TheDylansWorld

Sun, siestas, and celebration on Spain’s most joyful island

May 2025 in Gran Canaria? Nothing short of magic. This trip happened to line up with LGBTQ+ Pride Week in Maspalomas — and let me tell you, I’ve never seen a town light up like that before. Over 350,000 people from all over the world came together to dance, celebrate, and be unapologetically themselves in the sunshine. 🌞

As a queer traveller, there’s nothing quite like stepping into a place where being exactly who you are is not just accepted — it’s celebrated. From rainbow flags to international DJs, it was clear: Pride here is serious business (with a LOT of glitter).

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Where We Stayed

🛏️ Our Home Base: Aqua Beach Bungalows

This wasn’t our first time staying at Aqua Beach Bungalows, and there’s a reason we keep going back. Located just steps from the Yumbo Centre, this quiet, adults-only escape gives you the perfect balance between peace and party.

Each bungalow is bright, airy, and seriously spacious. You’ve got your own private patio (hello, morning coffee), a fully equipped kitchenette, and a pool area that makes it very hard to leave.

The team running the property? Absolute gems. Warm, welcoming, and always ready with a smile or recommendation.

This was our second stay, and it felt like coming home. It’s the kind of place you book once… and then every time after.

Pros of Aqua Beach

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The Itinerary (or Lack Thereof)

☀️ Our Itinerary: Wake Up, Chill Out, Repeat

You know how some trips are filled with checklists? This was not one of those trips.

We landed, dropped our bags, and made a mutual, silent decision: this week was about sun, swims, naps, and cocktails.

Each day started late (no alarms, no regrets), followed by pastries from the local bakery, a few hours lounging by the pool, and occasional strolls down to Playa del Inglés to dip our toes in the Atlantic.

We didn’t book boat tours. We didn’t hike. We barely moved. And it was amazing.

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Things to Do in Maspalomas

🌴 If You’re Feeling More Active…

• Hike the Maspalomas Sand Dunes at sunrise (otherworldly views)
• Take a dolphin-watching cruise or snorkeling trip
• Spend a day at Aqualand — water slides galore
• Eat your way through San Fernando’s tapas scene
• Explore the island’s volcanic interior on foot or 4×4

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Top Find Restaurants

Whether you’re craving tapas, steak, or just a killer cocktail, Maspalomas has some standout spots that deliver big on flavor and vibe. Here are my top 3 picks:

1. Mana 264

• Cuisine: Modern tapas & signature cocktails
• Location: Yumbo Centrum, Playa del Inglés
• Price Level: €€
• Drinks: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Cocktails are the star here. The Passionfruit Martini? A must. Made fresh at the bar with flair.
• Service: Friendly, chill, and attentive – just like the vibe.
• Vibe: Trendy and relaxed, with a touch of nightlife sparkle.

Overall Score: 9/10
💬 “Tapas done right and drinks that dance on your tongue.”

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2. El Poncho Asador Steakhouse

• Cuisine: Argentinian-style grilled meats & classic sides
• Location: Avenida de Tirajana
• Price Level: €€€
• Drinks: 🍷 Excellent wine list – curated and full-bodied.
• Service: Professional, efficient, and super knowledgeable about cuts and pairings.
• Vibe: Warm, rustic, and made for meat lovers.

Overall Score: 8.5/10
💬 “Where steak and Malbec make magic.”

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3. Olive

• Cuisine: Contemporary Mediterranean with tapas focus
• Location: C.C. Meloneras, near the lighthouse
• Price Level: €€
• Drinks: Cocktails are decent but pre-mixed – not the highlight.
• Service: Stellar – warm, welcoming, and genuinely attentive.
• Vibe: Stylish yet laid-back – great for dinner with a view.

Overall Score: 8/10
💬 “Flavors you’ll remember, service you’ll love.”

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Hungry yet? Maspalomas is serving more than just sunshine – go explore one plate (and cocktail) at a time!

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Pride Reflections

🏳️‍🌈 Pride with a View

Maspalomas Pride isn’t just a party — it’s a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come, and how beautiful it is to just be. To walk down a street holding hands with your partner. To dance freely without looking over your shoulder. To celebrate love, identity, and community in a space that embraces all of it.

From massive stage shows to spontaneous karaoke in the Yumbo Centre, every moment felt charged with joy. This was more than a vacation — it was a moment to feel seen, safe, and celebrated.

“Pride in Maspalomas isn’t about fitting in. It’s about standing out — and being loved for it.”

🎤 Special Shoutout: Ricky’s Cabaret Bar

📍 Yumbo Centrum, Playa del Inglés
💸 Entry: Free – just grab a drink and enjoy the show!

If you’re only hitting one show while in Maspalomas, make it Ricky’s. This cabaret bar is an absolute riot in the best way – think drag, comedy, live vocals, and audience banter that will have you howling with laughter and coming back for more.

• Entertainment: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Hilarious, high-energy, and surprisingly heartfelt. The cast is so talented and keeps the crowd buzzing all night.
• Drinks: Classic holiday bar style – affordable, strong pours, and delivered with sass.
• Service: Fast, friendly, and full of personality.
• Vibe: Campy, colorful, and fabulously over the top – come as you are and let loose.

Overall Score: 9.5/10
💬 “More than just a night out – Ricky’s is an experience!”

Final Thoughts

💭 Final Thoughts: Rest, Joy, and No Regrets

Maspalomas gave us exactly what we needed: sun, space to breathe, and time to reconnect.

If you’re an LGBTQ+ traveller looking for a destination that’s safe, sunny, and full of soul — this is it. Whether you come for Pride Week or just need a break from the grind, Gran Canaria has something for every kind of wanderer.

And hey — book the bungalow early. I already miss it.

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