Best things to do in Maspalomas–ranked based on my own experience
How much time do you need in Maspalomas?
The best things to do in Maspalomas
Quick travel tips for visiting Maspalomas and Gran Canaria
2. Explore the Maspalomas Lighthouse
3. Stroll on the Maspalomas Beach & promenade
4. Birdwatch at Maspalomas Pond
5. Feast at restaurants & enjoy the nightlife
8. Learn about aloe at Finca de Aloe Vera
9. Discover your inner cowboy at Sioux City Park
10. Ride rides at Holiday World Maspalomas
11. Stargaze at Mirador Astronomico
12. Learn at Mundo Aborigen (optional)
If you’re planning a Gran Canaria itinerary, you might wonder whether Maspalomas is worth visiting. And here I am with all the insider info and no-BS answers for you—a smart click on your part! The short answer: Yes, it is worth visiting—and I’m going to give you my ranking of the top things to do in Maspalomas and a sample 3-day itinerary with Maspalomas tours that can be expanded into a 5-day adventure.
I’ve traveled extensively throughout the Canary Islands, and there is so much to see and do in Maspalomas, Gran Canaria. Obviously, I’ve ranked it all and don’t hold back with criticism, so you can be lazy and not do the dirty work. Get reading and get packing!
In this article, you’ll find my top 12 things to do in Maspalomas, a handy map, the perfect 3-day Maspalomas itinerary with optional days to add on, and my planning tips.
Read more about my travels in the Canary Islands.
This is only a part of the beautiful landscapes Maspalomas has to offer (dramatically assisted by the clouds)
Yes, it is! Maspalomas is a resort town on the southern coast of Gran Canaria with a cool, unique landscape of golden dunes, ocean breezes, and a nice laid-back vibe. It sounds like it might be only for relaxing, but there’s so much to do in the area. I loved it, and below you can find the list of my favorite things to do.
First of all, Gran Canaria is popular: over 3 million tourists annually, a type of popular. The diversity of its landscape is fascinating. The north is much wetter, greener, and full of trees, while the south—where Maspalomas is—is dry, sunny, and desert-like. Hence, all the sandy photos you’ll see in this article.
For me, Gran Canaria has fantastic weather: around 25°C (77°F), sunny, with a slight breeze, and dry air. It’s often called a miniature continent, and that really does feel true.
I thought the overall vibe felt really unique—Gran Canaria is African in its natural scenery, yet European in its culture. An enticing mix, really.
Top tip: It’s a great destination for families, especially those traveling with small kids.
Keep reading for my top 12 things to do in Maspalomas.
This map highlights the best things to do in Maspalomas
Here are all the things to do and places to see in Maspalomas in a nice, tidy list. I’ve ranked them based on how I personally enjoyed them:
Optional day trips: Puerto Mogán; Roque Nublo
This itinerary is based on my top 12 things to do in Maspalomas with optional day trips, as it’s a great base. I did it all in about 2 days, and I still had time to eat my way through the area trying to find my favorite restaurant (Hard Rock Cafe, give me all the burgers and fries!).
It can definitely be done in 2 days with a day trip thrown in for day 3, but if you’re feeling lazy, you could stretch it to 5 days.
The changing scenery in Maspalomas is such a fun aspect of the town
There are so many things to do in Maspalomas... for all your senses
My tip for car rental: DiscoverCars
I’ve stayed in many hotels in the Canary Islands, but I loved the beachfront Hotel Riu Palace Oasis resort hotel in Maspalomas on Gran Canaria! It had everything I needed and lived up to its name as an oasis. Big, stylish (girlfriend-approved!) rooms with balconies, the grounds are landscaped with palm trees, multiple pools, friendly staff, and a great breakfast buffet.
I also liked the Radisson Blu Puerto Mogán. It’s a large and modern hotel with nice rooms, a good breakfast, and a great pool area. I recommend upgrading and getting a room with direct pool access. It’s literally surrounded by Puerto Mogán’s cliffs and rock formations. The setting alone makes it worth it.
Call me Paul Atreides
The Dunes of Maspalomas (Dunas de Maspalomas) is an immense, protected nature reserve in Gran Canaria with walking routes and viewpoints. Mirador de las Dunas, the main viewpoint, features desert-like dunes meeting the ocean, something the normal person doesn’t get to see often, and something I highly recommend.
