Hello’s guidebook
Ideas For Las Palmas and Gran Canaria
For short or long stays here is a small list of ideas, adventures, places to eat and see, people to rent from when walking, biking, bus or car swimming, surfing, skate boarding, climbing sport or traditional, scuba, parachute or parapente
Absolutely the best food and quality / quantity for money out deal in the entire Canary Islands. All you can eat Buffet with dishes brought right to your table. Perfect for Solo to Large Groups. We love this restaurant. The staff are amazing and hard workers. Do leave a tip when you pay at the till at the end of your feasting. Favorites include the Cream Cheese & Salmon Sushi, Japanese Bread, Seasame Beef, and you can have as many plates as you want. Over 200 items. Buffet price does not include water or drinks. Still it is worth every penny. Call to book a reservation if you will have a group larger then 8.
Restaurante Sakura VI Wok
2 C. Mlle. Las PalmasAbsolutely the best food and quality / quantity for money out deal in the entire Canary Islands. All you can eat Buffet with dishes brought right to your table. Perfect for Solo to Large Groups. We love this restaurant. The staff are amazing and hard workers. Do leave a tip when you pay at the till at the end of your feasting. Favorites include the Cream Cheese & Salmon Sushi, Japanese Bread, Seasame Beef, and you can have as many plates as you want. Over 200 items. Buffet price does not include water or drinks. Still it is worth every penny. Call to book a reservation if you will have a group larger then 8.
SO SO SO Cool and worth a look. Best views of marine life short of Diving in. Free Wifi as well to share your photos and adventures as you get lost in the amazing experience. HINT: Perfect for families, worth buying the year pass if you plan to go more then once. Clean washrooms. Great if you have small children or infants. Plenty of spaces to sit and take a rest.
158 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Poema del Mar
s/n Av. de Los ConsignatariosSO SO SO Cool and worth a look. Best views of marine life short of Diving in. Free Wifi as well to share your photos and adventures as you get lost in the amazing experience. HINT: Perfect for families, worth buying the year pass if you plan to go more then once. Clean washrooms. Great if you have small children or infants. Plenty of spaces to sit and take a rest.
Caves, Better yet Still inhabited and fully modern upgraded caves with great restaurants, museums and shops. The whole valley is worth a discovery. Access by bus or car is best. The buffets of BBQ food are worth the money and time waiting in line for. Walking trails throughout the valley worth taking a trek. Bring water and a hat.
97 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Guayadeque ravine
Caves, Better yet Still inhabited and fully modern upgraded caves with great restaurants, museums and shops. The whole valley is worth a discovery. Access by bus or car is best. The buffets of BBQ food are worth the money and time waiting in line for. Walking trails throughout the valley worth taking a trek. Bring water and a hat.
Historic Oldtown. Shops, Musuems, Food everything minutes from our Hostel. Tourist Information Located here as well as most Spainish banks
104 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Plaza de Santa Ana
Plaza Santa AnaHistoric Oldtown. Shops, Musuems, Food everything minutes from our Hostel. Tourist Information Located here as well as most Spainish banks
There Spa is worth it. HINT: Groupon. Save money. Get the spa experience without having to stay the night. Stunning views, food is spectacular, spa area worth it.
Gloria Palace Royal Hotel & Spa
1 C. TamaraThere Spa is worth it. HINT: Groupon. Save money. Get the spa experience without having to stay the night. Stunning views, food is spectacular, spa area worth it.
A Good Book. And they have a ton of them Large Collections in ENGLISH, GERMAN, obviously in Spanish. Great to take the kids. Wonderful kids area. They even show movies on different days and nights for all ages. Can get a library card for free when you provide your passport. How they keep the book thieves away. Clean washrooms, computers to access the internet, bike racks to lock your bike by the main entry.
Biblioteca Pública del Estado en Las Palmas
s/n C. Mlle. Las PalmasA Good Book. And they have a ton of them Large Collections in ENGLISH, GERMAN, obviously in Spanish. Great to take the kids. Wonderful kids area. They even show movies on different days and nights for all ages. Can get a library card for free when you provide your passport. How they keep the book thieves away. Clean washrooms, computers to access the internet, bike racks to lock your bike by the main entry.
24 Hour study area and WIFI access for those with a Library Card who sign up. Can get a Library Card with your passport for free. Sadly you still must return your book to the library you borrowed it from. Not quite Holland yet where they even have a public library after airport security and have clean water fountains. Speaking of clean water fountains see our guide further to sadly find the only public one on the island
Library Insular Gran Canaria
7 C. Remedios24 Hour study area and WIFI access for those with a Library Card who sign up. Can get a Library Card with your passport for free. Sadly you still must return your book to the library you borrowed it from. Not quite Holland yet where they even have a public library after airport security and have clean water fountains. Speaking of clean water fountains see our guide further to sadly find the only public one on the island
One of the ONLY FREE PUBLIC WATER FOUNTAINS on Gran Canaria is just around the corner from this lovely library that is worth taking a look in. Blink and you will miss the fountain that has ZERO for signage. It is SAD that it is almost 2020 and Gran Canaria has nothing for public water infrastructure in place. For the amount of renewable energy they capture and waste daily as they lack something to energize they could be desalinating and pumping clean water back into lakes, rivers streams everywhere. This island was once a lush natural paradise before the race to the Americas cut near every tree from the island. Please make the trek here and spread the word to call out Gran Canaria to do better. You help is appreciated as those of us who live here and those who visit would benefit greatly.
