Las Palmas, on the island of Gran Canaria, is a lively place for outdoor activities, cultural excursions, and creative pursuits. With its perfect waves, lush gardens, and vibrant neighborhoods, it offers a wide array of ways to experience the city beyond just wandering its streets. Among the many options, we especially like the surfing lessons at La Laja Beach, which combine fun and learning with expert guidance, and the full-day Santo Domingo tour from Punta Cana that immerses you in history and local flavor. Whether you’re craving a splash of adventure, a taste of local wine, or a creative workshop, Las Palmas has a lot to offer.
If you’re unsure which experience suits your interests and schedule, don’t worry. Below, you’ll find a detailed overview of the top tours and experiences, including practical insights to help you decide. From adrenaline-filled surf lessons to cultural explorations and pottery classes—this list covers a lot of ground.
1. Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: Surfing lessons at La Laja beach
For those who want to catch a wave, surfing lessons at La Laja Beach offer a fantastic introduction. The Wavelovers school is known for its professional teaching and genuine passion for the ocean. The lessons are tailored to your skill level, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your technique. The volcanic sand bottom of La Laja provides gentle, predictable waves—perfect for learning and improving your skills in a safe environment.
What makes this experience stand out is the small group format, which means plenty of personalized attention. The instructors, like Javi, are praised for their clear instructions and friendly attitude. One reviewer noted, “It was an amazing experience, Javi had exceptional English and was very friendly & encouraging. He provided great instructions and advice on how to improve my surfing. Out of the 4 surf lessons I have now done, this has definitely been the best.” The 2.5-hour lessons are flexible, with check availability for starting times.
Bottom Line: If you’re eager to learn to surf or improve your existing skills in a relaxed, supportive setting, these lessons deliver real value and genuine fun.
2. From Las Palmas: Half day tour Volcano Bandama & Vineyard
Ashort drive from the city, this half-day tour offers a mix of natural beauty and local flavor. It starts with a walk through the Botanical Garden, the largest in Spain, which showcases a diverse collection of palms and dragon trees. You’ll then visit the Bandama volcano, a 270-foot volcanic crater that provides impressive views and a chance to understand Gran Canaria’s volcanic origins.
The tour also includes a visit to an old winery, where you can taste local wines and learn about the island’s wine-making history. The guide, who accompanies small groups, shares insights into the island’s geology, flora, and viticulture—adding depth to your experience. One reviewer gave it a solid 7.5/10, praising the blend of nature and culture.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want a scenic, relaxed outing that covers key natural sights and offers a taste of local wine culture. Expect about 4.5 hours of exploration, with comfortable transportation included.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts wanting a memorable half-day trip outside the city.
3. Las Palmas: Clay Modeling Workshop for Beginners
If you’re interested in getting hands-on and exploring your creative side, this clay modeling workshop provides a relaxing, productive four hours of art. The class is designed for beginners, so no prior experience is needed. You’ll learn the basics of working with clay, developing your own small sculptures or objects with guidance from skilled instructors.
The workshop takes place in a magical setting that fosters creativity and calmness. Participants often mention how therapeutic the experience is, and many leave with a sense of accomplishment. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a cultural activity that’s low-pressure but highly rewarding.
The reviews are glowing, with many praising the instructor’s patience and the welcoming atmosphere. It’s a great way to try something new, especially if you enjoy tactile, artistic pursuits.
Bottom Line: A memorable, fun introduction to ceramics — perfect for creative travelers or families looking for a unique indoor activity.
4. Las Palmas: Pottery Wheel Class with Materials
For a more interactive pottery experience, this pottery wheel class offers a two-hour session where you’ll learn to throw your own ceramic pieces. The class includes all necessary materials and guidance from experienced instructors. It’s a fantastic way to get a hands-on feel for the art of ceramics without needing prior skills.
Participants rave about the unique experience and the chance to connect with the craft. The instructor’s expertise ensures you’ll be engaged and supported as you create your first wheel-thrown pot or bowl. The workshop is short but intense, making it ideal for those with limited time but a desire to try something different.
Guests often mention how enjoyable the process is, and many leave with their own handmade piece as a souvenir. It’s suited for beginners and curious travelers who want to learn a new skill in a friendly environment.
Bottom Line: A quick, fun introduction to ceramics on the pottery wheel, perfect for creative types seeking a hands-on activity.
5. Punta Cana: Santo Domingo Colonial City Tour with Lunch
Though not in Las Palmas, this full-day tour from Punta Cana offers a deep dive into Dominican history and culture. You’ll explore the Zona Colonial, visiting landmarks like the Faro a Colón lighthouse and the Plaza Mayor. The underground Los Tres Ojos caves with crystal lagoons add a touch of adventure, while a traditional Dominican lunch at Mugado rounds out the day.
The tour runs about 9.5 hours, making it a full-day escape into the Caribbean’s past. The experienced guides provide rich commentary, helping you understand the significance of each site. While the ratings are generally positive, some reviews note the length may be tiring, but most agree it’s a worthwhile cultural trip.
This experience suits travelers interested in history and eager to explore beyond the beaches. If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive culture, this is a great choice.
Bottom Line: An enriching, full-day tour perfect for history buffs and those wanting to experience Santo Domingo’s vibrant streets and landmarks.
6. Gran Canaria Shore Excursion Rum Tasting & Scenic Villages
This shore excursion combines scenic village visits with a taste of local rum. It begins with a walking tour of Las Palmas’ historic districts in Vegueta and Vegueta, where you’ll explore cobbled streets, plazas, and historic buildings. Then, you’ll visit the Destilerías Arehucas, a renowned rum distillery, where you can learn about the rum-making process and enjoy tastings.
Next, the tour ventures into the picturesque town of Arucas, famous for its impressive church and traditional architecture. The combination of cultural exploration and sampling local flavors makes this a well-rounded day trip. The cost is $282 per person, reflecting its quality and inclusiveness.
This tour is ideal for those who want an authentic taste of Gran Canaria’s culture, history, and spirits. It’s especially suited for travelers interested in local food and drink, with the added bonus of beautiful village scenery.
Bottom Line: A great choice for foodies and culture lovers looking for a mix of walking, tasting, and scenic views.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in Las Palmas
Picking the right experience depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re looking for a fun physical activity and want to learn something new, the surfing lessons (see details here) are a solid pick. For those curious about local wine and natural scenery, the volcano and vineyard tour offers a relaxed but enriching half-day. Creative travelers will enjoy the clay modeling or pottery wheel classes, which provide hands-on arts experiences.
If your time in the city is limited but you want a comprehensive cultural fix, the full-day Santo Domingo tour gives a deep dive into history and sights. Meanwhile, the rum tasting and scenic villages tour is perfect for combining cultural exploration with local flavors.
Consider your budget, fitness level, and what kind of memories you want to take home. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular activities like surfing and pottery, which tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Las Palmas is a city that invites exploration in many forms—from adrenaline-fueled surf lessons to peaceful garden strolls and artistic pursuits. For a relaxing day at the beach, the surfing lessons deliver both fun and skill-building. Nature lovers should consider the volcano and vineyard tour for a taste of Gran Canaria’s volcanic landscape and wine culture. Creative souls might find their match in one of the clay or pottery workshops, offering a tangible souvenir of your trip.
For those with a day to spare, the full-day Santo Domingo tour provides an immersive cultural experience, while the rum and scenic villages tour combines local flavors with stunning scenery. Whichever you choose, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences.
In the end, Las Palmas offers enough diversity to suit every traveler—so pick your adventure, pack your sense of curiosity, and get ready to enjoy all this lively city has to offer.