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Andrew Stevens2022-01-15 10:26:532025-07-18 09:55:55Maspalomas CarnivalMaspalomas is the most laid-back of Spain’s “big 4” gay destinations. Unlike beach towns “on the Peninsula,” winter doesn’t shut things down, and cultural separation from mainland Spain makes for a slower pace of life.
- Weekdays are slow, building up to the weekends. Sundays involve a lazy brunch, Sunday roast, time-out at the pool, and the occasional T party dance during the high season.
- The scene is broadly international. British/Irish, English and German and Spanish are the most often heard languages, with a few French, Dutch, Italian and Scandinavian accents thrown in.
- Gran Canaria is the gayest and proudest of the Canary Islands, with lots of history to explore and plenty of relaxed revelry with a Spanish flair.
Why Go?
- Located just 4 hours from most European airports, Gran Canaria is an easily accessible destination to obtain that perfect tan. If you want to get a bit cultural, head into the mountains, where the scenery changes from volcanic dryness to pine forests and evergreen shrubs.
- You can party like a rockstar until 6am in the morning at more than 30 different bars and clubs; all nestled conveniently in the Yumbo centre, a vast shopping centre that transforms into a party zone every night of the year.
- In the North around Arucas, Terror and Santa Brigida, the valleys are green from the intensive cultivation of tomatoes, potatoes and bananas. You can drive leisurely around the coast road of the Island in one day, with great stops for lunch and photo shots that’ll amaze your friends on your return.
Maspalomas, Gran Canaria basks in the Sun year round.
When’s the best time to visit?
- While most of Europe freezes, Gran Canaria enjoys warm beach days and balmy evenings throughout the Winter. November to May are considered peak season, so book your hotel well in advance if you are going to attend any of the big events, especially November’s Winter Pride.
- The Island’s three-week carnival usually happens at the beginning of February, and it’s a huge glamorous affair with costumes worthy of a place in a Las Vegas casino. If you want something a little pinker, then Gay Pride Maspalomas takes place in May, and every year it gets bigger and better.
- Temperatures rarely fall below 21 degrees, and the average temperature is 29 degrees during the summer months! Perfect for slipping on or off, the swimming trunks and hitting the beach with G & T’s in hand.
Getting Around
Getting to the Island
- Several low-cost airlines fly from European cities to Gran Canaria Airport, including Ryanair from 35 cities, EasyJet from five UK cities, Vueling from 125 regional cities, Transavia from 5 Benelux/German towns, among others around the world. Many major carriers land here too.
- Search for the best rate. Compare Multiple Flight prices at once.
From the Airport
- The airport is about a 30-minute drive to Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, and San Augustin. Many hotels and guesthouses will send a taxi to pick you up.
- Book a private transfer in advance.
Getting Around
- With so many gay resorts, bars and restaurants packed in close together around Yumbo Center in Maspalomas, walking may often be the best option –but taxis aren’t that expensive either.
- Buses, known as guaguas, are a great way to get around the Island. Service is not always frequent, but they operate many routes around the Island, including from the airport to Las Palmas and Maspalomas.
Where to stay in Gay Maspalomas?
From luxury hotels to charming guest houses and apartments, discover our top recommendations.
The Gay Beach in Maspalomas, the Island’s No 1 Attraction.
The Gay Area in Maspalomas
- The centre of gay nightlife is the Yumbo. Most visitors tend to stay close by at some of the many nearby gay and gay friendly hotels. Hotels such as the Hetero Friendly Axel Beach Hotel and the Adults only Neptuno are popular options.
- The Yumbo is located in a designated tourist zone. Most buildings in Playa del Ingles are hotels and apartments.
- Alternatively, you may prefer to stay closer to the gay beach, with hotels such as the Riu Palace offering magnificent views of the dunes and the sea.
- For something different, consider The Vital Suites, perfectly located a short distance from both the beach and the Yumbo, in a quiet and tranquil setting, offering breathtaking views and superb service.
