Comarca Sur travel guide and discussion

Maspalomas is waaay more than just a beach spot—think next-level vibes! Found on Gran Canaria’s sunny southern coast, Maspalomas hits you with those golden sand dunes, crystal-clear Atlantic water, an iconic lighthouse, buzzing promenades, and sunshine pretty much 24/7. Whether you wanna totally chill, get adventurous, or chase those unforgettable sunsets, this spot literally brings the ultimate vacay mood in the Canary Islands. Why is Maspalomas so epic? The Maspalomas Dunes Nature Reserve totally steals the show—it seriously feels like you’ve landed in a desert, but with the ocean right at your feet. Sandboarding or sunset walks? Both are a MUST. How Many Days for This Slice of Paradise? I’d say go for at least 4 to 5 days for the full Maspalomas experience. You’ll have plenty of time to beach-hop, wander through the dunes, take a day trip to cute towns like Puerto de Mogán, lounge by a pool, and feast on unreal local food. Pro-tip: Rent a car for one day and hit up Gran Canaria’s wild mountainous interior—it's peak adventure! Best Time to Visit One of Maspalomas’ cheat codes is its weather—it’s basically always good! Winter temps are a dreamy 20–25°C (68–77°F), making this a GOAT European escape from the cold. Spring and autumn? Slightly quieter beaches, same epic weather. Summer gets hotter and busier, but vibes stay 💯. How to Get There Fly into Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), then you’re just a 25–30 minute ride to Maspalomas by car or taxi. Public buses are super frequent and wallet-friendly, linking the airport directly to Maspalomas (and Playa del Inglés). Planning to roam the island? Renting a car = total freedom. Absolute Must-Do Experiences · Hitting the Maspalomas Dunes at sunrise/sunset—you’ll feel like you’re on another planet 🌅 · Maspalomas Lighthouse (Faro de Maspalomas) Lighthouse Address: Plaza del Faro, 15, 35100 Maspalomas, Las Palmas, Spain Lighthouse Hours: Usually open daily 10am–6pm, but check before you go · Meloneras Promenade—where fancy meets chill · Maspalomas Beach & Playa del Inglés · La Charca Lagoon (top birdwatching spot!) · Holiday World Maspalomas (Av. Touroperador Tui, 35100 Maspalomas) for fun fair vibes · A sunset stroll along the Atlantic coast = main character energy Hot Photography Tips · Golden hour at the dunes will LEVEL UP your Insta feed—think dramatic shadows and pure magic filters from Mother Nature. · Lighthouse views are next-level, especially where the sand meets the sea. · For quieter beach shots, walk a bit further from the busiest entrances. · Sunsets? Include the lighthouse or dunes for that classic Maspalomas drama. What to Eat in Maspalomas Get ready for food heaven! Don’t miss: · Papas arrugadas with salty mojo sauce (sooo addictive!) · Freshly grilled fish & seafood paella · Octopus, Canarian goat cheese, and classic croquetas · Bienmesabe for dessert (Google it now 😋) · Super fresh tropical juice from local fruit The Meloneras area is packed with dreamy ocean-view restaurants—sunset dinner here is simply chef’s kiss. Hidden Gems & Insider Tips · Actually walk INTO the dunes—don’t just chill at the edge like most tourists. The deeper you go, the wilder (and quieter!) it gets. · Check out the lighthouse twice: daytime for epic photos, then after sunset when the lights vibe up the promenade. · Pack sandals for the beach but also bring trainers for dune walks—sand heats up FAST at midday! · Wanna meet dolphins? Book an excursion from Puerto Rico or Puerto de Mogán—pure joy. · End a chill evening with an ice cream or coffee on the Meloneras promenade, just soaking up those island sunset feels. What NOT to Do · Don’t walk barefoot in the dunes at midday unless you want 🔥 feet · Stick to marked paths to protect the dunes and local wildlife · Sun here is savage—even in winter! Pack sunscreen, shades, and stay hydrated · For the best beach spot, roll up early, especially on holidays and winter peak season · No feeding birds at La Charca Lagoon, it’s a protected home for cool migratory species Final Take Maspalomas is THE place that’ll capture your heart, no matter if you’re a nature nut, a sand-and-sea lover, or here for foodie adventures. Relax, romance, winter sun, or adventure—this place has got you COVERED. And trust—watching the Atlantic sun dip behind glowing dunes? That memory is gonna hit way different long after you leave. Bookmark this paradise ASAP! #couplestrip #maspalomas #travel2026

