Things To Do
in Maspalomas
Maspalomas is a popular resort town located on the southern coast of Gran Canaria, one of Spain's Canary Islands. It is known for its stunning sand dunes and beautiful beaches, including the famous Maspalomas Beach. The town attracts tourists with its warm climate, vibrant nightlife, and various water sports activities.
Maspalomas also offers a range of accommodations, restaurants, and shopping options for visitors to enjoy their stay.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a beachside café. Then, explore the stunning Maspalomas Dunes, a unique natural reserve.
Head to the nearest beach for sunbathing and swimming. Lunch at a local seafood restaurant is a must to savor fresh catches from the ocean.
Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade as the sun sets. Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the dunes.
Begin your day with a splash at Aqualand Maspalomas, the largest water park in the area. Enjoy thrilling slides and relax in the lazy river.
Afterward, have a light lunch at the park's café. Spend your afternoon at Playa del Inglés, soaking up sun or trying water sports like jet skiing.
As the evening sets in, venture to a beachfront restaurant for a delightful dinner. End your night with a drink at a local bar overlooking the sea.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and dunes that attract nature lovers and tourists.
- Pleasant climate year-round, making it a great destination for sun-seekers.
- Rich array of activities such as water sports, hiking, and golf.
- Vibrant nightlife and a variety of dining options catering to diverse tastes.
- Welcoming atmosphere and a mix of cultures, enhancing the local experience.
- Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons, leading to a less relaxed environment.
- Higher cost of living and prices for accommodation and dining compared to other less touristy areas.
- Limited public transportation options may require renting a car to explore beyond the immediate area.
- Environmental concerns related to over-tourism and its impact on local ecosystems.
- Potential language barrier for non-Spanish speakers in certain areas.
Best Activities in Maspalomas
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful beaches of Maspalomas, such as Playa de Maspalomas and Playa del Ingles, and enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports.
Take a guided or self-guided hike through the iconic sand dunes of Maspalomas, offering stunning views of the coastline and the opportunity to observe local wildlife.
Engage in various watersports activities like surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and jet skiing along the coast of Maspalomas.
Enjoy a round of golf at the scenic Maspalomas Golf Course, with its lush greenery and challenging course design.
Tours
Uncover the best of Maspalomas with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Maspalomas
Visit one of these nice places.
These iconic sand dunes offer stunning views and are perfect for capturing the beauty of the natural landscape.
The lighthouse offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the dunes and the ocean, making it an ideal spot for photography.
The picturesque beach with its golden sands and clear waters is a great place for capturing beautiful coastal views.
Food in Maspalomas
Maspalomas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Canary Islands specialty, these are small, wrinkled potatoes boiled in salt water and served with Mojo sauce, a flavorful blend of garlic, pepper, cumin, and paprika. Enjoy this dish at local taverns and family-run restaurants like Restaurante El Palmeral.
Must-Try!
This hearty stew features shredded beef, peppers, tomatoes, and a medley of aromatic spices. Savor this authentic dish at Casa Fernando, a renowned eatery known for its traditional Canarian recipes.
A staple in Canarian cuisine, Gofio is a roasted flour made from wheat or maize, often enjoyed in various forms such as porridge or as an ingredient in bread and desserts. Try it at local bakeries like La Panadería de Tunte.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling San Fernando Market, where you can find an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, and vibrant spices. Don't miss the food stalls offering delectable empanadas, savory churros, and freshly squeezed juices.
Indulge in a diverse selection of street food at the Maspalomas Street Food Festival, featuring an eclectic mix of global cuisines alongside traditional Canarian snacks like pata asada (roasted leg of pork) and pimientos de padrón (fried green peppers).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Maspalomas, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when waiting in lines or in crowded public places.
When visiting the beach or walking around town in Maspalomas, it is respectful to dress in appropriate beachwear near the coast, but to cover up more when in the town center or in public places away from the beach.
When dining out in Maspalomas, it is customary to greet the staff upon entering and to wait to be seated. Additionally, it is polite to keep hands on the table during the meal and to ask for the bill when ready to leave, as opposed to waiting for it to be brought automatically.
Safety
Tipping in Maspalomas
Ensure a smooth experience
In Maspalomas, tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated for good service. It is customary to leave a small tip of 5-10% in restaurants and cafes if the service was satisfactory. Tipping for other services such as taxi drivers or hotel staff is not mandatory but a small amount for good service is welcomed.
In Maspalomas, Spain, cash is widely accepted, but most establishments also take credit and debit cards. It's always good to have some euros on hand for smaller purchases or in case you come across a place that doesn't accept cards. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Maspalomas, with warm temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds. The average temperature ranges from 18°C to 24°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer in Maspalomas is hot and dry, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 27°C. It's the peak tourist season, so expect crowded beaches and lively nightlife. Water sports and beach activities are popular during this time.
Autumn brings pleasant temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C, making it a good time to visit Maspalomas. The weather is still warm, and the crowds start to thin out. It's a great time for hiking, exploring the dunes, and enjoying outdoor activities.
Winter in Maspalomas is mild, with temperatures averaging between 15°C to 20°C. It's a popular destination for winter sun seekers, although the evenings can be cooler. This season is perfect for relaxing on the beach and enjoying the local culture without the summer crowds.
Maspalomas at Night
Hiking in Maspalomas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A unique natural reserve featuring vast sand dunes, a beautiful beach, and scenic walking paths that offer stunning views of the ocean and surrounding areas.
A small lagoon located near the Dunes of Maspalomas, ideal for a leisurely hike with opportunities to observe local wildlife, especially birds.
A larger hiking area located about an hour's drive from Maspalomas, featuring diverse terrains including coastal cliffs, forests, and mountains.
A popular hiking destination located in the center of Gran Canaria, known for its iconic rock formation and breathtaking views of the island’s landscape.
A beautiful ravine situated a short drive from Maspalomas, offering various trails with unique rock formations and traditional cave dwellings.
Aiports
How to reach Maspalomas by plane.
The primary airport serving the island of Gran Canaria, located approximately 30 km from Maspalomas.
The main airport for international flights on the southern part of Tenerife, around 60 km from Maspalomas.
Located on the northern side of Tenerife, this airport is about 90 km from Maspalomas.
An international airport on La Palma Island, approximately 140 km from Maspalomas.
The major airport on Fuerteventura Island, located roughly 120 km from Maspalomas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The native population of Spain, including those born in Maspalomas.
Individuals from other European countries living in Maspalomas, commonly from the UK, Germany, and the Nordic countries.
Visitors who come to Maspalomas for leisure, including a large influx from various countries during peak seasons.
People from North and Sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to local labor and culture.
Individuals from Latin American countries, adding to the multicultural demographic of the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Maspalomas, with numerous local teams and vibrant community support.
Maspalomas's beautiful beaches make beach volleyball a favorite sport for both locals and tourists.
Various water sports, including windsurfing, kite surfing, and snorkeling, are popular due to the area's favorable climate and conditions.
The scenic coastal trails attract many runners and cyclists, making these activities quite popular among locals.
Maspalomas features several golf courses that draw enthusiasts from around the region, known for their beautiful landscapes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Maspalomas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Maspalomas boasts an increasing number of restaurants and cafes with diverse vegetarian and vegan offerings. Look for eateries like Veggie Deli and Bistró Tasty, which specialize in plant-based cuisine and innovative vegan fare.
Travelers with gluten intolerances can find a variety of gluten-free options at local establishments. From gluten-free pizzas at Piccola Italia to freshly prepared gluten-free Spanish dishes at El Nublo, there are ample choices to suit dietary needs.