Bohemia Suites & Spa
5 Star, Adults Only
Offering large rooms with balconies, the adults-only Bohemia Suites & Spa features 1 freshwater outdoor pool and 1 saltwater outdoor pool and 2 outdoor jacuzzis. The stylish rooms feature yellow, terracotta or purple colour schemes with olive-wood furnishings. The rooftop restaurant offers creative local dishes and panoramic views & a terrace cocktail bar.
Sol Barbacan
4 Star, Great Value
Located in Playa del Inglés. The complex features a swimming pool, 2 hot tubs, and free WiFi in all areas. Sol Barbacan offers a buffet restaurant and an a la carte restaurant, as well as a pool bar and an evening lounge with a terrace. Set in gardens, the complex includes minigolf and beach volleyball facilities. There is also a gym
AxelBeach Maspalomas
4 Star, Adults Only
AxelBeach Maspalomas an outdoor pool, gym and tennis court. This gay and hetero-friendly, adults-only complex also has a hammam, hot tub and sauna. Opening onto terraces, the apartments have attractive, contemporary décor. All include air conditioning, a safe, free WiFi and a comfortable living area with a sofa and flat-screen satellite TV.
Gay Map of Maspalomas, Gran Canaira
Address: Av. de Estados Unidos, 28, 35100 Playa del Inglés
- Adults-only boutique hotel with a stylish, modern look.
- Popular with gay travelers seeking a quieter base.
- Around a 10-minute walk to the main gay nightlife.
- Rooftop restaurant delivers standout ocean views.
- Spa, pools, and gardens create a relaxed stay.
- Great mix of privacy, comfort, and location.
- Website
Address: Av. Arquitecto Manuel de la Peña Suarez, 14, 35100
- Boutique villa property focused on space and privacy.
- Modern interiors with fully equipped kitchens.
- Heated pool and gardens create a calm setting.
- Around a 10-12 minute walk to the gay nightlife.
- Well suited to couples or longer stays.
- Strong blend of independence and hotel-level comfort.
- Website
Address: Av. de Tirajana, 27, 35100 Playa del Inglés
- Sol Barbacan is a 4-star aparthotel in Playa del Inglés.
- Offers spacious apartments and bungalows with modern amenities.
- Features three outdoor pools, two hot tubs, and a gym.
- Dining options include buffet and à la carte restaurants.
- Approximately 300 meters from the Yumbo Centre.
- Ideal for travelers seeking comfort near vibrant nightlife.
- Website
Address: Av. 8 de Marzo, 29, 35100 Maspalomas, Las Palmas, Spain
- MUR Hotel Neptuno is a 4-star adults-only hotel in Playa del Inglés.
- It features modern rooms and a heated outdoor pool with a slide.
- The hotel offers a wellness center and all-inclusive dining options.
- Located adjacent to the Yumbo Centre, it's ideal for nightlife.
- Guests praise its central location and friendly staff.
- A short walk to the beach and entertainment venues.
- Website
Address: Avenida de Tirajana, 32 (entrada por C/ Timple), 35100
- AxelBeach Maspalomas is an adults-only aparthotel
- It offers 92 modern apartments with kitchenettes and balconies.
- Facilities include a large outdoor pool, Sky Bar, and wellness club.
- The hotel is less than a 5-minute walk from the Yumbo Centre.
- Ideal for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking a vibrant atmosphere.
- Combines comfort, entertainment, and proximity to nightlife.
- Website
Address: C.C. Yumbo, (ground floor)
- Bar Adonis is a gay bar in Maspalomas.
- It features a cozy atmosphere with a large terrace.
- The bar serves draft beers, cocktails, and sangria.
- Known for its friendly staff and welcoming environment.
- Attracts an international clientele.
- Open: Daily 7pm–2:30am
- Website
Address: C.C. Yumbo, (ground floor)
- Blue Havana Lounge Bar is a gay bar in Maspalomas.
- It features a Cuban-style interior with cocktails and shisha.
- The terrace is ideal for pre-club drinks and socializing.
- Music ranges from chilled daytime tracks to upbeat nights.
- A reliable choice inside the Yumbo nightlife circuit.
- Open: Daily 5pm-1am
- Website
Address: C.C. Yumbo 111/10, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- Gio Bar & Restaurant is a gay bar in Maspalomas.
