Are you up for climbing a mountain, jumping in the sea, and then heading out for a few beers? And if the mountain sounds a bit ambitious, you can always join for the last two. In Gran Canaria, you can easily do all three in the same day.
Gran Canaria is an island of contrasts. One moment you’re surrounded by volcanic landscapes and mountain roads, and the next you’re on a sandy beach with the Atlantic stretching out in front of you. When evening arrives, many of the towns come alive with restaurants, bars and a relaxed nightlife.
Gran Canaria has been attracting visitors for years, and it’s easy to see why. The island enjoys almost 320 days of sunshine each year, which makes it just as appealing for a winter escape as it is for a summer holiday.
Whether you’re happy spending your days on the beach or prefer heading inland to explore the mountains and viewpoints, there’s plenty of choice. Across the island you’ll find everything from small fishing villages to lively resort towns, each with a slightly different feel.
With so many places to stay, choosing the right area can feel a little overwhelming. To make it easier, I’ve picked out some of the best spots depending on your budget and travel style.
Let’s take a look and find the one that suits you best.
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Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Las Palmas is my top pick for where to stay in Gran Canaria if you’re visiting the island for the first time. As the island’s largest city, it has a lively atmosphere with plenty to see and do, and its location makes it a convenient base for exploring many of Gran Canaria’s main attractions.
Playa del Ingles
Playa del Inglés is one of the liveliest areas in Gran Canaria and a popular choice if you’re looking for nightlife. The resort is packed with bars and clubs, while the long sandy beach offers the perfect place to relax and recharge during the day.
Maspalomas
Maspalomas is definitely one of the coolest places to stay in Gran Canaria, known for its long beaches, famous sand dunes and wide range of hotels and resorts. It offers a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, making it a great choice for travellers looking for good restaurants, beach clubs and plenty to see and do.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is one of the most family-friendly areas on the island. Located on the south-west coast, the resort has a sheltered sandy beach along with a great choice of boat trips, water-sports and nearby attractions to keep children entertained.
Puerto de Mogán
Puerto deMogán is one of the most charming towns on the island. Located on the west coast of Gran Canaria the town is perfect for couples with plenty of romantic accommodation options along with noteworthy restaurants with idyllic backdrops.
Agaete
Agaete is a small, traditional fishing town on the northwest coast of Gran Canaria, known for its relaxed atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings, a perfect quiet retreat on the island.
A Guide to Gran Canaria’s Best Areas
Gran Canaria has no shortage of beach towns, fishing villages and historic cities, so deciding where to stay can take a bit of thought. While travelling around the island, I quickly realised how much your base shapes the experience, as each area has its own character.
I began in Las Palmas on the north coast, which felt like the cultural heart of the island, with historic streets, excellent restaurants and the city beach at Las Canteras always nearby. Moving south, the atmosphere changes quite quickly. Playa del Inglés is much livelier and well known for its nightlife, though the long stretch of sand makes it just as easy to spend a quiet morning by the sea.
Elsewhere, the pace slows down considerably. Puerto Rico stood out as one of the easiest places for families to stay thanks to its sheltered beach and wide choice of apartments, while nearby Puerto de Mogán feels smaller and more relaxed.
On the northwest coast, Agaete offers something different again. I found it quieter and more traditional. And of course, Maspalomas is hard to ignore, especially once you see the vast dunes stretching along the coastline.
Below, I’ll go into each area in a little more detail to help you decide which one might suit your trip best.
1. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria – Where to Stay for Your First Time
If you’re deciding where to stay in Gran Canaria for your first visit, Las Palmas is a great place to start. As the island’s largest city, it has a strong cultural side, with historic streets, museums, churches and art galleries all within easy reach.
It’s a particularly good choice if you like the idea of combining city exploring with beach time. Las Palmas manages to offer both without feeling like a typical resort town. I visited the Catedral de Santa Ana, which happens to have been the first church of all the Canary Islands, a great little history lesson and some welcome time out of the sun!