The Maspalomas Dunes are larger and more impressive than they look in photos… just try to take a photo, and you’ll understand what I mean. I tried several times, but I just couldn’t do them justice... the amount of dune photos I deleted... whoa. While I’ve seen bigger dunes in places like Namibia, these felt unique, somehow out of place in the Canaries. Often, I wondered if I was in the Arabian Peninsula… but I never saw Aladdin fly by on his magic carpet.
I also recommend circumnavigating the dunes. Walking from the Maspalomas Lighthouse to Playa del Inglés, I saw several promenades with benches for resting and checking out the beautiful beaches and vistas.
Good to know: Expect to walk at least 10 km (6.2 mi) if you want to fully explore the 4 km² (988 acres) area. The paths are unpaved, so pack proper shoes and be prepared for sandy toes.
You can spend anywhere from one hour to half a day exploring. This was definitely my top activity.
Top tip: Parking is free and easy along the road.
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The lighthouse totally deserves the title of an iconic landmark
Top tip: Guided tours are available.
The Maspalomas Lighthouse (Faro de Maspalomas) is an iconic landmark of the Gran Canaria island, and in my opinion, is worth a visit. It’s on the west side of the dunes, so combine it with a hike around the sandy wonderland and thank me later. It’s from the 19th century, and it’s fully operational. The inside is home to a small museum, which, to be honest, was just the right size. I have a short attention span.
I liked the adjoining gift shop where they sold locally designed items. Go on and support the local economy and artists with some Maspalomas shopping! It’s a good place for unique Gran Canaria souvenirs… hand-carved knives, soaps, silver and gold jewelry (my girlfriend was happy, but my wallet was not so much), leatherwork, etc.
The best views: The views of the beach and sand dunes are lovely from here.
The beach itself is very nice, but the surrounding areas add an even nicer touch
I am not your normal beach bum. But I do enjoy a good beach at face value, and Maspalomas Beach didn’t disappoint. First of all, it’s beautiful with its 3 km (1.9 mi) of golden sand, dramatic dunes, and the lighthouse.
The beach is clean, which, considering how busy it was, and I mean it was lively, is something of a small feat. I expected trash from the other European visitors, but everyone was on their best behavior, for once. The water is crystal clear and perfect for swimming.
The beach stretches all the way into Playa del Inglés, with different zones for families, couples, and nudists. My nude beach days have long passed, and I fear no one wants to see this. Or do they? ...
Beware, it can get windy with higher waves; then again, that’s a plus if you’re into water sports like surfing and windsurfing. I’m not.
Top tip: I found the promenade the perfect place to have a laid-back stroll. It connects the lighthouse to the main beach and the dunes area.
Good to know: Many beach bars offering snacks, meals, and drinks line the beach. Important to stay hydrated, even if it’s overpriced.
The Maspalomas Pond during the sunset
Situated at the edge of the Maspalomas dunes, La Charca, or “pond,” is a protected nature reserve and bird sanctuary. I saw the pond around sunset. The combination of the pond and the dunes with a pastel sky at sunset was unforgettable, dare I even say romantic. Don’t make fun of me. Sunset has always been my favorite part of the day.
Not only is Maspalomas Pond an important resting place for migratory birds traveling between Europe and Africa, but it’s also a complex ecosystem full of biodiversity.
Good to know: It is easily accessible, and the nearby "Paseo Charca Maspalomas" promenade offers a walkway along one side of the pond with great views during sunset.
Top tip: Take binoculars to fully appreciate the birdwatching and the biodiversity! I didn’t have any, as I’m not a birdwatcher… but I made a mental note to add some to my Amazon wish list for when I retire and need an activity that doesn’t require much effort.
Rock vibes on the beach? Sign me up
Maspalomas has a youthful vibe to it, and there’s a wide variety of restaurants, hotel restaurants, and bars to choose from.
I enjoyed the Hard Rock Café Maspalomas near Playa del Inglés and right next to the Maspalomas Dunes. Like all Hard Rock Cafes, the walls are lined with rock memorabilia, and I’m a big dork when it comes to the fact that I can down a beer while eating a BBQ bacon cheeseburger and buffalo wings next to items that once belonged to Fleetwood Mac or The Grateful Dead. A win-win in my book.