- It offers Italian cuisine, including pasta and pizza.
- The venue features a relaxed terrace setting.
- Located on the ground floor of the Yumbo Centre.
- Popular for its friendly service and central location.
- Open: Daily 12pm–12am
- Website
Address: C.C. Yumbo, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- Gran Café Latino is a gay bar in Maspalomas.
- It offers Latin-inspired cocktails, tapas, and crepes.
- Features Latin music genres like salsa and samba.
- Located on the ground floor of the Yumbo Centre.
- Popular among locals and tourists, especially during Pride events.
- Open: Daily 6:30pm–2am
Address: C.C. Yumbo, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- Hummel Hummel is a gay bar in Maspalomas.
- It caters to a mature clientele with a relaxed atmosphere.
- Features include a spacious terrace and a dark room.
- The bar offers a selection of cocktails and beers.
- Known for its friendly staff and welcoming environment.
- Open: Sun–Thu 6:30pm–1am, Fri–Sat 6:30pm–1:30am
Address: C.C. Cita, Av. de Alemania, Top Floor, 35100 Playa del Inglés
- Black Bulldog Bar is a swingers and lifestyle venue in Maspalomas.
- It offers a chic & festive atmosphere with electro music and live DJs.
- The bar primarily welcomes couples, enforcing a strict access policy.
- Located on the top floor of the C.C. Cita shopping center.
- Facilities include a bar area and social interaction spaces.
- Open: Daily 9pm–2am
Address: C.C. Yumbo 111/13, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- A cozy gay cocktail bar tucked inside the Yumbo Centre.
- Creative drinks made with fresh ingredients are a highlight.
- The terrace is popular for early evening meetups.
- Regular events add variety without losing the laid-back tone.
- Draws a mixed international crowd year-round.
- Open: Daily 7pm-3am
Address: C.C. Yumbo, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- A lively gay bar known for its retro party vibe.
- Schlager and singalong tracks set the tone nightly.
- The Dutch-style interior creates a warm setting.
- Drinks are well priced with fast, friendly service.
- Pulls a loyal crowd looking for carefree nights.
- Open: Daily 10pm-4am
Address: C.C. Yumbo, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- A lively gay venue with a busy terrace at the Yumbo.
- Food and cocktails make it popular from early evening.
- Theme nights add an interactive twist to the week.
- Draws a sociable international crowd year-round.
- Great choice for starting or ending a night out.
- Open: Daily 10am-2am
Address: C.C. Yumbo 421/2-7, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- A high-energy gay bar with a strong late-night following.
- Pop remixes and chart tracks drive the dance floor.
- Video screens and lighting boost the club feel.
- Includes a cruising area designed for men.
- Pulls a youthful, international crowd.
- Open: Daily 11pm-3:30am
Address: C.C. Yumbo 161/15-18, 35100 Playa del Ingles 1st Floor
- Na Und is a gay bar in Maspalomas with over 30 years of history.
- It offers live music, themed nights, and a spacious dance floor.
- Features diverse musical genres catering to a mature clientele.
- Patrons can enjoy a wide selection of international drinks.
- Located on the first floor of the Yumbo Centre.
- Open: Mon–Fri 9pm–2am, Sat–Sun 9pm–3am
- Website
Address: C.C. Yumbo 121/1-2, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- Parrots Pub offers a vibrant atmosphere with nightly entertainment.
- Features include a spacious terrace and an extensive cocktail menu.
- Known for friendly staff and a welcoming environment.
- Popular among both locals and tourists.
- Located on the ground floor of the Yumbo Centre.
- Open: Daily 4pm–2:30am
Address: C.C. Yumbo 121/3, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- Peppermint Bar offers a cozy atmosphere with inventive cocktails.
- Known for its French-inspired drinks like mojitos and Negronis.
- Operated by a friendly team providing attentive service.
- Located on the ground floor of the Yumbo Centre.
- A welcoming spot for patrons seeking a relaxed environment.
- Open: Daily 7:30pm–2:30am
Address: C.C. Yumbo 111/7, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- Pirates Terrace Bar offers a laid-back setting with a spacious terrace.
