Gran Canaria isn’t just another sunny island in Spain’s Canary archipelago—it’s a full-blown miniature continent. With everything from desert-like sand dunes and lush mountain ranges to chic coastal towns and rustic villages, it’s no wonder travelers of all types are flocking here year-round. Whether you’re into beach lounging, adventure hikes, shopping, or nightlife, this island has something for you—and choosing the right hotel can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ve done the hard work for you and handpicked 10 of the best hotels in Gran Canaria. Each one offers something unique—whether you’re hunting for the best family-friendly resort, a luxe romantic getaway, a wallet-friendly all-inclusive, or simply our personal favorite.
Key Areas to Stay in Gran Canaria
Before we dive into the hotels, let’s talk geography. Gran Canaria may be small, but each area feels like a world of its own. Choosing the right location is key to the kind of vacation you want.
Las Palmas (Northeast)
This is the island’s vibrant capital—perfect for culture lovers and city explorers. Expect museums, cobbled historic streets, street food markets, and a lively urban beach scene at Playa de Las Canteras.
Puerto Rico & Amadores (Southwest)
Sun-soaked and built for relaxation, this area is a magnet for families and water lovers. Think boat trips, beachfront resorts, and calm waters for safe swimming. Bonus: Puerto Rico and Maspalomas are only a 20-minute drive apart, so you can hop between the two with ease.
Maspalomas & Meloneras (South)
Known for its rolling sand dunes, glamorous beach clubs, and upscale hotels. Maspalomas is where you go for that “classic beach holiday” feel—with a side of boutique shopping and fine dining in Meloneras.
Central Gran Canaria (The Mountains)
Ideal for nature lovers, this is the quieter, greener side of the island. Hiking, cycling, and charming villages like Tejeda await, all set against a backdrop of dramatic volcanic peaks.
10. Hotel Riu Papayas - Best for Families
If you’re jetting off with kids in tow, Hotel Riu Papayas in Playa del Inglés ticks all the right boxes. This 4-star, all-inclusive hotel brings together fun, convenience, and comfort in one sunny package. It’s got the kind of lively, family-friendly atmosphere that makes everyone feel like they’re truly on holiday—from the huge lagoon-style pool to the splashy entertainment program for kids.
The hotel’s Riuland Kids’ Club is a highlight, offering supervised activities that’ll keep little ones busy while parents sneak off for a well-earned cocktail or a cheeky nap in the sun. The buffet restaurant serves up a rotating selection of international dishes, and there are live cooking stations that keep things fresh and interesting. You also have the beach and local shopping just a short walk away.
It’s not just the facilities that make this hotel shine—it’s the vibe. The staff are famously friendly, and many families return year after year, which tells you all you need to know. If you want an easy, breezy base where everything’s taken care of, Riu Papayas is a winner.
9. Grupotel Playa Feliz - Best on a Low Budget
Tucked away in the peaceful area of Bahía Feliz, Grupotel Playa Feliz is the kind of place you almost don’t want to tell anyone about—it’s that much of a hidden gem. This budget-friendly aparthotel sits right by the ocean and offers cozy, self-catered apartments that feel more like beach bungalows than hotel rooms. It’s quiet, charming, and a far cry from the big resort buzz.
What makes it stand out isn’t just the affordability, but the flexibility. You’ve got your own kitchenette to cook meals if you want to save cash, but there’s also a restaurant and bar on-site for when you feel like being waited on. Guests also get access to the larger facilities at the neighboring Orquídea hotel, including pools, gym, and spa services.
It’s especially great for couples or laid-back travelers who want a chilled-out vibe with the sound of the sea just outside their window. You won’t find nightly shows or waterslides here, but you will find peace, quiet, and a whole lot of charm.
8. Holiday Home Casa Tamadaba - Best Stay for Hiking
For those looking to swap sun loungers for hiking boots, Casa Tamadaba is calling. Perched in the northwest village of Agaete, this rustic holiday home sits on the edge of Tamadaba Natural Park, one of Gran Canaria’s most scenic protected areas. Think pine forests, volcanic cliffs, and trails with jaw-dropping views around every corner.