Top tip: Live music on Fridays and Saturdays!
You will definitely appreciate any place with even an ounce of shade after visiting the dunes
Walking from Maspalomas Beach to Playa del Inglés was an easy and scenic coastal route, which I really enjoyed. I strolled at a leisurely pace, and it took about an hour. I walked along the shoreline but moved to the promenade when I felt I needed a break from the sun, had a cold beverage, and hid in the shade like Dracula.
Top tip: don’t forget your sunscreen and a hat—the sun is strong.
Accessibility: The area has promenades for easy walking. There are a lot of shops, cafes, and food options along the way.
Top tip: The nearby Maspalomas Market with local crafts is open on Wednesdays & Saturdays from 8 AM to 2 PM.
The combination of a zoo and a botanical garden = Los Palmitos Park
I love a good zoo, and the Canary Islands do zoos well. For example, Loro Parque. Los Palmitos Park is not just a zoo… it also functions as a botanical garden loaded with greenery. It’s located in a lush valley in the mountains, which offers a nice contrast from the desert-like southern coast.
I found Los Palmitos great for its dolphin shows and bird performances. The dolphin show had me jumping up and down with glee like a child. My more sophisticated girlfriend loved the butterfly exhibitions and the wide variety of tropical plants.
Good to know: Dolphin shows at 1:30 and 4 pm; Birds of prey at 11:30 am and 3 pm.
Top tip: Purchase tickets in advance from their official site.
Finca de Aloe Vera provides education and tastings, my favorite combo
I absolutely enjoyed touring the aloe vera farm in Gran Canaria. It’s located in the scenic Fataga valley and offers visitors a chance to see how aloe is grown and processed.
The farm offers a guided tour where I saw 20,000-plus aloe plants and even got to sample fresh aloe vera gel processed there. I have to say that by this point, my girlfriend and I needed the gel for our sunburnt European skin. We slathered so much on each other that the guide was shooting us questionable glances. So I bought more than necessary at their on-site shop to make up for it.
Top tip: The shop sells locally processed aloe vera products, which make good souvenirs.
You could almost hear “They Call Me Trinity” playing in the background
Welcome to the Wild Wild West (in Gran Canaria)! Sioux City Park, well, I loved it. It’s a fun Wild West theme park near Maspalomas, and what person wouldn’t love a trip back in time to an old American frontier town? My inner child was transported back in time to playing Cowboys and Indians. Okay, I don’t know if my girlfriend loved it, but I wanted to stay all day. There was even a shoot-out!! I loved the staged gunfights. And the horses and bison. It was all very surreal.
It was originally built as a film set… today it provides joy for younger middle-aged men.
Good to know: A barbecue buffet is included in the price (pork chops, ribs, fish, coleslaw, and more; pizza and chicken nuggets available for kids).
It was fun; however, the karaoke bar was the main star
Holiday World Maspalomas, Gran Canaria, is pure fun, hands down. It’s a complex complete with the Wooland amusement park featuring 30-plus rides, including a roller coaster, a Ferris wheel, a free-fall tower, and more. There’s also bowling, karaoke, and a food market.
The karaoke bar doesn’t kick off until 10 pm, which I was very upset about. After a cold drink, I attack the microphone, which is something I found out about myself in Tokyo. Weirdly, I stick to rap (I’m the Czech Eminem, haha)... I’m not so good with rock songs, even though I’m a fan. Naturally, my girlfriend and her ears were happy we weren’t there at night. So much for becoming part of the local celebrity life.
Pro tip: Ride the free-fall tower ride BEFORE you eat greasy pizza!
Mirador Astronomico was a beautiful experience
Gran Canaria is perfect for stargazing. Hands down, it’s always one of my favorite things to do while visiting. It made me feel small yet lucky and brought me right back down to Earth.
Mirador Astronomico de la Degollada de las Yeguas is located near Maspalomas. It’s a popular lookout point over an expansive nature reserve, so no light pollution. The views of the night sky are stunning. It’s a win-win.
The Guanches are a treat for people who love historical context for their vacations
Mundo Aborigen is an open-air cultural park in Gran Canaria that offers a look into the lives of the island’s original inhabitants, the Guanches. Set in a mountain location, the park features reconstructed stone dwellings and caves with scenes of daily life.
