Playa del Inglés, on the southern tip of Gran Canaria, may not have the glamorous reputation of some of the resorts of, let’s say, Ibiza, but here’s something those in the know know: it parties just as hard, the beaches are every bit as good and it’s just as fabulous for a boys only holiday!
As one of Europe’s biggest resorts, while the main attraction is, of course, the beach (oh, that big beautiful beach), it’s getting quite the reputation as a clubbers’ paradise, with some big name clubs and international DJs attracting hordes of partygoers. But a summer break with the boys isn’t all about cold beers and hot nightlife, so here are a few tips on what else is on offer at this fantastic resort.
Holiday World Attraction Park
Everyone needs to stay in touch with their inner child, and on a boys’ holiday that inner child should be front and centre at all times! He’d definitely approve of Holiday World…
As the most popular theme park in Gran Canaria, you can bet Holiday World lives up to its reputation. This giant funfair is open every day of the week and just some of the attractions and leisure activities include:
- go-karting
- bowling
- dodgems
- shooting gallery
- rollercoaster
- seal shows
- parrot shows
- games arcade
It’s an awesome place to make a day of it with your mates, and there are plenty of bars and restaurants with live music, and even several nightclubs so you can kick on late into the night.
Holiday World is at Touroperador Tui, Maspalomas, and open every day from 10am until midnight and beyond (later on weekends). Prices start at €10 for an hour or €25 for a day ticket.
Cinema Under the Stars
If you’re a bit partied out and you fancy a quiet evening and a good film, the Moonlight Cinema is a great alternative night out with the boys. But forget cheap seats and chewing gum on your shoes, the open-air Moonlight Cinema is luxury all the way, with pizza, popcorn and cocktails – all ordered from, and delivered to, your big, comfy sofa.
All the films are shown in their original English version on the huge screen, and they show a great line up of classics and new releases. If you’ve never experienced an open-air cinema you’re in for a real treat – it’s just… better.
Located at Oasis Boulevard Centro Commercial, Meloneras. Just jump on the number 30 bus from Playa del Inglés and it’s straight opposite the bus station.
The Great Escape Game
You may think your boys’ weekend is the greatest escape you’ve ever made, but if you want to give your wits a good workout, head over to ParaPark. This 60-minute adventure challenges you to escape from a room in your allotted time by solving a number of riddles and puzzles. How well do you really know your mates? It may be a lot better after the hour, as teamwork is the key to this unique activity – you’ll all need to stay sharp to work together to make your escape.
The current record stands at 38 minutes. Think you can beat it? It’ll certainly be fun trying!
ParaPark Real Escape is located at Apartamentos Doncel, 35100 Playa del Inglés. Admission is €60 for a group of five.
Beach Fun to the Max
You might have noticed we haven’t mentioned the beach yet, but that’s because we’re definitely saving the best until last. The beach at Playa del Inglés is absolutely spectacular – all three golden kilometres of it, which stretches to over eight kilometres when you include Maspalomas and San Agustin. Relax or get out and enjoy the watersports – the choice is yours.
Windsurfing: If windsurfing is your passion (or if you’d like it to be), Gran Canaria is one of the best places to find high-speed trade winds that will have you whizzing across the water like you’ve got wings. And it’s the perfect place to try this totally addictive sport because there are so many good beaches, whatever your skill level, you’ll be able to get some air.
Top tip: Once you’ve conquered the medium level waves and winds of the western end of Playa del Inglés, if your skills are up to it, head over to Pozo Izquierdo on the eastern side of the island. The conditions are so good, it’s the home of the annual windsurfing world championships.
Kitesurfing: Now, kitesurfing is something else altogether – although the two often get confused. Somewhat newer than windsurfing, it takes the experience to a whole new level. If you never thought you could fly, somersault and control a kite all at the same time, then you’ve never tried kitesurfing! Playa del Inglés is a prime place to get your teeth into this full-tilt sport and, once tried, the thrill is never forgotten.
Pro Surfing Gran Canaria offers beginner and refresher lessons right on the beach at Playa del Inglés, with prices starting at €25, in:
- kitesurfing
- surfing
- paddle surfing
- windsurfing
- wake boarding
- body boarding
They also hire out equipment if you’re already experienced.
So, how does Playa del Inglés stack up against other resorts for the best big boys’ holiday? Not bad, not bad at all! (If you’re not convinced or just want to learn a little more, this blog post may be of interest.)
How to Get to Playa del Inglés From Gran Canaria Airport
Getting to Playa del Inglés with your mates for a few days’ break couldn’t be easier. You can find direct flights with budget carriers to Gran Canaria Las Palmas international airport starting from as little as £76. It takes just over four hours from the UK and, once you land, Playa del Inglés is under half an hour away by road.
The quickest and most hassle free way of getting straight to your accommodation is by pre-booking one of the Gran Canaria airport transfers. You can choose from either a shared or private option, and you’ll be met at the airport by one of the local drivers and driven the short distance to your accommodation so you’ll be fresh and ready to party.
Where to Stay
Bungalows Doña Rosa – Offering superb value and facilities for a budget friendly boys’ break, the Bungalows Doña Rosa offer a sociable, inclusive stay and the warmest welcome in town. You’ll never miss a spot at the pool terrace with your reserved sunbeds and you’re just a short walk from all the bars and restaurants. Boys’ break on a budget? You’d never know it!
Aparthotel Buenos Aires Gran Canaria – Fresh, funky and always fun, the Aparthotel Buenos Aires Gran Canaria offers the taste of luxury you deserve on your boys’ break. With flat screen TVs (if you have time), coffee machines (oh, yes, you have time), and a fabulous outdoor pool and sun terrace, there’s nothing to do but sit back and relax. Although the beach is just a short distance away…
Jardin Del Atlantico – Just 200 metres from the beach and surrounded by palm trees, there’s room to move in the spacious apartments at Jardin del Atlantico. Make your own party on your private balcony, compete for top honours in the onsite mini-golf range, tennis courts and games room, and soak up the sun and fun of the pool area complete with bar.
About Shuttle Direct
At Shuttle Direct, our fast, friendly and cost-effective airport transfer services have put us at the forefront of the industry throughout Europe and North Africa. Pre-book an airport transfer via our easy to navigate, secure online system, and all your onward travel arrangements can be in place before you leave home. You’ll be met at the airport and taken directly to your accommodation in the most convenient way with our tried and trusted airport transfers.
