12 months-round sunshine, a family-friendly welcome and an opportunity of camels? With so many issues to do in Gran Canariaย with youngsters, the Canary Islands are at all times considered one of my favorite household journey locations โ my daughterโs very first journey was toย Lanzarote, which Iโve visited repeatedly together with Tenerife.
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Overlook the old style status of high-rise inns and towels on the loungers at daybreak โ 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 if you happen toโre questioning what to do in Gran Canaria, listed below are my prime 21 strategies, together with concepts if you happen toโre visiting Gran Canaria with a toddler.
The seashores
With 60km of shoreline, there are much more seashores to find than you may attempt in a single vacation (though itโs a enjoyable problem to tackle). Mainly, youโll be spoiled for alternative, so donโt neglect to pack a bucket and spade.
Itโs price figuring out that nudist sunbathing for adults is frequent however normally restricted to sure areas, notably one stretch close to Maspalomas โ one other stretch right here is geared toward households.
Maspalomas
Some of the well-known stretches of sand on the entire island, Maspalomas isnโt solely a seashore, itโs a desert too with these well-known golden sand dunes.
Once youโre executed 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) โ to not point out an enormous quantity of room to unfold out and construct sandcastles.
You too can take a stroll right down to the lighthouse if you happen toโre seeking to burn off some extra ice cream vitality.
Playa de Las Canteras
This metropolis seashore is thought for its sandcastle sculptors, nevertheless itโs received a superb declare to be the most effective seashore in Gran Canaria for households.
When youโre visiting Gran Canaria with toddlers and little ones, thereโs calmer water on the north finish, in addition to loads of golden sand to play in. When youโve received older youngsters, tweens and teenagers, there are greater 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 thereโs room to unfold out. The central part is taken into account one of the crucial household pleasant.
Playa de Amadores
Certainly one of my very own favorite south coast seashores, with extremely clear water โ and whereas the identify means loversโ seashore, itโs excellent for households as properly.
The water is sort of shallow and calm near shore, so itโs nice for little ones to paddle in โ my daughter liked 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. When you fancy one thing extra energetic than simply lounging, you may as well rent pedalos to get out onto the water.
Anfi
One other white sand, turquoise water nook of Gran Canaria thatโs nice for households โ itโs a little bit extra effort to get to than Amadores, however there are lifts at Anfi Resort if you happen to donโt need to stroll up and down the hill with all of your seashore necessities.
There are calm waters right here too, because of the breakwater, and if you happen to really feel such as youโve been transported to the Caribbean, thereโs a superb motive for that โ the white sand was initially imported from the Bahamas with a number of palm timber to finish the impact.
Thereโs a little bit kiosk right here to get the necessities (together with ice cream and occasional), and there are bathrooms close by as properly. You too can 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 shouldnโt miss a day trip in Puerto de Mogan, which is among the prettiest locations on Gran Canaria.
Nevertheless itโs very simple to mix exploring with a go to to the seashore, which is a shellโs throw from the marina and whitewashed streets. Whereas itโs not the islandโs largest seashore, youโll discover lifeguards, in addition to bathrooms close by, plus the same old loungers and parasols. There are pedalos to rent, and loads of locations to eat within the close by marina.
Parking is proscribed, however you may as well 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 beautiful household seashore โ itโs laborious to go incorrect anyplace alongside this complete stretch of coast!
Arguineguin
When youโre searching 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 itโs not the longest seashore on the island, the darkish sand and massive rocks imply itโs properly dramatic, whilst youโve received the close by cityโs outdated quarter simply behind, with loads of locations to eat. Higher for older youngsters who would possibly fancy mixing city and sea, nevertheless itโs additionally a great place if you happen toโve received youthful kids who simply need some seashore proper now.
Pozo Izquierdo
Undoubtedly an possibility for older youngsters, the surf and wind at Pozo Izquierdo make it a world-class windsurfing vacation spot, in addition to a preferred place to surf.
When youโre not tempted to tackle the circumstances, it does imply thereโs at all times a lot to see right here as properly, if you wish to watch from shore. There are additionally windsurfing classes and outlets if you happen toโre seeking to study or need to brush up your expertise although.
Close to Vecindario, itโs a little bit 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 whilst youโve received loads of area and amenities, itโs much less touristy than Playa del Ingles itself.
The sand is a darker, virtually reddish gold right here as properly, whereas the waves make it higher for older youngsters than toddlers โ thereโs additionally a play space by one of many eating places simply off the sand.
Itโs simple to park close by as properly, which isnโt 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, itโs often known as girlsโs seashore, or Playa de las Mujeres โ 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.
Itโs a small seashore, however tempting for the wonderful turquoise color of the ocean (and the possibility to get pleasure from a little bit of peace and quiet). Itโs one to go to when the climate is sweet although, because the water is calm and heat, though thereโs an undercurrent when the seas are rougher so remember with youthful and smaller youngsters specifically.
