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If you’re looking for a peaceful beach with stunning scenery, where you can enjoy a variety of activities and still be close to town, Playa de los Charcos in Lanzarote is an excellent option. Keep reading to discover everything this hidden gem of the island has to offer.
Where Is Playa de los Charcos?
Playa de los Charcos is a semi-urban beach with calm waters, located to the north of Costa Teguise on the island of Lanzarote. It’s very close to Playa de las Cucharas and Playa del Jablillo.
How to Get There
To reach Playa de los Charcos from Arrecife by car, you can take the LZ-14 road heading towards Costa Teguise.
Alternatively, you can take a bus (line 1 or 2) or a taxi. Keep an eye out for the Lanzarote Gardens stop, as the hotel is very close to the beach.
Parking
There is a small, free, unsupervised car park with around 50 spaces. It can be difficult to find a spot during peak season.
Street parking is also allowed near the beach.
Key Features of Playa de los Charcos
- Semi-urban beach
- 450 metres long and 20 metres wide
- Fine white sand and turquoise waters
- Ideal for families with children due to moderate waves
- Popular for water sports such as windsurfing
- Facilities include showers, bins, and occasional parasol rentals
- Easy access on foot or by car, with ramps for those with reduced mobility
- Natural rock pools form at low tide – its most unique feature
Best Time to Visit: Weather and Tides
One of the best times to visit Playa de los Charcos is between April and June or September and October. These months fall within the low season, offering warm but pleasant weather and more opportunities to enjoy the natural rock pools formed during low tide.
Another good time to visit is during the winter months (December to March). The climate is cooler and windier, but still sunny and with fewer tourists.
You can enjoy the natural pools all year round, but we recommend checking the daily tide schedule, as the pools only appear when the tide is low – which happens several times a day.
Safety, Facilities, and Accessibility
This beach is very safe for swimming and family visits, thanks to its calm waters, which are protected by a couple of rock breakwaters.
Take care when exploring the rock pools, as the stones can be slippery. Wearing water shoes is a smart idea for added safety.
Other advantages include showers and walkways for those with limited mobility. The beach is very close to the tourist area, where you’ll find restaurants, bars, and shops just a short walk away.
Access is straightforward, whether you’re walking or driving, and there is nearby parking available.
What to Do at Playa de los Charcos
Recommended Activities
- Snorkelling – Explore the seabed of the natural pools. You’ll find a range of marine species including algae, crabs, fish, and even octopuses hiding among the rocks.
- Photography – Photography lovers will appreciate the contrast between the white sand, turquoise water, and volcanic rocks. It’s a great spot to capture beautiful sunsets.
- Relaxing – One of Lanzarote’s best beaches for unwinding. Go for a swim, a walk, a bike ride, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful landscape.
Nearby Hiking Routes
- Costa Teguise Promenade – Starting from Playa de los Charcos, head towards Playa de las Cucharas and Playa Bastián. For a longer walk, continue north to Los Ancones and Los Cocoteros. The full route is around 10 km and suitable for walking or cycling.
- Tinaguache Mountain Route – This hike takes you up the extinct Tinaguache volcano. The path is uneven and includes steep, rocky sections, so be sure to wear suitable footwear.
- Los Ancones and Los Cocoteros Route – Begin at Playa de las Cucharas, walk through Los Ancones and finish in Los Cocoteros. This is a longer, 21 km trail with some rugged and rocky areas.
Local Marine Life and Flora
Thanks to its calm waters, Playa de los Charcos is home to a rich variety of marine life. You might spot parrotfish, goatfish, lizardfish and others, along with molluscs and crustaceans such as black-footed barnacles, rock crabs and starfish.
As for flora, algae are commonly found on the seabed, rocks, and along the shoreline, as well as lichen.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
What to Bring
- Footwear – Pack for your trip water shoes or aqua shoes for safely exploring the rock pools and beaches.
- Water – Bring plenty of water, especially during the summer. You could also pack some snacks to enjoy a day at the beach without interruptions.
- Sun protection – Use a high-factor sunscreen and reapply after swimming. Hats and sunglasses are also highly recommended.
Rules and Environmental Guidelines
- Use the provided bins or bring a bag to take your rubbish with you.
- Avoid collecting rocks, sand, seashells, or plants – keep the environment undisturbed.
- Keep noise to a minimum and avoid playing loud music or disturbing others.
- Choose biodegradable products whenever possible.
Where to Eat
There are several nearby restaurants and bars offering both traditional Canarian cuisine and international options. A few popular spots include:
- Doña Lola
- La Terraza Grill
- El Guachinche de Luis
Final Thoughts: A Hidden Natural Treasure
Playa de los Charcos is a hidden gem in Costa Teguise that often goes unnoticed. It offers stunning scenery, natural pools, calm waters, and excellent accessibility. If you’re after a different kind of beach experience in Lanzarote, don’t miss the chance to visit this tranquil slice of paradise.
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