The best things to do in Gran Canaria with kids

Year-round sunshine, a family-friendly welcome and a chance of camels? With so many things to do in Gran Canaria with kids, the Canary Islands are always one of my favourite family travel destinations – my daughter’s very first trip was to Lanzarote, which I’ve visited repeatedly along with Tenerife.

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Forget the old-fashioned reputation of high-rise hotels and towels on the loungers at dawn – there are always far more things to do in the Canary Islands than sunbathe (though plenty of that too). Staying near Maspalomas, we explored as far west as Puerto Mogan, beyond Puerto Rico, north to Arucas and headed into the mountains.

So if you’re wondering what to do in Gran Canaria, here are my top 21 suggestions, including ideas if you’re visiting Gran Canaria with a toddler.

The beaches

With 60km of coastline, there are far more beaches to discover than you could try in one holiday (although it’s a fun challenge to take on). Basically, you’ll be spoiled for choice, so don’t forget to pack a bucket and spade.

It’s worth knowing that nudist sunbathing for adults is common but usually restricted to certain areas, particularly one stretch near Maspalomas – another stretch here is aimed at families.

Maspalomas

One of the most famous stretches of sand on the whole island, Maspalomas isn’t only a beach, it’s a desert too with those famous golden sand dunes.

When you’re done pretending to be lost in the Sahara, there are lifeguards and sun loungers to hire on the beach itself, as well as places to get snacks (though be warned, no public toilets) – not to mention a huge amount of room to spread out and build sandcastles.

You can also take a stroll down to the lighthouse if you’re looking to burn off some more ice cream energy.

Playa de Las Canteras

This city beach is known for its sandcastle sculptors, but it’s got a good claim to be the best beach in Gran Canaria for families.

If you’re visiting Gran Canaria with toddlers and little ones, there’s calmer water at the north end, as well as plenty of golden sand to play in. If you’ve got older kids, tweens and teens, there are bigger waves at the south end for wannabe surfers.

Plus plenty of places to buy an ice cream, loungers and beach umbrellas to rent, lifeguards, toilets and showers, not to mention a huge stretch of beach so there’s room to spread out. The central section is considered one of the most family friendly.

Playa de Amadores

One of my own favourite south coast beaches, with incredibly clear water – and while the name means lovers’ beach, it’s perfect for families as well.

The water is quite shallow and calm close to shore, so it’s great for little ones to paddle in – my daughter loved splashing about in the waves aged two.

There are also plenty of loungers and umbrellas to rent around the curve of the beach too, as well as a whole string of places to eat and (paid) toilets to use. If you fancy something more active than just lounging, you can also hire pedalos to get out onto the water.

Anfi

Another white sand, turquoise water corner of Gran Canaria that’s great for families – it’s a little more effort to get to than Amadores, but there are lifts at Anfi Resort if you don’t want to walk up and down the hill with all your beach essentials.

There are calm waters here too, thanks to the breakwater, and if you feel like you’ve been transported to the Caribbean, there’s a good reason for that – the white sand was originally imported from the Bahamas with a few palm trees to complete the effect.

There’s a little kiosk here to get the essentials (including ice cream and coffee), and there are toilets nearby as well. You can also find some watersports on the beach, including pedalo and stand-up paddleboard hire.

Puerto de Mogan

Whether you go to the beach or not, you shouldn’t miss a day out in Puerto de Mogan, which is one of the prettiest places on Gran Canaria.

But it’s very easy to combine exploring with a visit to the beach, which is a shell’s throw from the marina and whitewashed streets. While it’s not the island’s biggest beach, you’ll find lifeguards, as well as toilets nearby, plus the usual loungers and parasols. There are pedalos to hire, and plenty of places to eat in the nearby marina.

Parking is limited, but you can also arrive by boat, using the little water taxi which hops along this part of the coast as we did.

Puerto Rico beach, between Puerto de Mogan and Amadores, is another lovely family beach – it’s hard to go wrong anywhere along this whole stretch of coast!

Arguineguin

If you’re looking for a change from the golden beaches and powder white stretches of sand along the coast, the darker sand of Arguineguin beach makes it a more memorable place to put your towel.