- Known for friendly atmosphere and attentive staff.
- Serves a variety of cocktails, including seasonal specials.
- Provides beautiful views over Yumbo Square & the Plaza of Diversity.
- Attracts an international crowd seeking a relaxed environment.
- Open: Daily 5pm–2am
Address: C.C. Yumbo 151/3-4, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- Spartacus is a gay bar with over 20 years of history.
- Known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.
- Offers a great selection of cocktails and homemade sangria.
- Features an outdoor terrace perfect for people-watching.
- Located on the ground floor of the Yumbo Centre.
- Open: Daily 8pm–2am
- Website
Address: P.º del Faro, 36, 35100 Maspalomas, Las Palmas, Spain
- Strand-Apo-Theke is a gay beach bar in Maspalomas.
- It features German Schlager and 80s music.
- The bar serves hearty comfort food and German beers.
- Guests can enjoy sunset views from the terrace.
- Located on the promenade near the Maspalomas lighthouse.
- Open: Daily 12pm–10pm
Address: C.C. Yumbo 151/3-4, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- A gay show bar known for high-energy drag nights.
- Live vocals, comedy, and polished stage acts lead the program.
- Theater-style seating keeps focus on the performances.
- Cocktails and table service support the cabaret vibe.
- Draws a fun, mixed crowd looking for organized shows.
- Open: Daily 8pm-2am
- Website
Address: C.C. Yumbo (2nd floor), 35100 Playa del Ingles
- A gay show bar focused on polished drag acts.
- Spanish music and comedy shape the performances.
- The intimate room keeps energy high throughout.
- Table service supports a relaxed show experience.
- Popular with visitors seeking classic cabaret nights.
- Open: Daily 9pm-3am
Address: C.C. Yumbo 231/2, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- A gay bar centered on sing-alongs and live-style vocals.
- Show tunes and pop classics shape the soundtrack.
- Audience participation keeps the room lively.
- Draws a mixed crowd that enjoys interactive nights.
- Ideal for music lovers before heading to the clubs.
- Open: Daily 9pm-4am
Address: C.C. Yumbo 261/6-8, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- Chez Funny Boy’s offers energetic drag performances nightly.
- Features impersonations of iconic singers like Beyoncé.
- The large terrace serves as both stage and seating area.
- Shows start around midnight and continue into early hours.
- Attracts a diverse crowd seeking lively entertainment.
- Open: Daily 11pm–4am
Address: C.C. Yumbo 261/2-3, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- Coco Loco is a gay late-night party bar in Maspalomas.
- Features energetic atmosphere with go-go dancers and drag shows.
- Plays a mix of pop and 80s/90s hits.
- Attracts a predominantly young, international crowd.
- Known for affordable drink prices.
- Open: Daily 10pm–4am
Address: C.C. Yumbo 121/5-6, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- Eiffel Bar is a gay-owned cocktail lounge in Maspalomas.
- Offers a Parisian ambiance with French wines and champagne.
- Known for signature cocktails like strawberry daiquiris.
- Multilingual staff provides attentive service in a relaxed setting.
- Attracts a diverse clientele seeking a sophisticated experience.
- Open: Daily 7pm–1am
Address: C.C. Yumbo 111/1-2, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- Fiction Bar offers a vibrant atmosphere with a spacious terrace.
- Known for attentive staff and a variety of cocktails.
- Happy hour promotions are available throughout the day.
- Popular among both locals and tourists.
- Located on the ground floor of the Yumbo Centre in Maspalomas.
- Open: Daily 10am–4am
Address: C.C. Yumbo, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- An elegant gay cocktail bar with a relaxed mood.
- Stylish interior suited to easy evening drinks.
- Cocktails are well prepared with consistent quality.
- Appeals to guests who favor a calmer social scene.
- Ideal as a warm-up before the late-night circuit.
- Open: Daily 7pm-2:30am
Address: C.C. Yumbo, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- WunderBar is a gay cocktail lounge in Maspalomas.
- Features themed nights like Eurovision and Retro Night.
- Offers a variety of homemade cocktails on a spacious terrace.
- Provides comfortable seating for up to 80 guests.