Casa Tamadaba isn’t a hotel—it’s a proper home, with a full kitchen, wooden beams, and a private terrace where you can sip your morning coffee surrounded by birdsong. It’s all about unplugging and reconnecting with nature. And when you’re done trekking, you can wind down with a glass of local wine while watching the sun dip behind the hills.
This is one of those places that lets you live like a local—no buffets, no pool games, no crowds. Just the mountains, the sea breeze, and the kind of peace you don’t find often. If hiking is your happy place, this is where you want to be.
7. Abora Interclub Atlantic - Best Budget All-Inclusive
Looking for the perks of an all-inclusive resort without the hefty price tag? Abora Interclub Atlantic delivers just that, and then some. This hillside hotel in San Agustín might be affordable, but it definitely doesn’t feel like a budget option. It’s got lush gardens, sweeping sea views, and enough pools and slides to keep both kids and grown-ups entertained.
What sets it apart is how much you get for your money—buffet meals with themed nights, a drinks-inclusive package, daytime activities, evening shows, and even a little splash zone for the littlest travelers. The rooms are bright, fresh, and perfect for families or couples who want a no-stress escape.
You won’t find five-star luxury here, but that’s not the point. Abora Interclub is all about delivering fun, comfort, and value in one sunny, palm-lined package. It’s easy-going, cheerful, and proof that a great holiday doesn’t need to cost a fortune.
6. Santa Catalina Royal Hideaway - Best for a Royal Vibe
If your idea of a perfect stay involves vintage glamour, grand staircases, and sipping cocktails under chandeliers, Santa Catalina in Las Palmas is your dream come true. This historic 5-star hotel has been welcoming guests for over a century, including royalty, movie stars, and politicians—and it’s still dripping with old-world charm.
From the minute you step into the marble lobby, you know you’re in for something special. The rooms are elegant, the spa is top-tier, and the rooftop bar is one of the best places in town for sunset views with a side of cava. The hotel is also conveniently located near parks, museums, and the seafront promenade, so you can easily combine beach days with cultural outings.
It’s classy, it’s romantic, and it’s perfect for those who want a taste of the high life without the stuffy attitude. Santa Catalina is where you go to feel like a VIP—without needing a palace-sized budget.
5. Salobre Hotel Resort - Best for Golf
If your idea of paradise includes an early tee time followed by a cocktail by the pool, the Salobre Hotel Resort is your go-to. Set inland just above Maspalomas, this sleek, modern 5-star resort is a favorite for golfers—and not just because it’s got two 18-hole courses right on the doorstep. The hotel itself is stylish, peaceful, and has that high-end, wellness-meets-leisure vibe.
The architecture blends into the natural landscape, with desert tones and tiered pools that overlook the hills and fairways below. Rooms are spacious and thoughtfully designed, many with panoramic balconies that stretch out over the greens. There’s also a fantastic spa, rooftop bar, and dining options that focus on fresh, local produce.
Even if you’re not a golf nut, you’ll still love the quiet luxury of this resort. It’s a bit removed from the beach crowds, making it a top pick for anyone after peace, sunshine, and some serious R&R—with the option to swing a club if the mood strikes.
4. Parador de Cruz de Tejeda - Best for a Rural Escape
High in the central mountains of Gran Canaria, the Parador de Cruz de Tejeda feels a world away from the island’s beach resorts. Set amid pine forests and misty peaks, this beautiful rural hotel offers dramatic views, rustic charm, and a slower pace of life. It’s the kind of place where you lose track of time—and maybe even your phone signal.
This 4-star parador (a Spanish government-run heritage hotel) is known for its traditional Canarian stonework, warm hospitality, and panoramic terrace where you can sip a coffee above the clouds. The spa, complete with an outdoor infinity pool, lets you soak in the mountain views while the restaurant serves hearty local dishes—perfect after a day on the hiking trails.
Whether you’re an avid trekker or just someone looking for a quieter, more soulful side of Gran Canaria, this hotel is a magical base. It’s remote, romantic, and full of authentic character—ideal for disconnecting and recharging.
