Maspalomas holidays

How to reach Maspalomas

• Flight time: There are frequent flights to Maspalomas from Dublin and other Irish airports, landing at Gran Canaria Airport. The flight time is approximately 4 hours 30 minutes.

• Transfer time: Once you land at Gran Canaria Airport, Maspalomas is easily reached by taxi in about 25 minutes. Alternatively, there's a direct bus service that takes around 45 minutes.

• Price: A taxi will cost around €40–€45, while the direct bus is a budget-friendly option at approximately €4 per person one-way.

Weather and best time to visit Maspalomas

With a subtropical climate, Maspalomas is an excellent year-round destination for Irish holidaymakers looking to swap grey skies for sunshine.

• April to June is a brilliant time to go if you want warm days without peak-season crowds. Temperatures range from 22°C to 25°C with very little rain and 9 to 10 hours of sunshine per day.

• July to August is the height of summer, with average highs between 27°C and 30°C. It’s ideal for beach days and water sports, though it’s also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

• September to November sees the crowds thin but the warmth remains. With daytime temperatures between 24°C and 28°C, and the sea still warm, it’s a sweet spot for late-summer sun. There’s a touch more rain, but sunshine still dominates.

• December to March is popular with Irish travellers escaping the cold. Even in the middle of winter, temperatures hover around 19°C to 23°C with 6 to 7 hours of sunshine. It’s ideal for outdoor exploring and soaking up some vitamin D.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist spots, so communication is easy.

• Local habits and customs: Dining out tends to happen later in the evening (from 9 pm). Siestas are still observed in some areas, with smaller shops closing for a few hours in the afternoon.

• Currency: The Euro is used across the Canary Islands. ATMs are easy to find and most places accept card payments, but it’s always good to carry a bit of cash for small purchases.

• Getting around: Public buses are reliable and affordable, with single fares starting at around €1.40. Taxis are also convenient and reasonably priced. For exploring the island, hiring a car is a popular choice.

• Electricity and plug types: The voltage is 230V and plug type is the standard two-pin European style. Irish travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Maspalomas runs on the same time as Ireland (GMT), and also observes Daylight Saving Time.

Best things to do in Maspalomas

Maspalomas, located on the southern tip of Gran Canaria, is most famous for its desert-like sand dunes, but the resort has lots more – historical landmarks, natural beauty spots, fun attractions and a Blue Flag beach.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Mirador de la Degollada de las Yeguas: A perfect vantage point for taking photos, this mirador provides dramatic vistas of Gran Canaria's rugged interior, a contrast to the coastal scenery.

The best districts

• Meloneras: Meloneras is joined to Maspalomas by a chic promenade that features trendy restaurants, high-end shopping and luxury hotels, making it perfect for a sophisticated night out. Discover our deals on holidays to Meloneras.

• Playa del Inglés: This bustling Maspalomas suburb is more about commercial centres with shops, bars and entertainment than it is about Spanish life or quaint plazas. It does have a beautiful sandy beach. Check out our selection of holiday packages to Playa del Inglés.

Parks and gardens

• Palmitos Park: Located inland from Maspalomas, this subtropical oasis is home to an amazing array of exotic flora and wildlife. The dolphinarium is another feature.

• Botanical Park of Maspalomas: Featuring a wide variety of native and exotic plant species, this serene park is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a leisurely afternoon.

Historical monuments

• Maspalomas lighthouse: An iconic landmark at the southernmost point of the island, this 19th-century lighthouse is an ideal spot to start a walk along the promenade.

Day trips in the area

• Las Palmas: A visit to the capital city of Gran Canaria, about an hour's drive from Maspalomas, reveals the island's history through sights such as the old Vegueta quarter and the majestic Cathedral of Santa Ana, while Las Canteras Beach is a welcome respite when the heat begins to set in. Discover the best deals on holidays to Las Palmas

• Puerto Mogan: Referred to as Little Venice, this picture-postcard town features Venetian-style bridges arching over canals and bougainvillaea-covered pueblo-like buildings that house restaurants and shops. Check out our holidays to Puerto Mogan.

• Roque Nublo: Located in the heart of the island, about an hour's drive from Maspalomas, this distinctive rock formation boasts superb hiking opportunities and spectacular vistas.

Activities for families

Family-friendly Maspalomas offers a wide range of activities – from splashing around in water parks and playing on the beach to engaging attractions – ensuring that all family members have a fulfilling holiday.

• Water parks: Aqualand is a hit with kids and adults alike, featuring numerous slides, a wave pool and a lazy river.

• Themed parks: Holiday World amusement park has something for everyone to enjoy, with 30 rides, bowling, escape rooms and various dining options. Just 10km along the coast, Sioux City is a reconstructed wild-west town, where actors and stuntmen play out the roles of Cowboys and Indians in action-packed shows.

• Animal encounters: Take the children on a camel safari across the dunes of Maspalomas, which is sure to be a hit with the kids.

