06/04/2020
Arriving at Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) and heading directly to the tranquil shores of Playa Taurito is the first step towards a truly relaxing holiday. This guide aims to demystify your travel options, providing comprehensive insights into how to get from the airport to your resort quickly, comfortably, and cost-effectively, ensuring a seamless start to your sun-drenched escape.
Playa Taurito, a beautiful resort nestled between the more bustling Puerto Rico and the charming Playa Mogán, offers a unique blend of peaceful relaxation and accessible local attractions. Knowing your transport options in advance can significantly enhance your arrival experience, allowing you to settle into your holiday rhythm without any undue stress or delay.
Private Transfers: The Epitome of Convenience
For those prioritising comfort, speed, and a truly stress-free start to their holiday, private transfers are an unparalleled choice. Services like those offered by HolidayTaxis provide a premium experience designed to whisk you away from Gran Canaria Airport directly to your hotel door in Playa Taurito. The journey typically takes around 50 minutes, offering a direct route without any unnecessary stops.
A key feature of these private services is the 'Meet and Greet' service. Upon arrival at the airport, a professional driver will be waiting for you, often holding a sign with your name, ready to assist with your luggage and guide you to your waiting vehicle. This eliminates any guesswork or waiting in queues, particularly beneficial after a long flight. The fleet typically includes a range of vehicles to suit different needs and group sizes:
- Private Taxis: Ideal for individuals, couples, or small families, offering a direct and personal service.
- Minibuses: Perfect for larger groups or families, ensuring everyone can travel together comfortably with ample space for luggage.
- Premier Car Service: For those seeking a touch of luxury, often featuring high-end vehicles and an even more refined travel experience.
- Wheelchair Adapted Vehicles: Ensuring accessibility for all travellers, providing a safe and comfortable journey.
The primary advantage of a private transfer lies in its door-to-door service. You won't need to worry about navigating public transport routes, making connections, or finding your accommodation upon arrival in Taurito. It's a pre-booked, guaranteed service that allows you to simply relax and enjoy the scenic drive.
Shuttle Services: Budget-Friendly and Efficient
If you're looking for a more cost-effective solution without compromising too much on convenience, shuttle services present an excellent alternative. HolidayTaxis, for instance, offers both standard shuttle and speedy shuttle options, with prices starting from as little as £10.04.
Shuttle services operate on a shared basis, meaning you'll be travelling with other passengers heading to various resorts along the route. While this might involve a few stops before reaching Playa Taurito, it significantly reduces the per-person cost. The speedy shuttle option aims to minimise stops, making it a quicker shared transfer. These services are still pre-booked, ensuring your seat and a reliable pickup from the airport.
Shuttles are a popular choice for budget-conscious travellers and those who don't mind a slightly longer journey in exchange for significant savings. They still offer the convenience of being dropped off close to your accommodation, removing the need for further local transport.
Public Transport: The Local Bus Experience
For the most economical way to reach Playa Taurito, the public bus service is an excellent option. Global Las Palmas operates regular bus services from Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) to Taurito. The bus departs hourly from the 'Aeropuerto Sur Expres' station, conveniently located at the airport.
The journey by bus takes approximately 51 minutes, including any necessary transfers, making it a surprisingly efficient option for its low cost. The cheapest way to get from Gran Canaria Airport to Playa Taurito by bus can cost as little as $9 (USD equivalent). While this is the most budget-friendly choice, it's important to note that buses may not offer the same level of comfort or directness as private transfers. You might have to manage your luggage independently and potentially walk a short distance from the bus stop to your final accommodation in Taurito.
However, taking the bus offers a more authentic local experience and is perfect for independent travellers who enjoy navigating public transport systems.
Comparative Overview of Transport Options
To help you decide which transport method best suits your needs, here's a comparison:
| Transport Type | Estimated Cost (from) | Estimated Journey Time | Convenience/Comfort Level | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Taxi/Car | Higher (e.g., £50+) | Approx. 50 mins | Very High (door-to-door, private) | Speed, direct route, personal service, no waiting, Meet & Greet |
| Shuttle Bus | Low (from £10.04) | Approx. 50-70 mins (depending on stops) | Medium-High (shared, pre-booked) | Cost-effective, reliable, drop-off near accommodation |
| Public Bus | Very Low (approx. $9 / £7) | Approx. 51 mins (including transfers) | Medium (shared, local experience) | Cheapest option, frequent departures, authentic travel |
Why Visit Playa Taurito?
