If you’re in Maspalomas and looking for a shopping centre, look no further — the Yumbo Centre is a fantastic choice! Although designed with the LGTBI community in mind, it warmly welcomes everyone. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of shops, an extensive selection of dining options, and an incredible nightlife scene featuring bars, pubs, and clubs offering endless fun.
The Yumbo Centre also hosts various events throughout the year, making it a great spot to consider when planning your next trip to Gran Canaria. In this article, we’ll provide all the details about what you can do at the Yumbo Centre in Maspalomas, how to get there, and some helpful tips to make the most of your stay on this wonderful island. Keep reading!
Activities and shops in Yumbo Centre
The Yumbo Centre offers a wide selection of shops, making it an ideal spot to spend a relaxing morning and pick up anything you might need during your holiday. From clothing, jewellery, and electronics to pharmacy products, you’ll find it all. You can even treat yourself to something special, like a relaxing massage or a fresh haircut.
As an open-air shopping centre, it’s perfect for a leisurely stroll while enjoying the pleasant weather.
Nightlife at the Yumbo Centre
At night, the Yumbo Centre undergoes an exciting transformation. The family-friendly atmosphere gives way to a vibrant scene filled with music, drinks, and parties. With around 20 bars and terraces, you can enjoy live DJs, various music genres, and entertaining drag shows, among other performances.
Feeling bold? Join one of the karaoke sessions and showcase your singing skills! If not, simply let the music take over and dance the night away, any day of the week.
For those looking for a more energetic clubbing experience, Mantrix, one of the most famous LGTBI nightclubs in Gran Canaria, is located on the fourth floor. It’s open every day of the year from 2:00 AM to 6:00 AM. If this sounds like your scene, you might also want to explore gay-friendly accommodation options in Gran Canaria.
Dining Options at the Yumbo Centre
The Yumbo Centre in Maspalomas offers a diverse culinary scene, making it easy to combine your shopping trip with a delicious meal. You’ll find a wide range of international cuisines, including Indian, Turkish, Chinese, Italian, Spanish, and more.
To top off your dining experience, treat yourself to a refreshing ice cream or a freshly brewed coffee. These restaurants are open throughout most of the day, ensuring a warm welcome at any time.
Events and festivals at Yumbo Centre
Throughout the year, the Yumbo Centre in Maspalomas hosts a variety of events, most of which are LGTBI-focused with national and international significance. Two of its most renowned events are Maspalomas Pride in May and Winter Pride in November, both attracting visitors from around the world and showcasing the centre’s cultural and social importance.
But there’s more! The Freedom Festival, an exciting LGTBI New Year’s celebration, also takes place at the Yumbo Centre. The best part is that Gran Canaria’s warm climate makes it possible to hold spectacular events year-round.
How to get to the Yumbo Centre?
The Yumbo Centre in Maspalomas is conveniently located in the heart of the town, making it easy to access. To give you an idea of its proximity, it’s just a 10-minute drive from Maspalomas Beach, 5 minutes from the iconic Maspalomas Dunes, and 10 minutes from Meloneras, another popular attraction in the area. If you’re coming from Las Palmas, the drive will take about 40 minutes, as the centre is on the opposite side of the island. However, if you’re arriving at Gran Canaria Airport, the Yumbo Centre is only 30 kilometres away, which means a quick 25-minute drive.
What's near the Yumbo Centre?
Maspalomas and the southern region of Gran Canaria offer countless activities for visitors of all interests. Here are some of the best experiences to add to your itinerary for an unforgettable trip:
Playa de Maspalomas
This urban beach stretches for about three kilometres, featuring fine sand and calm waters, making it ideal for the whole family. Additionally, it offers essential services such as sun loungers, parasols, and showers. Along its length, you’ll also find several beachfront bars (chiringuitos) where you can relax and enjoy a drink or meal.
Moreover, if you head toward Punta de Maspalomas, you’ll discover areas perfect for water sports and even designated nudist sections, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Maspalomas dunes
The natural surroundings of the Maspalomas Dunes are among the most spectacular landscapes you’ll encounter in Gran Canaria — a sight you might not expect to find on an island. Designated as a nature reserve, this unique environment includes a sandy beach, rolling dunes, a palm grove, and a tranquil lagoon. Visiting this breathtaking area is an absolute must when exploring Gran Canaria.
Meloneras
This town near Maspalomas is another fantastic option for a holiday in Gran Canaria. Its scenic seafront promenade is perfect for a leisurely stroll or outdoor sports, while its numerous bars and restaurants offer plenty of dining options. It’s also an ideal spot to enjoy Gran Canaria’s stunning sunsets.
In addition, the town features a golf course, as well as several spas where you can indulge in ultimate relaxation.
Palmitos Park
This zoological and botanical garden boasts an impressive collection of exotic animals that will captivate both children and adults. It’s a fantastic family-friendly activity, especially if you’re looking for things to do near the Yumbo Centre in Maspalomas.
Aqualand Maspalomas
Aqualand Maspalomas is an exciting and fun water park, perfect for a family day out. With 20 attractions designed for all ages, it offers a mix of relaxing activities and adrenaline-pumping rides for the more adventurous visitors.
Yumbo Centre Maspalomas: A landmark on the island
The Yumbo Centre proudly stands as the world’s only LGTBI-focused shopping centre, though it warmly welcomes everyone. With its wide range of shops and restaurants open nearly all day, it’s a fantastic leisure destination for the entire family.
If you’re planning a trip to Maspalomas or Gran Canaria, consider exploring these excellent accommodation options. They offer affordable prices, prime locations, and all the features you need for a perfect holiday tailored to your preferences.
Since Gran Canaria is a year-round destination, take advantage of the island’s pleasant climate and start planning your next adventure today!