The west finish of the seashore is for nudists however youโll discover loads of folks swimming with their costumes on. There aren’t any amenities right here both, and thereโs a 10-minute stroll from the highway which is pedestrian-only โ you’ll be able to park on the highway, or buses going between Maspalomas and Arguineguin will cease (ask the drive) โ so one more reason why itโs higher with older youngsters than toddlers.
Dolphin/whale-watching boat journeysย
Round a 3rd of the worldโs whales and dolphins might 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, itโs appropriate for all ages, though realistically Iโd advocate it as one of many actions in Gran Canaria thatโs finest for older kids.
For an extended journey, this dolphin watch cruise with snorkeling consists of an opportunity to identify whales through the catamaran journey, whereas this dolphin and whale watching cruise guarantees a 97% success charge on the subject of recognizing wildlife.
Most whale watching journeys depart 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
When youโd like to get out on the ocean round Gran Canaria with youngsters however arenโt as fussed about recognizing dolphins and whales, there are nonetheless loads of choices.
This boat journey from Puerto Mogan consists of an opportunity to snorkel at El Perchel, in addition to some incredible views of the cliffs. The family-friendly journey lasts three hours and consists of 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 non-obligatory speedboat journey, plus the possibility so as to add on all the pieces from a donut to a jetski journey.
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.
When youโd like a ship journey various, water taxis/ferries run alongside the south of the island, from fairly Puerto Mogan to Arguineguรญn, together with half-hour hops like our journey. Below fives journey free.
Take a look at 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’ll be able to head down beneath 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, you may as well spot shipwrecks from the home windows of the Golden Shark submarine.
Heading right down to 25 metres, itโs a singular likelihood to find life beneath the Atlantic Ocean, spending round 40 minutes beneath water. Departs from Puerto de Mogan.
Poema del Mar aquarium
When youโd like to find a few of the worldโs undersea wonders with out getting moist, then the Poema del Mar aquarium, set on the waterfront within the islandโs capital Las Palmas is ideal.
Divided into a number of totally different zones โ together with deep ocean, reef and jungle โ you’ll be able to uncover 35 separate ecosystems, together with native Canary Islands species.
However thereโs 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 superb possibility 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 geared toward youngsters, together with one for the youngest, sealions to identify and large water slides for extra adventurous kids. In complete, there are over 40 slides, in addition to a water labyrinth to find.
Below threes, or these beneath 90cm, get free entry and in addition to particular person tickets with free cancellation, you will get joint entry with Palmitos Park if you happen to e-book direct.
Take a look at my assessment of our day at Aqualand โ 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 also be well-known for its unique birds in addition to a string of various species of animals from orang-utans to komodo dragons.
Itโs 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 โ and 5 dolphins.
Whereas itโs an added attraction for some households, others will want to keep away from anyplace with dolphins in captivity and itโs not one thing I personally advocate โ you’ll be able to go to and keep away from this space although.
Particular person tickets with free cancellation can be found, or you will 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’ll be able to solely journey by foot or by camel, and 65 dromedaries give rides and excursions throughout the sand.
Youngsters beneath three can share camels with their mother and father (though Iโm undecided Iโd advocate a camel journey with toddlers), whereas the journeys final round half an hour. E-book tickets with free cancellation right here
Longer choices, reminiscent of this camel journey by the Oasis of the 1000 Palms and separate donkey treks are additionally an possibility on the island.
Simply one of the crucial uncommon issues to do in Maspalomas, click on right here to see what I assumed.
Indignant Birds Exercise Park
This large playground in Puerto Rico has all the pieces from climbing frames to zip wires, go karts and scooters โ greater than 20 sights in all.
Thereโs a lot for various ages (or adrenaline thrills) so you may bounce on trampolines or fly on the large swing, play mini golf or apply parkour, plus thereโs even an LED wall to assist hone your soccer expertise.
Greatest for pre-teens. Keep in mind that whereas thereโs a lot to entertain pre-schoolers, it may well get highly regarded in the midst of the day.
Get a small low cost if you happen to e-book by my hyperlink utilizing the code MUMMYTRAVELS6
Parque de los cocodrilo
The Cocodrilo Park is dwelling to rescued wild animals, together with round 300 crocodiles making it the most important assortment in Europe.
However you may as well spot all the pieces 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 present 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 sudden 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’ll be able to work together with the sheriff and townspeople โ plus various outlaws.
You’ll be able to even saddle up within the land of horses, or simply be careful for the gunfights because the sheriff takes on financial institution robbers.
Donโt anticipate considered one of your conventional theme parks, however nonetheless a enjoyable day for teenagers โ anticipate gunfights, sheriffs and barbecue.
Get a small low cost if you happen to e-book by my hyperlink utilizing the code MUMMYTRAVELS6
Metropolis sightseeing bus tour of Las Palmas
The normal metropolis hop-on, hop-off bus tour takes you round Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the islandsโ largest metropolis. Itโs an open prime double-decker bus, with a single route lasting round 90 minutes.
