Searching for the best places to stay in Gran Canaria? As one of the most popular places to visit in the Canary Islands, it offers a mix of sandy beaches, lush mountain landscapes, exciting holiday resorts, and unique cultural attractions. But before you can experience what the island has to offer, you need to decide where to stay.
Whether you’re drawn to the high-octane vibe of Playa del Inglés, the dreamy Venice-like canals of Puerto de Mogán, or the dramatic mountain backdrop of Tejeda, there’s something for you here.
To help you decide, we’ve shared our top picks and explained what makes them stand out. To make things even easier, we’ve also included our favourite places to stay in these Gran Canaria towns.
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Best Areas to Stay in Gran Canaria
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Las Palmas
Las Palmas, the bustling capital in the north of the island, offers the perfect balance of vibrant city life and bohemian beach vibes. Whether you want to take it easy and doze on urban beaches or put on your walking shoes and explore historical neighborhoods, Las Palmas ticks all the boxes.
Sign up for the hop-on hop-off bus tour at the start of your trip to help you find your feet. It stops off at all the important places in the city and even entitles you to some free gifts throughout the day.
Make sure you get off at the Poema del Mar stop — it’s home to a giant aquarium where you can discover 35 uniquely fascinating ecosystems. If you’d like to get to know the island’s local marine life even better, sign up for a snorkeling trip. You’ll have the chance to spot everything from octopuses and sea cucumbers to parrotfish and rays.
Where to stay in Las Palmas
For a one-of-a-kind city break, choose Boutique Hotel Cordial Plaza Mayor de Santa Ana. This stunning converted mansion dates back to 1915 and is located in the beating heart of Las Palmas. You’ll find elegant suites with incredible views, a gorgeous rooftop restaurant, and many striking original features.
Boutique Hotel Cordial Malteses is a great choice if you’re looking for a little luxury. Classed as an emblematic hotel, this property offers 27 unique rooms, each of which has been restored to resemble the original architecture. Ideally located, almost all the city’s highlights are within walking distance. You’ll be spoilt for choice with the range of bars, restaurants, and shops on your doorstep.
If you’d rather stay by the beach, make a reservation for Sercotel Playa Canteras. Set just steps away from the sprawling Las Canteras Beach, this modern hotel features spacious rooms with gorgeous beach views. Head to the rooftop for a dip in the infinity pool, indulge in a cocktail at the Gyn Bar, or explore the lively promenade in front of the hotel.
Arguineguín
Nestled on the southern coast of the island is Arguineguín. This quiet fishing village is best known for its laid-back vibes, gorgeous coastline, and authentic local charm. It’s the best part of Gran Canaria if you want to be surrounded by excellent beaches while avoiding the main holiday resorts of Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés.
Take things up a notch and sign up for a high-speed buggy tour through the rugged mountain landscape of Gran Canaria. If you’d prefer something a little more relaxing, spend the day on the picture-perfect sands of Las Marañuelas Beach instead.
Short on time? Embark on the volcano sunset tour and local food-tasting adventure. In just one day, you’ll explore three incredible calderas, shop for delicious eats at a local market, discover the island’s remarkable cuisine, and witness one of the most beautiful sunsets ever.
Where to stay in Arguineguín
Canaryislandshost I Marina is a modern one-bedroom apartment set on a small, peaceful complex. Within the apartment, you’ll find a beautiful double bedroom, an elegant bathroom with a rainwater shower, an open living space that combines a kitchen, dining room, and lounge, and a small shaded terrace. It’s ideal if you prefer having your own space on holiday.
If you’re celebrating a special occasion, make a reservation at Radisson Blu Resort Gran Canaria. This spectacular five-star hotel has direct access to a golden sandy beach, as well as countless first-class amenities. Take a look around and you’ll discover a pampering spa, a modern gym, huge outdoor pools, fine-dining restaurants, and an action-packed kids’ club.
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Puerto de Mogán
One of the most beautiful resorts on the island, Puerto de Mogán is a small, serene spot located on the southwestern coast of the island. Known locally as “Little Venice”, this sparkling gem boasts picturesque canals, brightly colored buildings, and a unique charm that will win you over instantly.
Take a wander around the resort on your first day so you can get your bearings. There’s a large market held each Friday morning where you can pick up jewelry made of lava, artisan perfumes, and local food. After, take a walk around the resort’s stylish marina and stop off at the restaurant at the end of the pier.
Playa de Mogán is one of the most stunning golden sandy beaches on the island. It’s also the perfect place to relax after a morning of exploring. If you’d rather do something more active, check out this kayak tour instead and discover ancient hidden caves before snorkeling in the aquamarine waters.
