"With its Saharan-style sand dunes and gorgeous beach that shimmers like gold dust, laid-back Maspalomas is Gran Canaria at its holiday best."
On first sight, the sand dunes of Maspalomas might kid you into thinking you're on a different continent. Criss-crossed by camel trains carrying visitors over their wind-crafted contours, they're an unmissable reminder of just how close to Africa the Canaries are. Above all though, they're enough to send you into an instant exotic holiday state of mind. And it's so overwhelmingly vast that even in the height of summer, you can always find a secluded spot all to yourself. Just two kilometres from Playa Del Ingles, its atmosphere is more lazy than crazy, in striking contrast to its brasher counterpart. And bordering the dunes, you'll find an irresistible expanse of beach. Awarded a Blue Flag for its cleanliness, this enormous 6-kilometre sweep of pure golden sand glides into crystal clear seas and offers up rows of sunbeds and watersports as finishing touches. Yet Maspalomas offers far more besides these amazing sand mountains. When you're not hidden away in their peaceful expanses, this relaxing family-friendly resort has lots more to keep you amused. Away from this sand-and-dune paradise, you'll find a sprawling collection of low-rise, whitewashed houses, hotels and apartments spilling down to an appealing waterfront. Dawdle along here, choose a table at an al fresco eatery and feast on plump garlic prawns and delicious 'papas arrugadas' - salt-caked potatoes – escorted by a chilled wine or two. Elsewhere, great family entertainments abound. Take off with the kids for the fun-packed Holiday World fairground or Maspalomas' go-kart track. And don't miss the thrills of the resort's water parks and nearby Sioux City, with its exciting Wild West theme shows. Fancy some serious nightlife? While Maspalomas offers an array of sociable bars, the heavy-duty stuff happens in Playa Del Ingles. Jump in a cab and dive into its exhilarating after-dark scene, even if it's just for one night.
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Recommended Maspalomas hotels and apartments
Maspalomas hotels and apartments
Our hotels and apartments in Maspalomas include Bungalows Cordial Green Golf, Cay Beach Princess Bungalows, Hotel Maspalomas/tabaiba Princess, Seaside Hotel Palm Beach, Villa Isabel and Villa Maria.
More Gran Canaria holiday destinations
Looking for holidays in Gran Canaria? Our Gran Canaria holiday destinations include Amadores, Bahia Feliz, Campo International, Maspalomas, Meloneras, Playa Del Ingles, Playa Taurito, Puerto Mogan, Puerto Rico, Salobre Golf and San Agustin.
Beaches
A photograph of the Sahara-like sand dunes of Maspalomas is difficult to forget - the sands certainly make a lasting impression. Better still, come and walk through their virtually empty expanses to the sea, and you'll remember the experience for many damp British summers to come.
Eating out
Enjoy mealtimes in the relaxed surroundings of Maspalomas - there are many eateries to choose from. For a change of scene, and even more variety, pop along the coast to nearby Playa del Ingles.
Nightlife
Maspalomas is much quieter than its vibrant neighbour down the coast, Playa del Ingles, and consists of a myriad of low-rise, whitewashed buildings. Consequently, for a night on the tiles, a short trip down the coast is recommended.
Shopping
Maspalomas has a variety of local shops and little boutiques although the shopping centres around neighbouring Playa del Ingles offer a more comprehensive shopping experience. Alternatively, head up to the island's capital, Las Palmas, which is renowned for its excellent shopping malls and traditional stores.
Local information
In addition to those mile-long beaches, the resort has a golf course, offers windsurfing and features two waterparks.
Location
2km from Playa del Ingles
Transfer time
30 to 40 minutes
Recommended
Luxury