- Attracts a diverse crowd seeking a lively atmosphere.
- Open: Daily 8pm–2:30am
- Website
Address: C.C. Yumbo, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- Cruise Bar is a gay cruise venue in Maspalomas.
- Established in 1994, catering to the bear and leather community.
- Features private cabins, mazes, slings, and dark rooms.
- Offers a large terrace and welcoming atmosphere.
- Attracts a diverse crowd seeking a unique experience.
- Open: Daily 10pm–4am
Address: C.C. Yumbo, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- A men-only gay cruising bar with a direct vibe.
- Multiple play areas keep the venue active.
- Low lighting supports a traditional cruise setting.
- Draws an international, mostly male crowd.
- Popular with guests seeking a focused night out.
- Open: Daily 9pm-4am
Address: C.C. Yumbo (listed as 1st floor), 35100 Playa del Ingles
- Noxon is a gay fetish bar in Maspalomas.
- It offers themed parties and a welcoming atmosphere.
- Facilities include cabins, a wet area, and a terrace.
- The staff is known for being friendly and attentive.
- It's a popular spot for the LGBTQ+ community.
- Open: Daily 9pm–2am
- Website
Address: C.C. Yumbo 261/17-18, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- The Box is a gay men's cruising bar in Maspalomas.
- It features two dark rooms and free lockers.
- The venue has a relaxed dress code policy.
- Located on the second floor of the Yumbo Center.
- A popular spot for nightlife in Gran Canaria.
- Open: Daily 10pm–4am
- website
Address: Av. 8 de Marzo, 31, 35100 San Bartolomé de Tirajana
- The Factory is a gay men's cruising and fetish club in Maspalomas.
- It features glory holes, slings, private cabins, and labyrinths.
- The venue hosts themed nights, including fetish and naked parties.
- Known for its cleanliness and friendly staff.
- Entry includes a drink and locker access.
- Open: Mon–Thu 9pm–3am, Fri–Sat 9pm–4am, Sun 5pm–3am
- Website
Address: Av. de Gran Canaria, 24, 35100 Maspalomas
- Hell is a gay cruise and fetish bar in Maspalomas.
- It features a dark room, private cabins, a sling, and glory holes.
- Located about 1 km north of the Yumbo Centre.
- Admission is €5, including one drink; cash only.
- Known for its friendly staff and affordable drinks.
- Open: Tue–Sat 10pm–2am; closed Sun, Mon
Address: C.C. Cita, Av. de Francia, 35100 Playa del Ingles (basement)
- TImE oFF is a gay fetish cruise club in Maspalomas.
- It features slings, big beds, and an anal shower.
- The dress code includes leather, rubber, latex, jocks, or naked.
- Located in the basement of C.C. Cita shopping center.
- Credit cards are accepted; flip-flops and sandals are not permitted.
- Open: Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat 9pm–3am
- Website
Address: C.C. Yumbo (4th floor), 35100 Playa del Ingles
- Mantrix is a gay nightclub in Maspalomas.
- It features a dance floor, dark room, and outdoor terrace.
- Electronic and house music are played by resident DJs.
- Popular among locals and tourists, especially on weekends.
- An entry fee includes one drink.
- Open: Daily 2am–6am
Address: C.C. Yumbo, Local 151-09, 35100 Maspalomas, Gran Canaria
- Bärenhöhle is a gay bar catering to the bear community.
- It offers a cozy setting with a vast collection of teddy bears.
- The bar is known for generous drinks and a friendly atmosphere.
- Located in the Yumbo Centre, it's popular among German tourists.
- Happy hour is daily from opening until 9 pm.
- Open: Daily 7:30pm–2am
Address: C.C. Yumbo 131/14, Gran Canaria, 35100 Playa del Inglés
- Bar Meicker is a gay bar in Maspalomas with a Danish influence.
- It offers quality cocktails and local beers at reasonable prices.
- The bar features a spacious terrace for people-watching.
- Owned by Jack and Erik, known for their warm hospitality.
- Located on the ground floor of the Yumbo Centre.