Beyond efficient transport, understanding why Playa Taurito is such a desirable destination can enhance your anticipation for the trip. This small resort boasts an exclusive feel, set within a spectacular horseshoe bay that offers stunning views of the Atlantic. Its peaceful waters, surrounded by rugged cliffs, and a quiet beach make it an ideal retreat for couples seeking a truly relaxing holiday.
Strategically located between the classy Playa Mogán resort and the buzzing Puerto Rico, Taurito offers the best of both worlds: serene days by the sea and easy access to lively entertainment and picturesque villages for day trips or evening excursions.
Things to Do in Playa Taurito
Despite its peaceful atmosphere, Playa Taurito offers a delightful array of activities to keep holidaymakers entertained:
- The Beach: The black, volcanic sands of Taurito’s beach are wide enough to feel uncrowded, gently sloping into the sea, making the water suitable and safe for children. Here, you can simply relax under the sun, try various watersports such as jet-skiing or paddleboarding, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade, which is dotted with a selection of inviting bars.
- Playa Taurito Lido: Just behind the beach lies this fantastic waterpark. It’s a great little spot featuring swimming pools, exciting corkscrew slides, and pleasant gardens, providing hours of family fun and a refreshing alternative to the beach.
- Leisure Activities: Around the resort, you’ll find various bowling alleys and mini-golf courses, perfect for some light-hearted competition or a fun family outing.
- Day Trips: The picturesque Playa Mogán, often referred to as Gran Canaria’s ‘Little Venice’ due to its charming canals and bridges, is just a 10-minute drive away. It's perfect for a romantic stroll or enjoying fresh seafood. For more vibrant shopping and lively nightlife, the resort of Puerto Rico is easily accessible and offers a different pace.
Popular Restaurants and Dining
Gran Canaria is renowned for its fresh seafood, and Playa Taurito is no exception. For an exquisite dining experience, Casito Mediterraneo comes highly recommended. Their house specials, including fresh seabass and a huge seafood paella, are prepared with local flair. You can enjoy these culinary delights on their terrace, which offers breathtaking views overlooking the sea.
For a romantic evening out, consider venturing to the marina in neighbouring Puerto Mogán. Its charming setting is home to numerous seafood restaurants, perfect for a memorable meal with your loved one, accompanied by the gentle lapping of boats in the harbour.
When to Go
Playa Taurito is a fantastic year-round destination, thanks to Gran Canaria's consistently pleasant climate. The best time to visit for guaranteed hot and sunny weather is during the summer months. However, spring and autumn also offer wonderfully warm temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal for those seeking a tranquil escape. Gran Canaria, and by extension Taurito, is also a highly popular destination among British tourists looking for some welcome winter sun, offering a warm respite from colder cl climes back home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions travellers have about getting to and enjoying Playa Taurito:
Q: How long does it take to get from Gran Canaria Airport (LPA) to Playa Taurito?
A: The quickest way is by private transfer, taking approximately 36-50 minutes. The bus journey takes about 51 minutes, including transfers.
Q: What is the cheapest way to get to Playa Taurito from the airport?
A: The public bus service operated by Global Las Palmas is the cheapest option, costing around $9 (USD equivalent).
Q: Are there direct bus services from the airport to Taurito?
A: Yes, Global Las Palmas operates services from 'Aeropuerto Sur Expres' station directly towards the Taurito area, though some may involve a quick transfer.
Q: Can I book airport transfers in advance?
A: Absolutely. It's highly recommended to book private taxis or shuttle services in advance, particularly with providers like HolidayTaxis, to ensure a smooth, stress-free arrival and secure the best rates.
Q: Is Playa Taurito suitable for families with children?
A: Yes, Playa Taurito is very family-friendly. The beach has calm, shallow waters, and the Playa Taurito Lido waterpark, mini-golf courses, and bowling alleys provide ample entertainment for children.
Q: What is the beach like in Playa Taurito?
A: Playa Taurito features beautiful black, volcanic sands. It's wide, generally uncrowded, and its gentle slope into the sea makes it very safe and enjoyable for swimming and playing.
Q: How easy is it to travel to other resorts from Taurito?
A: It's very easy. Playa Mogán is just a 10-minute drive away, and Puerto Rico, known for its shopping and nightlife, is also very close and easily accessible by local transport or taxi.
Choosing the right transport option for your journey from Gran Canaria Airport to Playa Taurito is crucial for setting the tone for your holiday. Whether you opt for the ultimate comfort of a private transfer, the cost-effectiveness of a shuttle, or the local experience of a public bus, rest assured that your tranquil escape to this beautiful Canary Island resort awaits.
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