It’s an interesting educational stop if you want to know more about the island’s past, but I’d say it’s purely optional, a miss even. I literally went as I was driving by, but I wouldn’t go out of my way for it.
If you have extra days in the area, here are two optional day trips from Maspalomas that are worth your while, or you could do both and turn a 2-to-3-day adventure into an ultimate 5-day stay in Maspalomas.
A nice prickly sea of yellow and green @ Cactualdeaa
The 1st optional day trip includes some really scenic driving and some of the best views the island has to offer.
Puerto de Mogán: I started my day in this charming harbor town. The colorful colonial architecture was really pretty.
GC-200 Scenic Drive: I thought this was one of the most beautiful drives on the island, with miradores (viewpoints) along the way. Expect a weak GPS signal in places. Desert-like landscapes, canyons filled with wildflowers and cacti, and coastal views.
Mirador del Balcón: A must-stop viewpoint where cliffs and rocks meet the ocean—honestly, I thought this was worth the entire trip on its own.
Playa La Aldea: Pretty pebble beach, good for a little relaxation time, which is exactly what I did.
Cactualdea: The world’s largest cactus garden, set in a mountain location with amazing views. I really admired their vast collection of cacti—including some rare species.
Optional lunch in Puerto de Mogán: You can always enjoy lunch in Mogán by the water.
Dinner in Maspalomas: I ended the day with a seafood dinner at La Sirena restaurant, where I got good, honest seafood at reasonable prices in a simple setting. Great for a tired man, simplicity.
Roque Nublo was a wonderful hike
The 2nd optional day trip includes spending the day exploring and hiking the mountains of Gran Canaria.
Roque Nublo: I started the day hiking to this iconic volcanic rock formation area, one of Gran Canaria’s most famous natural landmarks, complete with juniper forests and cliffs.
Pico de las Nieves: This is Gran Canaria’s highest point, and it’s where I saw panoramic mountain views.
Roque Bentayga: I loved this area with massive cliffs and surrounding trails, Wild West vibes.
Tejeda & Cruz de Tejeda: Scenic village and nearby mountain pass; I visited closer to evening, and it wasn’t too busy.
Dinner in town: I ended the day with a very lazy, laid-back dinner at my hotel after a day of sightseeing. My eyes were half closed halfway through, and I revisited everything in my mind. A random fleeting moment of introspection.
Maspalomas is definitely worth visiting—just be ready for sand to be stuck in everything for days afterwards
Yes, Maspalomas is worth visiting. It is a perfect base for visiting Gran Canaria. As the warmest part of the island, with a lot of culture, restaurants, nightlife, and tons of sights nearby, it was one of my favorite places in the Canary Islands.
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Best things to do in Maspalomas–ranked based on my own experience
How much time do you need in Maspalomas?
The best things to do in Maspalomas
Quick travel tips for visiting Maspalomas and Gran Canaria
2. Explore the Maspalomas Lighthouse
3. Stroll on the Maspalomas Beach & promenade
4. Birdwatch at Maspalomas Pond
5. Feast at restaurants & enjoy the nightlife
8. Learn about aloe at Finca de Aloe Vera
9. Discover your inner cowboy at Sioux City Park
10. Ride rides at Holiday World Maspalomas
11. Stargaze at Mirador Astronomico
12. Learn at Mundo Aborigen (optional)
Hi, I’m Jan. I travel fast and intensely, whether I’m exploring the buzz of Tokyo in 3 days or road-tripping through mountains and beaches on a 3-week Thailand adventure. And no matter where I am, you’ll always find me in a comfortable hotel at night and eating the best food.
If that sounds like your kind of journey, hop on board, and let’s explore the world together!
I started this blog after realizing how tough it can be to find reliable, authentic travel info. You wouldn’t believe how many “travel bloggers” never even visit the places they write about! On Next Level of Travel, you can count on my full honesty and insights drawn from my firsthand experiences.
Here’s the deal: not every destination is all superlatives and unicorns. I’ll let you know if a tourist attraction isn’t worth your time, like skipping overrated stops in my 2-week Spain itinerary. And when I find something truly special—like the perfect mix of culture and nature in Cape Town—you can trust that it’s worth adding to your itinerary.
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