Gran Canaria is known for its breathtaking beaches and crystal-clear waters. But it also offers a wide range of family-friendly activities that will have you and your little ones grinning from ear to ear. If you’re planning a family trip to Gran Canaria, get ready for a whirlwind of sun, sand, fun and excitement. So, gather your crew and let’s dive into the top 8 things to do in Gran Canaria with kids!
Table of Contents
Our guide to the best things to do with kids in Gran Canaria
1. Unleash your inner mermaid at Poema del Mar Aquarium
Right in the heart of the city, you’ll find the incredible Poema del Mar, with its mystical world of underwater creatures. Marvel at masses of vibrant, colourful exotic fish, gaze in awe at majestic sharks and wander through the diverse marine ecosystems teeming with ocean life.
This spectacular aquarium has three different zones. Tread carefully in the Jungle Zone as poisonous frogs, Emperor scorpions, Siamese crocodiles and electric eels are lurking!
If you’re a shark fanatic, head to the Deep Ocean to see a range of sea predators from bull sharks to sand tiger sharks.
In the Reef-Beach zone, delight at dancing seahorses, cute turtles and the Nemo Kids display fill of everyone’s favourite fishy cartoon character! Poema del Mar Aquarium opens every day from 09:30 to 17:30.
2. Conquer the sand dunes of Maspalomas
Sandy thrills await at the iconic Maspalomas Sand Dunes on the south side of the island! This area is perfect for little explorers.
Don’t forget the sun cream as you venture into this desert-like oasis where the dunes stretch on as far as the eye can see. Your little ones will love feeling the soft sand between their toes and leaping off the tops of the enormous dunes.
Make sure you come with cameras at the ready so that you can capture those picture-perfect moments with your mini adventurers in this natural wonderland.
3. Learn and play at the Elder Museum of Science and Technology
Ready to ignite your kids’ curiosity? The Elder Museum of Science and Technology in Las Palmas offers engaging interactive exhibits that explore everything from space to the human body. With four floors of exhibitions and a digital planetarium, there’s plenty for young science fans to enjoy.
Your budding scientists can even conduct their own science experiments, sit in a fighter jet cockpit, catch a movie in a 3D cinema, have their hair raised in a Van de Graaff generator and take a ride on the Robocoaster, a robotic arm that whizzes you around the room.
This hidden gem is one of the best and most educational things to do on Gran Canaria! So, get down there with your nippers any day apart from Monday when it’s closed. The opening hours are 10:00 – 20:00.
4. Step back in time in Vegueta
You can’t visit Las Palmas de Gran Canaria without taking a wander round Vegueta, the city’s historic district full of beautifully preserved colonial architecture. Luckily for those of you visiting Gran Canaria with kids, you can take your family along.
When you’ve done a bit of walking, stop for a play and a rest in San Telmo Park with its grassy, shady spaces and café. It also has a large play area with a pirate ship. If it’s sea views you’re after, Altavista viewpoint for views of the city and the wild Atlantic Sea.
While you’re in the area, think about popping into the Museo Canario. Inquisitive explorers with a thirst for knowledge will love learning about the island’s past through ancient artifacts, pottery, tools and stone carvings. Maybe the display of skulls isn’t for the squeamish, but generally kids love that kind of thing, don’t they?
5. City Sightseeing Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Hopping on the City Sightseeing bus is a brilliant way to see the city. And it’s one that the kids love. Our hop-on hop-off bus ticket includes reduced entrance to Museo Canario too so the kids can see all those scary skulls!
If you want to explore Las Palmas, then it’s a brilliant way to get around the city and the views from the top of the bus are the best in town!
6. Immerse yourself in nature at Palmitos Park
Calling all nature enthusiasts! Palmitos Park is a haven of exotic wildlife and lush botanical gardens. Marvel at vibrant colourful birds, befriend friendly dolphins and spot mighty birds of prey.
The park puts on a whole host of spectacular shows, from dolphin shows to exotic birds displays and even an interactive show where kids get to interact with a range of creatures including armadillos, small exotic birds, raptors and snakes. That’s not to mention the aquarium and the butterfly house!
This park is a wild adventure for the whole family!
7. Soak up the sun at Las Canteras beach
One of Las Palmas’ perks is its coastal location and Las Canteras Beach is one of the best city beaches you’ll ever visit.
This stunning stretch of golden sand is paradise. Let the kids build sandcastles, splash in the waves and bask in the year-round Canary Island sun.
Don’t forget to explore the lively promenade, lined with cafes and ice cream parlours, perfect for sweet treats after a day of beachside fun!
8. Try some tasty treats at Mercado del Puerto
End your family escapades on a delicious note at the Mercado del Puerto, a vibrant food market filled with mouthwatering culinary delights.
From classic Spanish tapas to fresh seafood and local delicacies, your taste buds will be dancing with joy. Grab a table, savour the flavours, and let the atmosphere of this foodie haven engulf you.
Let the fun begin!
With this fabulous list of family-friendly adventures in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, you and your kids are in for a holiday that will create memories to cherish for a lifetime.
So, pack those bags, embrace the sunshine, and get ready for an unforgettable journey in this beautiful city that will leave you wanting more. Happy exploring, adventurous amigos!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, there are several family-friendly water parks on the island that are suitable for children. These parks include several features such as kids’ pools, water slides, splash pads and designated areas for toddlers. Safety is prioritized, with life guards always on duty.
Yes, there are several childcare services on the island that are staffed by English-speaking caregivers. These services provide age-appropriate activities and dedicated care for children of all ages. They range from full daycare facilities to babysitting services ready to assist during your stay on the island.
The best time of the year to visit Gran Canaria with kids is typically between April and October, when the weather is warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 26°C (68°F to 79°F). This period offers perfect conditions for enjoying outdoor activities and water sports, as well as spending time at the beach.
However, Gran Canaria is known as the “Island of Eternal Spring” due to its mild climate throughout the year, so visiting during other months can still be enjoyable, though temperatures can be slightly cooler. In the winter months between November and March, temperatures usually stay between 16°C to 22°C (61°F to 72°F).
Lastly, consider planning your visit around local events or festivals, which can provide additional entertainment options for the whole family. Just keep in mind that visiting during peak seasons can result in higher occupancy rates and prices for accommodations and activities.