Where to stay in Puerto de Mogán
Decorated in a bright and colorful Canarian village style, Hotel Cordial is a fantastic place to stay if you like character. With a sprawling botanical garden, two huge swimming pools, and several bubbling hot tubs, the hotel’s grounds are beyond stunning.
Throw into the mix an indulgent spa, fun kids’ clubs, family-friendly entertainment, and a great selection of restaurants, and you’ve got everything you could ever need for an incredible getaway.
Radisson Blu Resort & Spa is a high-end five-star hotel just a short walk away from the center of Puerto de Mogán. The rooms here are remarkably spacious and come with either a private balcony or direct access to the hotel’s giant pool.
Onsite, you’ll find a spa with an extensive treatment menu, a fitness center with group classes, four sophisticated bars and restaurants, and a kids’ club with loads of activities.
Tejeda
For a rustic rural retreat, Tejeda is the place to go. Tucked away in the center of the island, this mountain village is best known for its dramatic landscapes, fantastic hiking routes, and delicious almond desserts. It’s a wonderful choice if you want to swap your fast-paced lifestyle for a more relaxed, peaceful existence.
Start your stay by exploring the historic center of Tejeda. Wander along the cobblestone streets and stop by the small church in the heart of the village. If you need to cool off, there’s a wonderful public pool surrounded by a solarium.
From here, you can hike to one of the most impressive spots in Gran Canaria — Roque Nublo. There are easy and challenging hiking options, so there’s something for everyone. After you’ve worn yourself out, stop by one of the village’s family-run restaurants where you can try local dishes like Canarian-style octopus, ‘ropa vieja’ stew, and the classic almond ‘bienmesabe’ dessert.
Where to stay in Tejeda
Surround yourself with nature by staying at Parador de Cruz de Tejeda. Tucked away from the bustling resorts, this phenomenal rural retreat is surrounded by rugged mountains and sweet-smelling pine trees.
You can enjoy remarkable views from every corner of this unique hotel, including the breakfast room with floor-to-ceiling windows and the infinity pool that overlooks a nearby valley.
Hotel Rural Fonda de la Tea is much more than a simple hotel. This sprawling complex is made up of five unique accommodation options.
Choose to stay in a fully-equipped house with panoramic views, a cozy and centrally-located apartment, a country cottage with an amazing rooftop terrace, a Canarian house surrounded by hiking trails, or a rustic restored duplex.
Agaete
Located in the northeast of the island, Agaete is the town you’ll most likely dock in if you arrive by ferry. This charming town is home to cute whitewashed houses that spill down the side of a lush, green valley and date back to the 19th century.
Here you can test your limits on a high-thrills coasteering tour that combines hiking, abseiling, climbing, and snorkeling. If you’d prefer something a little less adventurous, head to the ancient burial site of Maipés de Agaete Archaeological Park, where you can discover 700+ tombs dating back over 1,300 years.
For a more typical tourist experience, spend the morning at the Huerto de Las Flores Botanical Garden, where you can admire over 100 different plant species from around the world. Head to the Agaete Piscina Natural in the afternoon, where you can take a dip in one of three natural volcanic pools.
If you’re a fan of wine, make time to visit Bodega Los Berrazales, where you can enjoy a guided tour of the vineyard followed by a tasting of local products.
Where to stay in Agaete
For a romantic escape, choose Occidental Roca Negra. This four-star adults-only hotel is built into the volcanic rock and boasts remarkable views of the surrounding mountain landscape.
The mesmerizing natural pools of Agaete are directly connected to the hotel. But if you’d rather stay onsite, you’ll find an outdoor pool, indoor spa, and hot tubs.
Casa Calma Yoga Guesthouse is a charming, casual hotel with a cool bohemian vibe. Here you can choose between modern shared dorms and private double rooms, all of which are beautifully decorated and come with basic amenities. Within the property, you’ll find a shared kitchen, although there are plenty of fantastic restaurants and bars within walking distance.
Maspalomas
Maspalomas is one of the most popular vacation resorts in Gran Canaria. Set on the southern coast of the island, this vibrant hotspot features golden sand dunes, expansive beaches, high-end resorts, and an incredible nightlife. There is loads to do, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family.
The main beach is an amazing place to learn to surf. On this beginner surf course, you’ll learn how to move like a fish through water in just two hours.
If you’d prefer to keep your feet dry, spend a few hours at Holiday World — the only theme park in the Canary Islands. It’s bursting with fun-filled roller coasters, retro fairground attractions, and tempting food trucks.
