What to do in the south of Gran Canaria
The south of Gran Canaria concentrates beaches, nature, charming towns and nightlife in a small territory: from Arguineguín to Maspalomas it is just 30 minutes by car. It is the area with the most hours of sunshine on the island and that is why almost all visits start here. This is the guide that locals use to recommend the south to those who visit us, organized by real plans and with the distances that matter.
The 12 plans of the south
🐪 Maspalomas dunes
The icon of the south: a field of golden sand dunes next to the sea between Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas. You can walk from either of the two beaches, and at sunset the color of the sand is the best on the island. Admission is free all year round.
A village day in Arguineguín
Halfway between the tourist south and the authentic south: a lively fishing village, with a fishing port, urban beach and fresh fish. It is the plan of those who have already seen everything touristy and are looking for the real atmosphere of the island.
Complete guide to Arguineguín →
Amadores and Patalavaca beaches
If what you are looking for is white sand and calm sea, Amadores is the southern answer. Patalavaca, a little further east, is the quiet option for locals, with comfortable swimming areas and very few people during the week.
🌅 Puerto de Mogán, the little Venice
A town built around canals with colorful houses and flowers, considered one of the most beautiful ports in Europe. It is worth it at the end of the afternoon: the boats return, the terraces are set up and the atmosphere is calm. It is about 20 minutes from Arguineguín.
Dolphin excursion
One of the most common activities in the south: going out by boat from Arguineguín or Puerto Rico to see dolphins and whales in their habitat. It is best to book in high season, and go out during early departures when the sea is calmer.
Hiking along the coast and inland
From Playa del Inglés to Maspalomas
45-minute walk along the sand or along the promenade that borders the dunes. The easy version of the south: without slope and with the best views of the sunset.
Hiking meetups →Mogán ravines
Routes through the interior of the municipality between volcanic mountains with views of the entire southwest coast. Perfect for cool mornings.
More about Mogán →🌃 Nightlife in the south
The southern night has two faces: the terraces and beach bars of Arguineguín (local atmosphere and village prices) and the area of Playa del Inglés and Puerto Rico (tourist venues, music and shows). The usual combination: have a town dinner in Arguineguín and, if you feel like it, close up in the nightlife area.
Frequently asked questions
What to see in the south of Gran Canaria in 3 days?
Day 1: dunes and beaches of Maspalomas. Day 2: Arguineguín and Puerto de Mogán with dolphin excursion. Day 3: hiking or Amadores beach and afternoon walk through Patalavaca.
Where is the airport relative to the south?
Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) is 25-40 minutes from the main southern areas on the GC-1. Arguineguín is about 35 minutes away.
What is the best beach of the south of Gran Canaria?
It depends on what you are looking for: Amadores for white sand and calm, Maspalomas for atmosphere and walks through the dunes, Arguineguín for town sea and local price.
Is Puerto de Mogán worth it?
Yes, especially at dusk. It is the most beautiful town in the municipality and works well combined with Arguineguín in the same morning or afternoon, since they are 20 minutes away.
What can you do for free in the south of Gran Canaria?
Almost everything is the best: beaches and dunes (free), promenades, the town of Arguineguín and the sunsets. Only the dolphin excursion and some sports have a cost.
Can you explore the south without a car?
Yes with Global buses between Maspalomas, Puerto Rico, Arguineguín and Mogán, but with a car you save time. The south can be traveled from end to end in 30 minutes on the GC-1.
Where to sleep in the south: Maspalomas or Mogán?
Maspalomas/Playa del Inglés for atmosphere and dunes; Mogán/Arguineguín for tranquility and fresh fish. Many combine 2 nights in each area.
Are there supermarkets and ATMs in the south?
Yes, in all tourist areas: Arguineguín, Puerto Rico, Amadores and Maspalomas have supermarkets, pharmacies and ATMs right on the beach.
What to bring to the dunes of Maspalomas?
Water, hat, sunscreen and closed shoes if you cross the dunes. There is no shade: go early or at dusk.
Is the south safe to go with children?
Yes. Amadores, Patalavaca and Arguineguín have calm seas and services nearby. The dunes and walks are flat and suitable for strollers.
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