We’ve stayed at the Riu Arecas multiple times over the years, and this time we opted for a 9-night half-board stay (breakfast and dinner, drinks excluded). Overall, we enjoy the hotel, as it has a pleasant vibe and attracts a nice crowd (we’ve never seen so many people dancing at a Riu hotel before). However, the dance floor is far too small, and the entertainment ends unreasonably early at around 10:30 pm, with no activities afterward—which is quite disappointing. Entertainment should last until at least 11 pm; we suggest closing the glass doors after the entertainment ends and playing some music until midnight for those who’d like to dance. The hotel is very busy and often full, which must be a benefit for Riu Hotels & Resorts. We appreciate the adults-only concept. The hotel’s cleanliness is commendable, and the food is consistently good. Some staff members are friendly and helpful. The rooms and bathrooms are satisfactory, but the color scheme is overwhelmingly brown—brown tiles, brown curtains, and worn-down brown furniture. The rooms would benefit from a refresh, especially the curtains and furniture. The option to visit the Neon or White party, held at the Riu Buenavista every Friday night depending on your length of stay, is a nice added feature. Overall, the hotel offers good food, a convenient location, and plenty of buffet choices. The Spanish restaurant is a great alternative if you want a break from the buffet. The front desk team, especially Andrew, stands out for excellent customer service, friendly demeanor, and professionalism. One major issue we noticed was the lack of parasols on the sunbathing terrace by the infinity pool. Additionally, many of the woven Tiki parasols at the beach area need maintenance, as they’re worn out and ineffective (as shown in photos). The concrete flooring at the main pool area nearest to the hotel is degrading and gritty, requiring urgent attention. Moreover, the retractable canopy-style sun shades don’t work properly—they can only be operated by staff, which seems unnecessary. WiFi quality was also a major letdown, as it disconnected constantly. The problem of guests reserving sunbeds early in the morning (around 7 am) persists. Here’s a summary of positives and negatives from our stay: · *Positives:** ✅ Cleanliness throughout the hotel. ✅ Excellent housekeeping (everything restocked and cleaned). ✅ Spacious rooms with comfortable beds (but no duvets, only blankets). ✅ Quality bathrooms, although water pressure is low due to restrictors. ✅ Great variety of food, albeit slightly repetitive. ✅ Good bar service with quality drinks. ✅ Well-equipped gym/fitness center after refurbishment. ✅ Swimming pools are warm enough for comfortable use. ✅ Exceptional service from some staff members: Pilar, Clara, Jaqueline, Laura, and Paloma. ✅ Convenient pool towel exchange service running all day. ✅ Wonderful atmosphere overall. ✅ A solid 4-star option with great value. ✅ Recognized Riu Class Diamond status. ✅ Availability of options like the buffet or additional restaurant. ✅ Adults-only concept. ✅ Room safes included in the price. ✅ Good entertainment quality (e.g., ‘Comical Symfunny’ by George and Claudia was great, Maxband got guests dancing, Abba tribute excellent). ✅ Visible management most of the time. · *Needs Improvement:** ❌ Entertainment ending at 10:30 pm is too early; should run until at least 11 pm. ❌ Poor WiFi connectivity, especially in the rooms. ❌ Worn-out and brown bathroom towels—white towels would be better as they’re standard in the industry. ❌ Furniture in the rooms is dated and battered. ❌ Low water pressure in bathrooms due to tap restrictors. ❌ Beds should have duvets instead of blankets. ❌ Air conditioning and fans should always be running in the gym—it was too warm. ❌ Gym closing at 7 pm is inconvenient and should remain open until 8 pm. · *Pool Area Concerns:** ❌ Sunbeds are reserved by guests very early in the morning, limiting availability. ❌ Insufficient number of sunbeds—adding around 20 more to each pool area would help. ❌ One pool lacks a nearby toilet facility. ❌ Scraping noises from guests dragging sunbeds over the concrete (staff contribute to this when repositioning them during late afternoon). ❌ Inflatable pool items are not allowed. ❌ Infinity pool’s sunbeds lack parasols. ❌ Worn-out, ineffective tiki parasols need replacing or repairs at the beach area. ❌ Broken, degraded concrete flooring at main pool areas needs urgent maintenance. ❌ Retractable canopies are dysfunctional and only operable by staff, which is unnecessary. · *Suggestions for Management:** Consider creating a sunbathing terrace above the pool bar to resolve the sunbed space issue, similar to Riu Papayas' utilization of unused roof areas. Additionally, a new toilet block is needed near the right-side pool. All in all, Riu Arecas is a good hotel with excellent value, but several areas require attention to maintain and improve its standards.

