Where to Stay in Gran Canaria: Best Areas in 2026
Resorts, quiet villages and city stays — the complete guide to choosing where to base yourself in Gran Canaria.
8 min read
Maspalomas & Playa del Inglés
The southern resort belt is where most visitors stay. Maspalomas is upmarket with golf courses and the famous dunes. Playa del Inglés is livelier with shops, restaurants and a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene. Both offer direct beach access and year-round sunshine.
Puerto Rico & Puerto de Mogán
These purpose-built resorts are quieter and more family-oriented. Puerto de Mogán is one of the prettiest harbour towns in the Canaries — often called 'Little Venice'. Both are excellent bases for boat trips, dolphin watching and watersports.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
The capital offers the best mix of city life and beach — Playa de las Canteras is a world-class urban beach. Vegueta old town has museums, historic architecture and great tapas bars. Staying here means no transfer needed if you fly into LPA.
Book related experiences
Explore the iconic dunes by camel and jeep with photo stops and local guide commentary.
- Dunes walk
- Camel ride
- Photo stops
Catamaran cruise from Puerto Rico with dolphin sightings guaranteed or you sail again free.
- Dolphin guarantee
- Swim stop
- Buffet lunch
Compare rates from major providers at LPA with free cancellation and airport pickup.
- Airport pickup
- Full insurance options
- Free cancellation
Door-to-door transfer from LPA to Maspalomas, Puerto Rico or Las Palmas with flight tracking.
- Meet & greet
- Flight tracking
- Fixed price