- Open: Mon–Sat 8pm–1am; closed Sun
Address: CC Yumbo 161/4 -6 - Gran Canaria , Ground Floor
- Ricky's Cabaret Bar is a gay drag and cabaret bar in Maspalomas.
- Nightly shows blend comedy, lip-sync, and crowd interaction.
- Pre-show karaoke gets the room going early.
- Located on the ground floor of the Yumbo Centre.
- Popular for lively entertainment and late nights.
- Open: Daily 8pm-3am
Address: CC Yumbo 131/21 -22 - 3510 Playadel Ingles
- The Copacabana is a gay bar with a busy terrace scene.
- Open layout makes it ideal for meeting friends.
- Cocktails, beers, and light bites available.
- Drag pop-ups add extra entertainment.
- Popular stop before heading to nearby clubs.
- Open: Daily 11am-2am
Address: CC Yumbo 232 /27 , 3510 Playadel Ingles (Upper Terrace)
- Vibe Cocktail Bar is a gay cocktail lounge in Maspalomas.
- It offers creative cocktails like Popcorn and Bounty.
- Known for its friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere.
- Located on the upper terrace of the Yumbo Centre.
- A favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
- Open: Mon, Wed–Sun 6pm–late; closed Tue
Address: Barbados II, Av. de Tirajana, 17, 35100 Playa del Inglés
- Reds Club is a gay cruising and fetish club in Playa del Inglés.
- It features facilities like private cabins, dark rooms, and slings.
- The venue hosts themed nights with specific dress codes.
- Admission is €10, including one drink.
- Located a short walk from the Yumbo Centre.
- Open: Daily 8pm–2:30am
- Website
Address: C.C. Yumbo 161/10-14, Gran Canaria, 35100 Playa del Inglés
- Strong Construction is a gay men's cruising and fetish club.
- It offers three bars, private cabins, slings, and dark rooms.
- The venue features a "puppy house" catering to specific kinks.
- A lively terrace becomes active around 11pm.
- Entry is €10, including one drink, with free lockers available.
- Open: Daily 10pm–6am
Address: Av. de Tirajana, 17, Apartamentos Barbados I, 35100
- Zoo Mens Bar is a gay cruising and fetish club.
- Two floors with cabins, slings, and dark zones.
- Nightly dress codes shape the crowd and mood.
- Privacy rules keep the space discreet.
- Draws an international late-night audience.
- Open: Daily 10pm-4am
- Website
Address:C.C. Yumbo, 35100 Playa del Ingles
- Zaza Bar is a gay bar with a relaxed atmosphere.
- It offers a cozy terrace for people-watching.
- The bar serves a variety of beers and cocktails.
- Established in 1989, it's located in the Yumbo Centre.
- Patrons appreciate the friendly service and fair prices.
- Open: Daily 6:30pm–2:30am
- Website
Address: C.C. Yumbo, 3rd floor, Gran Canaria, 35100 Playa del Inglés
- Kiki is a gay nightclub with a modern interior.
- It features pop, R&B, and house music.
- The club attracts a diverse crowd after midnight.
- Friendly staff contribute to its welcoming atmosphere.
- Located on the third floor of the Yumbo Centre.
- Open: Daily 12am–6am
Gay Friendly Restaurants
The beauty of Gran Canaria’s restaurants is that their very diversity means you don’t necessarily have to dip too deep into your pockets. From cheap eats to fine dining, take your pick.
We recommend escaping the Yumbo centre occasionally, hopping in a cab and checking out some of the best cuisine the Island has to offer!
- Bamira is one of the finest restaurants in Gran Canaria. The cuisine is inspired by the owner’s adventure travels from around the world. The decor is superb, and every dish is unique. Reservations are highly recommended.
- Restaurante Calma Chicha serves contemporary Spanish cuisine with Mediterranean flourishes in a romantic setting. Try the gourmet menu, you will not be disappointed.
- Close to the Maspalomas Dunes, Time Maspalomas is the town’s most charming Italian restaurant. The experience at times is highlighted by the friendly staff and unique menu, comprised of homemade dishes. The atmosphere is relaxed, welcoming and cosy.