The standout beach here is Playa de Las Canteras, the main city beach and one of the most popular on the island. It stretches for around three kilometres and is partly protected by a natural reef, which keeps the water calm and makes it ideal for swimming.
- Best For: First-time visitors, culture, city & beach mix.
- The Vibe: Lively, local, think cultural city by the sea.
- Proximity to Airport: Approx 26-minute drive.
- Transport Level: Excellent! Buses and taxis are the easiest way to get about.
- Budget: Mid-range (but with both budget and upscale options available).
- Crowds: Busy but less ‘resort’ feel than the south.
Top Things to Do in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
- Soak up the sun and enjoy snorkelling at the famous Las Canteras Beach
- Hike to Bandama Caldera to see magnificent views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Explore Gran Canaria’s green heart with a guided tour of Doramas Forest.
- Absorb the culture at Catedral de Santa Ana and explore the charming square of Plaza de Santa Ana.
- Discover how organic wine is made from grape to bottle, and explore a winery that has been producing wine for over a hundred years.
- Immerse yourself in the nighttime magic of Gran Canaria with a scenic sunset trek and learn the secrets of the stars on a guided astronomy hiking tour.
- Experience a mountaineering adventure with a professional local mountain guide.
- Get amongst the Las Palmas art scene at CAAM – Atlantic Center of Modern Art.
Best Hotel: Santa Catalina
The Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway Hotel, is one of the best places to stay in Gran Canaria and sits just a short distance from Las Palmas Marina. The hotel features a beautiful outdoor swimming pool and several excellent restaurants serving high-quality gourmet cuisine.
Best Hostel: Agüita House
If you’re looking for an accommodation option with a thriving social atmosphere, then look no further than Agüita House. With an exclusive location, the hostel is perfect for solo travellers and beach lovers.
The hostel also has an incredible rooftop offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, along with one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.
Best Airbnb: Loft 25
This sleek apartment is perfect for those who are looking to stay in Las Palmas on a budget. The beautifully converted loft includes a double bed and a private bathroom and is suitable for up to two guests. Located in the heart of Las Palmas, the apartment is within walking distance of the city’s key highlights.
2. Playa del Inglés – Best Area to Stay For Nightlife
Known as one of Europe’s most popular resort destinations, Playa del Inglés is packed with restaurants, beachfront hotels and shopping centres. It’s also my top recommendation for where to stay in Gran Canaria if you’re looking for lively evenings and a buzzing nightlife scene.
What makes the nightlife here a little different is that many of the clubs and bars are located inside shopping centres such as Yumbo Centrum and Kasbah Shopping Center. During the day, they feel like regular plazas filled with cafés and shops, but once evening arrives, they transform into busy nightlife hubs. If you enjoy late nights and lively streets, Playa del Inglés definitely earns its reputation as one of the island’s most energetic beach towns.
- Best For: Nightlife, beach holidays and lively resort atmosphere.
- The Vibe: Energetic, social and busy with bars, clubs and entertainment late into the night.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 25–30 minutes to Gran Canaria Airport.
- Transport Level: Great! Regular buses connect Playa del Inglés with other parts of the island.
- Budget: Affordable to mid-range, with a huge selection of hotels and apartments.
- Crowds: Busy year-round, especially during winter sun season and holidays.
Top Things to Do in Playa Del Ingles
- Relax on Playa del Inglés Beach, a long stretch of golden sand perfect for swimming, sunbathing and watersports.
- Try surfing or bodyboarding, as the consistent waves along this stretch of coast make it a good place for beginners.
- Explore the nightlife at Yumbo Centrum, one of the island’s most famous spots for bars, drag shows and late-night clubs.
- Wander around Kasbah Shopping Center, where cafés, bars and music venues keep the atmosphere lively after dark.
- Take a jet ski ride along the coast, a fun way to experience the Atlantic and see the resort from the water.
- Walk the coastal promenade, which links the beach with neighbouring resorts and offers plenty of places to stop for a drink or ocean view.
