Gran Canaria Nightlife

Gran Canaria Nightlife - Updated for 2025

Gran Canaria's nightlife is electrifying, offering a dynamic mix of vibrant bars, pulsating nightclubs, and an inclusive atmosphere. Whether you prefer laid-back beachfront lounges or high-energy dance floors that pulse until dawn, this Canary Island has something for everyone.

As the nightlife hub of the Canaries, Gran Canaria outshines Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura with its variety and energy. Popular areas to explore include Playa del Inglés and Las Palmas, particularly in the Vegueta and Santa Catalina districts. Playa del Inglés is known for its themed bars and clubs that stay open late, while Las Palmas combines local and international vibes with Vegueta's historic charm and the modern energy of Santa Catalina.

For a calmer evening, consider the bars in Puerto de Mogán or San Agustín. For sophistication, head to Meloneras, known for its upscale venues and quality cocktails. The LGBTQ+ community also enjoys Meloneras and Playa del Inglés' Yumbo Centrum. With new hotspots continually emerging, this guide provides suggested routes and maps to help you craft the perfect night out while highlighting standout venues for 2025. Experience Gran Canaria, where unforgettable nights await!

Playa del Inglés: The Party Epicenter

Known as Gran Canaria's nightlife capital, Playa del Inglés boasts the Yumbo Centrum, a bustling hub of bars, clubs, and restaurants. This area is especially famous for its LGBTQ+ scene and themed venues, offering high-energy atmospheres. Bars like Sparkles Show Bar and Ricky's Cabaret Bar feature captivating drag shows, while dance clubs like Pacha Gran Canaria keep the party going until 6 AM. The open-air layout of Yumbo creates a festive vibe, particularly in summer as revelers spill onto the terraces.

Why Go? It's perfect for groups and solo travelers wanting affordable drinks and a nonstop party atmosphere.

Tips:

• Start Time: Bars get lively around 9 PM, peaking after midnight.
• Dress Code: Casual but stylish; some clubs enforce restrictions against beachwear.
• Must-Visit: Eiffel Bar for cocktails and people-watching, or Chester Club for top DJs.

Las Palmas: Vegueta and Santa Catalina

In Las Palmas, the Vegueta and Santa Catalina districts provide a more varied nightlife experience. Vegueta features small bars nestled in cobblestone streets,. Santa Catalina offers a modern, cosmopolitan vibe, with bars like The Room attracting younger crowds. 

Why Go? Vegueta is rich in character, while Santa Catalina combines urban energy with beach proximity.

Tips:

• Transport: Use taxis or Guaguas (buses) for easy travel between the districts.
• Vibe: Vegueta suits bar-hoppers; Santa Catalina is all about the club scene.
• Must-Visit: Punto Cero in Vegueta for live jazz, or Kao Club in Santa Catalina for electronic beats.

Suggested Route: Begin in Vegueta around 8 PM for dinner and drinks, then transition to Santa Catalina for dancing. Alternatively, spend your entire night in Playa del Inglés, moving from Yumbo's bars to its clubs.

Puerto de Mogán: Coastal Charm

Known as "Little Venice," Puerto de Mogán offers a serene nightlife scene along its marina with waterfront views. Bars like Bar Terraza El Muelle serve refreshing cocktails, and live music adds to the charming atmosphere.

Why Go? Ideal for a romantic evening with stunning scenery.

Tips:

• Best Time: Friday evenings for vibrant live music.
• Must-Try: Mojitos at Café de Paris.

San Agustín: Beachside Serenity

Just east of Playa del Inglés, San Agustín is a quiet resort area with beachfront bars like Loopys. These venues cater to a more mature or family-oriented crowd.

Why Go? A calm alternative offering quality over quantity.

Tips:

• Dress: Smart-casual for most venues.
• Highlight: Gorbea for rooftop dining and cocktails.

Meloneras: Upscale Elegance

Meloneras is Gran Canaria's upscale nightlife hub, featuring venues like The 19th Hole offering premium cocktails in a sophisticated ambiance. It is also LGBTQ+-friendly, drawing a diverse crowd to spots like Aqua Ocean Club.

Why Go? Perfect for a classy night out or special occasion.

Tips:

• Reservations: Book tables at popular spots like Pasha Lounge.
• Must-Visit: Chester Meloneras for live shows and dancing.

Arguineguín and Triana: The Artisan Scene

For a trendy, local vibe, explore Arguineguín and Triana. Arguineguín features craft beer bars like Cervecería La Fábrica, while Triana has spots like El Modernista, which blend vintage decor with innovative drinks.

Why Go? These areas showcase Gran Canaria's evolving nightlife, focusing on authenticity and quality.

Tips:

• Arguineguín: Visit on market days (Tuesdays) for a lively evening.
• Triana: Check for pop-up events at Gabinete Literario.

Gran Canaria's nightlife caters to all tastes, from lively nights at Playa del Inglés to tranquil evenings in Puerto de Mogán. No matter your preference, there's an unforgettable experience waiting for you!

