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Maspalomas Tourist Information

By: Gary Marshall

Maspalomas is situated on the southern coast of the island of Gran Canaria. The resort is separated from the beach by spectacular sand dunes which cover an area of around 400 hectares. Reminiscent of the Sahara desert, these dunes provide a vivid reminder of just how close Gran Canaria is to the coast of Africa. This vast expanse of undulating sand has been declared a protected natural area due to the rare plants and animals, including rabbits and lizards, which manage to survive in this arid environment. Many visitors to Maspalomas opt for a memorable camel ride across the dunes.

Maspalamos is quite an up market resort with several luxurious homes and some high-quality hotels. It is generally more family-friendly than nearby Playa del Ingles. Bordering the western edge of the dunes is the lagoon of La Charca, which provides a valuable stopping off point for migratory birds. Next to La Charca is the aptly-named district of El Oasis which has several trendy hotels. The 65-metre high Faro de Maspalamos lighthouse, which was built in the late 19th century, is situated here. Maspalomas boasts an 18-hole golf course, designed by Mackenzie Ross, which is flat and with long and wide fairways. Practice facilities such as a putting green, driving range and pitching green are also available.

There is a commercial centre in the resort, Faro 2, which has several boutique-style designer shops. Maspalamos also has several bars, discos and nightclubs, plus a variety of places to eat including fast-food outlets, pizzerias and traditional fish restaurants.

Maspalomas boasts a lovely beach of fine sand backed by the huge dunes. It stretches for about 4 miles (6km) in total so there are plenty of secluded spots along its length. The quieter parts of the Maspalomas beach are often frequented by naturists and members of the gay community, while the section near the Faro lighthouse is popular with families. To the east is the busy resort of Playa del Ingles which boasts some excellent facilities.

Just outside Maspalamos is Palmitos Park, one of the most popular family attractions on Gran Canaria. This tropical oasis is home to a diversity of animals, including crocodiles, gibbons, butterflies and around 200 species of bird. There are many highlights, including the birds of prey displays featuring peregrine falcons, eagles and owls. Another crowd-pleaser is the parrot shows during which you get to see these colourful birds performing a range of tricks. Palmitos Park also boasts the largest butterfly house in Europe, plus an aquarium housing an impressive array of salt and fresh water fish. Other attractions within the park include the Orchid House, Cactus Garden and Gibbon Island. Behind all of this is a serious conservation program which helps to protect several endangered species.

The largest water park on Gran Canaria is also situated close to Maspalamos. Aquasur boasts dozens of rides and attractions, with names such as Congo River, Rapids, Kamikaze, Twister, Surf Beach, Aquamania, Adrenalina, Mamut and Crazy River. There is also mini-golf course, Polinesia Park, swimming pools for adults and children, restaurants, cafes and a large garden area. Aquasur is open all year round.

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For more advice and tourist information about Maspalomas please see Maspalomas

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