- Enjoy beachfront dining, with many restaurants serving fresh seafood and Canarian dishes overlooking the water.
- Watch the sunset from the beach, when the sky often lights up over the Atlantic, and the atmosphere becomes much more relaxed after a busy day in the resort.
Best Hotel: Corallium Dunamar Hotel
The Corallium Dunamar Hotel is located just 200 metres from Playa del Inglés Beach and is set within tropical gardens with a large outdoor pool complex. The modern hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with satellite TV, an optional minibar and safe, and most rooms feature a private balcony.
Best Resort: Cordial Biarritz Bungalows
Bungalows Cordial Biarritz is set in a quiet area of Playa del Inglés, just a 10-minute walk from the beach and the Maspalomas dunes. The complex offers modern bungalows with private furnished terraces, a pool and sun terrace, a children’s playground, free Wi-Fi, and well-equipped kitchens.
Best Airbnb: Spacious Apartment
This apartment is located in Playa del Inglés, just a 5-minute walk from the beach, with shops, restaurants, nightlife and public transport all nearby. It features one bedroom with twin beds, a kitchen, bathroom and a living area with a balcony, and is around 35 km from Gran Canaria Airport.
3. Maspalomas – Coolest Area to Stay
Maspalomas, on the southern coast of Gran Canaria, is loved for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful sandy beaches and the famous Maspalomas Dunes. This striking stretch of golden sand and dunes runs along the Atlantic coastline and is definitely one of Gran Canaria’s must-see attractions. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend the day wandering along the beach, taking in the views of the dunes or stopping at a café or restaurant for a leisurely lunch.
The resort is also home to the iconic Maspalomas Lighthouse, often referred to as the symbol of Gran Canaria. From here, a lovely seafront promenade stretches past shops, bars and restaurants, and everything feels easy to explore, making Maspalomas a great place to slow down, unwind and enjoy the area.
- Best For: Relaxed beach holidays, scenic coastal walks and the famous Maspalomas Dunes.
- The Vibe: Laid-back and easygoing, with a mix of stylish beach spots and cafés.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 25 minutes to Gran Canaria Airport.
- Transport Level: Taxis and buses are easy to find, and many areas are walkable.
- Budget: Mid-range to higher-end, with a good mix of hotels, apartments and restaurants.
- Crowds: Lively but generally more relaxed than some nearby resort areas, especially away from the main beach areas.
Top Things to Do in Maspalomas
- Walk through the spectacular Maspalomas Sand Dunes, a protected nature reserve stretching along the coast.
- Take a camel ride across the dunes for a unique way to experience the landscape.
- Visit Aqualand, the island’s largest water park with slides, wave pools and family rides.
- Spend time around the Maspalomas Lighthouse and promenade, perfect for an evening stroll with cafés and restaurants.
- Try an off-road buggy tour through the Ayagaures Valley and the surrounding countryside.
- Explore Palmitos Park, a popular wildlife and botanical park with dolphin shows, birds and tropical gardens.
- Try watersports along Maspalomas Beach, including surfing, paddleboarding or jet skiing.
- Head out on a dolphin and whale watching boat trip, with tours departing from nearby harbours.
- Discover local Canarian wines on a guided tasting or winery excursion in the surrounding countryside.
Best Hotel: Maspalomas Resort
This luxurious four-star resort is the perfect accommodation if you’re looking for a mixture of relaxation and adventure. It has spacious and well-decorated rooms and boasts a luxury terrace and bar, along with two outdoor swimming pools.
Bonus if you’re an avid golfer – the hotel is only a few minutes away from one of Gran Canaria’s best courses: Maspalomas Golf Course.
Best Apartment: Inez & Flor’s Nice Rooms
Ideal for travellers looking for great value, Inez & Flor’s Nice Rooms offers simple, clean accommodation at a budget-friendly price. Its convenient location makes it easy for guests to enjoy everything the Maspalomas area has to offer, including hiking, windsurfing and swimming.
