MARINE ACTIVITIES
1. Windsurfing
Centro Internacional de Windsurfing: 928 12 14 00; www.pozo-ciw.com
Pozo Izquierdo plays host to an international competition in the summer, though its waters are not suited for novices. The school here takes those starting out in the sport to calmer seas until they are up to windsurfing with the experts.
Windsurfers enjoy riding the waves in Pozo Izquierdo
2. Diving
Davy Jones Diving: 699 72 15 84; www.davyjonesdiving.com • 7 Mares: 928 46 79 59; www.7mares.es
Whether your interest is marine life or sunken ships, diving in the seas off Gran Canaria is a satisfying affair. Marine species from Europe, Africa and even the Caribbean mingle here, and the high number of shipwrecks adds extra interest. Playa del Cabrón, Pasito Blanco and Sardina del Norte all offer superlative dives, while the bulk of the wrecks are off the coast of Las Palmas.
Diving off the coast of Gran Canaria
3. Swimming
Canarian waters are blessed with a lack of anything that bites. On the other hand, do not expect warm seas, as this is the Atlantic. The south and east coasts are generally safe, though currents and strong waves plague the north and west. If you fancy a dip in the north, head for one of the natural pools.
4. Surfing
PRO Surfing: 628 10 40 25; www.prsurfing.com
Few European destinations offer such good surf as Gran Canaria, a fact made clear by the number of blond-streaked enthusiasts in search of the perfect wave. Schools operate across the island, although the rougher northern coast has more appeal for experts.
5. Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Las Alcaravaneras and Las Canteras are great beaches to try stand up paddle boarding. You can also try it at night through Mojosurf at the latter.
6. Snorkelling
Gran Canaria is superb for snorkelling. There’s no need to stray further than the capital’s beach, Las Canteras, for encounters with parrotfish, octopus, ornate wrasse and countless species of sea bream.
7. Fishing
Dorado: 664 089 501 • www.marlincanariasportfishing.com
Gran Canaria has fishing aplenty. The best deep-sea trips are out of Puerto Rico, where tuna, marlin and swordfish abound in summer.
8. Boat Trips
Charter a luxury yacht, gaze down into the ocean from a glass-bottomed boat, or live it up on a booze cruise. Puerto Rico is the best place from which to set sail, but there are also trips from Las Palmas and Playa del Inglés.
9. Sailing
Atlantic Islands Sail Training Centre: 928 56 59 31; www.aistrac.com
Whether you want to hire a boat and go it alone, or learn how to sail, Gran Canaria offers plenty of possibilities. The season is from April to October, though enthusiasts can be catered for all year round.
Sailing boats in Puerto de Mogán
10. Kayaking
Canariaventura: 644 35 64 43; www.canariaventura.com
There is no better way to appreciate the island’s diverse coastline than from a kayak. Beginners can get started at Playa de las Canteras, while the more adventurous may like to join a tour of the southern coast.
TOP 10 UNDERWATER ENCOUNTERS
1. Parrotfish
Whether you’re snorkelling or on a deep dive, you are almost guaranteed to see the island’s most emblematic underwater creature.
Parrotfish, a frequent sight
2. Bluefin Damselfish
These fish are abundant, but you won’t tire of seeing the vivid blue glint contrasted against the black scales.
3. Angel Shark
This is the most commonly sighted shark, often mistaken for a ray owing to its flat body.
4. Ornate Wrasse
The blue-green shimmer of the ornate wrasse is a familiar but pleasing sight on any dive from Gran Canaria.
5. Octopus
A creature that frequently lurks on the seabed, but can be seen from surface level down to 100 m (330 ft).
6. Spiny Butterfly Ray
This mottled fish, which measures up to 1.5 m (5 ft), often hides, unnoticed, in the sand.
7. Tiger Moray
One of a number of serpentine fish, the Tiger Moray is unmistakable, with its bright yellow skin and evil-looking, fang-like teeth.
8. Trumpetfish
A comical species that can change colour according to its mood. Frequently seen on deeper dives.
9. Scorpionfish
Numerous species of this spiky fish swim in the Canarian seas. They usually favour rocky areas.
10. Shipwrecks
Ships have been sinking off these shores ever since ports were built, so there are wrecks aplenty sprinkled around the coast.