When youโre staying in or close to the town, itโs a great way to get your bearings, in addition to taking you between a few of the most important sights together with Vegueta, the capitalโs outdated city and Parque Santa Catalina the place youโll discover the Elder Science Museum.
It’ll additionally drop you at Las Canteras seashore in order for you a while by the ocean after sightseeing.
Botanical Gardens, Las Palmas
Quiet and peaceable, with loads of shade, I like a wander round botanic gardens, particularly after Iโm travelling with a toddler.
This one is dwelling to round 500 totally different plans from the islands in addition to the Azores, Madeira and Cape Verde.
Itโs 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 day trip in Gran Canaria with youngsters.
Mini Tren, Playa del Ingles
One other important for household journey in Spain with youthful youngsters, I adored pootling round on these mini trains on household holidays after I was little myself.
The quick journey round Playa del Ingles gainedโt take lengthy โ round 45 minutes โ so itโs most likely finest for pre-schoolers, however a enjoyable various to strolling within the solar. Choose it up on the Avenida de Italia.
Vacation World Amusement Park
Vacation World Maspalomas, near Gran Canariaโs largest vacationer resorts, is an amusement park with ferris wheel, bumper automobiles and a rollercoaster in addition to bowling, pony using and Method 1 simulator. All in all, there are greater than 30 sights to find.
You should buy tickets with fast-track admission right here โ the earlier system which allowed you to purchase factors for the varied sights is just not now accessible, however this offers you entry to all the pieces, together with the youngstersโs Park with 10 totally different play areas.
There are top restrictions, with some rides not appropriate for teenagers beneath 120cm or for pregnant girls.
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.
Thereโs an 18-hole course at Minigolf Taidia, with totally different challenges to attempt alongside the way in which. 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.
When youโre staying within the south west, Mini Golf Neptuno, a brief drive from Amadores seashore, is one other good possibility.
Tejeda Nationwide Park
Within the mountainous centre of the island, Tejeda is one kilometre above sea degree, with its highest peak of Mount Las Nieves virtually one other 1,000m larger.
Greatest for older kids as youโll must drive to get there, however the surroundings is gorgeous and also youโll move mountain villages to discover โ and probably some very hardcore cyclists on the way in which up.
Thereโs an enormous caldera on the coronary heart, which sends rainwater from the cente of the island out by the mountainous ravines to the ocean.
Mundo Aborigen
This reconstructed village reveals how the unique Canarian islanders, the Guanche, would have lived. Youโll discover figures dotted round to explain scenes of on a regular basis life โ some quite gory, together with a convict being executed โ plus a small archaeological museum.
On the highway to Fataga, Mundo Aborigen additionally overlooks the Barranco de Fataga gorge in order for you concepts of issues to see in Gran Canaria as you drive round.
Guayadeque Nationwide Park
One of many strongholds of the islandโs unique inhabitants, Guayadeque is one other fascinating a part of the island to find some historical past and incredible surroundings.
Often called 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 data on the realm, in addition to recommendations on the place to stroll if you wish to uncover extra of the islandโs mountain surroundings.
Get a style of life and lunch with our day trip within the mountains
Museo Elder de la Ciencia y la Tecnologรญa
The Elder Museum of Science and Expertise is a superb possibility if you end up searching for issues to do in Gran Canaria within the rain โ or have youngsters who love science.
Set in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, within the north, the interactive shows function all the pieces from a nineteenth century practice to a fighter jet, and children are inspired to get arms on with the interactive displays โ actually youโll spot notices warning everybody that itโs forbidden to not contact!
In addition to a planetarium, the totally different collections are themed round all of the sciences, together with physics, geology, biology, know-how, maths and medication.
Casa De Colon, Las Palmas
Casa de Colon or Columbus Home in Las Palmas was dwelling to one of many first governors of Gran Canaria, and Christopher Columbus stayed right here on his strategy to the New World โ therefore its identify.
With exhibitions on the explorerโs visits to the islands, itโs nice for teenagers who love (or are learning) this era of historical past.
Itโs a straightforward one to suit right into a day trip in Las Palmas, together with the Elder Museum and the open-top bus tour. You too can e-book strolling excursions of Las Palmas which go to Casa De Colon.
For extra inspiration on issues to do in Gran Canaria with youngsters, take a look at my information to Gran Canaria with kids and my information to the Canary Islands with youngsters
*First printed 2016, up to date 2024*
PIN FOR LATER: GRAN CANARIA WITH KIDS
Disclosure: This submit incorporates affiliate hyperlinks โ any purchases you make are unaffected however I could obtain a small fee. All opinions on the most effective issues to do in Gran Canaria with youngsters are my very own
Photos: Palmitos Park/Amadores seashore/Puerto Mogan seashore copyright MummyTravels, all others courtesy Depositphotos.
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