Things to do
Set in the Canary Islands, it is not unusual for one of the key attractions on a Gran Canaria holiday to be visiting one of the many beautiful beaches set around the coastline of the island. Maspalomas is home to two of the most popular: Playa de Maspalomas and Playa de San Agustin. Playa de Maspalomas is a stunning stretch of beach with gorgeous yellow sand and a large expanse of dunes. There is also the opportunity to take boat trips and see different ocean wildlife, and the area around the beach has shops, restaurants and bars. It also offers an area for naturists to relax on the beach, while helping you save on your luggage allowance! Playa de los Amadores is a beach set in the southwest coast of Gran Canaria. The main beach here is truly set in a stunning location and there is also a popular British bistro on the beach offering fantastic fresh food and drinks at reasonable prices.
Nature
As with many Canary Islands locations, a holiday in Gran Canaria also offers an animal and wildlife park: Animal Encounters. A popular site for the whole family, it offers a chance to get up close to the animals in a safe environment. The park contains buffalo, snakes, and crocodiles and gives you the opportunity to swim with sea lions or ride a horse or camel. The Animal Encounters Park really is a must-see for a family holiday in Gran Canaria. Palmitos Park, also in Maspalomas, is another animal friendly place to visit. The park has birds, lizards, and monkeys and again puts on animal shows including ones involving exotic birds and the new and popular dolphin show. There is also a restaurant here with reasonable prices.
History and Culture
For those looking for some history and culture from their Gran Canaria holiday, it can be found at the Casa de Colon. This was Christopher Columbus’ house and is now a free-to-enter history museum that is still home to a number of his belongings including a portrait as well as drawings and writings. It is set in a wonderful location surrounded by old buildings near the cathedral and gives an opportunity to learn how the Canaries were the starting point to Columbus’ discovery of America. Superb views can be found at Las Palmas into the crater and over the sea and through the mountains, making Caldera de Bandama a must-see.