Las Palmas: Between Sky, Sand and Spirit

Gran Canaria stands out for its exceptional diversity, offering golden beaches, dramatic dunes, lush mountains, and charming historic towns.

For cruise passengers arriving at Las Palmas Cruise Port, the island offers a seamless gateway to discovery — where every moment can be shaped to personal taste. Heritage, adventure, and authenticity all combine in one unique destination.

Begin your day with a visit to the impressive Caldera de Bandama. This one offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, and even the coastline. You can walk along the rim for different perspectives or even descend into the caldera for a unique perspective (allow extra time for the descent and ascent). It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Gran Canaria’s volcanic origins and enjoy breathtaking scenery.

Head to a “bochinche” — a traditional Canarian restaurant — and enjoy typical food made by locals. Try “papas arrugadas con mojo” (wrinkled potatoes with sauce), grilled meat or fish, and local cheese. This offers a genuine taste of the island’s culinary heritage away from the main tourist strips.

Later in the day, chill out and have fun at Las Canteras Beach in Las Palmas. It’s a really nice city beach with yellow sand and a cool natural wall in the sea (“La Barra”) that makes the water calm for swimming and snorkeling. You can walk along the path next to the beach, lie in the sun, or go for a swim in the ocean. It’s a lively place and feels like the real Gran Canaria.

As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the lively nightlife scene of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. The area around the Santa Catalina Park and Mesa y López Avenue offers a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs catering to different tastes. Enjoy some drinks, soak in the local atmosphere, and perhaps find a spot with live music or a DJ to experience the island’s vibrant evening energy.