Weather Lowdown:
Though July is the middle of summer, the subtropical climate in the Spanish island city Las Palmas de Gran Canaria keeps the weather perfectly comfortable and makes for a great summer destination with plenty of beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. With an average daily temperature of 24°C during the sunniest month of the year, the highs don't usually reach more than 27°C and the lows go down to only 21°C, making for an all-around comfortable summer day in the city.
In addition to the warm weather, Las Palmas sees an average of 11 hours of sunshine during July days, making it the sunniest month of the year, with four extra hours of sunshine compared to December. There's a 75% chance of a sunny day and only a 1% chance of a rainy day, so visitors can plan on leaving their umbrellas at home when they pack for Las Palmas. One of the driest months of the year, there's an average of only 1 mm of rain in July, occurring over approximately 2 days.
The sea temperature warms up to 20°C in July a perfect temperature for swimming, surfing and snorkeling. There's a 99% chance of a windy day during this windy summer month in Las Palmas, but the breeze helps the city stay comfortable in the warm weather. Tourists can still enjoy most beach activities like sailing and parasailing on the days with lighter wind.
Consistent daylight and sunshine make planning for a summer trip in Las Palmas easy, and outdoor activities are a reliable source of entertainment for visitors. The city offers a great refuge for tourists escaping the higher summer temperatures found elsewhere in Europe and mainland Spain.
Where to Stay:
Located in the center of the Playa de las Canteras strip, Hotel Faycan is a great starting point for beach adventures, shopping and the best Canarian restaurants. With all the normal room amenities including free Wi-Fi and a TV, Hotel Faycan also offers comforts for outside of your room such as beach towels, a library, and money exchange services. The bright, beach-y feel of this hotel is perfectly paired with the sound of Atlantic waves.
Hotel Apartments Bajamar is located just a couple of minutes from the beach and surrounded by top shopping like Las Arenas. It's near public transportation stops as well, which makes exploring Las Palmas easy from these apartments. Rooms range from the Studio to the Penthouse, with free Wi-Fi, a TV, a full bath and a kitchen included in every room, so you can have the comforts of home.
Part of the Best Western Plus family, Hotel Cantur offers comforts such as free Wi-Fi, free beach and pool towels, a fitness room and a computer room. Each room has a mini-bar, work desk, safe and other amenities. In addition, the suites have Jacuzzi bathtubs, making relaxing in the privacy of your own room even easier. If you'd rather head outside, the rooftop heated pool, Jacuzzi and sauna are accompanied by a full service pool bar. And for parents who need a date night, the hotel will arrange babysitting.
Things to Do:
Take the family deep sea fishing in Las Palmas and reel in large fish such as tuna, marlin, swordfish and even the occasional shark. There are several tour companies that will take you out to sea and show you how to reel in the Atlantic's best fish. This is a thrilling and family-friendly trip will have you reaching for a rod and a camera all at once.
For a look into the interesting relationship between the Canary Islands and nearby Africa, head to Casa Africa. The house is a working institution set up to foster relationships between Spain and the African continent (which is near Gran Canaria). It is also a gallery space featuring rolling art, photography and video exhibits. Casa Africa is one of the oldest houses in the Arenales neighborhood and is a fascinating landmark.
Hit the Beach:
Playa de Las Canteras is one of Europe's most famous urban beaches. Its city-center location and the countless shops and restaurants that line its promenade make it a unique beach experience. Las Canteras is a great beach for barefoot walks on its golden sands that stretch three kilometers. A natural offshore reef protects the beach from large waves, allowing for a wonderful marine life area that makes Las Canteras a top snorkeling spot. Enjoy the beach sunbathing by sand sculptures, relaxing in the shade of umbrellas, or enjoying fresh seafood on the promenade.
Eating and Drinking Out:
Majuga Restaurant is in the heart of the historic Vegueta neighborhood. This cozy restaurant stays quiet with a small setting that lets its staff focus entirely on the guests. One of the most highly rated restaurants in Las Palmas, Majuga serves traditional fare paired with an excellent wine selection.
The Casa Montesdeoca is a romantic restaurant located inside of a 16th century house. Guests can dine on the patio with its traditional wood balconies and sunny yellow walls. Famous for its steaks, the restaurant menu also focuses on a perfect blend of seafood and Italian dishes.