📅 Itinerary Day1: Arrived Late Day2: Explore

The location is fantastic, with all major attractions within walking distance. The entire hotel is spotless and well-maintained. The staff is incredibly courteous and helpful. For our final night, we were upgraded to the La Siesta Suite, which was absolutely exquisite. A special thanks to Trinh, who was very kind and assisted us with all our questions.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4/5) 🏨 First Impressions Tucked away in the sun-soaked south of Gran Canaria, the Maspalomas Princess blends resort comfort with tropical vibes. Palm trees, expansive pools, and a chilled holiday atmosphere set the tone from the moment you arrive. 🛏️ Rooms ✅ Spacious, modern rooms with balconies or terraces (great for a morning coffee). ✅ Air conditioning, minibar, safe, and daily housekeeping. ⚠️ Some rooms still feel a bit dated — especially if you don’t get one of the renovated units. ⚠️ Soundproofing isn’t perfect; expect to hear hallway noise or pool activity in some areas. 🏖️ Location ✅ Quiet, safe area in Maspalomas, close to the famous Dunes and beach. ✅ Easy access to local shops, golf course, and a short taxi ride to Playa del Inglés or Meloneras. 🚶 About a 20-minute walk to the beach — not beachfront, but not far either. 🏊♀️ Pools & Facilities 🌴 Massive pool complex with something for everyone: Family pools Kids’ splash zone with slides Adults-only relaxation pool with Balinese beds (extra fee) 🧖 Spa, sauna, fitness centre, and wellness treatments available. 🎯 Daily entertainment: volleyball, darts, aqua gym, evening shows. 👨👩👧 Family-Friendly 🎉 Great for families: Kids' club Mini disco Buffet with kid-friendly options Lifeguards on duty at pools Parents get a break, kids stay entertained. Win-win. 🍽️ Food & Drink 🍽️ Buffet restaurant with live cooking stations and themed nights. 🍝 Additional à la carte options like Italian and Asian cuisine. 🍹 Bars throughout the resort — pool bar, lobby bar, and nightly entertainment bar. ⚠️ Food variety is solid but can feel repetitive after a week. ⚠️ Some queues at peak times during meals. ⚠️ Things to Note Sunbed wars can be real — people reserve early. Wi-Fi is free but can be patchy in rooms. Extras like the spa and Balinese beds come at additional cost. The resort is large — bring comfy shoes if walking long distances is tough for you. ✅ Final Verdict The Maspalomas Princess is an excellent choice for families, couples, or groups looking for a sunny, resort-style holiday with plenty to do and see. The pools are the star, the food is decent, and the atmosphere is vibrant without being too wild. If you’re looking for: 🧘 Relaxation 👨👩👧 Family-friendly fun ☀️ Guaranteed sunshine 🏝️ Proximity to natural beauty (like the dunes) ...then this hotel ticks a lot of boxes.