- Las Rias specializes in seafood and fish from the fresh waters of northern Spain’s famous Galician rivers. With a menu of exquisite delicacies, first-class table service, and beautiful panoramic views of the ocean, it’s one of the absolute top fine dining restaurants to visit in Maspalomas.
- Located in the heart of Yumbo Centrum, Wapa Tapa specializes in a creative mix of traditional Spanish and contemporary international tapas. Simple yet fresh and exciting, a few dishes include Spanish cheeses, Canarian wrinkly potatoes and Galician-style octopus.
Tip: Make room for a wonderful, salt-fish sweet-potato ‘sancocho’, the local speciality accompanied by the typical ‘papas arrugadas’ or small salted jacket potatoes. Don’t forget to ask for a local wine to wash it all down: look for Denomination of Origin, Gran Canaria.
Maspalomas Gay Beach
The gay beach in Maspalomas is the Island’s biggest attraction, with miles of long sandy stretches, cute guys, horny cruising areas, warm seas and gentle breezes. What’s not to love!
Maspalomas has one of the best nude beaches in the world, complete with a gay section near the western end. There’s cruising in the nearby dunes and shacks where you can buy cold drinks (but not cheap). The beach itself is split into three zones. Towards the lighthouse is the family area, in the middle of the nudist section, where most of the gay community hang out and a third, family-oriented nudist area.
- The gay section is named after shack “Number 7” – just look for rainbow flags and the guys you saw at the clubs. You’ll see northerners on the sand earlier (craving every ray of sunshine), while Spanish locals tend to come out for a dip or for a beer at the “chiringuito” later, as the sun gets lower in the sky.
- After a day at the beach, head over to Strandapotheke, a busy gay bar close to the gay beach playing German pop and oom-pah-pah music from 2pm till 8pm every day, serving German bar snacks.
- Alternatively, hiring a private yacht, with or without a skipper, and sailing around the islands is a great way to spend the day. Or visit the Gran Canaria Diving Club for some underwater action!
- The beach is host to one of the biggest days of the year, the 11/11 Carnival, a German Tradition, which sees hundreds of guys dressed up in fun and revealing costumes. It also happens to coincide with the Winter Pride, so you should arrive early if you want to secure your sun lounger or spot on the sand.
Kiosk No 7, recently refurbished, is a hub of daytime activity.
Getting to Maspalomas Gay Beach
- To get to the gay beach in Maspalomas, take a taxi to Plaza del Faro, then walk east until you come to ‘Spot No. 7’.
- The gay beach can be reached by a 10-minute walk from the Maspalomas lighthouse or a 20-minute walk via the dunes from the Riu hotel in Playa del Ingles.
- The main entrance is at the Hotel Riu Palace, the beginning of the Avenida de Tirajana. If you’ve come by car, you can park free at the Avenida de Gran Canaria. In the centre of the hotel, you will see a public access gallery, with shops on either side. Walkthrough, and you will see the view of the dunes ahead with the forest in the background.
- A lot of the cruising occurs from around 4pm onwards as guys make their way from the beach. However, you can find people there all the time!
- The Nature Reserve of Dunas de Maspalomas is enormous. There are several areas, and some are busy at certain times. Follow the red-topped posts which lead to the gay area.
- There are kiosks where you can buy cold drinks along the way. Tip: get out before nightfall if you don’t want to feel you’re being eaten alive by sand fleas.
- Stay close by at your own apartment at the Nativo El Palmital, an adults only resort rated “Superb”.
The gay beach is an “anything goes” area. It’s quite relaxed and attracts all age groups.
Hire a car and visit one of the more deserted and smaller beaches along the south coast of the Island.
Setting off from Maspalomas along the C812, explore the coastal road from Maspalomas to Puerto Rico with several coves and beaches en-route, some small and quiet, others larger and busier. All of them are busy with locals at the weekends.
These aren’t necessarily gay beaches, but they are generally all “clothing optional” and somewhat mixed beaches. If you want a cruisy beach, stick with Maspalomas, but if you want something different, where cruising is a bonus, then have a go at exploring. These beaches come under “Bahia Santa Agueda” on the map.