Biblioteca Municipal
23 C. el CalvarioOne of the ONLY FREE PUBLIC WATER FOUNTAINS on Gran Canaria is just around the corner from this lovely library that is worth taking a look in. Blink and you will miss the fountain that has ZERO for signage. It is SAD that it is almost 2020 and Gran Canaria has nothing for public water infrastructure in place. For the amount of renewable energy they capture and waste daily as they lack something to energize they could be desalinating and pumping clean water back into lakes, rivers streams everywhere. This island was once a lush natural paradise before the race to the Americas cut near every tree from the island. Please make the trek here and spread the word to call out Gran Canaria to do better. You help is appreciated as those of us who live here and those who visit would benefit greatly.
Films in English, Outdoors on Comfy Couchs with food and drink delivery right to your chairs. So worth it for singles, couples, families and groups. A lovely experience, worth repeating. 24 hour bus access right beside the theatre to get you home after the film.
13 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Moonlight Cinema
s/n Av. Cristóbal ColónFilms in English, Outdoors on Comfy Couchs with food and drink delivery right to your chairs. So worth it for singles, couples, families and groups. A lovely experience, worth repeating. 24 hour bus access right beside the theatre to get you home after the film.
Films in their native languages with Spanish subtitles. Mondays is super discount day. Popcorn still not served with melted butter yet but we have been chipping away at them to make the offer for 3 years. If more people keep asking maybe one day they will. Its just not a Spanish thing melted butter but then most of their clients are from out of town. HINT sign up for the discount card. You will need to have the actual card at time of purchase to get the discount sorry no pictures.
20 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Multicines Monopol
1 Pl. Hurtado de MendozaFilms in their native languages with Spanish subtitles. Mondays is super discount day. Popcorn still not served with melted butter yet but we have been chipping away at them to make the offer for 3 years. If more people keep asking maybe one day they will. Its just not a Spanish thing melted butter but then most of their clients are from out of town. HINT sign up for the discount card. You will need to have the actual card at time of purchase to get the discount sorry no pictures.
A hidden locals park winds it way through the valley in the most densely populated area of Europe. Great for taking bicycle, walking, skateboarding or hosting friends for a pop-up BBQ. Washrooms being open or clean can be a different story. Still the park is great to bring the kids to run around and enjoy the many different play areas. Plenty shade and security guards. Just a little sad they cant seem to install better toilets or provide clean drinking water. It is a locals area so they just seem to torture themselves and let all the money prop up tourist zones. HINT: You take your life in your own hands trying to access Jinamar by walking or cycling out of Las Palmas. Again government just cant seem to spend money connecting communities in any fashion other then by car. Bus routes are available. Worth a look for those who want to see the otherside of the islands tourism boom. Park is well kept, secure and clean for the most part.
Valle de Jinamar
A hidden locals park winds it way through the valley in the most densely populated area of Europe. Great for taking bicycle, walking, skateboarding or hosting friends for a pop-up BBQ. Washrooms being open or clean can be a different story. Still the park is great to bring the kids to run around and enjoy the many different play areas. Plenty shade and security guards. Just a little sad they cant seem to install better toilets or provide clean drinking water. It is a locals area so they just seem to torture themselves and let all the money prop up tourist zones. HINT: You take your life in your own hands trying to access Jinamar by walking or cycling out of Las Palmas. Again government just cant seem to spend money connecting communities in any fashion other then by car. Bus routes are available. Worth a look for those who want to see the otherside of the islands tourism boom. Park is well kept, secure and clean for the most part.
Perfect views of a extant volcano. Bonus is the interpretive center - when it is open - that provides insight into what life was like under Dictator Franko for Canarians.
26 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Bandama Caldera
Perfect views of a extant volcano. Bonus is the interpretive center - when it is open - that provides insight into what life was like under Dictator Franko for Canarians.
Pico de las Nieves
Just WOW. Go and see for yourself.
Another just WOW. Walk up takes you through a few different climate zones. Sport climbing is forbidden without guide on the peak now. 360 views of the entire island.
452 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Roque Nublo
Another just WOW. Walk up takes you through a few different climate zones. Sport climbing is forbidden without guide on the peak now. 360 views of the entire island.
An absolute must. They do charge for entry. Locals get a different price then tourists. Well worth it. Most displays in English as well. MUSTS: The Gyroscope, The Flight Simulator, The Virtual Reality Experiences, The Boat Simulator, the Shows... All of it Great for kids too, WIFI is free, washrooms are clean. Sorry for all the Science Stuff they DO NOT HAVE A PUBLIC DRINKING FOUNTAIN nor PUBLIC ACCESS Toilets or Free Entry which is a real shame for the amount of tourism dollars arriving to the island everyday and that it is supposed to be a SCIENCE and TECHNOLOGY Museum. Last time we checked public drinking fountains used to exist in society.
