
This large playground in Puerto Rico has every thing from climbing frames to zip wires, go karts and scooters – greater than 20 points of interest in all.
There’s loads for various ages (or adrenaline thrills) so you can bounce on trampolines or fly on the enormous swing, play mini golf or apply parkour, plus there’s even an LED wall to assist hone your soccer abilities.
Greatest for pre-teens. Keep in mind that whereas there’s loads to entertain pre-schoolers, it may get highly regarded in the course of the day.
Get a small low cost for those who guide by means of my hyperlink utilizing the code MUMMYTRAVELS6
Parque de los cocodrilo
The Cocodrilo Park is house to rescued wild animals, together with round 300 crocodiles making it the largest assortment in Europe.
However it’s also possible to spot every thing from monkeys to meerkats, plus turtles, lizards, llamas, birds and extra, with 500 totally different animals on the zoo.
Entrance charges go towarwds supporting the inhabitants, which additionally at the moment features a household of Bengal tigers.
Purchase tickets with free cancellation right here.
Sioux Metropolis Park
A recreation of the Wild West close to Maspalomas, Sioux Metropolis is a barely surprising slice of America within the Canary Islands.
Created within the 70s as a filming location for westerns, this typical Outdated West city features a ranch, financial institution and saloon, so you may work together with the sheriff and townspeople – plus various outlaws.
You may even saddle up within the land of horses, or simply be careful for the gunfights because the sheriff takes on financial institution robbers.
Don’t count on one in all your conventional theme parks, however nonetheless a enjoyable day for teenagers – count on gunfights, sheriffs and barbecue.
Get a small low cost for those who guide by means of my hyperlink utilizing the code MUMMYTRAVELS6
Metropolis sightseeing bus tour of Las Palmas
The standard metropolis hop-on, hop-off bus tour takes you round Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the islands’ largest metropolis. It’s an open prime double-decker bus, with a single route lasting round 90 minutes.
In the event you’re staying in or close to town, it’s a great way to get your bearings, in addition to taking you between a number of the important points of interest together with Vegueta, the capital’s outdated city and Parque Santa Catalina the place you’ll discover the Elder Science Museum.
It would additionally drop you at Las Canteras seashore if you need a while by the ocean after sightseeing.
Botanical Gardens, Las Palmas
Quiet and peaceable, with loads of shade, I really like a wander round botanic gardens, particularly after I’m travelling with a toddler.
This one is house to round 500 totally different plans from the islands in addition to the Azores, Madeira and Cape Verde.
It’s round a 20-minute drive from Las Palmas and Arucas, or round 20 minutes from the airport really easy to mix with one other cease on a time out in Gran Canaria with children.
Mini Tren, Playa del Ingles
One other important for household journey in Spain with youthful children, I adored pootling round on these mini trains on household holidays after I was little myself.
The quick journey round Playa del Ingles received’t take lengthy – round 45 minutes – so it’s in all probability greatest for pre-schoolers, however a enjoyable different to strolling within the solar. Choose it up on the Avenida de Italia.
Vacation World Amusement Park
Vacation World Maspalomas, near Gran Canaria’s largest vacationer resorts, is an amusement park with ferris wheel, bumper automobiles and a rollercoaster in addition to bowling, pony driving and System 1 simulator. All in all, there are greater than 30 points of interest to find.
You should buy tickets with fast-track admission right here – the earlier system which allowed you to purchase factors for the assorted points of interest just isn’t now obtainable, however this offers you entry to every thing, together with the kids’s Park with 10 totally different play areas.
There are top restrictions, with some rides not appropriate for teenagers underneath 120cm or for pregnant ladies.
Play mini golf
Mini golf is at all times a winner with my daughter and there are a number of mini golf programs to select from throughout Gran Canaria, together with a number of round Playa del Ingles.
There’s an 18-hole course at Minigolf Taidia, with totally different challenges to attempt alongside the best way. Or take a look at the three programs, Yumbo, Atlantico and Maritim, all in the identical mini golf group, set in procuring centres round Playa del Ingles.
In the event you’re staying within the south west, Mini Golf Neptuno, a brief drive from Amadores seashore, is one other good choice.
Tejeda Nationwide Park
Within the mountainous centre of the island, Tejeda is one kilometre above sea stage, with its highest peak of Mount Las Nieves virtually one other 1,000m increased.
Greatest for older kids as you’ll must drive to get there, however the surroundings is gorgeous and also you’ll go mountain villages to discover – and probably some very hardcore cyclists on the best way up.
There’s an enormous caldera on the coronary heart, which sends rainwater from the cente of the island out by means of the mountainous ravines to the ocean.
Mundo Aborigen
This reconstructed village reveals how the unique Canarian islanders, the Guanche, would have lived. You’ll discover figures dotted round to explain scenes of on a regular basis life – some somewhat gory, together with a convict being executed – plus a small archaeological museum.
On the highway to Fataga, Mundo Aborigen additionally overlooks the Barranco de Fataga gorge if you need concepts of issues to see in Gran Canaria as you drive round.
Guayadeque Nationwide Park
One of many strongholds of the island’s authentic inhabitants, Guayadeque is one other fascinating a part of the island to find some historical past and incredible surroundings.
Generally known as the village of the caves, the pure caverns have been transformed into homes, in addition to a church and in a single case a restaurant, Restaurante Tagoror, the place tables and chairs are carved from oak timber.
The customer centre provides some extra info on the realm, in addition to tips about the place to stroll if you wish to uncover extra of the island’s mountain surroundings.
Get a style of life and lunch with our time out within the mountains
Museo Elder de la Ciencia y la Tecnología
The Elder Museum of Science and Know-how is a good choice if you end up on the lookout for issues to do in Gran Canaria within the rain – or have children who love science.
Set in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, within the north, the interactive shows function every thing from a nineteenth century prepare to a fighter jet, and children are inspired to get palms on with the interactive reveals – actually you’ll spot notices warning everybody that it’s forbidden not to the touch!
In addition to a planetarium, the totally different collections are themed round all of the sciences, together with physics, geology, biology, expertise, maths and drugs.
Casa De Colon, Las Palmas
Casa de Colon or Columbus Home in Las Palmas was house to one of many first governors of Gran Canaria, and Christopher Columbus stayed right here on his technique to the New World – therefore its identify.
With exhibitions on the explorer’s visits to the islands, it’s nice for teenagers who love (or are learning) this era of historical past.
It’s a straightforward one to suit right into a time out in Las Palmas, together with the Elder Museum and the open-top bus tour. You can too guide strolling excursions of Las Palmas which go to Casa De Colon.
For extra inspiration on issues to do in Gran Canaria with children, take a look at my information to Gran Canaria with kids and my information to the Canary Islands with children
*First printed 2016, up to date 2024*
PIN FOR LATER: GRAN CANARIA WITH KIDS
Disclosure: This publish comprises affiliate hyperlinks – any purchases you make are unaffected however I’ll obtain a small fee. All opinions on the very best issues to do in Gran Canaria with children are my very own
Photographs: Palmitos Park/Amadores seashore/Puerto Mogan seashore copyright MummyTravels, all others courtesy Depositphotos.