While it’s not the longest beach on the island, the dark sand and big rocks mean it’s nicely dramatic, while you’ve got the nearby town’s old quarter just behind, with plenty of places to eat. Better for older kids who might fancy mixing town and sea, but it’s also a good spot if you’ve got younger children who just want some beach right now.

Pozo Izquierdo

Definitely an option for older kids, the surf and wind at Pozo Izquierdo make it a world-class windsurfing destination, as well as a popular place to surf.

If you’re not tempted to take on the conditions, it does mean there’s always plenty to see here as well, if you want to watch from shore. There are also windsurfing lessons and shops if you’re looking to learn or want to brush up your skills though.

Near Vecindario, it’s a little way east up the coast from Maspalomas.

San Agustin

This family-friendly beach in Gran Canaria has been called Playa del Ingles in miniature, and while you’ve got plenty of space and facilities, it’s less touristy than Playa del Ingles itself.

The sand is a darker, almost reddish gold here as well, while the waves make it better for older kids than toddlers – there’s also a play area by one of the restaurants just off the sand.

It’s easy to park nearby as well, which isn’t always the case around the island, with free parking and plenty of buses from Maspalomas.

Pasito Bea

One of the quietest beaches in Gran Canaria, it’s also known as women’s beach, or Playa de las Mujeres – although anyone can visit now. The nickname dates from the days when the land here was used to grow tomatoes, and the women who worked in the fields would come here to bathe.

It’s a small beach, but tempting for the amazing turquoise colour of the sea (and the chance to enjoy a bit of peace and quiet). It’s one to visit when the weather is good though, as the water is calm and warm, although there’s an undercurrent when the seas are rougher so be aware with younger and smaller kids in particular.

The west end of the beach is for nudists but you’ll find plenty of people swimming with their costumes on. There are no facilities here either, and there’s a 10-minute walk from the road which is pedestrian-only – you can park on the road, or buses going between Maspalomas and Arguineguin will stop (ask the drive) – so another reason why it’s better with older kids than toddlers.

Dolphin/whale-watching boat trips 

Around a third of the world’s whales and dolphins can be seen swimming off the coast of the Canary Islands and several companies run trips to spot them, like this whale-watching boat tour. Lasting two and a half hours, it’s suitable for all ages, although realistically I’d recommend it as one of the activities in Gran Canaria that’s best for older children.

For a longer trip, this dolphin watch cruise with snorkeling includes a chance to spot whales during the catamaran trip, while this dolphin and whale watching cruise promises a 97% success rate when it comes to spotting wildlife.

Most whale watching trips leave from Puerto Rico, although this four-hour dolphin spotting boat trip leaves from Puerto de Mogan, and is for small groups only.

Boat trips around Gran Canaria

If you’d love to get out on the sea around Gran Canaria with kids but aren’t as fussed about spotting dolphins and whales, there are still plenty of options.

This boat trip from Puerto Mogan includes a chance to snorkel at El Perchel, as well as some fantastic views of the cliffs. The family-friendly trip lasts three hours and includes lunch.

There are more water sports during this half-day boat tour of Gran Canaria, with food and drink included, a chance to snorkel and an optional speedboat ride, plus the chance to add on everything from a donut to a jetski ride.

Or go for a half-day catamaran cruise with pick-up from some locations in the south of Gran Canaria, plus snorkeling, SUP paddleboards and kayaking, with lunch and drinks.

If you’d like a boat trip alternative, water taxis/ferries run along the south of the island, from pretty Puerto Mogan to Arguineguín, including half-hour hops like our trip. Under fives ride free.

Check out our experience and more ideas of things to do in Puerto Mogan.

Take a submarine tour

As well as boat tours above the waves, you can head down under the sea on a submarine tour from Puerto Mogan, suitable for kids aged 2+.

As well as the chance to see fish and marine vegetation, you can also spot shipwrecks from the windows of the Golden Shark submarine.

Heading down to 25 metres, it’s a unique chance to discover life under the Atlantic Ocean, spending around 40 minutes under water. Departs from Puerto de Mogan.

Poema del Mar aquarium

If you’d like to discover some of the world’s undersea wonders without getting wet, then the Poema del Mar aquarium, set on the waterfront in the island’s capital Las Palmas is perfect.

Divided into several different zones – including deep ocean, reef and jungle – you can discover 35 separate ecosystems, including local Canary Islands species.