170 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Museo de Ciencia y Tecnología Elder
Muelle de Santa CatalinaAn absolute must. They do charge for entry. Locals get a different price then tourists. Well worth it. Most displays in English as well. MUSTS: The Gyroscope, The Flight Simulator, The Virtual Reality Experiences, The Boat Simulator, the Shows... All of it Great for kids too, WIFI is free, washrooms are clean. Sorry for all the Science Stuff they DO NOT HAVE A PUBLIC DRINKING FOUNTAIN nor PUBLIC ACCESS Toilets or Free Entry which is a real shame for the amount of tourism dollars arriving to the island everyday and that it is supposed to be a SCIENCE and TECHNOLOGY Museum. Last time we checked public drinking fountains used to exist in society.
Lovely small park right in the heart of the city beside the main bus station. Sakura IV restaurant is right beside it as well. Our house is just up the hill too.
31 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Parque de San Telmo
30 Av. Rafael CabreraLovely small park right in the heart of the city beside the main bus station. Sakura IV restaurant is right beside it as well. Our house is just up the hill too.
The other main bus station in Las Palmas. Here you can connect to you ferries between islands and from around the world. A lovely spot. Hidden Jewel is Salon Guanche - the locals favorite Sportium Sports Betting and Casino :)
96 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Parque de Santa Catalina
910 Calle General BalmesThe other main bus station in Las Palmas. Here you can connect to you ferries between islands and from around the world. A lovely spot. Hidden Jewel is Salon Guanche - the locals favorite Sportium Sports Betting and Casino :)
Try the Groupon for deals on Spa Packages, parachuting, excursions etc. Can save a bunch and have some amazing experiences. Airbnb's Experiences as well.
GROUPON
62 C. de Alfonso XIITry the Groupon for deals on Spa Packages, parachuting, excursions etc. Can save a bunch and have some amazing experiences. Airbnb's Experiences as well.
Gran Canaria's Basketbal and Football Team both host games from here. Lovely walking trails surround the park and public access Basketball Courts.
20 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Estadio Gran Canaria
s/n C. Fondos de SeguraGran Canaria's Basketbal and Football Team both host games from here. Lovely walking trails surround the park and public access Basketball Courts.
Best men's hair and shave on the island. Always friendly. Accepting of all customers. Prices posted so no surprises.
Haz Barber Shop
67 C. Bernardo de la TorreBest men's hair and shave on the island. Always friendly. Accepting of all customers. Prices posted so no surprises.
Great price for books in all languages Wonderful thing about a good book store by the beach is well ... A good book for the beach. Prices amazing low and bulk deals as well. Great selection of English Novels.
Re-Read Las Palmas
33 C. Bernardo de la TorreGreat price for books in all languages Wonderful thing about a good book store by the beach is well ... A good book for the beach. Prices amazing low and bulk deals as well. Great selection of English Novels.
Best prices on Second Hand Video Games, Phones and Electronics on the island. Short walk from our hostel. Prices listed can be even cheaper when you go to pay. We love it for their Wii Games Library.
CeX
57 C. Francisco GouriéBest prices on Second Hand Video Games, Phones and Electronics on the island. Short walk from our hostel. Prices listed can be even cheaper when you go to pay. We love it for their Wii Games Library.
Spanish, French, English, German language lessons near the beach provided by the Spanish Government. Minimum basic level Spanish is a must to live and work in Spain. All resident permit holders must apply to have tested and achieve basic Spanish to maintain residency. Here classes are included before taking the test. Lowest prices possible on island for language lessons. Also has a library, meet up classes and discussion groups. Great place to meet other expats and of course to get Spanish lessons. Information boards have info on apartments to rent and jobs here and abroad.
Official Language School of Las Palmas
51 C. Fernando GuanartemeSpanish, French, English, German language lessons near the beach provided by the Spanish Government. Minimum basic level Spanish is a must to live and work in Spain. All resident permit holders must apply to have tested and achieve basic Spanish to maintain residency. Here classes are included before taking the test. Lowest prices possible on island for language lessons. Also has a library, meet up classes and discussion groups. Great place to meet other expats and of course to get Spanish lessons. Information boards have info on apartments to rent and jobs here and abroad.
Beaches in Gran Canaria
Top 10 beach in the world!!! Hints: Cabana #3 is Manolo's Hamacas y Sombrillas. He was the first to rent out chairs, tables and umbrellas to enjoy the beach back in the early 1950's. If you want a touch of history stop and rent direct from the founder. Take a look at the pictures he has up in is Cabana as well.
Public Bathrooms are free to use and have showers. Staff look for tips but not required. Lockers can be rented and in many spots are free. Pliza 21 for Ice Cream, 100 Montaditos for snacks esp. Wed and Sun for 1 Euro Day. Las Arenas Mall to get out of the heat. And CSC to get your gear rental. Parapente tours usually pick up near Las Arenas.
467 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Playa de Las Canteras
Top 10 beach in the world!!! Hints: Cabana #3 is Manolo's Hamacas y Sombrillas. He was the first to rent out chairs, tables and umbrellas to enjoy the beach back in the early 1950's. If you want a touch of history stop and rent direct from the founder. Take a look at the pictures he has up in is Cabana as well.
