Why Gran Canaria is a Great Family Holiday Destination

*Collaborative Post

With year-round sunshine and a beach season that lasts until October, The Canary Islands are a fantastic family holiday spot.

Located off the north-west coast of Africa, this Spanish archipelago is easily reached from Europe and enjoys warm weather from spring to autumn with October seeing temperatures as high as 22 degrees Celsius. In addition to the reliable weather and long holiday season, the Canary Islands also offer an abundance of activities suitable for children.

Gran Canaria, the third-largest island, has incredibly varied landscapes that provide the opportunity for a host of outdoor adventures in addition to exhilarating water sports on the coast. Families will also love visiting the island’s man-made attractions including theme parks and an exceptionally diverse zoo.

Top 5 family-friendly activities in Gran Canaria

Play on the family beaches

Children will love playing on the family beaches in Gran Canaria. These bays are shallow with gentle water, and some are striped with the iconic black volcanic sand that is characteristic of the Canaries. One of the most popular and pristine black sand beaches in Gran Canaria is Faneroque on the west side of the island.

Go snorkelling or scuba diving

Older children can explore the sea just beyond the shoreline through a fun snorkelling experience. There are several coral reefs rich in marine life including vibrant tropical fish. Scuba diving in Gran Canaria is even more rewarding. Experienced divers will find a host of astonishing marine life from season to season. Angel sharks and sting rays can be seen in winter and spring while summer is the best time to spot ethereal seahorses.

Spot dolphins in the wild

If your kids prefer to steer clear of the water, that doesn’t mean that ocean adventures are off the cards. Head out to sea safely on board a boat tour to spot dolphins and whales swimming in the wild. Adults and children alike will love watching the acrobatic performances of these marine mammals.

Explore Palmitos Park

Children can also get up close and personal with wildlife at Palmitos Park, Gran Canaria’s astonishing zoo. Divided into sections based on the type of animal, this zoo boasts an aquarium, Island of Primates, interactive bird enclosure and reptile area, as well as a beautiful botanical garden.

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Head to a theme park

The theme parks in Gran Canaria are an easy way to add variety to your beach holiday itinerary. From Aqualand, the fun-filled water park, to venues dedicated to go karting and indoor skydiving, there are many options to suit children of all ages and dispositions. Adults are sure to have fun too!

Getting to Gran Canaria

Another reason that Gran Canaria is great for a family holiday is that it is easy to reach from the UK. Travellers can choose between direct flights or short cruises depending on their preferred mode of transport. You can even pre-book Gran Canaria transfers from the airport or port to keep your travel experience with children as stress-free as possible.

*This is a collaborative post. For further information please refer to my disclosure page.