3. Occidental Roca Negra - Best Value for Money
Located in the charming town of Agaete on the northwest coast, Occidental Roca Negra is the perfect blend of affordability, style, and scenic surroundings. Carved into the volcanic cliffs and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this 4-star hotel makes an immediate impression with its bold black architecture and dramatic views.
Inside, the vibe is modern and calming, with earthy tones and minimalist design that lets the natural beauty outside take the spotlight. The hotel has a fantastic spa, a small but lovely pool area, and a restaurant serving local seafood and Canarian wines. It’s also just a short walk from the town’s natural saltwater pools, which are a real highlight.
If you’re after a quieter, more authentic Gran Canaria experience—away from the all-inclusive buzz but still with plenty of creature comforts—this place delivers. It’s excellent value and one of those hotels where you feel like you’ve discovered a local secret.
2. Paradisus by Meliá - Most Luxurious
If luxury is what you’re chasing, Paradisus by Meliá Gran Canaria is where you’ll find it. This 5-star beachfront resort in San Agustín is all about the finer things—immaculate service, dreamy design, and everything from gourmet dining to personal concierge service wrapped into a truly upscale all-inclusive experience.
The rooms are beautifully styled, with neutral tones and plush details, many offering stunning ocean views. There are adults-only zones for those wanting total peace, while the resort as a whole keeps things tranquil, elegant, and polished. The food here is a standout, especially at the à la carte restaurants, and the cocktails are just as Instagram-worthy as the sunsets.
This is one of Gran Canaria’s newest and most talked-about resorts, and it shows. If you want top-tier comfort without compromise—and the kind of holiday that feels like a treat from start to finish—this is where you want to be.
1. Unique Club at Lopesan Costa Meloneras - Our Favorite
It’s not easy to pick a favorite when the options are this good, but the Unique Club at Lopesan Costa Meloneras wins us over every time. Located right next to the iconic Maspalomas Dunes, this upgraded section of the beloved Lopesan resort offers the perfect balance of luxury, style, and laid-back Canarian charm.
Guests staying in the Unique Club category get access to exclusive areas, upgraded amenities, and prime room locations—think ocean-view balconies, welcome gifts, and reserved sunbeds. The main hotel itself is no slouch either, with sprawling pools, lush gardens, and endless dining options. The spa is top-notch, and the location couldn’t be better for beach walks or exploring the vibrant Meloneras promenade.
It’s the attention to detail and the extra touches that set this one apart. Whether you’re a return visitor or a first-timer, it’s a resort that makes your trip feel… well, special. And that’s why it’s earned our number one spot.
In a Nutshell...
Gran Canaria might be known for its sunshine and beaches, but as you’ve seen, it’s also home to an amazing variety of hotels—each offering a unique way to experience the island. Whether you’re after family fun, rugged nature escapes, or five-star luxury, there’s a perfect stay waiting for you here.
We hope this guide helped you discover your ideal base for exploring this stunning Canary Island. If you’re planning a trip soon, be sure to bookmark this page, and don’t forget to check out the hotel links to compare rates and read real guest reviews.
Ready to trade your desk view for a palm tree and poolside sangria? Gran Canaria is calling.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the best area to stay in Gran Canaria?
It depends on your travel style! Las Palmas is great for culture and nightlife, Maspalomas is perfect for beach lovers and luxury stays, Puerto Rico is ideal for family fun, and the island’s interior offers peace and hiking adventures.
2. Are there good hotel options for families in Gran Canaria?
Yes! Hotels like Lopesan Costa Bávaro and Hotel Riu Papayas are tailored to families, with kids’ clubs, pools, and family-friendly dining.
3. What’s the best time to visit Gran Canaria?
Gran Canaria enjoys warm weather year-round, but the best months for sunny beach days are from May to October. Winter is also popular for escaping colder climates, with milder but still pleasant temperatures.
4. Are there budget-friendly luxury options?
Absolutely. Hotels like Occidental Roca Negra and Hilton Playa Meloneras offer excellent value without sacrificing quality or comfort.
5. Do I need a car to explore the island?
While you can enjoy beach areas without a car, renting one is ideal if you want to explore the mountains, remote villages, or hidden beaches.