Public Bathrooms are free to use and have showers. Staff look for tips but not required. Lockers can be rented and in many spots are free. Pliza 21 for Ice Cream, 100 Montaditos for snacks esp. Wed and Sun for 1 Euro Day. Las Arenas Mall to get out of the heat. And CSC to get your gear rental. Parapente tours usually pick up near Las Arenas.
A piece of the Sahara desert that must not be missed. Best views from the Hotel Riu pathway. Warning, ask yourself where the 40,000+ people a day go to the washroom. Island Government has not installed washrooms nor showers under pretense of Natural Reserve Area. No permanent facilities are allowed yet somehow temporary Bar Cabanas and thousands of rental Beach Chairs are everywhere. Can be an amazingly disgusting place if the winds turn from there natural direction of out to sea during the day to inland. wow can the ocean ever smell like a giant toilet. Only saving graces here is the winds blow out to sea normally and the currents flow quickly and away from the beach. High winds can equal instant burn on exposed skin. Area is not for the faint of heart or prudes. Expect real life in all its forms here and enjoy the freedom wallowing in human movement. Paid washrooms exsist. Sadly they are a must for a shower after if you don't want swimmers itch.
322 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Reserva Natural de Dunas de Maspalomas
A piece of the Sahara desert that must not be missed. Best views from the Hotel Riu pathway. Warning, ask yourself where the 40,000+ people a day go to the washroom. Island Government has not installed washrooms nor showers under pretense of Natural Reserve Area. No permanent facilities are allowed yet somehow temporary Bar Cabanas and thousands of rental Beach Chairs are everywhere. Can be an amazingly disgusting place if the winds turn from there natural direction of out to sea during the day to inland. wow can the ocean ever smell like a giant toilet. Only saving graces here is the winds blow out to sea normally and the currents flow quickly and away from the beach. High winds can equal instant burn on exposed skin. Area is not for the faint of heart or prudes. Expect real life in all its forms here and enjoy the freedom wallowing in human movement. Paid washrooms exsist. Sadly they are a must for a shower after if you don't want swimmers itch.
A Nature Hikers Must and Stargazers too. A must do trek on any ones list. Expect a full day round trip. Must MUST MUST take tour or car packages if you need see in 24hours as bus travel to area very limited. Be careful on boat tours to the beach area as they have been known to abandon guests who can swim return to the boat and as well boat tours that just do not depart harbour. MUST bring water minimum 2 Liters and full hiking gear and clothes, lamps, small survival items. Weather can shift dramatically throughout the trail. Cell coverage can be limited to non-existent as can seeing other people. It is an amazing remoteness on a small island. if you bring spare change you may catch some of the locals who sell items from their illegal cabins. Do not count on finding food or water or shelter from the elements including the sun. Bug spray and map as well.
39 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Playa de Güi-Güi - Chico
A Nature Hikers Must and Stargazers too. A must do trek on any ones list. Expect a full day round trip. Must MUST MUST take tour or car packages if you need see in 24hours as bus travel to area very limited. Be careful on boat tours to the beach area as they have been known to abandon guests who can swim return to the boat and as well boat tours that just do not depart harbour. MUST bring water minimum 2 Liters and full hiking gear and clothes, lamps, small survival items. Weather can shift dramatically throughout the trail. Cell coverage can be limited to non-existent as can seeing other people. It is an amazing remoteness on a small island. if you bring spare change you may catch some of the locals who sell items from their illegal cabins. Do not count on finding food or water or shelter from the elements including the sun. Bug spray and map as well.
A Jewel. Worth a stop. Only 2 exits North of the Airport as well. Long walk in from nearest bus stop but worth it. HINT: Where SCUBA divers go when the rest of the island is to choppy as it best sheltered bay on Gran Canaria.
Playa de Tufia
A Jewel. Worth a stop. Only 2 exits North of the Airport as well. Long walk in from nearest bus stop but worth it. HINT: Where SCUBA divers go when the rest of the island is to choppy as it best sheltered bay on Gran Canaria.
If you keep walking North of Playa Las Canateras Beach you will find yourself here. Great for nature hikes. Lifeguards now patrol the area and washrooms have finally been installed. This used to be the locals hideaway from tourists and is one of the best sunset watching spots on the island.
78 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
El Confital
8 C. Rodrigo de ManriqueIf you keep walking North of Playa Las Canateras Beach you will find yourself here. Great for nature hikes. Lifeguards now patrol the area and washrooms have finally been installed. This used to be the locals hideaway from tourists and is one of the best sunset watching spots on the island.
