Lanzarote is dotted with a variety of coastal towns, each offering a different experience. They provide a quieter, more authentic feeling to the island, which is a nice alternative to the more tourist-heavy areas. These villages are known for their distinctive architecture, with many buildings having the traditional white-washed walls typical of the Canary Islands, and they definitely deserve to be in your “Things to do” list. We gathered some information for you, to make your planning easier and to make sure you don’t miss out on these 8 quaint Lanzarote coastal towns. Let’s begin!
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A Bit of Historical Background of Lanzarote's Coastal Towns
Lanzarote’s coastal towns have a rich history that ties closely to the sea. Traditionally, they were primarily fishing communities. For centuries, the livelihood of many islanders depended on fishing, which shaped not only the economy but also the culture and traditions of Lanzarote.
In the past, their isolation from the rest of Europe and proximity to Africa influenced the architecture and way of life. The buildings in these villages often feature elements designed to withstand the harsh, salty sea air, with many homes built with thick walls and small windows.
Over time, as Lanzarote became more accessible to the rest of the world, these fishing villages began to attract tourists. This shift led to a gradual development in infrastructure and amenities, balancing the need to cater to visitors while preserving the traditional charm and cultural heritage.
Today, while fishing still remains a part of village life, tourism plays a significant role in the local economy. Yet, these villages have managed to maintain much of their original character and charm. They offer a glimpse into the traditional Canarian way of life, with local festivals, cuisine, and customs still deeply rooted in the maritime heritage.

Things To Do in Lanzarote: Exploring the Island's Unique Villages
Caleta de Famara
This village is a haven for surfers, known for its impressive waves and windsurfing conditions. The long beach is backed by stunning cliffs, making it visually striking and ideal for hiking and paragliding. It’s less commercialized, offering a laid-back vibe perfect for those seeking a quieter beach experience.
Despite its popularity among surfers, Caleta de Famara has managed to maintain its small-village charm. The streets are lined with low-rise buildings, surf shops, and a selection of restaurants and bars that offer a range of local and international cuisine. The atmosphere in the village is friendly and welcoming, with a mix of locals and visitors.
While the main draw is undoubtedly the beach and surfing, the village also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals and surfing competitions. These events provide a great opportunity to experience the local culture and community spirit.
For those of you looking to stay in Caleta de Famara, we have a few great options that are in keeping with the village’s overall vibe. Casa Hespi, for example, is a 2 bedroom apartment located right next to the beach, with amazing cliffs views. Its decor and vibe are definitely in line with the chilled, local and more authentic atmosphere you can find in the village.
If you prefer a more modern and comfy option, then Karma Famara 1 and Karma Famara 2 are your best bets: we’re talking about two modern, newly built and bright apartments, right next to the Famara beach. Both make a perfect base for surfing, disconnecting or working online.


Horse Cove
A small, lesser-known Lanzarote coastal town, Caleta de Caballo is ideal for travelers looking to escape the crowds. It’s known for its natural swimming pools and rugged coastline, offering a more authentic and peaceful experience. It’s particularly popular among surfers and those appreciating secluded, natural spots.
Its shoreline features a mix of rocky areas and small patches of sandy beach, with natural pools formed by volcanic rocks. These pools are a highlight, offering a unique and sheltered swimming experience, especially during low tide.
While not as famous as Famara for surfing, Caleta de Caballo does attract surfers looking for less crowded waves. The surf here can be quite good, particularly for those with experience, as the conditions can be challenging.
Sounds like an ideal place to stay, right? If you love quiet, secluded and peaceful retreats, check out our Casa La Pesquera, a beautiful 3 bedroom holiday home just a few meters from the sea.
Tenesar
Tenesar is a tranquil, tiny village that seems almost untouched by time. It’s characterized by its black volcanic sand and traditional white houses. It’s a perfect spot for those who want to experience a slice of traditional Canarian life away from the usual tourist trails, since its population primarily consists of local residents.
The beach at Tenesar is distinctive, known for its black volcanic sand and dramatic waves, a reminder of Lanzarote’s volcanic origin. It’s not your typical tourist beach with amenities but rather a quiet, natural spot for relaxation and reflection. The beach is often less crowded, making it ideal for visitors looking for privacy and a more intimate connection with nature.
The village’s architecture is typical of Lanzarote, with white-washed houses that have a rustic and traditional Canarian style. They often have small, green or blue wooden doors and windows, creating a picturesque setting that is perfect for photography enthusiasts.
In Tenesar, the pace of life is slow and unhurried, offering a break from the fast-paced tourist areas. The village doesn’t have the usual array of tourist facilities like large hotels, shops, or restaurants, which helps it maintain its authentic charm.


Arrieta
This traditional fishing village is known for its charm and authenticity. The main beach, Playa de la Garita, is a beautiful sandy beach, great for families. Arrieta is also renowned for its seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh catches of the day. It’s known for its easy atmosphere and is a favorite among both locals and visitors who seek a more genuine experience of island life.
Arrieta has successfully preserved its traditional village feel despite its popularity. The streets are lined with typical whitewashed houses, and the pace of life here is relaxed and unrushed. The village is far enough from the major tourist hubs to avoid overcrowding, yet it has a lively atmosphere, particularly on weekends when locals enjoy the beach and restaurants.
It’s also renowned for its seafood restaurants. You can find establishments serving freshly caught fish and traditional dishes like «papas arrugadas» (wrinkly potatoes) with «mojo» sauce. The harborside restaurants offer not just great food but also splendid views.
Furthermore, Arrieta hosts several local festivals throughout the year, which are a great opportunity to experience Canarian culture. These festivals often involve music, dancing, and traditional food, providing a taste of the local heritage and community spirit.
While Arrieta doesn’t have large hotels or resorts, it offers a range of accommodations, including apartments, small guesthouses, and holiday homes. These options allow visitors to stay in a less commercialized environment and enjoy a more authentic Lanzarote experience.