Free things to do in Maspalomas

During holidays to Maspalomas, you don't need to go over your budget. There are many things to do in the area that don't carry an admission charge.

• ** Maspalomas Dunes:** Stretching over 4 sq km, these famous sand dunes are a natural wonder you can explore for free. Hike across the sand and take in the unique landscape and breathtaking views or explore on the back of a camel.

• Visit the beach: Maspalomas Beach and neighbouring Playa del Inglés are both beautiful, expansive beaches where you can relax, swim and soak up the sun without spending a penny.

Wellness in Maspalomas

• Spas and wellness centres: Maspalomas is home to several luxurious hotels featuring spas and wellness centres where you can indulge in massages, facials and body treatments using locally sourced aloe vera products.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: The shifting sands of the Maspalomas Dunes provide a unique and serene hiking experience, especially when walking barefoot. Take plenty of water and don't stray from the designated route. Behind the dunes is a seawater and freshwater lagoon, home to over 20 different species of birds.

• Golf: Maspalomas Golf Course is set against the backdrop of the dunes and offers an 18-hole course that is both challenging and scenic.

• Water sports: From surfing and windsurfing to paddleboarding and kayaking, Maspalomas offers a variety of watersports to keep you active.

• Cycling: Rent a bike and explore the relatively flat coastal paths and scenic routes around Maspalomas, an enjoyable experience for all fitness levels.

• Paragliding: For an adrenaline rush and an unforgettable way to see the unique landscape from a different perspective, try paragliding.

Beaches of Maspalomas

Maspalomas is renowned for its stunning and diverse beaches, offering everything from bustling seaside activity to serene escapes. Here are some of the must-visit beaches in the area:

Playa de Maspalomas

This iconic beach is famous for its vast dunes that stretch along the coast, creating a desert-like landscape. The beach is well-equipped with sun loungers and parasols for rent, and its gentle waters make it ideal for swimming. The area is also great for windsurfing and other water sports.

Playa del Inglés

Connecting to the Maspalomas beach, Playa del Inglés is known for its lively atmosphere and is a hotspot for nightlife. The beach is lined with bars, restaurants, and shops, making it the perfect place for those looking to combine sunbathing with some entertainment.

Playa de San Agustín

For those seeking a quieter experience, Playa de San Agustín offers a more relaxed vibe. Its darker sand and pebbly texture make it less crowded, providing a peaceful retreat. The waters here are calm, ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

Playa de Meloneras

Adjacent to the luxury resort area of Meloneras, this beach is newer and well-maintained, with excellent facilities and less crowding than the more popular beaches. It's perfect for families and those seeking a day of relaxation by the sea.

Playa de Las Burras

This small, sheltered beach is another excellent option for families, thanks to its calm waters and protective cove that shields it from the stronger currents typical of other areas along Gran Canaria's southern coast.

Each of these beaches has its own unique characteristics, making Maspalomas a versatile destination for beach lovers of all types. Whether you're in the mood for adventure or relaxation, you'll find a beach that suits your needs.

Local dishes in Maspalomas

One of the great pleasures of staying in Maspalomas is indulging in the Canarian cuisine, a delectable mix of flavours and traditions that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Some typical dishes

• Papas Arrugadas: A popular dish in Gran Canaria, little wrinkly potatoes are boiled in salt water and served with mojo sauce, which comes in red (spicy) and green (milder) varieties.

• Ropa Vieja: Normally eaten as a main course, this wholesome stew is made with beef or chicken, chickpeas, tomatoes, onions and spices.

Tapas dishes

• Gambas al Ajillo: Delicious prawns sautéed in garlic and olive oil are delivered to the table still sizzling.

• Pulpo a la Gallega: Octopus served on a bed of sliced potatoes, flavoured with paprika, olive oil and sea salt.

Meat dishes

• Conejo en Salmorejo: This slow-cooked rabbit is incredibly tender and is marinated in a rich sauce of garlic, paprika and white wine.

• Chorizo de Teror: Originating from the nearby town of Teror, this regional chorizo sausage is well known for its unique flavour.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Sancocho Canario: Salted fish (usually grouper), potatoes, sweet potatoes and mojo sauce make up this classic fish stew.

• Vieja a la Plancha: A local delicacy, grilled parrotfish is accompanied simply by olive oil, garlic, and lemon.

Sweets and desserts

• Bienmesabe: This sweet almond cream dessert goes down well with ice cream or is often used as a filling for pastries.

• Frangollo: Cinnamon, almonds, raisins, milk, sugar and cornflour make up this classic Canarian dish, which is enjoyed on festive occasions.

Local drinks

• Ron Miel: Honey rum is a favourite after-dinner drink in the Canary Islands.

• Barraquito: The locals enjoy this layered coffee drink as a mid-morning treat. It's made up of espresso, condensed milk, frothed milk and a hint of cinnamon and lemon zest.