Great. Especially now they have a free clean public washroom and Lifeguards. Still no shower but there are salt water foot washers. Unide Supermarket just on beach has some great prices for a beach supermarket as well. Parking around 3 eruos a day in the dry riverbed
Patalavaca
Great. Especially now they have a free clean public washroom and Lifeguards. Still no shower but there are salt water foot washers. Unide Supermarket just on beach has some great prices for a beach supermarket as well. Parking around 3 eruos a day in the dry riverbed
Surf and Sun in the city. New clean free public washroom open under the new bridge walkway. New bridge walkway also offers some much needed shade for those who forget an umbrella. Tip: California Surf Center for gear rental and Lessons. :)
9 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
La Cícer
Surf and Sun in the city. New clean free public washroom open under the new bridge walkway. New bridge walkway also offers some much needed shade for those who forget an umbrella. Tip: California Surf Center for gear rental and Lessons. :)
Quite a number of smaller well kept isolated beaches surrounding the gated community of Pasito Blanco. Parking for the nonresidents is outside the gates along the road shoulders and designated areas. be advised that cars are ticketed frequently that are illegally parked. Also, there are nonpublic washroom facilities nor areas to shower off in. Recommend bringing a water bucket to at least get sand off when finished
11 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Pasito Blanco
Quite a number of smaller well kept isolated beaches surrounding the gated community of Pasito Blanco. Parking for the nonresidents is outside the gates along the road shoulders and designated areas. be advised that cars are ticketed frequently that are illegally parked. Also, there are nonpublic washroom facilities nor areas to shower off in. Recommend bringing a water bucket to at least get sand off when finished
Hidden here is a small locals beach and waterfront. Including some amazing views, expert surf and body board areas and snorkeling opportunities. La Ancla (The Anchor) restaurant is a gem of local seafood and a great place to sit and read a book, have a coffee and relax. A must see for local experience and flavors. Beaches include rock shore, sand and waterfront / marina. Foot wash station and showers available at the small sand beach. No public washrooms present. Ice cream vendor arrives by van and sells local ice cream flavors from time to time as well.
18 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
San Cristóbal
Hidden here is a small locals beach and waterfront. Including some amazing views, expert surf and body board areas and snorkeling opportunities. La Ancla (The Anchor) restaurant is a gem of local seafood and a great place to sit and read a book, have a coffee and relax. A must see for local experience and flavors. Beaches include rock shore, sand and waterfront / marina. Foot wash station and showers available at the small sand beach. No public washrooms present. Ice cream vendor arrives by van and sells local ice cream flavors from time to time as well.
The locals beach of Las Palmas. Recent upgrades include lifeguard station (hours vary with seasons) showers and washroom facilities (sketch cleanliness). Tourists warned for a lack of friendliness from locals. Here is the locals escape from tourists. Most frequented by islanders who work in tourism and just don't want to see tourists on their time off. Some restaurants in the area can be very cold towards tourists as customers. It is worth a look only to see how the dichotomy of money flows to public spaces in the city. Here is almost a religious torture of lack of facilities upkeep, water quality, access and cleanliness. Not helped by negative attitudes and general disregard for human decency displayed but some of the beaches regulars. Robbery, or borrowing without returning is frequent. Slight local police presence who don't care unless it a big issue. Beach has all the possibility to be its Las Palmas city tourist cousin Las Canateras (Which is a top ten beach of the world) except it does everything in its power to be third world. Relaxing place for locals who get along with other locals, hippies and their invited guests or paying clients.
16 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Playa de La Laja
The locals beach of Las Palmas. Recent upgrades include lifeguard station (hours vary with seasons) showers and washroom facilities (sketch cleanliness). Tourists warned for a lack of friendliness from locals. Here is the locals escape from tourists. Most frequented by islanders who work in tourism and just don't want to see tourists on their time off. Some restaurants in the area can be very cold towards tourists as customers. It is worth a look only to see how the dichotomy of money flows to public spaces in the city. Here is almost a religious torture of lack of facilities upkeep, water quality, access and cleanliness. Not helped by negative attitudes and general disregard for human decency displayed but some of the beaches regulars. Robbery, or borrowing without returning is frequent. Slight local police presence who don't care unless it a big issue. Beach has all the possibility to be its Las Palmas city tourist cousin Las Canateras (Which is a top ten beach of the world) except it does everything in its power to be third world. Relaxing place for locals who get along with other locals, hippies and their invited guests or paying clients.
So starts the wealthier locals areas and beaches, walkways and communities. Near zero for public washrooms when you need one. Parking a premium and pricey. Traffic snarls. Access by Global bus possible but limited. Worth a look. Note: Beach areas can be loud from Airline traffic.
18 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Playa de Salinetas
19 Paseo Marítimo de SalinetasSo starts the wealthier locals areas and beaches, walkways and communities. Near zero for public washrooms when you need one. Parking a premium and pricey. Traffic snarls. Access by Global bus possible but limited. Worth a look. Note: Beach areas can be loud from Airline traffic.
