A sparkling gem is located on the southern coast of striking Gran Canaria — whitewashed houses with colorful trim dripping in vivid bougainvillea, and a bustling harbor with crystal clear water. Puerto de Mogán is one of the most charming towns in Gran Canaria, and it’s an easy day trip from Las Palmas or the southern shore’s other resort towns like Puerto Rico or Maspalomas.
You can almost always expect the sun to be shining here, as Gran Canaria boasts some of the best weather in Europe. In addition to the island’s already mild climate, the mountains protect the south shore from the northern winds and clouds, meaning you’re almost guaranteed blue skies and sunshine in Puerto de Mogán.
Pro tip: skip the summer (and winter) crowds for the shoulder seasons of autumn and spring for perfect weather and fewer people. I visited on a weekend in October and the weather was flawless with no crowds.
Exploring the historic district
Puerto de Mogán’s biggest draw is its charming historical district, likened to a “Little Venice” with a small snaking river and several blue footbridges. Once across the river, rows of white buildings with red, yellow, and blue trim fill the streets, adorned with pink and salmon-colored bougainvillea.
I spent a good bit of time strolling the streets and snapping photo after photo attempting to capture this enchanting neighborhood. The promenade along the marina is equally captivating, with harbor-side restaurants shaded by ruffled awnings while patrons dine on fresh seafood over cocktails.
Puerto de Mogán Lookout
To get your heart rate up, hike up the hill towards the Mirador de Puerto de Mogán (Puerto de Mogán Lookout). The path begins at Calle la Corriente, following a winding staircase past whitewashed houses set into the hillside. Once at the top, the overlook features a glass wall and semi-covered seating with panoramic views over the town and beach. Catch your breath and take in epic views from the mirador.
Playa de Mogán and snorkeling
Extend your day at Puerto de Mogán with a visit to the local beach, Playa de Mogán. This golden crescent of sand is the perfect afternoon lounge spot. The swimming area is protected by a breakwater making this tranquil lagoon perfect for all abilities to enjoy a dip in the ocean. The beach also has sun beds and umbrellas, available to rent from €3.50 a bed.
If snorkeling is your jam (it sure is mine) these crystalline waters have excellent visibility for spotting marine life. On the other side of the promenade, opposite the sand beach is a small rocky cove, Caleta de Mogán. Don a mask, snorkel, and fins, and hop in the sea to enjoy schools of fish roaming the rocky ocean floor. You can get in the water right from the shore, or from the concrete steps that lead into the water from the pier.
How to get to Puerto de Mogán
Puerto de Mogán is less than an hour’s drive from Las Palmas de Gran Canaria along GC-1, with public parking behind the beach. If you haven’t got a car, it’s just as easy to catch the bus (called guaguas in the Canary Islands). Catch the blue Global L91 guagua from the Santa Catalina Station. The journey takes about 90 minutes and tickets cost €9.40, paid by cash or card to the driver.
If you’re coming from Maspalomas, the journey takes about 20 minutes by car, or an hour by guagua (L70 or L1) as there are many stops along the coast. From Puerto Rico, it’s 15 minutes driving and 30 minutes on the bus (L1 or L91). Add Puerto de Mogán to your next Gran Canaria itinerary.
