Maspalomas is one of the most famous and most loved resorts in Gran Canaria. It is located in the south of the island, in an area full of tourist attractions and natural wonders that only this island can offer.
The flagship of Maspalomas is certainly its nature reserve with the park of the dunes that directly overlook the ocean, a true spectacle of nature not to be missed.
Maspalomas is one of the most popular areas for tourists, thanks to its unique landscapes, excellent services and a perfect climate all year round.
So let's go to the discovery of this renowned resort which in addition to the dunes offers beautiful beaches and many activities for all tastes.
Maspalomas Dunes: The Natural Reserve
The great attraction of Maspalomas is the Reserve of the Dunes, a natural oasis of about 25 km² in width composed of 3 different ecosystems: a palm grove (El palmeral), the lagoon (La Charca) and the dunes (Las Dunas).
The Dunes form a real desert that meets the ocean and creates a landscape of unique colors. In addition, the strong wind from the ocean continuously changes the shape of the landscape.
I absolutely recommend exploring this immense park, just be careful because the sand can be very hot, especially in the hottest hours of the day. The ideal would be to visit them early in the morning or at sunset.
Maspalomas Beach
Between the Dunes and the Ocean we find a very long beach, the second longest after Las Canteras, about 3 km of golden sand bathed by deep blue waters.
Perhaps the most beautiful and fascinating beach in the area, also because unlike the various artificial coves, this is a real beach, all the work of mother nature.
Maspalomas beach is suitable for everyone, there are in fact various points for every need: areas equipped for families with children, areas perfect for water sports or for those who practice nudism.
Despite being a natural area, the beach offers all kinds of services: restaurants, bars, shops, showers and recreational facilities.
The Maspalomas lighthouse
Another undisputed symbol of Maspalomas is the famous lighthouse, a 55 meter high building inaugurated in 1890. Today the Maspalomas Lighthouse is located in a very nice area in the pedestrian area of ​​Melonaras, full of restaurants and shops. The perfect place for a nice walk or for a drink after a nice day at the beach.
What to do in Maspalomas
In addition to enjoying the sea, the beach and the dunes, in Maspalomas there are other things to do during your holiday in Gran Canaria, including amusement parks, excursions, botanical gardens and much more.
Holiday World Maspalomas
An amusement park suitable for families with children but also for young people and teenagers. In addition to the various roller coasters and ferris wheels there are also arcades, bowling alleys, bars and restaurants. The beauty of the park is that you pay only the entrance (€ 10,90) and then you can do any carousel.
Maspalomas Botanical Park
Not far from the lighthouse is the Maspalomas botanical park with plants from all over the world. Admission is free, the visit is relaxing and very interesting for both adults and children, recommended if you love tropical plants and flowers.
Aqualand Maspalomas
One of the largest water parks in the Canaries, full of attractions and lots of games for all ages. The cost is a bit high, you pay € 32 for entry and deckchairs and sunbeds are not included, you have to rent them for € 4.
Lago Taurito Water Park,
Another water park in Gran Canaria, offers fewer slides but the costs are lower, it can be a good solution to spend a fun day without spending too much. The slides are fun and there are also seawater pools.
Moonlight Cinema
A nice experience for an alternative evening can be the outdoor cinema, watching a good movie under the starry sky sitting on comfortable armchairs ordering good food!
Boat tours
A must-do activity in Gran Canaria is definitely a boat tour to spot dolphins and whales. In the Maspalomas area there are many organized excursions also with pick up service directly at the hotel.
Lungomare Melonaras
A beautiful pedestrian promenade, a pleasant walk of about 2 km between restaurants, shops and palm trees. The trail starts from the Maspalomas Lighthouse and goes all the way to Melonaras beach.
Sleeping in Maspalomas
As I also wrote in the article where to stay in Gran Canaria, Maspalomas is certainly an excellent option to stay overnight during a holiday in Gran Canaria, especially if you want a purely seaside stay.
Here you will find accommodation for every need: apartments, hotels and resorts. You will be close to the beautiful beaches of the south west coast and the nightlife of Playa del Ingles.
Conclusions
In this article we have better discovered the Maspalomas area, a must visit place during a trip to Gran Canaria. For more information on other attractions or places to visit I suggest you also read the article: what to do in Gran Canaria.