Food Scene
Just perfect to make a stop when at Playa Las Canteras. Was one of the first places on the beach to have WiFi and still boasts the best prices for coffee, drinks and ice creams with beach views. Staff and owners nice people. Love to sit in the shade and enjoy drinks not much more priced then buying them at the grocery. Favorites here include bottles of Radler in sun, Chocolate Crepes, Almost every flavor of their ice creams especially Pistachio, Ferro Roche, Nuttella... Yummy :)
Pliza 21
77 P.º las CanterasJust perfect to make a stop when at Playa Las Canteras. Was one of the first places on the beach to have WiFi and still boasts the best prices for coffee, drinks and ice creams with beach views. Staff and owners nice people. Love to sit in the shade and enjoy drinks not much more priced then buying them at the grocery. Favorites here include bottles of Radler in sun, Chocolate Crepes, Almost every flavor of their ice creams especially Pistachio, Ferro Roche, Nuttella... Yummy :)
Yup, we are recommending IKEA. 2 main reasons for travelers. #1 IKEA's Restaurant - probably the best deal for good affordable home-cooked style food for singles, couples, groups or families. They are located on the major bus routes returning from the South and most car rental folks have easy access to IKEA. #2 they have amazing products including good quality affordable items for backpacking, cycling, and beach adventures including bags, chairs, umbrellas, large sun umbrellas etc. If you are hungry and on a budget they can help. Behind IKEA if you want walk off the feast are many local beach and coast walking trails about 15 walk West towards the ocean. Love the meatballs and new kids menu Rolig plus the majority of the hostels furniture are IKEA products. :)
9 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
IKEA Gran Canaria
Yup, we are recommending IKEA. 2 main reasons for travelers. #1 IKEA's Restaurant - probably the best deal for good affordable home-cooked style food for singles, couples, groups or families. They are located on the major bus routes returning from the South and most car rental folks have easy access to IKEA. #2 they have amazing products including good quality affordable items for backpacking, cycling, and beach adventures including bags, chairs, umbrellas, large sun umbrellas etc. If you are hungry and on a budget they can help. Behind IKEA if you want walk off the feast are many local beach and coast walking trails about 15 walk West towards the ocean. Love the meatballs and new kids menu Rolig plus the majority of the hostels furniture are IKEA products. :)
The best treat in the whole historic Oldtown of Vegueta with Las Palmas's main historic district. Our favorite spot on the Thursday Tapas Night out. Best dishes include fresh Mojitos and Italian Pizza Slices on Tapas night. If it is not tapas recommend starting with their cheese fondue :). Staff / Owners great people.
Trés Jolie
24 C. MendizábalThe best treat in the whole historic Oldtown of Vegueta with Las Palmas's main historic district. Our favorite spot on the Thursday Tapas Night out. Best dishes include fresh Mojitos and Italian Pizza Slices on Tapas night. If it is not tapas recommend starting with their cheese fondue :). Staff / Owners great people.
We think it is the best local cafe on the entire island. Maria (originally from China) and her family took over the lease from the original owners and seamlessly became locals themselves. Offering a fusion of both local and Chinese menu items from snacks to full meals it has to be the best local stop to make. It is a Locals bar and you will feel like you just walked into history when you come in. Can not go wrong when they still offer the best local prices to everyone. Hint: Maria's super awesome breakfast sandwich (which is not on the menu), any of the daily food dishes, baileys and coffee... The atmosphere and people you will meet are great. If you are practicing Spanish and want to learn island history go and take a seat and listen and join in where you can. Great for solo or groups. In the hill tops above the neighbourhood lie old abandoned Franco military bunkers and military emplacements worth exploring the "Bunkers of San Juan" as well waking the local side streets and winding narrow stair cases and streets. Wifi is possible if you ask nicely but honestly it is better to immerse yourself in the local culture and get to know the regulars. :)
Bar Monaga
146 P.º de San JoseWe think it is the best local cafe on the entire island. Maria (originally from China) and her family took over the lease from the original owners and seamlessly became locals themselves. Offering a fusion of both local and Chinese menu items from snacks to full meals it has to be the best local stop to make. It is a Locals bar and you will feel like you just walked into history when you come in. Can not go wrong when they still offer the best local prices to everyone. Hint: Maria's super awesome breakfast sandwich (which is not on the menu), any of the daily food dishes, baileys and coffee... The atmosphere and people you will meet are great. If you are practicing Spanish and want to learn island history go and take a seat and listen and join in where you can. Great for solo or groups. In the hill tops above the neighbourhood lie old abandoned Franco military bunkers and military emplacements worth exploring the "Bunkers of San Juan" as well waking the local side streets and winding narrow stair cases and streets. Wifi is possible if you ask nicely but honestly it is better to immerse yourself in the local culture and get to know the regulars. :)
Views, Wifi, Ice Cream... Get the app. Save a ton of money and well the food does not change around the planet much so if you have a stomach that does not travel as far as your body then it is nice to have tastes that will always be the same.
16 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
McDonald's
nº103 Calle TrianaViews, Wifi, Ice Cream... Get the app. Save a ton of money and well the food does not change around the planet much so if you have a stomach that does not travel as far as your body then it is nice to have tastes that will always be the same.
Sakura's on the island are so good. If the line up to long at one you can always walk over to the other :)
Restaurante Sakura Hanami
5 C. Pilarillo SecoSakura's on the island are so good. If the line up to long at one you can always walk over to the other :)
Bonus: The Irish Rover is one of the first bars / restaurants to be fully handicap accessible beside Las Canteras Beach and another reason to go: well because who doesn't want to go to an Irish Bar everywhere they travel in the world.
