Family Holidays to Gran Canaria

Other popular family holidays

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Natural and man-made parks make Gran Canaria a superb family getaway

A direct, four-hour flight from the UK gives your family plenty of time to discuss your first stops and must-see sites before you reach the island.

Though a small seaside town perfect for laid-back days in the sun, Bahia Feliz is also close to family friendly days out at Maspalomas Zoo or Sioux City Park, where the Old West theme will turn your kids into miniature cowboys in no time. Nearby you’ll find Meloneras, a purpose-built resort tucked out of the way but packed with swimming pools and secluded beaches ideal for building sandcastles.

Children of all ages can make a splash among the dramatic cliffs of Playa Taurito, where waterskiing and windsurfing cater to older kids, while the action-packed kamikaze slides of Lido Waterpark can fulfil the whole family. Stopover in the hidden restaurants of San Agustin to refuel with delectable treats before reaching Puerto Rico, where the family can join an afternoon boat trip out to sea for some dolphin spotting and fantastic scenery.

Best family friendly beaches

Man-made Anfi del Mar is a particularly pleasant half-moon of sandy shore with shallow water for little ones to play in. A more natural wonder can be found at the eternally sunny Playa del Ingles, whose 2,700 metres of golden beach are flanked by sand dunes that are ripe for climbing and exploring.

Sardina del Norte’s beach is backed by a cosy promenade, meaning strolling or splashing around can be added to your family’s itinerary. Meanwhile, the clean and safe Blue Flag beaches of Puerto Rico amplify a family day out in the sun.

Best family activities in Gran Canaria

The whole family can enjoy the diverse wildlife of Gran Canaria with camel rides through the sand dunes near Maspalomas or a visit to Palmitos Park, which is home to dolphins, exotic birds and butterflies. Adrenaline junkies of every age can also get their kicks on 4×4 safari tours across the island’s southern region, or through the high speed thrills of go-karting. Alternatively, you and your crew of loved ones can take to the sea on a pirate ship departing from Puerto Rico.

Other popular holidays in the Canary Islands

If you fancy checking out some other family-friendly islands in the Canary Islands, try Tenerife, Lanzarote or Fuerteventura. If you’re set on a holiday to Gran Canaria, take a look at our Gran Canaria travel guide for more information on how to plan your perfect family holiday in the sun. We’ve also rounded up the top five family hotels for you to choose from.

Family Life Orquidea

This Bahia Feliz hotel is right on the beach, featuring a kids’ club to keep young minds active while older souls recline by the pool. Because it’s just over the road from a shopping centre, you’re never far from the essentials. Pool tables, volleyball, gaming machines and football matches round off a selection of activities sure to keep everyone smiling.

Lopesan Baobab Hotel

Although it’s based in Meloneras, this resort complex takes its cultural cues from Africa, especially when it comes to entertainment. Seven swimming pools create tonnes of fun for the kids and a nearby golf course means sufficient break time for you. With the beach just a 10-minute walk away, you’ll also find ample opportunity to bundle together for fun in the sun.

Paradise Taurito Valle

While a hotel right on top of Playa Taurito’s beach sounds ideal in itself, this hotel actually has its own waterpark on site. With a buffet specifically for picky palettes and themed nights to keep the menu interesting, the kids will leave satisfied. Plus, there’s plenty for the parents – the hairdresser, spa and massage treatments let you get some much deserved pampering.

Ifa Interclub Atlantic

Perched at the height of the San Agustin hills, this hotel is well known among sporty types, but has enough alternatives to keep every generation engaged. With a regular entertainment programme for the adults, kids get shows of their own as well as a playground and waterslides that’ll see them splashing into the pool in style.

Revoli Playa

Enjoy barbecues in the sunshine of Puerto Rico at this apartment complex, which also hosts a games room and plans organised gaming events and tournaments. You’re 10 minutes’ walk from the beach, but the kids also get activities and a pool to call their own.