As an island, the identity of Gran Canaria is as much about the ocean encircling it as the land it occupies. With the Atlantic, 236 kilometres of coastline and 60 kilometres of beaches at your fingertips– let the waves of excitement carry you away on an unforgettable island adventure.
A mecca for both water sports novices and maestros alike, Gran Canaria has a wealth of nautical pursuits that fleck its coastline. From fishing on the open sea and paddleboarding gentle waters to hopping on a ferry and bathing in the crystal waters of the Atlantic – there are few activities you can't conquer. Plus, with plenty of hotels and apartments strategically located on the seafront that are willing to organise these ventures for you – it's never been easier to set sail into the sunset.
Where to stay
Having spent decades perfecting its accommodation to offer the best, some of our favourite hotels smooching the sea include the Servatur Green Beach and the Servatur Casablanca Suites & Spa – which also puts wellness to the fore.
For those hungry for sweeping sea views, the Hotel Marina Suites is an oasis of calm just a few meters from the sandy coastline and for those craving total relaxation, head to Hotel Marina Bayview, which boasts Balinese beds and the best views of Puerto Rico.
If you have your eyes set on Gran Canarias 'Little Venice' (also known as Puerto de Mogán), head to Hotel Cordial Mogán Playa and the Apartamentos Cordial Mogán Valle. Both are within walking distance from the beach and have a spa and top-notch restaurants.
Finally,Gloria Palace San Agustín Thalasso & Hotel, Gloria Palace Royal Hotel & Spa and the Gloria Palace Amadores Thalasso & Hotel will scratch that itch for those hunting out a great wellness scene – all have jacuzzis, spa treatments and more.
Wherever you stay, Gran Canaria is an island that flaunts 365 days of sunshine, year-round 22-degree temperatures and miles of deep blue waters begging to be explored. It's time to take the plunge...
Dive deep
Gran Canaria is an island of contrasts – white sand beaches, curious blank sand shores, calm seas, and wild, untamed waters. But below the surface is a world to explore. Don your flippers and snorkel – we're diving deep.
As well as a paradise for man, the waters of Gran Canaria are home to dolphins, humpback whales, turtles, and even flying fish. Embark on a three-hour excursion on the Spirit of the Sea and discover these magical critters yourself.
Want to delve deeper? Jump aboard the Submarine Adventure from a state-of-the-art vessel that takes you 15 meters below the surface to get an up-close look at the Park of Atlantic – the island's first artificial reef conceived as a seabed regeneration project. You'll face sunken ships, hundreds of colourful marine species and learn about the history behind the rocks.
Seek thrills
Sport and the sea are an inseparable duo, and you can get the adrenaline pumping at one of the many water sports activities on the island.
Canary WaterSports offers parasailing at 200 meters over the ocean's surface, jet skiing and even a 'crazy sofa' that guarantees giggles. Alternatively, Watersports Luis Molina offers activities at a slower pace with the opportunity to kayak, paddleboard, or even flyboard over the water.
It's also impossible to speak about watersports and not mention surfing, and you can do this alongside windsurfing or paddle surfing from BD Surf School.
Go fish
Gran Canaria is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts, and you can cast your rod at Fish On!, which offers bottom fishing in shallow waters with a visit to the reef. The sea surrounding Gran Canaria is rich in spearfish, golden tuna, skipjack and much more, so it's a gamble which one you'll hook when fishing on the island.
Ship happens
Hop aboard a ferry from Líneas Blue Bird or Líneas Salmon and sail the seas of Gran Canaria – where your skipper will navigate the waters as you soak up striking vistas and soothing sunsets.
Some of the magical maritime corners to explore include the marinas of Puerto de Mogán and Puerto Deportivo Pasito Blanco, which are conveniently sheltered from the blusterous trade winds. The latter is a refuge for sports boats with great restaurants by the bucket load.
For more information and to plan your next adventure visit grancanariablue.com