But there’s also the chance to get a taste of the Amazon jungle and dive down to the dark waters of the deepest ocean during your visit.

Buy skip-the-line tickets with free cancellation here

Aqualand water park

There are several water parks in Gran Canaria but Aqualand in Maspalomas is a great option as it has different areas for different ages, as well as being the largest water park in Gran Canaria.

There are several separate areas aimed at kids, including one for the youngest, sealions to spot and huge water slides for more adventurous children. In total, there are over 40 slides, as well as a water labyrinth to discover.

Under threes, or those under 90cm, get free entry and as well as individual tickets with free cancellation, you can get joint entry with Palmitos Park if you book direct.

Check out my review of our day at Aqualand – there is also a second water park near Puerto de Mogan, called Lago Taurito

Palmitos Park

Home to the biggest butterfly venue in Europe, Palmitos Park is also famous for its exotic birds as well as a string of different species of animals from monkeys to komodo dragons.

It’s worth knowing that the Palmitos Park site also has a dolphinarium with three pools of around 3,000 metres square containing over four million litres of water – and a pod of captive dolphins.

While it’s an added attraction for some families, others will prefer to avoid anywhere with dolphins in captivity and it’s not something I personally recommend – you can visit and avoid this area though.

Individual tickets with free cancellation are available, or you can get a joint ticket to this zoo and dolphinarium with Aqualand.

Read more about our visit to Palmitos Park with a toddler

Camel safari

In the protected dunes of Maspalomas, you can only travel by foot or by camel, and 65 dromedaries give rides and tours across the sand.

Children under three can share camels with their parents (although I’m not sure I’d recommend a camel ride with toddlers), while the trips last around half an hour. Book tickets with free cancellation here

Longer options, such as this camel ride through the Oasis of the 1000 Palms and separate donkey treks are also an option on the island.

Easily one of the most unusual things to do in Maspalomas, click here to see what I thought.

Angry Birds Activity Park

This huge playground in Puerto Rico has everything from climbing frames to zip wires, go karts and scooters – more than 20 attractions in all.

There’s plenty for different ages (or adrenaline thrills) so you could bounce on trampolines or fly on the giant swing, play mini golf or practice parkour, plus there’s even an LED wall to help hone your football skills.

Best for pre-teens. Bear in mind that while there’s plenty to entertain pre-schoolers, it can get very hot in the middle of the day.

Get a small discount if you book through my link using the code MUMMYTRAVELS6

Parque de los cocodrilo

The Cocodrilo Park is home to rescued wild animals, including around 300 crocodiles making it the largest collection in Europe.

But you can also spot everything from monkeys to meerkats, plus turtles, lizards, llamas, birds and more, with 500 different animals at the zoo.

Entrance fees go towarwds supporting the inhabitants, which also currently includes a family of Bengal tigers.

Buy tickets with free cancellation here.

Sioux City Park

A recreation of the Wild West near Maspalomas, Sioux City is a slightly unexpected slice of America in the Canary Islands.

Created in the 70s as a filming location for westerns, this typical Old West town includes a ranch, bank and saloon, so you can interact with the sheriff and townspeople – plus more than a few outlaws.

You can even saddle up in the land of horses, or just watch out for the gunfights as the sheriff takes on bank robbers.

Don’t expect one of your traditional theme parks, but still a fun day for kids – expect gunfights, sheriffs and barbecue.

Get a small discount if you book through my link using the code MUMMYTRAVELS6

City sightseeing bus tour of Las Palmas

The traditional city hop-on, hop-off bus tour takes you around Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the islands’ largest city. It’s an open top double-decker bus, with a single route lasting around 90 minutes.

If you’re staying in or near the city, it’s a good way to get your bearings, as well as taking you between some of the main attractions including Vegueta, the capital’s old town and Parque Santa Catalina where you’ll find the Elder Science Museum.

It will also drop you at Las Canteras beach if you want some time by the sea after sightseeing.

Botanical Gardens, Las Palmas

Quiet and peaceful, with plenty of shade, I love a wander around botanic gardens, especially when I’m travelling with a toddler.

This one is home to around 500 different plants from the islands as well as the Azores, Madeira and Cape Verde.

