15 Best Things to Do in Maspalomas in 2026
If you’re searching for the best Things to Do in Maspalomas, you’ve chosen one of the best areas in Gran Canaria for beaches, outdoor activities, boat trips and unforgettable experiences.
Located in the south of Gran Canaria, Maspalomas is famous for its enormous sand dunes, long beaches and warm climate. But there is much more to do than simply spending the day beside the hotel pool.
From walking through the famous Maspalomas Dunes to seeing dolphins in the Atlantic Ocean, riding a jet ski or exploring Gran Canaria by buggy, here are 15 of the best things to do in Maspalomas in 2026.
1. Explore the Maspalomas Dunes
No trip to the south of Gran Canaria is complete without seeing the Maspalomas Dunes.
This spectacular protected landscape stretches between Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés and is one of the most recognisable places on the island.
Walking beside the dunes around sunrise or before sunset is particularly impressive, when temperatures are cooler and the light completely changes the landscape.
Remember that the dunes are a protected natural area, so always respect marked paths and local restrictions.
Best for: Everyone
Cost: Free
Tip: Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
2. Spend the Day at Maspalomas Beach
Maspalomas Beach stretches for kilometres along the southern coast of Gran Canaria.
Whether you want to swim, sunbathe or simply walk beside the Atlantic Ocean, it’s one of the easiest ways to enjoy the excellent climate of southern Gran Canaria.
You can also walk along the coast towards Playa del Inglés or towards the lighthouse and Meloneras.
Best for: Families, couples and relaxing days
Cost: Free
3. See the Maspalomas Lighthouse
The Faro de Maspalomas is another landmark worth visiting.
Located where Maspalomas Beach meets Meloneras, the lighthouse has become one of the symbols of southern Gran Canaria.
The surrounding promenade is also filled with restaurants, shops and places to stop for a drink.
Combining the lighthouse, dunes and beach makes an excellent half-day itinerary.
4. Go Dolphin Watching
One of the most memorable activities you can experience while staying in Maspalomas is heading into the Atlantic Ocean in search of dolphins.
Dolphin watching excursions operate from the south of Gran Canaria and take visitors out to areas where different species of cetaceans can be found.
Our Dolphin Watching Tour lasts approximately two hours and includes a sighting guarantee: if no dolphins are seen during the trip, you can join another departure according to the operator’s conditions.
Price: €38 per adult; children aged 2–12 €25
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Best for: Families, couples and wildlife lovers
→ Check our Dolphin Watching Tour in Gran Canaria
5. Take a 4-Hour Catamaran Cruise
If you’d rather relax at sea, a catamaran cruise is another excellent option when looking for Things to Do in Maspalomas.
Spend approximately four hours sailing along the coast with food, selected unlimited drinks, swimming and snorkelling.
Our catamaran experience also includes a banana boat ride, making it a good combination of relaxation and entertainment.
Price: From €59 per adult
Duration: Approximately 4 hours
Best for: Couples, families and groups
→ Discover our Catamaran Cruise in Gran Canaria
6. Drive a Buggy Off-Road
Want something more adventurous?
A buggy tour allows you to leave the traditional tourist areas behind and experience a completely different side of southern Gran Canaria.
You’ll follow a guided route through off-road terrain and enjoy an activity that’s especially popular with couples and groups of friends.
A valid driving licence is required for the driver.
Price: From €130 per buggy
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Best for: Adventure lovers and couples
→ See our Buggy Tour in Gran Canaria
7. Ride a Jet Ski Along the Coast
For adrenaline lovers, a Jet Ski Safari is difficult to beat.
Instead of simply riding around a small designated area, you’ll follow a guided route along the coast and experience southern Gran Canaria from the Atlantic Ocean.
No jet ski licence is required for the experience.
Safety equipment, guidance and insurance are included according to the operator’s conditions.
Price: From €130
Duration: Approximately 1 hour
Best for: Couples, friends and adrenaline lovers
→ See our Jet Ski Safari in Gran Canaria
8. Combine a Buggy and Jet Ski Experience
If one adventure isn’t enough, combine two.
A Buggy + Jet Ski experience gives you the opportunity to experience Gran Canaria both on land and from the ocean.
It’s one of our favourite recommendations for younger couples and groups looking for an action-packed experience during their holiday.
Price: From €125 per person
→ Discover our Buggy + Jet Ski Combo
9. Walk Along the Meloneras Promenade
For something completely free, take a walk along the Meloneras promenade.