Best Airbnb: Sea Lookout
This minimalistic and modern apartment is located on the Maspalomas clifftops and boasts breathtaking sea views overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Its prime location is only 100 meters from Pirates Beach, perfect for those looking for a quick dip. It’s around a 15-minute walk from Maspalomas restaurants and bars, so you can enjoy the busy atmosphere when you please.
4. Puerto Rico – Best For Families
Puerto Rico, on the south-west coast of Gran Canaria, is known for its sunny microclimate and relaxed resort feel. Built around a sheltered bay with a sandy beach and calm waters, it’s a popular choice for families and couples looking for an easygoing base by the sea.
During the day, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained, from boat trips and watersports to the floating Ocean Fun Park just off the beach. The resort also has a good range of restaurants, shops and family-friendly accommodation, including hotels and apartments that work well for both couples and larger groups.
One of the highlights of Puerto Rico is the coastal path that links the resort to neighbouring Amadores Beach, a beautiful crescent-shaped bay known for its soft sand and clear turquoise water. It’s an easy walk with lovely sea views along the way and a great spot to stop for a relaxed lunch by the water.
- Best For: Families, beach days and watersports.
- The Vibe: Easygoing resort centred around a sunny bay and marina.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 35–40 minutes from Gran Canaria Airport.
- Transport Level: Good. Taxis and buses are easy to find, though some areas are quite hilly.
- Budget: Mostly mid-range apartments and hotels with some higher-end options.
- Crowds: Popular with families and winter sun travellers, but generally relaxed outside peak school holidays.
Top Things to Do in Puerto Rico
- Relax on the soft golden sand at Playa de Amadores, one of the calmest and most scenic beaches on this side of the island.
- Spend the day at Ocean Fun Park, the floating inflatable obstacle course just off Puerto Rico Beach.
- Walk the coastal path between Puerto Rico and Amadores, an easy seafront stroll with great views along the way.
- Play a round at Anfi Tauro Golf Course, a beautiful course set in the hills just outside the resort.
- Take a Catamaran trip along the south-west coast, often with the chance to spot dolphins along the way.
- Try watersports from Puerto Rico Beach, including jet skiing, parasailing and paddleboarding.
- Visit Playa Anfi del Mar, a sheltered beach nearby known for its white sand and clear water.
- Go wakeboarding or waterskiing at Anfi Watersports, a popular spot for trying something a little more adventurous.
- Explore the nearby Barranco de Puerto Rico walking trails, where you can see a quieter, more natural side of the area.
- Book a boat trip from Puerto Rico harbour and sail along the beautiful south-west coastline of Gran Canaria. Cruise past dramatic cliffs and hidden coves on a traditional boat, with the chance to visit the striking Cueva del Agua along the way
Best Hotel: Gloria Palace Royal Hotel & Spa
Located just 200 metres from Amadores Beach, Gloria Palace Royal features an infinity pool with beautiful sea views.
Built from natural stone, the hotel offers spacious rooms with private balconies and is an easy 15-minute walk to the shops, bars and restaurants in Puerto Rico.
Best Apartment: Servatur Terrazamar Sun Suite
Terrazamar Sun Suite is a great choice for families looking for good value accommodation in Puerto Rico, offering a range of apartment sizes to suit different group sizes.
Set on the hillside overlooking the valley, you’ll enjoy lovely views across the rocky landscape towards the Atlantic Ocean.
Best Airbnb: Ocean View Apartment
This ocean-view apartment features a spacious terrace with beautiful sea views, along with an air-conditioned bedroom and living area for added comfort.
Guests can also enjoy access to a swimming pool, private parking and Wi-Fi. It’s conveniently located close to the Europa Shopping Centre with its restaurants, shops and live music.
5. Puerto de Mogán – Where to Stay for Couples
Puerto de Mogán is often nicknamed the “Little Venice” of Gran Canaria, thanks to its small canals, whitewashed buildings and colourful bougainvillaea that line the marina and waterfront. I loved wandering around the harbour here; there are plenty of little restaurants and cafés tucked along the water, making it a lovely place to slow down and enjoy a relaxed meal.