6 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
The Irish Rover
3 C. GalileoBonus: The Irish Rover is one of the first bars / restaurants to be fully handicap accessible beside Las Canteras Beach and another reason to go: well because who doesn't want to go to an Irish Bar everywhere they travel in the world.
So so so Good Sandwiches for around €1 a finger sandwich. Started in 1972 this is a great local culture spot and breakfast spot too. Definitely worth a stop if you want more for less and not a franchise. Coffees good too for under €2. Street seating and inside too :). Short walk from hostel :)
6 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Sandwichería Pizco Los Pioneros
4 C. TraviesoSo so so Good Sandwiches for around €1 a finger sandwich. Started in 1972 this is a great local culture spot and breakfast spot too. Definitely worth a stop if you want more for less and not a franchise. Coffees good too for under €2. Street seating and inside too :). Short walk from hostel :)
Great spot to sit, relax and grab a nice bite to eat, dessert treats, or drink in San Christobal area of Las Palmas. Their "Tarta Ferraro" is a great share dessert for 2. So yummy. Happens as well to be one of the best spots for watching the waves come in. Especially when the weather not so great out.
Punto Marino
25 C. TimonelGreat spot to sit, relax and grab a nice bite to eat, dessert treats, or drink in San Christobal area of Las Palmas. Their "Tarta Ferraro" is a great share dessert for 2. So yummy. Happens as well to be one of the best spots for watching the waves come in. Especially when the weather not so great out.
Transit
The Main Bus Station in Las Palmas and a short walk or taxi up to our house. From here you can catch the local GuaGua yellow buses or the Inter-Island Global buses. Hints: Over 65 or Students under 25 can get some amazing month discount passes. Worth waiting in line to buy them. Pay for themselves over 4 days of use. The new student unlimited pass is astounding getting and letting students travel on any transit in all the islands.
31 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Parque de San Telmo
30 Av. Rafael CabreraThe Main Bus Station in Las Palmas and a short walk or taxi up to our house. From here you can catch the local GuaGua yellow buses or the Inter-Island Global buses. Hints: Over 65 or Students under 25 can get some amazing month discount passes. Worth waiting in line to buy them. Pay for themselves over 4 days of use. The new student unlimited pass is astounding getting and letting students travel on any transit in all the islands.
They offer WIFI Free for first 1/2 hour. There are apparently public water fountains for FREE inside security now near to the washrooms. Can not confirm this as yet to see them. Would love if the island finally installed more public drinking fountains and washrooms. It is almost 2020 and really with todays tech and transportable equipment public washrooms and water fountains should be in everypublic space (beachs, squares, parks, walking trails). You can sleep here if you stuck out, has Air Conditioning a SPAR Grocery store with not airport kill you prices and bus station which access the whole island.
49 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Aeropuerto de Gran Canaria
GC-1They offer WIFI Free for first 1/2 hour. There are apparently public water fountains for FREE inside security now near to the washrooms. Can not confirm this as yet to see them. Would love if the island finally installed more public drinking fountains and washrooms. It is almost 2020 and really with todays tech and transportable equipment public washrooms and water fountains should be in everypublic space (beachs, squares, parks, walking trails). You can sleep here if you stuck out, has Air Conditioning a SPAR Grocery store with not airport kill you prices and bus station which access the whole island.
BEST CHEAPEST CAR RENTAL EVER. Can use DEBIT Card. Best prices. Simple Included INSURANCE and FREE 2nd Driver, car seats etc. NOTE: Must be over 25, Booking done Online and you must wait for them to confirm they want you as a renter (about an hour). Make sure you put the right airport. Default is other island. You want LPA airport if you landing in Gran Canaria.
17 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
AutoReisen S.L.
BEST CHEAPEST CAR RENTAL EVER. Can use DEBIT Card. Best prices. Simple Included INSURANCE and FREE 2nd Driver, car seats etc. NOTE: Must be over 25, Booking done Online and you must wait for them to confirm they want you as a renter (about an hour). Make sure you put the right airport. Default is other island. You want LPA airport if you landing in Gran Canaria.
Parks and Recreation
Its got just about everything. Views, history, an elevator, gym pool and sports center. Countless kids parks. Adult fitness area beside the main kids park where you can watch your kids and get a bit of a work out in. Health and fitness trail, Free outdoor climbing wall that you can practice multi-pitch on. Bike trails and access to the entire network of bike and walking trails. Did i mention the elevator if you want do downhill laps?
6 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Parque de Rehoyas
s/n Carr. del Nte.Its got just about everything. Views, history, an elevator, gym pool and sports center. Countless kids parks. Adult fitness area beside the main kids park where you can watch your kids and get a bit of a work out in. Health and fitness trail, Free outdoor climbing wall that you can practice multi-pitch on. Bike trails and access to the entire network of bike and walking trails. Did i mention the elevator if you want do downhill laps?
Fountains, Pools, Statues and Kids Play areas. Like most parks on the island it sadly does not have a public washroom and nope there is no drinking fountain. Still it is a lovely place to take a walk about.
103 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Parque Doramas
227 C. León y CastilloFountains, Pools, Statues and Kids Play areas. Like most parks on the island it sadly does not have a public washroom and nope there is no drinking fountain. Still it is a lovely place to take a walk about.