Here are eight of the best-rated discotheques and bars in Gran Canaria for 2025:

1. Pacha Gran Canaria (Playa del Inglés)
   • Type: Discotheque
   • Why Visit? A legendary nightclub brand, Pacha Gran Canaria is a cornerstone of the island's party scene, located in the lively Yumbo Centrum. Known for its 1,000-square-meter main room, four bars, and a terrace for chilling out, it hosts top national and international DJs spinning R&B, electro, and house music. It's a must-visit for clubbers seeking a high-energy night.
   • Highlights: Trendy atmosphere, large dance floor, open until 6 AM.
   • Location: Av. Sargentos Provisionales, 10, San Bartolomé de Tirajana.
   • Reviews: Praised for its Ibiza-like vibe and prestigious artist lineups.
   • Hours: Daily, 5:00 PM–1:00 AM (extends later for club nights).
2. Tipsy Hammock Bar (Playa del Inglés)
   • Type: Bar
   • Why Visit? This beachside bar in Playa del Inglés offers a lively yet relaxed vibe with unique craft cocktails, nightly DJs, and a house saxophonist. Its upstairs terrace provides stunning sunset views, making it ideal for early evening drinks or late-night fun.
   • Highlights: Live music, creative drinks, open-air terrace.
   • Location: Av. de España, 7, 35100 Playa del Inglés.
   • Reviews: Highly rated for its cool atmosphere and excellent live entertainment.
   • Hours: Daily, 6:00 PM–2:00 AM.
3. Chester Club & Lounge (Meloneras)
   • Type: Discotheque
   • Why Visit? An upscale nightclub in Meloneras, Chester attracts a professional crowd with its sleek design, gourmet bar bites, and top-tier cocktails. Known for live shows and a vibrant dance floor, it's perfect for those seeking a sophisticated night out.
   • Highlights: Exclusive vibe, live entertainment, pizza menu.
   • Location: C.C. Plaza Maspalomas, Meloneras.
   • Reviews: Celebrated for its elite atmosphere and high-quality service.
   • Hours: Daily, 8:00 PM–4:00 AM.
4. Sparkles Show Bar (Playa del Inglés)
   • Type: Bar
   • Why Visit? Located in the Yumbo Centrum, Sparkles is a top-rated venue for its spectacular drag shows, blending humor, live singing, and lip-sync performances. It's a cornerstone of Gran Canaria's LGBTQ+ nightlife, with karaoke before and after shows.
   • Highlights: Drag performances, karaoke, friendly staff.
   • Location: Yumbo Centrum, Playa del Inglés.
   • Reviews: Visitors rave about the entertaining queens and affordable drinks, with shows from 11:00 PM–1:00 AM.
   • Hours: Daily, 8:00 PM–2:00 AM.
5. NYC Taxi RockBar (Las Palmas)
   • Type: Bar
   • Why Visit? A popular spot near Las Canteras Beach, this bar offers live rock and blues performances by local and international acts. Its open-air terrace is perfect for enjoying burgers and craft cocktails with an ocean breeze.
   • Highlights: Live music, oceanfront location, diverse drink menu.
   • Location: C. Numancia, 25, 35010 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.
   • Reviews: Loved for its vibrant music scene and relaxed vibe.
   • Hours: Sunday–Thursday, 12:00 PM–11:00 PM; Friday–Saturday, 12:00 PM–2:00 AM.
6. Rocktop La Peregrina (Las Palmas)
   • Type: Bar
   • Why Visit? Perched atop the Cordial La Peregrina Hotel in Vegueta, this rooftop bar offers panoramic city views and expertly crafted cocktails. Its elegant setting makes it ideal for a classy evening in the historic district.
   • Highlights: Rooftop views, artisanal cocktails, historic ambiance.
   • Location: Plaza de Fray Junípero, Vegueta, Las Palmas.
   • Reviews: Highly recommended for its stunning vistas and sophisticated drinks.
   • Hours: Daily, 5:00 PM–12:00 AM.
7. Papagayo Beach Club (Maspalomas)
   • Type: Discotheque/Bar
   • Why Visit? In Maspalomas, Papagayo combines a chic beach club vibe with nightclub energy. With an infinity pool, private cabanas, and DJ sets, it's a sophisticated spot for dancing or lounging by the beach.
   • Highlights: Beachfront location, pool parties, upscale atmosphere.
   • Location: Paseo Costa Canaria, Maspalomas.
   • Reviews: Praised for its scenic beauty and lively nightlife.
   • Hours: Daily, 12:00 PM–4:00 AM.
8. The Outlaws Bar (Puerto de Mogán)
   • Type: Bar
   • Why Visit? A favorite in Puerto de Mogán, this bar is known for its welcoming staff, strong cocktails, and great value. With events like Fish and Chip Fridays and live music, it's a lively yet relaxed spot for an evening out.
   • Highlights: Friendly vibe, affordable drinks, themed nights.
   • Location: Puerto de Mogán.
   • Reviews: Tripadvisor users call it the "best bar on the island" for its service and atmosphere.
   • Hours: Daily, 12:00 PM–2:00 AM.