Top 12 Things to Do with Kids in Gran Canaria

Last Updated on May 11, 2023 by Suzy McCullough

We had a wonderful holiday to Gran Canaria and we fitted in lots of days out while we were there. After some research before the trip and while we were there I have compiled a list of my Top 12 things to do with kids in Gran Canaria.

If you are planning a trip to Gran Canaria I hope this list will help you. If you’ve never considered Gran Canaria before with your kids then hopefully this list will inspire you. We had a lovely 10-day holiday in one of the largest and most beautiful of the Canary Islands. (In no particular order).

1. Palmitos Park

Consistently rated the best for a family day out on TripAdvisor. A short drive from Maspalomas, Palmitos Park is set amongst some of the most stunning scenery on the island and is the most beautiful zoo I have ever been to. There’s a variety of shows throughout the day including a dolphin show and shows.

The zoo is situated on 20 hectares of land. There are over 160 different cactus types and 1000 palm trees of 42 different types. There’s a large selection of animals and a vast collection of exotic birds.

2. Aqualand

Aqualand Maspalomas is a world of water attractions for the whole family, 365 days a year. Experience slides of different sizes, shapes and heights, which will get that adrenaline pumping. Ride on over 40 different slides, get up close and personal with sea lions with the optional sea lion experience, and relax knowing the kids are having fun in the children’s park.

3. Camel Ride in the Dunes of Maspalomas

Camel rides last around 30 minutes. The dunes of Maspalomas have been protected since 1897 and cover some 404 hectares. The dunes are rather impressive and trekking around it can feel like you are in the desert.

Feel like a desert scout as you ride a gentle camel along the seemingly endless dunes of Maspalomas. The camels are fitted with comfortable 2-seater saddles, so you don’t need to ride on the hump.

4. A day trip to a beach

Gran Canaria is not short of beaches. In the two resorts where we stayed Puerto De Mogan and Puerto Rico, there is a lovely sandy beach. Most of the tourist resorts along the east and south coasts also have pretty decent beaches.

There are a staggering 82 beaches in Gran Canaria. Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés boast the 2 biggest beaches on the island (technically the same stretch of sand). Most have toilet facilities, shops, bars and restaurants. Sun loungers and umbrellas can also be hired at most public beaches.

5. Sioux City Park

Discover an entertaining and unexpected side of Gran Canaria when you visit Sioux City Park in Bahía Feliz. Originally built as a film set in the 1970s, this landmark has become an immersive theme park. Step back into the Wild West during your visit: venture into the saloon, watch a bank robbery in action, and meet the town’s sheriff. Free, round-trip bus transit is available for select locations.

6. Go on a Boat Trip

There is an abundance of choices for boat rides in Gran Canaria. Most of the tourist boats seem to operate out of Puerto Rico harbour. There are sea fishing trips (with toilets on board most of them it is certainly a consideration with children).

There are a few glass-bottom ferries to choose from which stop at 4 different ports. You could go dolphin/whale watching. There seem to be a few tour operators for this a Google search brought up most of them. It wasn’t something we did but we certainly considered it.

From Puerto de Mogan there is also a Submarine adventure. I really wanted to do this but I’m afraid for the price and the time on board we just couldn’t justify it. The submarine itself looked really good and it does actually submerge.

7. Cocodrilo Park

At the Crocodile Park zoo there is the largest collection of crocodiles in Europe can be found at this park. It’s not just all about the crocodiles though. There are monkeys, birds, tigers etc. Most have been rescued before arriving at the zoo.

8. Holiday world Maspalomas

Explore Gran Canaria’s most complete leisure space offering more than 30 attractions complemented by shows, pastimes, food areas and much more. Enjoy a great day for all the family with roller coasters for the big kids and dedicated areas for small children.

Ride the Ferris Wheel for scenic views of the area, take it easy on the Carousel or feel the adrenaline on the Spin Loop. Take the little ones to the activities specially designed with them in mind and stop for some refreshments in the food court.

9. Angry Birds Activity Park

Angry Birds Activity Park is the ultimate fun park for kids! With more than 20 attractions, including ziplines that make you feel like you’re in the famous mobile game as you crash into your own constructions, trampolines, and themed play areas! There’s mini golf, a 10D cinema, LED football walls, pedal cars, and so much more!

10. Mundo Aborigen

It’s not just all about the theme parks and beaches. It is actually somewhere historical that the kids may well enjoy. Set in the biggest gorge on the island you will find Mundo Aborigen. It is a reconstruction of a Canarian village. There are over 100 life-size figures and various displays depicting life back then. I would have liked to have had the time with the car to visit here. It looks very interesting.

11. Poema Del Mar

Visit Poema del Mar and discover the spectacular biodiversity of the Blue Planet. Immerse yourself in 35 different freshwater and marine ecosystems and marvel at the colourful diversity of life. Enjoy a unique experience through the habitats of countless species with all their curiosities and abilities. Explore the Amazon, the depths of the ocean, and its fluorescent corals, deltas, beaches, and mangroves.  

12. Gran Canaria Guided Buggy Tour

Discover Gran Canaria from a different perspective on a buggy drive along some of the island’s adventurous roads. Marvel at the impressive natural landscapes of Fataga. The guided excursion starts by heading for the Ayagaures Valley.

Drive to the Pedro Gonzales viewpoint for panoramic views. Get a breathtaking view of the Ayagaures Valley with its reservoir and surrounding mountains. Continue along unpaved roads to explore more exciting canyons. See the impressive mountains and charming villages in the south of Gran Canaria.

Don’t visit Gran Canaria without this book……..

Are you looking for somewhere to stay? Why not check out our post about All Inclusive Family-Friendly Hotels in Gran Canaria

We stayed here and we would 100% return

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