Lanzarote's Best Beaches: Sun, Sand & Sea
Lanzarote, with its dramatic volcanic landscape and year-round sunshine, is a firm favourite for Irish holidaymakers. While the island's moon-like terrain is a spectacle in itself, it's the stunning coastline that truly captures the heart.
From bustling golden sands perfect for families to secluded coves ideal for a quiet escape, Lanzarote's beaches offer something for every type of sunseeker.
Deciding which patch of sand to lay your towel on can be the toughest decision of your holiday. But don't you worry, as Ireland's go-to travel agency, we've got the inside scoop.
Whether you're planning an action-packed family holiday or a relaxing couple's retreat, we've put together this guide to help you discover the best beaches in Lanzarote. So, grab your suncream - even if it looks overcast, trust me on this - and let's find your perfect spot.
Lanzarote's Top Beaches for Every Holidaymaker
Lanzarote’s coastline is as varied as its volcanic interior. You'll find lively resorts packed with amenities, sheltered bays with calm waters for the little ones, and wild, windswept shores for the adventurous. Whether you’re after aquatic thrills or prefer relaxing Lanzarote holidays, here’s a breakdown of the top spots depending on your holiday style.
Best Family-Friendly Beaches
For those travelling with kids, safety and convenience are key. These family beaches offer calm, shallow waters and plenty of facilities to ensure a hassle-free day of fun.
- Playa Blanca: Once a small fishing village, Playa Blanca has blossomed into a premier family resort. Its main beach is a beautiful crescent of white sand with incredibly calm, clear waters, making it perfect for little paddlers. The beachfront promenade is lined with cafes and shops, so ice cream is never far away. As our team discovered, it's a fantastic resort if you like something a little bit quieter but with a high standard of quality.
- Playa Grande, Puerto del Carmen: As the name suggests, this is a large, bustling beach with over a kilometre of golden sand. The waters are generally calm, and lifeguards are on duty. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, and the kids will love the various water sports on offer. Its proximity to the main strip of Puerto del Carmen means you have endless dining options right on your doorstep.
- Playa Bastian, Costa Teguise: This is a well-protected beach with fine, dark sand and gentle waves. It’s a favourite among families for its relaxed atmosphere and easy accessibility. There are playgrounds nearby and plenty of space for building sandcastles.
Top Beaches for Water Sports
If you're an adrenaline junkie, Lanzarote's Atlantic winds and waves provide the perfect playground.
- Playa de Famara: This is the undisputed champion for surfing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. Located on the northwest coast, this spectacular 6km beach is set against a backdrop of dramatic cliffs. The conditions here are for the more experienced, but several surf schools offer lessons for beginners brave enough to take on the waves.
- Playa de las Cucharas, Costa Teguise: This is the go-to spot for windsurfing enthusiasts. The reliable winds create ideal conditions, and it hosts international competitions each year. You’ll find plenty of rental shops and schools ready to get you out on the water, regardless of your skill level.
- Playa Chica, Puerto del Carmen: This small, sheltered bay is a paradise for scuba divers and snorkelers. The crystal-clear waters and rich marine life around its volcanic rock formations make it one of the best dive sites on the island. It’s like swimming in an aquarium!
Best Beaches for Relaxation
Sometimes, a holiday is all about switching off. These tranquil spots are perfect for escaping the crowds and soaking up the sun in peace.
- Papagayo Beaches: Tucked away on the southern tip of the island near Playa Blanca, this collection of pristine, sandy coves is part of a protected nature reserve. The unspoiled beaches boast turquoise waters and a real sense of seclusion. It's a bit of a bumpy drive to get there, but the reward is pure, uninterrupted bliss.
- Playa del Risco: For the truly adventurous seeking solitude, this is the ultimate hidden gem. Accessible only by a steep hike down the Famara cliffs or by boat, this wild beach offers stunning views of the neighbouring island of La Graciosa and a feeling of being a world away from everything.
- Playa Quemada: This quiet village on the east coast is home to a unique black pebble beach. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful swim followed by some delicious fresh seafood at one of the rustic beachfront restaurants.
Beyond the Beach: Exploring Lanzarote's Wonders
While it’s tempting to spend your entire holiday by the sea, Lanzarote offers incredible attractions that are not to be missed.
- Timanfaya National Park: Witness the island’s raw volcanic power in this "Fire Mountains" park. Take a coach tour through the otherworldly landscape of dormant volcanoes and lava fields. A top tip from our team: book a guided tour to avoid the long queues that can form for private cars.
- Jameos del Agua: This unique attraction, designed by local artist César Manrique, is a series of lava caves containing a restaurant, a concert hall, and a saltwater lake home to a species of blind albino crabs found nowhere else on earth.
- Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park: A great day out for the family, this park combines a zoo with a water park. Enjoy animal shows, splash down water slides, and interact with a variety of wildlife.
- Shopping in Arrecife: The island's capital, Arrecife, has its own beach and is a great place for a spot of retail therapy. Explore the shops along Calle León y Castillo for some holiday bargains.
Your Perfect Lanzarote Stay
Finding the right base is crucial for your Lanzarote holiday. Luckily, the main resorts offer fantastic accommodation options close to the best beaches.
- Puerto del Carmen: If you love a lively atmosphere, this is the resort for you. It boasts a huge range of apartments and hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxurious stays. The nightlife is vibrant, with live music and DJs playing until the early hours.
- Playa Blanca: For a more relaxed and upmarket vibe, Playa Blanca is an excellent choice. Here you'll find superb hotels and villas, many with stunning sea views. It’s perfect for families and couples looking for a quieter getaway.
- Costa Teguise: This purpose-built resort is popular with families and water sports lovers. It has a great selection of all inclusive hotels and self-catering apartments, all within easy reach of its beautiful beaches.
Many of our customers have shared their positive experiences, with one Trustpilot reviewer, Mary, praising her "perfect accommodation in Cay Beach Sun, Playa Blanca." Another, Rebecca, noted her "lovely, clean apartments in Lanzarote" and found our website easy to navigate.
Final Thoughts on Lanzarote's Beaches
From the golden sands of Playa Blanca to the wild shores of Famara, Lanzarote’s beaches are as diverse as they are beautiful. With its year-round warm climate, stunning natural beauty, and a resort to suit every taste, it's no wonder Irish holidaymakers return time and time again.
As Sharon on Trustpilot says, she "Always books with Budget Travel for great value and helpful service for a big family holiday in Lanzarote." We're here to help you create your own perfect memories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best time of year to visit Lanzarote for a beach holiday?
Thanks to its location near Africa, Lanzarote enjoys a warm, desert climate all year round, making it a fantastic beach destination any month you choose. The summers are hot, and the winters are pleasantly mild.
Is the tap water in Lanzarote safe to drink?
It is generally recommended not to drink the tap water. Bottled water is widely available and affordable in all supermarkets and shops.
Do I need to bring cash with me to Lanzarote?
While card payments are widely accepted, it's a good idea to have some cash (Euros) with you. It's handy for tipping in restaurants and for paying taxi drivers, who often prefer cash.
Which side of Lanzarote has the best beaches?
The southern coast, around Playa Blanca and Papagayo, is famous for its calm, sheltered, and picturesque white-sand beaches, making it ideal for families and sunbathers. The west coast, particularly Famara, is known for its dramatic, windswept beaches perfect for surfing.
About the Author
Jade Cloete: With over 8 years of experience as an SEO specialist and travel blogger, I combine my love for exploration with digital expertise. I channel my digital marketing skills and enthusiasm for travel into my work at Club Travel, a well-established travel agency in Ireland for over 50 years.