
Maspalomas
Discover Maspalomas: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Welcome to Maspalomas, Gran Canaria – a sun-drenched paradise on the southern tip of Gran Canaria. Renowned for its golden sand dunes, luxurious resorts, and vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, Maspalomas is the perfect destination for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty, relaxation, and lively entertainment.
Top Attractions in Maspalomas
- Maspalomas Dunes
- A Natural Wonder: The iconic Maspalomas Dunes stretch over 400 hectares, offering a surreal desert landscape right by the sea. Explore the dunes on foot, or take a guided camel tour to experience this unique environment.
- Photography Hotspot: The contrast of golden sands against the blue ocean and sky makes for stunning photos, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- Maspalomas Beach
- Sun, Sea, and Sand: This extensive beach is a favorite among sunbathers and swimmers. The beach is divided into sections, including family-friendly areas and more secluded spots popular with LGBTQ+ travelers.
- Beachfront Dining: Enjoy fresh seafood and Canarian specialties at one of the many beachside restaurants.
- Maspalomas Lighthouse (El Faro)
- Historical Landmark: Standing tall since 1890, the Maspalomas Lighthouse is an iconic symbol of the area. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the coastline and dunes.
- Nearby Attractions: The area around the lighthouse is home to chic boutiques, cafes, and the start of a picturesque promenade leading to Meloneras.
- Yumbo Centrum
- LGBTQ+ Nightlife Hub: As the epicenter of LGBTQ+ nightlife in Gran Canaria, Yumbo Centrum offers a lively mix of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues. Whether you’re in the mood for a drag show or a relaxed drink, there’s something for everyone.
- Shopping and Dining: By day, explore a variety of shops and international eateries within the Yumbo Centrum.
- Palmitos Park
- Family Fun: A short drive from Maspalomas, Palmitos Park is a tropical oasis and zoological garden. It features a wide range of exotic animals, from dolphins to birds of prey, as well as beautiful botanical gardens.
- Interactive Shows: Don’t miss the dolphin and bird shows, which are highlights for visitors of all ages.
Where to Stay in Maspalomas
- Luxury Resorts: For those seeking indulgence, Maspalomas offers a selection of luxury resorts such as Lopesan Costa Meloneras Resort & Spa and Hotel Riu Palace Meloneras. These resorts provide top-notch amenities, including spas, golf courses, and gourmet dining.
- Boutique Hotels: If you prefer something more intimate, consider a boutique hotel like Seaside Grand Hotel Residencia, known for its personalized service and tranquil ambiance.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Travelers on a budget can find excellent accommodations too, with numerous well-equipped apartments and mid-range hotels that offer great value for money.
Dining and Nightlife
- Canarian Cuisine: Taste local specialties such as papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce, fresh seafood, and rich stews at traditional restaurants like Restaurante Casa Juan.
- International Flavors: Maspalomas caters to an international crowd, offering a wide range of cuisines including Italian, Japanese, and fusion options. Restaurante El Churrasco is a popular spot for steak lovers.
- Nightlife: Besides Yumbo Centrum, other nightlife spots include Pacha Gran Canaria, known for its lively dance floors and top DJs, and Chez Funny Boy’s, a favorite for drag shows and cabaret.
Getting Around Maspalomas
- Walking and Biking: The flat terrain and scenic routes make walking and biking ideal ways to explore Maspalomas. Bike rentals are readily available.
- Public Transport: Buses connect Maspalomas to other parts of Gran Canaria, including the capital Las Palmas and the airport.
- Car Rental: For more freedom to explore, consider renting a car. This is especially useful if you plan to visit nearby attractions like Roque Nublo or Puerto de Mogán.
When to Visit
- Best Time: Maspalomas enjoys a mild climate year-round, making it an ideal destination any time of year. The most popular times to visit are during the spring and autumn when the weather is perfect for both beach days and exploring.
- Events: If you’re visiting in May, don’t miss the Maspalomas Pride festival, one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in Europe, drawing thousands of visitors with its parades, parties, and cultural activities.
Final Tips
- Sun Protection: The sun in Maspalomas can be intense, so remember to pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Respect the Environment: The dunes are a protected natural area, so stick to the designated paths and avoid disturbing the wildlife.
Maspalomas offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and luxurious relaxation. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, a fun-filled holiday with friends, or a family vacation, Maspalomas has something for everyone.

Beach
The beach in Maspalomas is also a big draw for tourists, with its fine golden sand, clear waters, and many beachfront bars and restaurants. The beach is a popular destination for water sports such as windsurfing, kite surfing, and paddleboarding.
Do you want to enjoy the gay beach? Find out how to get there >
Maspalomas is also home to the Yumbo Centre, a large shopping and entertainment complex that caters primarily to the LGBTQ+ community. The centre has many gay bars, clubs and restaurants, as well as shops selling clothing, accessories and souven

Luxury hotels
In addition to its natural beauty and nightlife, Maspalomas has a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. Visitors can enjoy everything from beachfront villas to apartment complexes in the heart of the city.
Overall, Maspalomas is a great destination for travelers who want to soak up the sun, enjoy the nightlife, and experience the warm and welcoming atmosphere of one of the world’s most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations.
Hotel specials
Dunes
The dunes of Maspalomas, located on the south coast of Gran Canaria in the town of Maspalomas, are a unique natural wonder that attracts tourists from all over the world. These dunes are part of the Maspalomas Nature Reserve, a protected area of more than 400 hectares.
The dunes are made up of golden sand that has been carried away by the wind and deposited along the coast over time. They stretch for miles along the coastline, providing a stunning backdrop for sunbathing, hiking, and exploring.

Scenery
The dunes are home to a variety of plant and animal life, including several species of lizards and birds. Visitors can take guided tours of the reserve to learn about the local ecology and the unique ecosystem of the dunes.
Many visitors to Maspalomas come specifically to see the dunes and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The area is especially popular for hiking and enjoying the views, as well as for photo opportunities.
One of the most famous spots in the dunes is the El Oasis area, with a lagoon surrounded by palm trees and other vegetation. The area is a popular spot for bird watching and relaxing in the shade.
Overall, the dunes of Maspalomas are a must-see destination for anyone visiting Gran Canaria.
Whether you’re looking to hike, sunbathe, or simply take in the natural beauty of the area, the dunes offer a unique and unforgettable experience.

Excursions
We have found a few excursions in the area
The best attraction in the area