El Bosque
- This is the area closest to the Mirador de las Dunas (Riu Palace), and undoubtedly the most popular from around lunchtime until people start to leave the beach. This area is dense with many winding paths and secluded locations popular with younger guys and those looking for privacy.
Los Matos
- Los Matos is closest to the gay beach (about 400 m). Walking through it is much easier, and so it is more popular with older guys.
Los Camellos
- A dead-end street ends at a small roundabout in the southwestern end of the Maspalomas golf course. Here you will find access to the Camel Safari, a tourist attraction where you can go Camel riding in the dunes. By day it is mainly used for access to the beach.
- From about 5pm, cruising continues from the dunes to the bushes between the bridge and Boulevard Las Dunas parking building. This environment is entirely different from the forest or Matos. Most guys are local men who arrive by car directly after work, so it is more popular from 7pm to 10pm on weekdays or weekends from 4 in the morning. Nudity is very rare.
The Dunes, Cruising in Maspalomas
The cruising scene kicks off at the Gay beach, then makes its way to the famous Dunes of Maspalomas.
The Islands of the Canaries have been quick to capitalize on the popularity of the dunes. Forget police harassment and council interference!
This is one cruising area with a difference. Consider the following:
- You can go nude or clothed. You can hike the whole way to the cruising areas without anyone batting an eyelid. It’s pretty common to see people wander the dunes naked.
- It’s international! You will meet people from all walks of life. The views from the highest dunes are spectacular, and if you get hot, you’re just a few minutes walk to the sea. Cooldown and follow another trail and just see what you will find!
- You can get a taxi directly to the cruising areas. And there are bus stops too!
- It’s safe! Even at night, however, as with cruising in all other places around the world, be safe, exercise some caution and do not leave valuables unattended. Don’t take lots of cash or credit cards with you!
Events in Maspalomas
Gran Canaria is home to two major International Carnivals, at Las Palmas and at Maspalomas. And then there’s two Gay Pride events, Summer & Winter!. Add in a bear carnival, some fetish events, and you have all the ingredients for a party Island.
Las Palmas & Beyond MASPALOMAS
A visit to the capital makes for a welcome break from the gay hustle and bustle of Maspalomas.
Experience a different slice of Island life in the capital, La Palma.
The Island’s capital, Las Palmas, is situated on the northeastern tip of the Island with a stunning location on the bay. Founded in 1478, relive La Palma’s past with a visit to the Vegueta district, which attained World Heritage status in 1990.
The city has doubled its population in the last 30 years and is now home to 400,000 people, and is brimming with Spanish charm and culture.
It’s well worth visiting Las Palmas, and it is less touristy and offers some rich history and architecture.
The city has some beaches, and local bars and restaurants serve traditional Spanish tapas; small servings of meat, fish, and vegetables – often accompanied with a beer.
The Gran Terraza Lolita Pluma (Centrical Parque Santa Catalina) is a Las Palmas landmark, literally a grand terrace cafe named in homage to a colourful local character who fed street cats and sold chewing gum to tourists in a nearby park.
Sauna Portugal (Calle Portugal 37) has Finland and steam saunas, free cabins and darkroom, plus a bar and massage services in Las Palmas.
Things to See & Do
There’s so much more to discover beyond the gay beaches and bars in Maspalomas. The following are our editor’s top tips on exploring the best of the Island
- ATV Tour – Drive your own Buggy on the roads of the “Fataga” natural park. Fataga is a very popular day-trip destination for holidaymakers staying in the coastal regions of Gran Canaria. It is a characteristic village of the island, with its old narrow lanes paved with stones and famous historic Canarian houses.
- Dolphin Watching in Mogan – Take a yacht to sea and meet some of the Island’s friendliest sea creatures! A 4 hour trip that is truly worth it.
- Gran Canaria: The Rainforest Tour – Visit the Azuaje Ravine, famed for its waterfalls and dramatic scenery.
- The Red Canyon Tour – One of our top recommendations, taking in some of the Island’s most beautiful villages while discovering amazing landscapes between the incredible volcanic caldera.
- Private Full Day Tour – Explore the volcanos and wineries of the island at your own pace.
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