Typically teeming with tourists brandishing selfie sticks, this southern resort takes on a different guise during the winter months.
The have long been a , owing to the year-round sunny climate, affordable alcohol, stunning beaches and .
Last year, the Spanish archipelago, situated off the northwestern coast of Africa, welcomed an impressive 15.5 million international visitors.
The majority were drawn to – the largest island, boasting the renowned Siam Waterpark and a vibrant nightlife – while Gran Canaria was a close second, attracting 6.2 million and 4 million foreign holidaymakers respectively.
However, Gran Canaria’s overwhelming popularity has caused friction among locals who feel they are being pushed out of the housing market.
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Anti-tourism protests broke out on the streets last year, with residents chanting ‘Canary Islands has a limit’ and focusing their attention on tourist-heavy areas.
More recently, the Gran Canarian government has initiated a public consultation asking residents for their views on the island’s tourism model.
The 11-question survey will remain open until the end of February and has already led to discussions about a potential hotel ‘ban’.
Playa del Ingles, a seaside resort known for its golden beach and bustling crowds, is usually teeming with tourists.
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The Canary Islands have long been a favourite destination for Brits (Image: Getty Images/LOOK)
However, a user, Explore Canary, has revealed a different side to the popular destination, reports the Mirror.
The video shows an unusually peaceful and empty beach, with the caption reading: “Today, 3 February, [it’s] 24°! Good start for this month. Are you going to Gran Canaria in February?”
While the Canary Islands are a year-round hotspot for Brits, February and March are considered low season, attracting fewer visitors. This means quieter nights, no need for restaurant reservations, and more beach space.
Temperatures during these months typically range from 18-19C, with occasional hotter days. Despite potential short-lived showers, most days remain sunny and dry, making it an ideal time to explore the island’s natural beauty, according to travel firm TUI.
Several prominent UK airports, such as London, Manchester, Liverpool, and Glasgow, provide direct flights to Gran Canaria in February.
If your travel dates are flexible, you can secure return fares for a mere £33 – just remember to pack a jumper for the evenings, as temperatures can drop!