A MUST MUST SEE. The 1800's place to be. Back when the ocean around Las Palmas was a stinky industrial wasteland and toilet here was where you came to be seen. Has one of the best botanical collections in the world. And its FREE and has public washrooms. HINT: Travel to Santa Catalina park and take local or global inter-island bus close to gates. Cliff walks in the park are dangerous and lack railings or security but are fun. Lovely views throughout.
6 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Jardín Botánico Entrada Superior
Calle Jardín CanarioA MUST MUST SEE. The 1800's place to be. Back when the ocean around Las Palmas was a stinky industrial wasteland and toilet here was where you came to be seen. Has one of the best botanical collections in the world. And its FREE and has public washrooms. HINT: Travel to Santa Catalina park and take local or global inter-island bus close to gates. Cliff walks in the park are dangerous and lack railings or security but are fun. Lovely views throughout.
Sports, Lessons and/or Gear Rental
Love it. Chris and Kate are excellent host & instructors and the staff they have and train are usually top notch. Can go from zero to hero for prices similar to Thailand diving if you have the time including a 1 month Divemaster Internship if your really serious. From our house we can organize getting you South to the dive sites and scheduling times and diving with them if your super interested. :)
Blue Water Diving
s/n Av. Joaquín Blanco TorrentLove it. Chris and Kate are excellent host & instructors and the staff they have and train are usually top notch. Can go from zero to hero for prices similar to Thailand diving if you have the time including a 1 month Divemaster Internship if your really serious. From our house we can organize getting you South to the dive sites and scheduling times and diving with them if your super interested. :)
Just can not get a better deal. One of the original Surf Rental Shops on the island. California Surf Center CSC has it all from Beginner to Advanced Gear for surfing, skateboarding, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, beach tennis, volleyball or basketball gear. Just imagine the coolest garage full of the best stuff to borrow from a friend. CSC has hourly, daily and monthly borrowing prices. You will require to get a copy of your Gov ID / Passport to make rentals. Highly highly recommend paying the month fee as over the use of 3 days it more then pays for itself. CSC has a shower area and bathroom and monitored area for storing bags etc while you out. Well worth it.
California Sports Center
8 C. CaliforniaJust can not get a better deal. One of the original Surf Rental Shops on the island. California Surf Center CSC has it all from Beginner to Advanced Gear for surfing, skateboarding, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, beach tennis, volleyball or basketball gear. Just imagine the coolest garage full of the best stuff to borrow from a friend. CSC has hourly, daily and monthly borrowing prices. You will require to get a copy of your Gov ID / Passport to make rentals. Highly highly recommend paying the month fee as over the use of 3 days it more then pays for itself. CSC has a shower area and bathroom and monitored area for storing bags etc while you out. Well worth it.
Parapente Canarias
4 C. CupresoLearning to fly is a pursuit worth pursuing. Even if you only make one flight.
Groceries
Sushi made daily is AMAZING and if your lucky they have samples out during your visit. Best prices and warranties for large household items and city bicycles for those looking to make a long term stay. If in the Las Arenas Location Antonio the bicycle sales and repair man is the best out there. BONUS: Air Conditioning, Least expensive water minus good tap water, FREE WiFi. Yes, we hide here sometimes when it is just too hot to be out on the beach. Nice to walk and look at prices and enjoy the AC and maybe catch a free SUSHI sample too.
12 Recomendado por los habitantes de la zona
Carrefour
s/n Ctra. del RincónSushi made daily is AMAZING and if your lucky they have samples out during your visit. Best prices and warranties for large household items and city bicycles for those looking to make a long term stay. If in the Las Arenas Location Antonio the bicycle sales and repair man is the best out there. BONUS: Air Conditioning, Least expensive water minus good tap water, FREE WiFi. Yes, we hide here sometimes when it is just too hot to be out on the beach. Nice to walk and look at prices and enjoy the AC and maybe catch a free SUSHI sample too.
It's Spar. Small, has what a guest would need. Staff can be very unfriendly to non-regular customers. Short 7min lovely walk from house with amazing vistas. If Carlo's or José's small grocery shops are not open on the street by the house - then here is an option.
SPAR Cadiz
42 Calle CádizIt's Spar. Small, has what a guest would need. Staff can be very unfriendly to non-regular customers. Short 7min lovely walk from house with amazing vistas. If Carlo's or José's small grocery shops are not open on the street by the house - then here is an option.
Open Sunday for Groceries as is the Chinese Shop beside it. This location 7 minute walk up from the house. The 5 Oceanos chains are great for frozen food including croquettes and bulk ice cream buying. Hint: buying ice cream in bulk saves money. Can buy a spoon from any shop Chinese and enjoy yummy ice cream on the cheap. :)
5 Océanos - Pedro Infinito
5 Calle HalmaOpen Sunday for Groceries as is the Chinese Shop beside it. This location 7 minute walk up from the house. The 5 Oceanos chains are great for frozen food including croquettes and bulk ice cream buying. Hint: buying ice cream in bulk saves money. Can buy a spoon from any shop Chinese and enjoy yummy ice cream on the cheap. :)