#holidayitinerary La Ventana del Nublo in Gran Canaria, Canarias, is a remarkable viewpoint that offers visitors a unique perspective of the island’s volcanic landscapes. Known for its natural rock formation resembling a window, this site provides breathtaking panoramas of valleys, mountains, and the iconic Roque Nublo in the distance. The hike to La Ventana del Nublo is moderately easy, winding through scenic trails surrounded by native vegetation and dramatic cliffs. It’s a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful moment immersed in Gran Canaria’s rugged beauty. The combination of striking geology and sweeping views makes this location truly memorable. For those exploring the central mountains of Canarias, La Ventana del Nublo is an unmissable destination that showcases the island’s natural artistry and offers a refreshing escape from busier tourist spots.

#holidayitinerary Puerto de Mogan in Gran Canaria, Canarias, is a picturesque coastal town often called Little Venice for its charming canals and colorful houses. Strolling along the marina, visitors are greeted by an array of boats bobbing gently in the water, while quaint cafes and local shops line the waterfront. The town’s beaches are inviting, offering soft golden sand and calm waters ideal for swimming and relaxing. A weekend market adds a lively touch, where you can browse handmade crafts and sample local delicacies. Beyond the town, scenic walking paths and nearby cliffs provide stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding landscapes. Whether you are seeking a peaceful escape, a taste of local culture, or vibrant seaside scenery, Puerto de Mogan in Canarias delivers a delightful blend of relaxation and charm in Gran Canaria.

#travel 🧭

#canaryislands gorgeous island with beautiful scenery with lovely beaches and plenty of area to walk around 😌😍 #travel #couplestrip #myitinerary

Getting There: · Little Venice is located in Puerto Mogan. · Very accessible by bus or ferry from Puerto Rico, Anfi or Arguineguin. Obviously bus is cheaper but takes longer. Ferry is slightly expensive (round trip from Puerto Rico port costs around €13.5) but it’s quicker and you get to travel on the sea. Shopping: · Tuesdays and Fridays are the market days. Highly recommended visiting (although make sure to wear a hat as you’ll be walking under the hot sun!). · The market sells various tourist trinkets and clothes. If you walk up the stairs, across the bridge to the opposite from the port, you can find some more market stalls that sells jewellery and other things. · Don’t forget to try the purple berry juice! 😋 · If the market isn’t your thing, Playa de Mogan is just a 5min walk away from the market street. A very lovely beach with restaurants nearby. Hotels: · If you plan to stay overnight in Puerto Mogan, I highly recommend Raddison Blu hotel. · Alternatively, there are plenty of hotels near Puerto Rico port where you can take the ferry. If you’re staying in Puerto Rico, I recommend Gloria Palace Amadores or Gloria Palace Royal (the latter is slightly further away from the port) Food & Restaurants: · There’s plenty of restaurants near the port, on the market street, and near the beach. If you’re stuck for choice, I recommend El Malecon de Mogan. · One of the best dishes I had was Mussels in white wine sauce and fries. I recommend only getting this when in season otherwise the mussels are tiny. Attractions: · Visit the Submarine Adventure! Go underwater without getting wet - tickets are around €33 if you buy at the desk on the day. You can save a couple of euros by purchasing the tickets online either in advance or when you get there. · The submarine can be found at the end of the market. It’s yellow and bright so you won’t miss it! · Afterwards, head down to the diving centre and try out scuba diving. Finish the day with a well-deserved ice cream 🍦#canaryislands #spain #Puertodemogan #grancanaria #grancanaria #Submarineadventure #marketshopping

📍 Itinerary Overview 🚩 Sightseeing Route 🏖️ Must-Visit Attractions 🚇 Transportation 📷 Photo Spots 🍜 Local Cuisine 🏠 Accommodation 💡 Tips