Playa del Inglés, one of Gran Canaria’s most famous resorts, is known for its long golden beaches, vibrant nightlife, and wide variety of hotels, restaurants, and activities. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, getting to Playa del Inglés is easy and convenient. This guide covers everything you need to know about reaching this iconic destination.
Flying to Gran Canaria
The first step is flying into Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), also called Gando Airport. It’s the island’s main international gateway, located about 30 kilometers (18 miles) northeast of Playa del Inglés.
Major airlines from across Europe—including Ryanair, easyJet, TUI, Norwegian, British Airways, and Iberia—operate regular flights. Routes from the UK, Germany, Scandinavia, France, and mainland Spain are especially frequent.
Flight times from most European cities range between 4 and 5 hours, making Gran Canaria a convenient mid-haul destination for sun-seekers year-round.
If you’re traveling from other Canary Islands, inter-island flights are available several times a day.
From Gran Canaria Airport to Playa del Inglés
Once you land, several transport options will get you quickly and easily to Playa del Inglés:
1. Taxi
A taxi from Gran Canaria Airport to Playa del Inglés is the quickest and most convenient choice. The ride takes about 20–25 minutes and typically costs between €35 and €45, depending on traffic and time of day.
Taxis are reliable and metered, and drivers are generally friendly and knowledgeable about the tourist areas.
2. Private Transfer
Many visitors pre-book a private transfer service before arriving. These transfers provide door-to-door service, often with extras like child seats or vehicles with extra luggage space.
Prices generally range from €35 to €60, depending on the vehicle and number of passengers. This option is especially popular with families and groups.
3. Rental Car
If you plan to explore beyond Playa del Inglés, renting a car at the airport is a great choice. Major international and local rental agencies such as Cicar, Hertz, Europcar, and Avis are all present at the airport.
The drive to Playa del Inglés is easy via the GC-1 motorway heading south. Just follow signs for Maspalomas and Playa del Inglés. There’s plenty of parking available at most hotels and in public parking areas near the beach and shopping centers.
4. Public Bus (Guagua)
Budget-conscious travelers can take advantage of the Global bus network. Bus number 66 and number 90 run from the airport directly to Playa del Inglés, stopping at several popular points.
The journey takes around 40–50 minutes and costs approximately €4 to €5 per person. Buses are air-conditioned and clean, though they may be less convenient if you have large amounts of luggage or small children.
5. Shuttle Services
Several companies offer shared shuttle services from the airport to Playa del Inglés. These can be a cost-effective option for solo travelers or couples, with prices typically starting from €10 per person. However, keep in mind that multiple drop-offs can extend the journey time.
Getting Around Playa del Inglés
Once you’ve arrived, Playa del Inglés is easy to navigate:
- The resort is pedestrian-friendly, with many paths and promenades connecting beaches, shopping areas, and nightlife spots.
- Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced.
- Public buses connect Playa del Inglés to nearby areas like Maspalomas, San Agustín, Puerto Rico, and Las Palmas.
- Bike rentals and electric scooters are popular for getting around quickly and enjoying the coastal paths.
Best Time to Travel
Playa del Inglés enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year. Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it a year-round destination.
Peak seasons include Christmas, New Year, and Easter, as well as summer months. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider traveling in May, June, or October.
Travel Tips for Playa del Inglés
- Book early for airport transfers during peak holiday seasons.
- If you’re planning to use public buses, buy a pre-paid card to save money on fares.
- Download the Guaguas Global app for up-to-date bus schedules.
- Remember to pack sunscreen, as the sun is strong even during the winter months.
- Consider renting a car for day trips to explore the mountains, picturesque villages, or remote beaches.
Why Choose Playa del Inglés?
Once you’ve arrived, Playa del Inglés offers something for everyone:
- A long, sandy beach with safe swimming and water sports
- The famous Maspalomas Dunes nearby
- A wide variety of hotels and resorts for every budget
- Lively nightlife and entertainment venues
- Excellent shopping centers like Yumbo Centrum and Kasbah
- Family-friendly activities and excursions
- Easy access to other parts of the island for day trips
Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach holiday, fun-filled nights out, or a base for exploring Gran Canaria, Playa del Inglés delivers it all.
In summary: Traveling to Playa del Inglés is quick and hassle-free. With plenty of transport options, stunning beaches, vibrant entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s easy to see why so many visitors return year after year.