Starting around the Maspalomas Lighthouse, you can walk beside the ocean while passing hotels, restaurants and shops.
It’s particularly enjoyable around sunset.
You don’t need every day of your holiday to be packed with organised activities. Sometimes a simple walk beside the Atlantic is exactly what you need.
10. Discover Puerto de Mogán
Puerto de Mogán is one of the prettiest coastal towns in southern Gran Canaria.
Its marina, colourful buildings, small streets and restaurants make it an excellent place to spend a few hours.
It’s approximately a short drive from the main tourist areas in southern Gran Canaria, making it easy to combine with other activities.
Go in the morning, explore the marina and stay for lunch beside the water.
11. Explore the Mountains on a Jeep Safari
The beaches are only one side of Gran Canaria.
Travel inland and the landscape changes dramatically, with mountains, valleys, viewpoints and traditional villages.
A Jeep Safari is an excellent choice if you want to see more of the island without organising an entire road trip yourself.
It’s also a good alternative if you’ve already spent several days at the beach.
→ Explore our Jeep Safari in Gran Canaria
12. Visit Playa del Inglés
Playa del Inglés is located directly beside Maspalomas and is one of the biggest tourist areas in Gran Canaria.
The long beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing, while the surrounding area offers restaurants, shops and nightlife.
You can even walk between parts of Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas along the coast.
13. Watch the Sunset
One of the best experiences in Maspalomas costs absolutely nothing.
Find a good location near the coast and watch the sun disappear over the Atlantic.
The Maspalomas Lighthouse and Meloneras promenade are two easy options.
For couples visiting Gran Canaria, it’s also one of the simplest plans for an evening before dinner.
14. Book a Private Yacht
For something more exclusive, consider spending a few hours aboard a private yacht.
A private experience gives couples, families and groups more privacy than a standard shared boat excursion and can be particularly good for birthdays, celebrations or special occasions.
You’ll experience the southern coast of Gran Canaria away from the busiest tourist areas.
→ See our Private Yacht Experience in Gran Canaria
15. Explore More of Gran Canaria
Maspalomas is an excellent base, but don’t spend your entire holiday in one place.
Gran Canaria is sometimes described as a miniature continent because the landscapes change dramatically across the island.
Beaches, mountains, villages and dramatic viewpoints can all be found within relatively short distances.
If you have a rental car, dedicate at least one day to exploring beyond the southern resorts.
Alternatively, choose an organised excursion if you don’t want to drive.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Maspalomas for Couples?
Couples have plenty of options.
For a relaxing experience, choose a catamaran cruise or spend the evening walking around Meloneras.
For adventure, try the Buggy Tour or Jet Ski Safari.
And if you’re celebrating something special, a Private Yacht experience provides much more privacy.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Maspalomas With Kids?
Families should consider Dolphin Watching, the Catamaran Cruise, Maspalomas Beach and visiting the lighthouse.
Always check minimum ages and individual activity requirements before booking adventure activities.
What Are the Best Things to Do in Maspalomas for Adventure?
If relaxing beside the pool isn’t your idea of a holiday, southern Gran Canaria has plenty of alternatives.
Our top adventure choices are:
These activities allow you to experience more than the traditional beaches and resorts.
How Many Days Do You Need in Maspalomas?
For most visitors, 5–7 days gives you enough time to combine relaxing days with activities and exploring other parts of Gran Canaria.
For example, you could spend one day around Maspalomas Beach and the dunes, another on a boat trip, another exploring the island and another doing an adventure activity.
That still leaves plenty of time to relax.
Where to Book Activities in Maspalomas
If you’re staying in Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, Meloneras or another area in southern Gran Canaria, GC Tours Gran Canaria can help you choose and book the right experience.
We offer different activities including Dolphin Watching, Catamaran Cruises, Buggy Tours, Jet Ski Safaris, Jeep Safaris and Private Yacht experiences.
Not sure which one to choose?
Send us:
- Your preferred date
- Number of people
- Children’s ages, if applicable
- Where you’re staying
- The type of experience you’re looking for
We’ll help you find the most suitable option and check availability.
Book Your Gran Canaria Experience
There are plenty of Things to Do in Maspalomas, whether you want to relax beside the Atlantic, discover dolphins, explore the island or experience something more adventurous.
Don’t spend your entire holiday wondering what to do next.
→ Explore All Gran Canaria Activities
→ Check Availability on WhatsApp