Puerto de Mogán, in the south of Gran Canaria, has outshone some of the more famous holiday hotspots to be named the best resort in the Canary Islands, according to a survey conducted by Which?
The study, based on the opinions of 1,000 British holidaymakers, ranked 15 popular resorts on eight key criteria, including beach quality, scenery, food and drink, accommodation, and value for money.
Puerto de Mogán secured the top spot with an impressive resort score of 90%, surpassing all other destinations in the survey. It was the only resort to receive five stars for accommodation, alongside four-star ratings for food and drink, scenery, and value for money. It also scored three stars for peace and quiet.
Described by Which? as a “peaceful, beautiful place,” Puerto de Mogán charmed visitors with its picturesque marina, white-washed houses, and quaint old town.
Other Top-Ranking Resorts
Following closely behind was Playa Blanca in Lanzarote, which achieved a score of 77%. The resort, praised for its relaxed pace and child-friendly atmosphere, received four stars for accommodation and three stars for food and drink, with visitors commending its selection of quality restaurants.
In joint third place, each scoring 75%, were Costa Adeje in Tenerife, Costa Teguise in Lanzarote, and Las Palmas in Gran Canaria. Costa Adeje was celebrated for its high-quality beachfront hotels, earning it a five-star rating for accommodation.
Costa Teguise, described as a “friendly” resort, received four stars for accommodation and three stars for its beach, scenery, and value for money. Las Palmas, Gran Canaria's capital, was recommended for those seeking a blend of city life and beach relaxation, earning four stars for accommodation and three stars for tourist attractions, food and drink, and value for money.
For travellers in search of peace and quiet, Playa de Santiago in La Gomera proved to be a perfect choice. Scoring 73% overall, it was the only resort to receive four stars for tranquillity. The small fishing village, described as an “unspoiled” haven, provides a serene retreat for those looking to escape the crowds.
Playa del Inglés Falls to the Bottom of the Ranking
At the other end of the spectrum, Playa del Inglés in Gran Canaria received the lowest score of 61%, despite its enduring popularity among British tourists. Respondents described it as “too busy” and “too full of British tat,” with some feeling that it lacked a relaxing atmosphere.
Despite the criticisms, some visitors continue to enjoy their time there, with one noting, “I always have a good time… I find the local people and visitors very welcoming.”
Rory Boland, Editor of Which? Travel, commented on the findings, stating: “The Canaries are beloved by Brits for their year-round sunshine, but our research suggests holidaymakers prefer quieter resorts over the crowded package holiday hotspots.”
With this latest ranking, travellers looking for an idyllic getaway in the Canary Islands may now reconsider their destination choices, favouring peaceful charm over bustling tourist hubs.
