Gran Canaria

North Gran Canaria and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Although the north of the island is home to the capital of Gran Canaria as well as the airport and two busy ports it is also less popular with most tourists. The exception is the surfers who flock to the waves at Las Palmas and Quintanilla Beach on the north coast. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the cultural capital of all the Canary Islands. Learn about the Canary Islands' role in Spanish colonial history at Casa de Colon, or take a stroll through the Jardin Canario just outside the city, where the gardens exhibit the islands' native flora and fauna.

South Gran Canaria

The south of the island is home to some of Gran Canaria's major resorts with reputations for top accommodation and excellent nightlife. Las Maspalomas and Playa Ingles are two of the best known. The weather here is near-perfect all the time and with fabulous beaches you'd be forgiven for doing little else but sunbathing and partying. Other attractions in the south include the sand dunes of Las Maspalomas, fabulous beaches and excellent shopping. The region also holds some a pretty villages and great local food for those who want to venture off the beaten track.