With year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches and lovely landscapes, it’s no wonder Gran Canaria is such hit for holidaymakers. Whether your time away is typically all about relaxing on sandy shores, exploring the island on two wheels or heading out to party each evening, there’s a resort for you!
But, with so many choose from, deciding where to stay in Gran Canaria is no easy job.
Luckily for you, we’ve rounded up all the most popular resorts on the island and pulled out all the best bits, so you know which ones will suit your getaway. Come and check them out…
Once a fishing village, now bustling holiday hub, this is a fantastic place for those looking for a touch of traditional Gran Canaria on their trip.
The bright, whitewashed buildings and cute historic quirks make this a top choice for culture-seekers. Take a break from the beach and explore the town and take in the quaint character steeped into every street. This is also a fab place for foodies looking for a taste of classic Canarian food. Enjoy a stroll around the glistening marina, then grab a seat at a waterfront restaurant and tuck into some truly flavoursome dishes.
For a holiday in Playa Del Ingles, you’re going to need two things – plenty of sun cream and all your party people! At night, this resort comes alive. The neon-lit streets are teeming with revellers, so throw on your glad rags and put on your dancing shoes – you’re in for non-stop good times.
During the day, the beach is your playground. Recover from a night out with a refreshing dip in the water or work on your tan in that amazing Canarian sun. Alternatively, hit the shops! Playa Del Ingles is known and loved for its selection of stylish stores and boutiques, making it the ideal place for a spot of retail therapy.
Looking for a sophisticated stay in Gran Canaria? Maspalomas should be on your radar. Luxurious hotels line the seafront, swanky restaurants can be found on every street and boutique shops are just waiting to be explored.
Plus, from here, you’re not far from the island’s capital, Las Palmas. Head there for a day trip and discover culture, history and art aplenty.
This is also a great resort for cyclists to stay in. Many bike tours run from here, offering experiences that range from beginner routes through to tougher trails.
This resort is a classic all-rounder. Each year, vibrant Puerto Rico attracts families and party-seekers alike to its sandy shores.
By day, the swathes of golden sand are excellent for relaxing in the sun, splashing in the water and soaking up the rays. And, with a great selection of water sports and national parks nearby, there’s plenty to keep everyone busy. In the evenings, it might not boast the clubs of Playa Del Ingles, but you can always count on Puerto Rico for bustling restaurants, lively bars and good times.
If you enjoy the finer things in life, Meloneras is the ideal spot for a Gran Canaria holiday. Here, it’s all about upmarket restaurants, plush hotels and an exclusive shopping experience. Whether you plan on spending your days soaking up the sun on a Bali bed or plan to sip cocktails and enjoy uninterrupted sea views, you’re in the right place to do all that in Meloneras.
Foodies, you’ll be at home here too. The restaurants, while a little on the pricier side, offer some of the freshest seafood and most delicious local flavours on the island. Grab a table with a view over the water and tuck in!
Just want to relax in the sunshine? Well, look no further. Playa Taurito is about chilling out – plain and simple. Things are a little quieter than the other busier resorts, so it won’t be hard to settle into the go-slow pace.
If you do feel like venturing away from the lush sands, you’ll have the option to try your hand at diving or even check out some water sports. Fancy turning up the tempo a little? There are plenty of nearby resorts where you’ll find lively bars and busy promenades to explore.
Posted: 2nd Apr 2020. Updated: 28th Jun 2023.