The Ultimate Family Vacation Destination

Gran Canaria, one of Spain’s Canary Islands off the northwest coast of Africa, offers a diverse and picturesque setting for families looking for an unforgettable vacation. Known for its golden beaches, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Gran Canaria is a paradise for both relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal choice for family getaways.

July and August are the best months to visit Gran Canaria, especially for American families. While the summer months are typically high season for many resorts, Gran Canaria remains surprisingly less crowded, offering a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. This period coincides perfectly with summer break in America, providing an excellent opportunity for families to travel without having to worry about school schedules. Additionally, the island’s consistently warm temperatures are perfect for beach going and other outdoor activities, making it the quintessential summer destination.

Family-Friendly Activities and Parks
Gran Canaria boasts a variety of parks and attractions tailored to families, each offering unique experiences that cater to all ages. Here’s a look at some of the top spots that should be on every family’s itinerary:

• Aqualand Maspalomas: This is the largest water park on the island, featuring an array of slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. It is a water paradise where thrill-seekers can enjoy high-speed slides, while younger kids can splash around in dedicated play areas. The park also offers plenty of shaded areas and eateries, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable day for the whole family.
  

• Palmitos Park: For families who love wildlife and nature, Palmitos Park is a must-visit. This botanical garden and zoo is home to a diverse collection of exotic plants and animals. Visitors can marvel at the bird shows (featuring eagles and parrots), watch playful dolphins, and stroll through lush tropical gardens. The park’s butterfly house and aquarium add to the enchanting experience.
  
• Hangar 37: Under the warm sun stand several military vehicles, a plane, a boat, and a royal tank. But this is not a scene from a war, quite the opposite. Here people come to play and leave their stress behind. Hangar 37 is Europe’s top battle simulation site, and it is located in the south of Gran Canaria. Here painstaking work has gone into preparing 10,000 square meters of space, spread out over several levels, including basements, tunnels, and trenches, literally submerging players (over 6 years old) into another dimension in which fun is the true winner.
  
• Angry Birds Activity Park: Located in Puerto Rico, the Angry Birds Activity Park offers an engaging experience inspired by the popular mobile-phone game. This outdoor activity park features trampolines, zip lines, climbing walls, and a mini-golf course. Designed for younger children, the park ensures safety while providing endless fun with activities that encourage physical play and creativity.
  
• Holiday World Maspalomas: This comprehensive amusement park caters to all ages. With a vast array of attractions including roller coasters, a giant Ferris wheel, and bumper cars, the park guarantees hours of entertainment. There’s also a bowling alley, arcade, and several restaurants, making it the perfect spot for an all-day family outing.
  
• Cocodrilo Park: For a more exotic adventure, Cocodrilo Park offers an up-close encounter with crocodiles, among other rescued animals. This animal rescue center provides educational tours where visitors can learn about the conservation efforts and habits of various species, including primates, birds, and reptiles. It’s an excellent way for kids to learn about wildlife preservation while having fun.
  
• Poema del Mar Aquarium: Located in Las Palmas, this aquarium transports visitors to a mesmerizing underwater world that showcases marine life from all the oceans. The aquarium’s massive tanks and immersive environments allow visitors to feel as though they were walking on the ocean floor. Highlights include the Deep Sea section, the Jungle area, and a giant 360º observation tunnel.
  
• Submarine Adventure: Simulating the submerged remains of an ancient civilization where marine life now bustles, this fantasy scenario has taken shape thanks to the eco-sustainable project promoted by Atlántida Submarine: The Golden Shark, a modern recreational submarine powered by electric motors featuring large portholes to provide exceptional views under the sea. It dives daily into the crystalline waters of Puerto de Mogán, in the south of Gran Canaria.
  

Gran Canaria is not just a destination; it’s a family-friendly haven that offers a mix of natural beauty, exciting activities, and cultural experiences. From its stunning natural areas and adventure parks to its delicious local cuisine made with fresh produce, the island offers a complete vacation experience.

For American families, Gran Canaria represents an opportunity to explore a new culture, indulge in unique activities, and create lasting memories together. With its warm climate and welcoming atmosphere, this is the ultimate destination for a family summer vacation.