Best Beaches in Lanzarote: Complete Guide with Map

mejores playas de lanzarote

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Explore the best beaches in Lanzarote, from calm spots like Playa Dorada to wild, unspoilt gems such as Playa del Risco. The island offers something for everyone—families seeking relaxing holidays, adventurers who enjoy water sports, and those who prefer to avoid crowded places.

Playa Papagayo

A small cove is considered the jewel of the south. It is located within the Los Ajaches Natural Monument, offering an almost untouched, wild setting.

It features golden sand, turquoise waters, and shallow, calm conditions, as it is sheltered from the wind by surrounding cliffs. It is one of the best options for families, enjoying Lanzarote’s finest sunsets and snorkelling.

Access is via a dirt track leading to the parking area (€3 per vehicle). There is a beach bar near the parking zone.

Check our full guide to Playa Papagayo to learn how to prepare for your visit and discover all the activities available in the area.

Playa de Famara

Located in the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park, in the north-west of the island. It offers a unique landscape thanks to the contrast between the Famara cliffs and its 6 km stretch of sand. It also boasts views of La Graciosa.

It is considered a paradise for surfing and water sports, as it has consistent waves and winds for most of the year.

Learning all about Playa de Famara will help you understand how to get there (by car or public transport), which sports to try, must-try local dishes, and tips to make the most of your visit.

Caletón Blanco

Caletón Blanco is located in the municipality of Haría and stands out for its white volcanic sand and shallow crystal-clear waters.

Its calm waters make it ideal for families with children. The setting also creates a peaceful atmosphere, and even in high season it is less crowded than other beaches.

It has a large, free car park but no facilities, so you should bring everything you need for the day.

If you visit Lanzarote, explore Caletón Blanco in detail and enjoy this natural pool surrounded by stunning volcanic landscapes.

Playa del Risco

Known as the “Secret Beach”, it is one of the wildest and most secluded beaches in Lanzarote. It lies beneath the Famara cliffs and offers views towards La Graciosa.

It is ideal for enjoying a natural and peaceful environment away from tourist crowds. However, it is not recommended for people with reduced mobility or families with young children.

A common question is how to get to Playa del Risco. Access is only possible by boat or on foot via the Gracioseros path (a 45-minute descent down a cliff), starting in the village of Yé. The trail is steep, zigzagging, and covered with loose stones.

If you plan to visit, it is important to wear appropriate footwear and bring plenty of water, sun protection, and snacks.

Playa de los Charcos

If you are wondering what to do in Costa Teguise, visiting Playa de los Charcos is a must. It features white sand and turquoise waters, and its name comes from the small natural pools that form along the shore.

It is located next to several resort complexes such as Sands Beach, with parking very close by, and can even be accessed on foot via the seafront promenade.

The Playa de los Charcos guide highlights that you can enjoy various family activities or try windsurfing further from the shore.

Playa Chica

A small cove in Puerto del Carmen with golden sand and calm waters, very popular among snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. It offers dive sites with stunning seabeds and rich marine biodiversity. You can even explore underwater caves.

Despite its popularity for diving and snorkelling, Playa Chica is also excellent for families, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery. Being in an urban setting, it provides facilities such as toilets, a diving school, lifeguards, and a wide range of nearby restaurants.

Playa Honda

An extensive urban beach of around 2 km of golden sand, located next to the airport in Arrecife. It is very popular due to its central location, seafront promenade, and wide variety of nearby restaurants.

It is ideal for water sports, long walks, cycling, and more. Visit and discover everything about Playa Honda—it’s a great option if you want a beautiful, convenient beach close to the capital.

Playa Dorada

A semi-urban beach with artificial white sand, located in Playa Blanca, in the south of Lanzarote. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, kept calm by breakwaters.

It offers sunbed and parasol hire, showers, restaurants, and beach bars. It is also ideal for snorkelling, kayaking, or simply enjoying a swim with the family.

You can reach it by car or public transport, but note that it is very popular with tourists and parking can be difficult in summer.

Playa Flamingo

A beach with calm waters and fine sand in Playa Blanca. It is protected by a breakwater, making it ideal for children.

It offers parasol hire, showers, and accessibility for people with reduced mobility. It is also very close to a lively promenade full of restaurants, shops, and bars.

Playa Flamingo is a popular destination, so expect large numbers of visitors during peak season.

Before visiting the island, it is important to plan your trip and choose which beaches to visit to make the most of your holiday. We also recommend booking your airport transfer in advance.

Now that you know the best beaches in Lanzarote, how to get there, and what to expect at each one, all that’s left is to pack your bags and enjoy them on your next holiday.

References

  • https://www.turismoteguise.com/es/naturaleza-playas/los-charcos
  • https://www.holaislascanarias.com/playas/lanzarote/flamingo/

This post is also available in: esEspañol (Spanish)

Author: Abdel Samouh

Specialist in the tourism sector of the Canary Islands with a proven track record in experience management in Lanzarote. My work has always focused on promoting iconic destinations and optimizing transfer and excursion services on the volcanic island.