Looking for a beach getaway that promises more than just sunbathing? Lanzarote is your answer! This Canary Island is not only a sunbather’s paradise but also a haven for adventurers, families, and nature lovers. Each beach here has its own unique charm, waiting to be discovered. Let’s take a tour of Lanzarote’s beaches, each offering a distinct slice of island life.
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Lanzarote Beaches: Playa Blanca's Golden Sandy Shores
At the southernmost tip of Lanzarote lies Playa Blanca, a haven of soft, golden sands against a backdrop of clear blue waters. This area is home to several stunning beaches, here are our favorites:
Playa Dorada
This is a hotspot for families and sun-seekers. The golden sand, clear waters, and a wide array of amenities, including beach bars, lounges, and water sports rentals, make it an ideal spot for a day of fun in the sun. It is easily accessible, with parking and walkways.
Playa Dorada is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports. You’ll find facilities for jet skiing, paddle boating, and parasailing. The beach is also lined with sun loungers and parasols for rent.
Playa Flamingo
On the other hand, Playa Flamingo – a bit more secluded and quieter than Playa Dorada – offers a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s particularly great for young children due to its sheltered bay and gently sloping sands into the sea.
Ideal for leisurely swimming and paddling, this beach also has areas for beach volleyball and other sand sports. It also features good facilities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and public toilets.
The promenade behind the beach offers delightful dining options, and has a good selection of shops and bars, making it convenient for a full day stay.
Puerto del Carmen's Vibrant Coastline
Puerto del Carmen, situated on the southeast coast of Lanzarote, is one of the island’s most popular and lively tourist destinations. The area is renowned for its beautiful beaches, each offering a unique experience with various amenities and activities. Here’s a closer look at some of the key beaches in Puerto del Carmen.
Playa Grande
As the name suggests, this is a long, expansive stretch of fine golden sand that spans approximately 1.2 kilometers along the Avenida de las Playas. The place is bustling with activity and is ideal for families and travelers looking to enjoy a lively beach atmosphere. The calm, clear waters make it perfect for swimming and water sports like jet skiing and parasailing.
Playa Grande is well-equipped with amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and lifeguards. The promenade backing the beach is lined with a wide array of restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment options, making it convenient for a full day of relaxation and fun.
Playa Chica
Tucked away in a cove towards the old town area of Puerto del Carmen, this small beach is a gem for water sports. It’s particularly popular for snorkeling and scuba diving, thanks to its rich marine life. It’s more secluded and offers a tranquil atmosphere compared to Playa Grande, although it can get pretty crowded, especially in summer.
Playa de los Pocillos
This beach is located towards the eastern end of Puerto del Carmen and is known for its wide, open expanse of sand. It’s particularly impressive at low tide. It is popular for windsurfing and kite surfing, especially when the wind picks up, and it’s also a lovely area for walks and relaxing by the sea. The beach is backed by a less crowded promenade than Playa Grande, offering a variety of restaurants and shops. Sunbed and umbrella rentals are available, along with showers and public toilets.
Beaches of Lanzarote: Costa Teguise's Water Sports Wonderland
Costa Teguise is not just another beach destination; it’s an adrenaline-pumping playground for water sports lovers, with windsurfing and kite surfing taking center stage. The village can be windy, which is something to consider if you’re looking for a calm sunbathing experience. Some beaches, particularly those with pebbly areas, may be more comfortable with water shoes.
Playa de las Cucharas
This is perhaps the most well-known beach in Costa Teguise. It’s a long, golden sandy beach that stretches for about 640 meters. It’s a hotspot for windsurfing due to the consistent winds that provide perfect conditions for both beginners and experienced windsurfers. Surfing schools and equipment rentals are readily available along the beach.
The beach is lined with a lively promenade featuring a variety of shops, bars, and restaurants. There are also sun loungers and umbrellas for rent, along with showers and public toilets. Don’t underestimate the Canarian sun, which can be strong even when it’s windy; so sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing are advised.
Playa del Jablillo
We’re talking about a small, sheltered cove with calm, crystal-clear waters. The beach is primarily sandy, with some rocky areas. Its calm conditions make it an excellent spot for snorkeling and safe for children to swim. It’s a favorite for those looking to enjoy the water without the strong winds found at other beaches. Amenities include sun loungers, parasols, and nearby dining options. The beach is easily accessible and tends to be less crowded, except in summer!
