Gran Canaria holidays

With long hot summers and mild winters, any month’s a good time to visit Gran Canaria!

• Like the heat? The best time to hit the beach is between July and September – that’s high season in Gran Canaria, when summer temperatures are at their peak.

• Prefer more of a ‘Goldilocks’ temperature? June and November both average a comfortable 23°C. Which should be just right if you’re not limited by the school summer holidays!

• If you love hiking adventures, sightseeing trips and fewer crowds, the mild spring and autumn seasons (April to May and September to November) will be just the ticket.

• The hottest month in Gran Canaria is August, reaching a toasty 23 - 29°C.

• The coolest month is February when temperatures average 16 - 21°C.

Gran Canaria is definitely worth visiting! An island of soft sand beaches and year-round sunshine, rich in culture and natural beauty, with plenty for families, couples and friends to do.

This Spanish hotspot boasts awe-inspiring mountains and crags, like the free-standing Roque Nublo, lush forests, and the vast Maspalomas Dunes. It’s also steeped in history and culture, with a range of museums, art galleries, and traditional villages to explore. Make sure you check out Vegueta – the Old Town area of Las Palmas. It’s packed with colonial history and charming tapas bars.

Gran Canaria has so many beautiful places to visit. Here are some of our favourites:

• Maspalomas Dunes Nature Reserve: One of the most stunning sights on the island, located on the southern coast, this vast stretch of golden sand rolls on for miles. Just like the deserts of nearby Africa!

• Puerto de Mogan: This gorgeous old fishing village is not only super pretty, it also has plenty going for it. Think cobbles, Mediterranean views, a lovely beach, lush hotels and a mouthwatering line-up of seafront places to eat and drink. A beautiful destination for holidays in Gran Canaria.

• The Tamadaba Natural Park: Boasting dramatic mountain landscapes, lush forests, a rugged coastline and impressive cliffs that plunge into the Atlantic Ocean. Hike along winding trails through the pine forests, explore ancient cave systems and take in panoramic views of the island.

• Barranco de las Vacas: Famed as the Gran Canaria canyon that ancient islanders called home. AKA the Red Canyon, it’s a breathtaking place to explore.

• Gran Canaria has some of the best beaches in Europe, with over 60 km of coastline and more than 80 sand spots, from secluded coves to bustling resort areas.

• The island's warm, sunny climate and clear, turquoise waters make it a popular destination for beachgoers all year round.

• Some of the most popular beaches on the island include Playa de Maspalomas, with its stunning sand dunes, Playa del Inglés for its lively atmosphere and watersports, and Amadores Beach for its sheltered bays and tranquil waters.

Gran Canaria’s sunny enough to attract visitors 12 months a year! But while it doesn't have an off season as such, it does have a low season (approx November to March / April) when it’s quieter but most businesses are still open. So, if you’re looking for a great deal, that’s the best time to visit Gran Canaria, when the weather’s still warm but less intense than the peak summer months.

And did we mention it’s one of Europe’s top destinations for a winter escape?

Gran Canaria is a family-friendly destination with activities for all ages.

You and the kids can enjoy paddle-safe beaches, waterparks and amusement parks, as well as hiking trails and nature reserves.

It’s also known as a laid-back, safe and welcoming destination, making it the ideal spot for spending quality time together.

In short, holidays to Gran Canaria for families are go!

No, Gran Canaria is in the Spanish Canary Islands. But there is a Puerto Rico Gran Canaria! You’re thinking of the Caribbean island also called Puerto Rico, so it’s an easy mistake to make. You’ll find Gran Canaria near Africa, much closer to home!

Luckily Gran Canaria’s also known for its gorgeous beaches and amazing year-round weather.

Now you’re really putting us on the spot! We love both Gran Canaria and Tenerife but here’s a quick comparison to help you choose.

Best bits: Both have amazing beaches, beautiful weather and a gorgeous capital to visit.

Weather: They have similar temperatures with an average summer high of 28°C. Tenerife is often very slightly cooler than Gran Canaria but both are fantastic sunny destinations any time of year.

For families: Gran Canaria’s top family attractions include the famous Sioux City theme park. Tenerife is home to Siam Park, rated Spain’s best waterpark on TripAdvisor.

For adults: There are plenty of gorgeous places to unwind on either island, with an array of luxury hotels featuring everything from spas to suites. Plus there’s great sightseeing, nightlife, food and watersports. For golf, Tenerife wins, though (just!).

Scenery: Explore Mount Teide National Park in Tenerife or hike the Camino de Santiago in Gran Canaria.

Flights: Tenerife and Gran Canaria have their own airports. It’ll take you around 4 and a half hours to fly to either island from London.

Spain’s six-drink rule: The six-drink rule doesn’t affect Gran Canaria, Tenerife or any other Canary Islands.

There’s only one thing for it, you’re going to have to go to both!