Gran Canaria is the second largest and most populous of the Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean around 150 km off the northwest coast of Africa. Its capital is Las Palmas, which offers various sight-seeing attractions, chic shopping and world-famous beaches. The islands benefit from the Gulf Stream and enjoy year-round warmth and sunshine with relatively little seasonal variation. Most visitors stay at one of the south-coast resorts, whilst the rugged west coast bears witness to the islands volcanic origin. Accommodation on the island ranges from 5-star luxury hotels to more simple self-catering apartments in attractive villages and small towns.