Punta Mujeres
Punta Mujeres is a peaceful and picturesque fishing village, known for its unique natural sea pools and traditional Canarian charm. It’s a perfect destination for those looking to experience a quieter side of Lanzarote, away from the more tourist-heavy areas.
The village’s most distinctive feature is its series of natural sea pools, which are formed by volcanic rock and filled by the tide. These pools provide a safe and sheltered swimming experience, ideal for all ages. There’s also a nice selection of restaurants and bars, many of which are located along the coastline, offering beautiful sea views. The cuisine here is predominantly seafood-based, with many establishments serving fresh fish and traditional dishes.
The coastline around Punta Mujeres is rugged and scenic, ideal for leisurely walks that will provide not only beautiful sea views, but also a chance to discover other small coves and beaches nearby.
In terms of staying in Punta Mujeres, the options are more inclined towards holiday rentals, small villas, and apartments. These accommodations often provide a more intimate and personal experience compared to larger hotels and resorts.
Orzola
The northernmost village of Lanzarote, Órzola is the gateway to the stunning La Graciosa island. It’s a small fishing village with a couple of pristine beaches like Playa de la Cantería. The area around the town is also characterized by its dramatic volcanic landscapes, offering picturesque views and opportunities for nature photography.
As a fishing village, Órzola offers an array of seafood restaurants where you can enjoy fresh catches of the day. Generally speaking, it retains a peaceful and relaxed vibe, away from the hustle of the more tourist-centric areas of Lanzarote. The streets are lined with traditional white-washed houses, and life is leisurely here, providing a tranquil setting for visitors.
Apart from beach-related activities, Órzola is a great starting point for various hiking trails that showcase the island’s unique landscape. These trails offer spectacular views of the northern coastline and the surrounding volcanic terrain.
In Órzola, accommodation options mainly include holiday rentals, small guesthouses, and apartments, offering a more local and intimate experience. They’re typically quieter and more affordable compared to the major tourist areas.


Burnt Beach
Playa Quemada, which translates to ‘Burnt Beach’, is unique for its black sands, a stark contrast to the usual golden sands of Lanzarote. It’s a quiet, unspoiled village with a few seafront restaurants. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy the island’s natural beauty in a tranquil setting.
Playa Quemada has maintained a low-key, traditional atmosphere. The village is composed of a small number of houses and a few local restaurants, preserving its authentic Canarian charm. It’s a place where the pace of life is slow, perfect for those looking to unwind and enjoy a quieter side of Lanzarote.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the area around Playa Quemada provides opportunities for hiking and exploring the unique volcanic landscapes. The coastal paths are particularly popular, offering scenic routes that are suitable for all levels of hikers.
Playa Quemada is easily accessible by car and is a short drive away from larger resorts like Puerto del Carmen. This proximity allows visitors to enjoy the tranquility of Playa Quemada while being close to other attractions and amenities.
The village offers a range of accommodation options, including holiday homes and apartments, ideal for those who prefer a more peaceful and intimate stay. The accommodations here often provide stunning sea views and easy access to the beach.

The Gulf
El Golfo is a small and picturesque village located on the southwest coast of Lanzarote, renowned for its unique natural attractions and charming character. This village is particularly famous for the Green Lagoon, or «Charco de los Clicos,» a vivid green lake set in a black volcanic beach, creating a striking contrast that draws visitors and photographers alike.
This lagoon is a rare geological formation, a result of volcanic activity. The green color of the water comes from the algae that inhabit the lake. It is adjacent to the sea but separated from it by a black sand beach, offering an astonishing and surreal landscape.
The beaches around El Golfo are known for their black volcanic sands and rugged scenery. The coastline here is filled with dramatic cliffs and never-before-seen rock formations. It’s an excellent area for scenic walks and photography: no wonder Hollywood producers chose to shoot some of the scenes from “The Eternals” here!
El Golfo has managed to maintain its traditional fishing village feel despite its popularity with tourists. The village is characterized by quaint, whitewashed houses facing the beach and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Like Arrieta, it is also renowned for its excellent seafood restaurants located along the coastline, providing diners with stunning ocean views. The local specialty is fresh fish, often caught the same day, and served in traditional Canarian style.
El Golfo is also famous for its breathtaking sunsets. The combination of the volcanic landscape, the ocean, and the setting sun creates a magical atmosphere, making it a popular spot for visitors towards the end of the day.
While El Golfo offers limited accommodation options, there are several holiday rentals and quaint little beach cottages in the area. The village is easily accessible by car and is a short drive from larger towns, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the island.


Conclusion
Lanzarote’s coastal towns, each with their unique charm and appeal, offer a mosaic of experiences that capture the essence of this enchanting island. From the surfer’s paradise in Caleta de Famara to the tranquil natural pools of Punta Mujeres, and from the volcanic allure of El Golfo to the traditional peacefulness of Arrieta, these villages represent the diverse beauty of Lanzarote.
Whether it’s through indulging in the fresh seafood by the shore, partaking in the festive local customs, or simply basking in the serene beauty of the beaches and natural pools, each moment spent in these villages is an invitation to immerse in the authentic Canarian lifestyle.
Are you ready to experience all of this? Don’t hesitate! Lanzarote Vacation Homes can offer you the perfect stay you’re looking for in the island’s most beautiful seaside villages. From cozy cottages to luxury villas, find your ideal base for exploring, surfing, or just unwinding. Visit our website, choose your home away from home, and start your unforgettable Lanzarote adventure today.