Although it’s a popular place to visit, Puerto de Mogán has managed to keep much of its traditional charm and feels calmer than many of the island’s larger resorts. It’s a great spot for couples who want somewhere picturesque and easygoing, where you can spend the day strolling around the harbour and soaking up the laid-back atmosphere.
If you happen to visit on a Friday, the town’s weekly market is well worth exploring. The streets around the harbour fill with stalls selling local crafts, clothing and souvenirs, and it’s a nice time to wander through the town before settling down for a drink or lunch overlooking the marina.
- Best For: Couples, harbour views and a relaxed waterfront escape.
- The Vibe: Peaceful, picturesque fishing village with a charming marina and colourful streets.
- Proximity to Airport: around 40–45 minutes to Gran Canaria Airport.
- Transport Level: Moderate. The town itself is very walkable, but buses and taxis are useful for exploring further along the coast.
- Budget: Mid-range to higher-end, with boutique hotels, apartments and waterfront restaurants.
- Crowds: Generally relaxed, though it gets busier on Fridays during the weekly market and in peak winter sun season.
Top Things to Do in Puerto de Mogan
- Wander through the pretty canals and colourful streets that give the town its “Little Venice” nickname.
- Try snorkelling or kayaking along the volcanic coastline, where the clear water is ideal for spotting marine life.
- Relax on Playa de Mogán, the sheltered sandy beach right beside the harbour.
- Take in the views from Mirador de Puerto de Mogán, a viewpoint overlooking the marina and coastline.
- Visit the Friday market, when the harbour and surrounding streets fill with stalls selling crafts, clothes and souvenirs.
- Book a boat trip and enjoy 4 hours of tranquil sailing from Puerto de Mogán and around Southern Gran Canaria with the bonus of food and drinks included!
- Explore the volcanic heart of Gran Canaria on an eco-friendly tour, visiting ancient craters and dramatic landscapes along the way. You’ll have the chance to sample regional flavours while hiking through the island’s striking UNESCO-listed scenery.
- Walk the coastal path towards Taurito, which offers lovely sea views along the cliffs.
- Explore the small shops and galleries tucked away in the flower-filled streets around the harbour.
Best Hotel: Hotel Cordial Mogán Playa
The Hotel Cordia Mogan Playa is my top recommendation for hotels in Playa de Mogan due to its stunning mountain views and incredible amenities.
One of Gran Canaria’s best hotels, this is built in the style of a traditional Canarian village. Equipped with tropical gardens, authentic restaurants, and spa treatment rooms.
Best Luxury Hotel: Radisson Blu Resort & Spa
If you’re looking to treat yourself to a luxury romantic getaway, look no further than the stunning Radisson Blu Resort & Spa.
The five-star hotel offers an exclusive and world-class service for guests and is only a 10-minute walk from the beach.
Best Apartment: Mogan Beach Blue Sky
This beautiful apartment is located in the port of Puerto de Mogan, and it has sensational sea views from the balcony. This two-bedroom home has a stunning indoor-outdoor flow and can be enjoyed all year round. Offering all the comfort you could expect, with the beach on your doorstep.
6. Agaete – Where to Stay for a Quiet Holiday
Agaete is a small coastal town on the northwest coast of Gran Canaria, known for its traditional feel and beautiful natural surroundings. It’s the kind of place that feels slower and more authentic, with the nearby harbour of Puerto de las Nieves famous for its seafood restaurants and views across the Atlantic.
Just inland, the Agaete Valley is one of the island’s most fertile areas and home to Finca La Laja, where coffee has been grown for decades (one of the few places in Europe where it’s produced). The valley is also surrounded by dramatic mountains and sits close to Tamadaba Natural Park, an area of protected pine forest and rugged cliffs that feels a world away from the island’s larger resorts.
One of my favourite spots here is Las Salinas natural pools near Puerto de las Nieves. These volcanic rock pools fill naturally with seawater and are perfect for a swim while watching the waves crash against the coastline.