It’s around a 20-minute drive from Las Palmas and Arucas, or around 20 minutes from the airport so easy to combine with another stop on a day out in Gran Canaria with kids.

Mini Tren, Playa del Ingles

Another essential for family travel in Spain with younger kids, I adored pootling around on these mini trains on family holidays when I was little myself.

The short trip around Playa del Ingles won’t take long – around 45 minutes – so it’s probably best for pre-schoolers, but a fun alternative to walking in the sun. Pick it up on the Avenida de Italia.

Holiday World Amusement Park

Holiday World Maspalomas, close to Gran Canaria’s biggest tourist resorts, is an amusement park with ferris wheel, bumper cars and a rollercoaster as well as bowling, pony riding and Formula 1 simulator. All in all, there are more than 30 attractions to discover.

You can buy tickets with fast-track admission here – the previous system which allowed you to buy points for the various attractions is not now available, but this gives you access to everything, including the children’s Park with 10 different play areas.

There are height restrictions, with some rides not suitable for kids under 120cm or for pregnant women.

Play mini golf

Mini golf is always a winner with my daughter and there are several mini golf courses to choose from across Gran Canaria, including several around Playa del Ingles.

There’s an 18-hole course at Minigolf Taidia, with different challenges to try along the way. Or check out the three courses, Yumbo, Atlantico and Maritim, all in the same mini golf group, set in shopping centres around Playa del Ingles.

If you’re staying in the south west, Mini Golf Neptuno, a short drive from Amadores beach, is another good option.

Tejeda National Park

In the mountainous centre of the island, Tejeda is one kilometre above sea level, with its highest peak of Mount Las Nieves almost another 1,000m higher.

Best for older children as you’ll need to drive to get there, but the scenery is beautiful and you’ll pass mountain villages to explore – and possibly some very hardcore cyclists on the way up.

There’s a huge caldera at the heart, which sends rainwater from the cente of the island out through the mountainous ravines to the sea.

Mundo Aborigen

This reconstructed village shows how the original Canarian islanders, the Guanche, would have lived. You’ll find figures dotted around to describe scenes of everyday life – some rather gory, including a convict being executed – plus a small archaeological museum.

On the road to Fataga, Mundo Aborigen also overlooks the Barranco de Fataga gorge if you want ideas of things to see in Gran Canaria as you drive around.

Guayadeque National Park

One of the strongholds of the island’s original inhabitants, Guayadeque is another fascinating part of the island to discover some history and fantastic scenery.

Known as the village of the caves, the natural caverns have been converted into houses, as well as a church and in one case a restaurant, Restaurante Tagoror, where tables and chairs are carved from oak trees.

The visitor centre gives some more information on the area, as well as tips on where to walk if you want to discover more of the island’s mountain scenery.

Get a taste of life and lunch with our day out in the mountains

Museo Elder de la Ciencia y la Tecnología

The Elder Museum of Science and Technology is a great option if you find yourself looking for things to do in Gran Canaria in the rain – or have kids who love science.

Set in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, in the north, the interactive displays feature everything from a 19th century train to a fighter jet, and kids are encouraged to get hands on with the interactive exhibits – in fact you’ll spot notices warning everyone that it’s forbidden not to touch!

As well as a planetarium, the different collections are themed around all the sciences, including physics, geology, biology, technology, maths and medicine.

Casa De Colon, Las Palmas

Casa de Colon or Columbus House in Las Palmas was home to one of the first governors of Gran Canaria, and Christopher Columbus stayed here on his way to the New World – hence its name.

With exhibitions on the explorer’s visits to the islands, it’s great for kids who love (or are studying) this period of history.

It’s an easy one to fit into a day out in Las Palmas, along with the Elder Museum and the open-top bus tour. You can also book walking tours of Las Palmas which visit Casa De Colon.

For more inspiration on things to do in Gran Canaria with kids, check out my guide to Gran Canaria with children and my guide to the Canary Islands with kids

*First published 2016, updated 2025*

PIN FOR LATER: GRAN CANARIA WITH KIDS

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links – any purchases you make are unaffected but I may receive a small commission. All opinions on the best things to do in Gran Canaria with kids are my own

Images: Palmitos Park/Amadores beach/Puerto Mogan beach copyright MummyTravels, all others courtesy Depositphotos.

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