Beaches
The best beaches in Lanzarote, from Papagayo to Famara
Lanzarote has golden coves in the south, white sand between black lava in the north and a surf beach beneath towering cliffs. These are the beaches worth the day, and where to stay.
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The gravel road bumps through a landscape of rust-brown rock, and then it opens up: a golden cove beneath low cliffs, the water so clear you can see the bottom from the top. Round the next headland is another cove, and then another.
Lanzarote is the volcanic island of the Canaries, with black lava, white houses and a landscape that recalls the moon. It has fewer beaches than Fuerteventura, but more variety. The south has calm coves, the north has white sand among the lava, and the west coast has waves. These are the beaches worth the day.
Short answer: which beaches in Lanzarote are best?
The Papagayo coves on the southern tip are the most beautiful, with golden sand and calm water. Playa Dorada in Playa Blanca and Playa Grande in Puerto del Carmen are best for families, Famara is best for surfing, and Caletón Blanco in the north has white sand and shallow pools.
Most beautiful: the Papagayo coves
Best for families: Playa Dorada, Playa Blanca
Best for surfing: Famara
Best for small children: Caletón Blanco
Best with everything nearby: Playa Grande, Puerto del Carmen
Papagayo: the coves of the southern tip
East of Playa Blanca lies the Los Ajaches natural area, with a string of small coves. Playa de Papagayo is the best known, but Playa Mujeres and Caleta del Congrio are just as lovely and often quieter. The water is clear and good for snorkelling along the rocks.
You reach them on a gravel road, with a small fee per car. There is little shade and few facilities, so bring water and a parasol. You can also walk the coastal path from Playa Blanca or take a boat from the harbour.
Princesa Yaiza
The pool at Princesa Yaiza in Playa Blanca.
Playa Blanca and Playa Dorada
Playa Blanca is a relaxed resort on the southern tip with a long seafront promenade. Playa Dorada is its most popular beach, a sheltered bay with calm water and soft sand. It suits children well.
Ferries leave the harbour for Corralejo on Fuerteventura, so a day trip to the neighbouring island is easy. The promenade runs all the way to Marina Rubicón, with restaurants and a small market.
Princesa Yaiza: on the beach in Playa Blanca
Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel Resort sits right by Playa Dorada in Playa Blanca, with large suites, several pools and dedicated areas for children. The promenade and Papagayo are close by. A good choice for families who want space and the beach on the doorstep.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Princesa Yaiza
Hotel Fariones
The coast by Hotel Fariones in Puerto del Carmen.
Puerto del Carmen: Playa Grande and Los Fariones
Puerto del Carmen is Lanzarote's largest resort, with several kilometres of beach along the promenade. Playa Grande is the longest, with golden sand, loungers and calm water. Further east is the smaller beach by Los Fariones.
The town has plenty of restaurants, and the old harbour to the west is pleasant in the evening. Divers love Puerto del Carmen, with good dive sites straight from the shore.
Hotel Fariones: a seaside garden in Puerto del Carmen
Hotel Fariones stands by the sea in Puerto del Carmen, with a large tropical garden and its own access to the beach. It was one of the first hotels on the island and has kept a calm atmosphere. It suits anyone who wants to stay by the beach with restaurants within walking distance.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Hotel Fariones
Famara: surf beneath the cliffs
Famara on the north-west coast is a long, open beach beneath cliffs several hundred metres high. It is Lanzarote's surf beach, with surf schools in the small village of Caleta de Famara.
Waves and currents can be strong, so swim only where there are lifeguards and stay close to shore. Come for the view and the sunset even if you do not surf.
North and west: Caletón Blanco and El Golfo
By Órzola in the far north lies Caletón Blanco, small coves of white sand between black lava. At low tide they form shallow, calm pools, perfect for small children.
On the west coast are El Golfo and the green lagoon of Charco de los Clicos, at the foot of a volcanic crater. Swimming is not allowed, but the view from the lookout is worth the trip. Combine it with Timanfaya National Park nearby.
When to go
All year: Lanzarote has mild weather and little rain in every month.
Winter: warm enough for the sun, though the sea is fresh.
Summer: the warmest water, but also the most wind and the biggest crowds.
Wind: the south coast is the most sheltered, the north-west coast has the biggest waves.
Frequently asked questions about Lanzarote's beaches
What is the best beach in Lanzarote?
The Papagayo coves on the southern tip are the most beautiful. Playa Dorada and Playa Grande are best for families, and Famara for surfing.
How do I get to Papagayo?
Drive the gravel road from Playa Blanca and pay a small fee per car. You can also walk the coastal path or take a boat.
Which beach is best for children?
Playa Dorada in Playa Blanca and Caletón Blanco in the north have calm, shallow water.
Can you swim in the green lagoon?
No, Charco de los Clicos is protected and swimming is forbidden. See it from the lookout.