All in all, Agaete is a wonderful choice if you’re looking for a quieter side of Gran Canaria, with dramatic scenery, great seafood and plenty of places to slow down and enjoy the surroundings.
- Best For: Nature lovers, coastal scenery and a quieter side of Gran Canaria.
- The Vibe: Traditional and laid-back, with a small harbour, seafood restaurants and dramatic volcanic coastline.
- Proximity to Airport: Around 50 minutes to Gran Canaria Airport.
- Transport Level: Moderate. The town is easy to explore on foot, but a car is helpful for visiting the Agaete Valley and nearby natural parks.
- Budget: Mostly mid-range guesthouses, small hotels and apartments rather than large resorts.
- Crowds: Generally peaceful year-round, with a busier atmosphere around Puerto de las Nieves at weekends and during local holidays.
Photo: @danielle_wyatt
Top Things to Do in Agaete
- Stroll around the flower-filled gardens at Huerto de las Flores
- Visit the pilgrimage village of Teror, known as the Jewel of the North
- Take an afternoon to learn about Gran Canaria’s traditional herbalism, tours and farms in the valley (like finca visits), explain traditional crops, plants and local remedies.
- Wander the Puerto de las Nieves and taste the fresh seafood delights of Agaete.
- Enjoy an unforgettable canyoning experience with jumps, rappels, or natural slides
- Venture for a tranquil swim in the natural pools of Salinas de Agaete
- Drive among the cactuses and mountains of Gran Canaria on an off-road jeep safari.
- Discover places such as La Concepción church and the La Rama Ethnographic Museum in Agaete
Best Homestay: Mirador de la Suerte
I’ve given you a run-through of the best hotels in Gran Canaria, but Agaete offers something different. Stay at this exquisite home nestled in the Agaete Valley for a cooler, quieter holiday resting space. An epic spot to base yourself if you want to travel all over the island and see the hotspots like the Maspalomas Sand Dunes.
Another Great Homestay: Vilna House
Breathtaking views from that swimming pool as you lounge in the Gran Canaria sunset over the valley? Say less.
This home is stunning, built into the hillside in typical Gran Canaria white-washed architecture. You’ll find plenty of quirky pockets to lounge privately if you can bear to tear yourself away from the clifftop swimming pool and hot tub.
Best Airbnb: Villa de Agaete
A whole casa to lounge in the heart of Agaete. A five-minute walk will have you at the beach, and another ten minutes will take you to Puerto de las Nieves to enjoy the seafood at a local restaurant.
Large enough for a family of five, and has a big outdoor swimming pool if you can’t quite make it to the beach. This home is a classic Gran Canaria style and a wonderful location to stay in town and explore the village on foot.
FAQ about Where to Stay in Gran Canaria
Here’s what people usually ask me about where to stay in Gran Canaria.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Gran Canaria
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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Where Should You Choose to Stay in Gran Canaria?
Gran Canaria may be a relatively compact island, but it offers a surprising amount of variety and is easy to explore. From dramatic volcanic landscapes and beautiful sandy beaches to vibrant cities and relaxed coastal towns, it’s defintely makes the list for epic Spanish islands.
Hopefully, this guide has helped you narrow down which area might suit your trip best. If a quieter escape appeals, somewhere like Agaete offers a slower pace and a more traditional feel, while Las Palmas is home to fantastic restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Poemas by Hermanos Padrón at the historic Hotel Santa Catalina.
If you’re still unsure where to base yourself, Maspalomas is a great all-round choice. Staying somewhere like Maspalomas Resorts puts you in reach of beaches, restaurants and plenty of things to see and do, while still being a good base for exploring more of the island.
If you’re travelling on more of a budget, Agüita House in Las Palmas is a great option. It’s a relaxed guesthouse with friendly owners and shared spaces that make it easy to meet other travellers.
Wherever you choose to stay, Gran Canaria is the kind of place that’s easy to fall in love with.
If you think there’s something worth adding to the guide, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Spain.
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- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Spain.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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