Overview

Meloneras is the most upscale and modern resort area in Gran Canaria, occupying a headland at the southeastern tip of the island adjacent to the famous dunes of Maspalomas. Developed primarily from the late 1990s onwards to a higher specification than most of the older resort areas nearby, it is characterised by large luxury hotels, a yacht marina, an elegant beachside promenade, and a significantly calmer atmosphere than the livelier strips at Playa del Inglés or Maspalomas. The Meloneras Casino is the largest in the Canary Islands and one of the focal points of the resort's evening entertainment. Families, couples, and visitors seeking a refined holiday experience with excellent beach access and quality dining are the resort's primary market.

Beaches & nature

Meloneras connects seamlessly with the extraordinary Maspalomas dunes to the west — a protected natural reserve of towering golden sand dunes stretching for over three kilometres, backed by a nature reserve of exceptional ecological value. The Playa de Meloneras itself is a long, well-maintained beach with golden sand, calm waters protected by the headland, and excellent facilities including sun-lounger service, beach bars, and watersports. The lighthouse at the southern tip of the headland — the Faro de Maspalomas — is an iconic landmark, and the walk from the Meloneras promenade around the headland to the dunes is one of the great beach walks in Gran Canaria. The Charca de Maspalomas, a protected lagoon between the dunes and the beach, supports a remarkable array of migratory birds and is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Things to do

The Maspalomas Casino Gran Canaria in Meloneras is the social centre of the resort in the evenings, offering gaming in a well-designed venue with a restaurant and regular entertainment events. The resort's marina hosts sailing and yacht charter operations, and the calm waters off the headland are popular for kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkelling. Water sports along the beach include parasailing, jet-ski hire, and pedalo rentals. A full day can be spent exploring the Maspalomas Nature Reserve on foot or by camel ride — the dune landscape is extraordinary and the camel caravans crossing them are one of Gran Canaria's most recognisable images. The popular attractions of southern Gran Canaria — Sioux City theme park, Aqualand Maspalomas, and the range of golf courses — are all within easy reach. The vibrant resort strip of Playa del Inglés is a 10-minute walk away.

Eating & nightlife

Meloneras has a well-developed and generally high-quality restaurant scene, concentrated along the beachfront promenade and in the marina area. The restaurants are notably upscale compared to nearby resorts, reflecting the premium positioning of the hotels that surround them; Michelin-recommended establishments and quality international restaurants coexist with more casual beach dining. Fresh fish — particularly lubina (sea bass), dorada (gilt-head bream), and local tuna — features prominently. The casino provides the focal point for evening entertainment, with its restaurant and bar drawing visitors from across the southern resorts. The wider nightlife scene in Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas is easily accessible on foot or by taxi for those wanting more energetic evenings.

Getting around

Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) is approximately 35 kilometres from Meloneras — a journey of around 40 minutes. Regular bus services connect the resort to the airport and to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Within the southern resort complex, local buses and taxis provide easy connections between Meloneras, Maspalomas, and Playa del Inglés. The beachside promenade extends in both directions, allowing pedestrian access to the full sweep of southern Gran Canaria's beaches. Car hire is recommended for day trips to the island's volcanic interior and north coast.

When to go

Meloneras benefits from Gran Canaria's exceptional southern microclimate, with over 320 days of sunshine per year and temperatures that rarely drop below 18°C even in winter. The resort is popular year-round, with particular peaks at Christmas and New Year when the casino and hotel entertainment programmes are at their most elaborate. Summer is hot, sunny, and busy — perfect for beach days and water sports. Spring and autumn offer the most balanced conditions. The Maspalomas Gay Pride festival in early May is one of Europe's largest LGBTQ+ events and brings a particularly festive atmosphere to the entire southern resort area.