Playa Bastián
This is a quieter beach compared to Playa de las Cucharas, and it’s known for its relaxed atmosphere. It’s made up of fine black volcanic sand and small pebbles. Ideal for swimming and sunbathing, it’s a great choice for families or those looking for a more peaceful beach day. The beach has good facilities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, and a nearby selection of cafes and restaurants. There’s also easy access for those with mobility issues.
The Pristine Papagayo Beaches
In the south of Lanzarote lies a cluster of pristine beaches, known collectively as the Papagayo beaches.
The most famous of them is set in a natural cove, offering stunning views and crystal-clear waters. It’s a bit of a trek to get there, but the reward is a breathtaking, unspoiled beach experience. Some beaches, especially the smaller coves, can get crowded, so try to arrive early to grab a good spot.
Popular for snorkeling, sunbathing, and swimming, they are a must-visit for nature lovers. The clear waters and abundant marine life make it an excellent spot for underwater exploration.
These beaches are more natural and less developed, so amenities are minimal. Make sure to bring your own supplies, although there is a small restaurant with excellent views nearby.
Famara Beach: A Surfer's Paradise
On the island’s northwest coast is Famara Beach, one of the most unique and captivating beaches on the island. Its distinct characteristics make it a favorite among both locals and visitors. But what makes it so special?
First of all, its location: Famara Beach is set against the stunning backdrop of the Famara towering cliffs of El Risco, which rise dramatically from the sea. This creates a breathtaking landscape that’s both rugged and beautiful.
The beach itself stretches for about 5 kilometers (over 3 miles) and is known for its wide, open space and fine golden sand. At low tide, the beach reveals a vast expanse of sand, making it seem even more expansive.
Its untamed nature, coupled with its breathtaking scenery, makes it a favorite for photographers. The beach has a somewhat wild and untouched feel, offering a sense of escapism and deep connection with nature.
Famara is also renowned for its excellent surfing conditions. The consistent swell and wind conditions create ideal waves for both beginner and experienced surfers. It’s a popular spot for surfing schools and those looking to learn the sport.
Apart from traditional surfing, Famara Beach is also a hotspot for kite surfing and wind surfing because the reliable winds provide perfect conditions for these adrenaline-filled sports.
Important note: always heed local advice on swimming conditions. Famara Beach can have strong currents and winds, so it’s important to be cautious, especially if swimming or surfing. If you see a red safety flag on the beach, please do not go into the water. Also, bear in mind that the beach is exposed with little natural shade, so sun protection is crucial.
Hidden Beach Gems
Lanzarote, with its unique landscapes and rich coastline, is not just about the popular and bustling beaches. The island also harbors several hidden gem beaches – secluded, less crowded, and often unspoiled. These lesser-known beaches offer tranquility and a chance to experience Lanzarote’s natural beauty in a more intimate setting.
Playa de la Francesa on La Graciosa Island
Accessible via a short ferry ride, this secluded beach on the small island of La Graciosa is a slice of paradise. It’s a pristine stretch of white sand with crystal-clear waters, offering a idyllic escape from the more touristy beaches.
This beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The calm waters and abundant marine life make snorkeling here particularly rewarding. It offers minimal facilities, maintaining its unspoiled charm, therefore you should plan to bring your own supplies, including food, lots of water, and sun protection.
Playa Quemada
Unlike Lanzarote’s typical golden or white sandy beaches, Playa Quemada features unique dark, volcanic sands and a backdrop of dramatic cliffs. It’s a great spot for a peaceful day at the beach, with calm waters suitable for swimming. The village of Playa Quemada, with its charming restaurants and basic amenities, adds to the area’s appeal. The beach itself is more about natural beauty and tranquility.
Playa del Risco
Located below the towering Famara cliffs, it’s only accessible via a 60 minutes hiking trail. We’re talking about a secluded and stunning beach offering breathtaking views on the island of La Graciosa and an escape from the crowds. The hike down to the beach is an adventure itself, suited for those who enjoy trekking. Playa del Risco is definitely one of the most secluded beaches on the island. Make sure you plan ahead before heading towards it; don’t forget your sunscreen, lots of water, food and a jumper in case it gets late and chilly.
Conclusion
Lanzarote’s beaches are as diverse as they are beautiful. Whether you’re looking for family fun, water sports, natural beauty, or secluded relaxation, these beaches offer something for every kind of beachgoer. The Canarian sun can be strong, even in cooler months, so sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing are always advised.
Lanzarote Vacation Homes provides the perfect base for your beach adventures. Offering a range of accommodations close to these prime locations, we ensure your beach holiday is as comfortable as it is memorable. Book your stay with Lanzarote Vacation Homes now and prepare to be captivated by the island’s coastal wonders!