If it’s culture you’re after, sign up for this Aboriginal Gran Canaria tour. You’ll get to explore the Arinaga Salt Flats, the ancient aboriginal granary of Cenobio de Valerón, and gaze at the paintings inside the cave of Gáldar.
Alternatively, see seven of Gran Canaria’s dazzling highlights in a single day on this jam-packed tour that also includes a cozy tapas picnic.
Costa Calma
Costa Calma is known for its laid-back atmosphere, family-friendly activities, and watersports. It’s also home to some of the best things to do in Gran Canaria, which makes it an ideal place to visit if you need a relaxing getaway.
Where to stay in Costa Calma
For something extra special, stay at Seaside Grand Hotel Residencia. This opulent five-star hotel is one of the Leading Hotels of the World and will wow you from the moment you arrive.
From the incredible suites with private gardens and the fantastic dinner shows to the therapeutic spa body treatments and the heated wellness pool, you’ll never have to leave if you don’t want to!
Kumara Serenoa By Lopesan Hotels is the ideal choice for your vacation in Costa Calma, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, with friends, or as a family.
There’s an adult-only pool, plush Balinese beds, a delicious international buffet, and a fantastic all-inclusive option that includes premium cocktails. For the little ones, there’s a pool, a kids’ play area, child-friendly food options, and babysitting services.
Just a short walk away from Costa Calma Beach is Casa Zizi — an artsy, independent apartment with everything you could need for a fantastic trip. The two-bedroom apartment features a striking, modern design and is well-equipped from the oven, hob, and fridge in the kitchen to the smart TV, sofa bed, and dining table in the living room.
Playa del Inglés
Playa del Inglés is another popular vacation spot. This resort is known for its two-mile-long sandy beach, dotted with volleyball courts, water sports kiosks, sunbathing spots, and chic beach bars.
Look around and you’ll find beautiful hotels, fantastic dining options, excellent shopping, and cool cocktail bars everywhere you turn.
If you want to explore the island, hop on a full Gran Canaria day tour. This jam-packed excursion will pick you up close to your hotel and whisk you away to the highlights of the island, You’ll see the historic town of Telde, the fantastic views from the Mirador de la Cruz de Tejeda, and the colorful almond trees in Ayacata.
For something more natural, how about an immersive eco-tour? On this natural adventure, you’ll hike into Dorama’s forest, explore a sustainable farm, unwind in volcanic pools, and discover just how diverse Gran Canaria truly is. You’ll also try some of the island’s delicious local produce.
Where to stay in Playa del Inglés
HD Parque Cristobal is a fantastic complex in the center of Playa del Inglés, made up of individual bungalows. Most come with a fully-equipped kitchen, and some even have a private hot tub.
Whichever bungalow you choose, take full advantage of the hotel’s facilities, which include casual and fine dining restaurants, activities, a gorgeous botanical garden, several swimming pools, and an amazing kids’ club.
If you want to relax, Corallium Dunamar is the place to go. This stunning hotel is just steps away from the hustle and bustle of Playa del Inglés, but it feels like a calm oasis in the middle of nowhere. There are three separate pools and solariums, spa beds, organized sports and activities, and five tempting dining options.
Barceló Margaritas is a fantastic hotel that really does have it all. For families, there’s an outdoor playground with a splash zone, the Barcy Club kids’ club, and plenty of tasty options in the hotel’s restaurants.
For adults, there’s an exceptional wellness center, an incredible all-inclusive package with premium cocktails, and the option to upgrade to a Red Level room for all kinds of exclusive extras.
FAQs
Gran Canaria as a whole is a safe island with very little crime. All the main tourist areas are perfectly safe to visit on holiday.
Puerto de Mogán is one of the best places to stay in Gran Canaria for beautiful views. This part of the island features colorful houses, bougainvillea-lined streets, and cute bridges that cross over canals. With its undulating dunes and sprawling golden beaches, Maspalomas is also a wonderful place to stay in Gran Canaria for beautiful views.
Conclusion
Whatever type of trip you’re planning, Gran Canaria is the perfect vacation destination for every type of traveler and budget. With its mesmerizing coastline, gorgeous mountainous center, and vibrant nightlife, this island ticks all the boxes.
Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic getaway, a family-friendly retreat, or some fun with friends, Gran Canaria is a great option. It’s also one of the best places to visit on a 14-day Canary Island itinerary. Discover how you can visit all eight Canary Islands in just two weeks!
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