Your Ultimate Guide to Family Holidays in Lanzarote
Are you dreaming of a holiday destination that keeps the whole family happy? A place with year-round sunshine, exciting activities for the kids, and beautiful spots for the grown-ups to relax? Let me introduce you to our popular family Lanzarote holidays.
As an experienced travel consultant with Budget Travel, I've helped countless Irish holidaymakers plan their perfect getaway, and Lanzarote is always a top recommendation for families. It’s safe, packed with things to do, and offers a unique charm you won't find anywhere else. Let’s explore why this Canary Island might just be your new favourite family spot.
Lanzarote was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, which means its stunning natural landscape is protected from high-rise buildings. This commitment to preservation gives the island an unspoilt beauty that sets it apart. From volcanic parks to golden beaches, there’s a new adventure waiting around every corner.
Why Lanzarote is Perfect for Families
So, what makes Lanzarote the ideal choice for a family package holiday? For starters, its location near Africa provides a tropical desert climate, meaning you can count on warm weather no matter when you visit. This makes it perfect for a mid term break or a summer escape.
The island is known for being incredibly safe and welcoming to families, with a relaxed atmosphere that helps everyone unwind. The local people are very chilled; they don’t rush and they take their siesta seriously, which helps you slip into holiday mode that bit faster.
Plus, with a flight time of just around four hours from Dublin, it's a manageable journey even with little ones. You’ll be swapping grey skies for sunshine in no time!
Top Family-Friendly Activities
You'll never hear "I'm bored!" on a family holiday to Lanzarote. The island is packed with attractions to suit all ages and interests. Here are a few must-dos for your itinerary:
Explore Timanfaya National Park
A trip to Timanfaya is like visiting another planet. The park's volcanic landscape, created by eruptions in the 18th century, is truly breathtaking. You can take a coach tour through the "Mountains of Fire" to see the dramatic craters and lava fields.
Don't miss the geothermal demonstrations where guides pour water into the ground, creating powerful geysers that shoot into the air! It's an educational and thrilling experience for the whole family.
Make a Splash at a Water Park
What’s a family holiday without a trip to a water park? Lanzarote has several fantastic options. Aquapark Costa Teguise is one of the most popular, offering a huge range of slides, pools, and even paintball for older kids.
Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park in Puerto del Carmen combines a water park with a zoo, featuring everything from sea lion shows to a thrilling "gold mine" splash zone. It’s a full day of entertainment that the kids will absolutely love.
Hit the Beach
Lanzarote’s beaches are perfect for families. The golden sands and calm, clear waters of Playa Blanca and Papagayo are ideal for paddling and building sandcastles.
For families with older children looking for some action, many beaches offer a wide array of water sports. You can try everything from paddleboarding and kayaking to jet-skiing and windsurfing.
Other Unique Attractions
- Jardín de Cactus: Designed by the famous artist César Manrique, this stunning cactus garden is home to over 4,500 specimens from around the world. It’s a beautiful and unique spot for a family walk.
- Rancho Texas: Beyond the water park, this is a fantastic zoo with white tigers, pumas, and incredible bird of prey shows.
- Shopping & Fun: The El Pueblo shopping centre in Playa Blanca is great for families, as it’s located near an international school and has a relaxed vibe. You'll also find plenty of shopping, bars, clubs, and even karaoke bars across the main resorts for evening entertainment.
Family-Friendly Accommodation Options
Choosing the right place to stay can make or break a family holiday. Luckily, Lanzarote offers a wide range of accommodation to suit every family’s needs and budget.
For those who love a lively atmosphere with plenty of restaurants, shops, and entertainment on their doorstep, Puerto Del Carmen is an excellent choice. It’s the island's largest and busiest resort, with a long sandy beach and a bustling promenade.
If you'd prefer something a bit quieter and more upmarket, Playa Blanca is perfect. It has a more relaxed feel, with a beautiful marina, stylish restaurants, and access to the stunning Papagayo beaches.
For a luxury family holiday, I highly recommend the 4* Hotel Costa Calero Thalasso and Spa. It's particularly great for families with young children, offering fantastic facilities and a welcoming environment that makes everyone feel right at home.
All inclusive family holidays are a popular choice as they take the stress out of budgeting for meals and drinks, letting you focus on having fun.
Many of our customers at Budget Travel have shared their positive experiences. As Carol noted on Trustpilot, booking a family holiday to Lanzarote with us was "very efficient and prompt."
Budgeting for Your Lanzarote Family Holiday
A fantastic family trip doesn't have to break the bank. With some smart planning, you can enjoy a cheap family holiday to Lanzarote. At Budget Travel, we pride ourselves on offering great value.
Lisa, a happy customer, mentioned, "I got a call off Róisín and she was very helpful. I even got a better price than online."
Here are some tips to help you save:
- Book an all inclusive package: This is often the most cost-effective option for families. It covers meals, drinks, and often snacks, so you don't have to worry about daily food costs adding up.
- Enjoy free activities: Make the most of Lanzarote’s beautiful beaches and natural parks. Pack a picnic and spend the day exploring without spending a cent.
- Eat like a local: While resort restaurants are convenient, venturing into local towns to find smaller, family-run eateries can be cheaper and offer a more authentic dining experience.
Essential Travel Tips
To ensure your trip is as smooth as possible, here are a few final tips for Irish holidaymakers:
- Flights: Aer Lingus operates direct flights from Dublin to Arrecife, with a flight time of about 4 hours.
- Currency: Lanzarote uses the Euro, so there’s no need to worry about currency exchange.
- Cash is handy: While cards are widely accepted, it's a good idea to have some cash for tipping in bars and restaurants. Taxi drivers also often prefer cash payments.
- Water: Don’t drink the tap water. Bottled water is cheap and readily available everywhere.
Your Perfect Family Lanzarote Holiday Awaits
Booking a Lanzarote holiday from Ireland truly offers something for everyone, making it one of the best family holiday destinations out there. Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, you'll find it on this beautiful Canary Island.
With its stunning landscapes, endless activities, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to create lasting family memories.
At Budget Travel, we make booking your dream trip easy and affordable. As our customer Sharon said, "I always book my holidays with Budget Travel. They are great value for money if you have a big family. My family had a great time in Lanzarote, they help you with anything you need."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Lanzarote a good holiday for families?
Absolutely! Lanzarote is considered one of the best family holiday destinations due to its safe environment, beautiful beaches, year-round warm climate, and a wide range of activities suitable for all ages, from water parks to volcanic national parks.
What is the best area to stay in Lanzarote for families?
For a lively atmosphere with lots of restaurants and activities, Puerto del Carmen is a great choice. If you prefer a quieter, more upmarket resort with beautiful beaches, Playa Blanca is ideal for families.
What is the best time of year for a family to visit Lanzarote?
Thanks to its tropical desert climate, Lanzarote is a fantastic destination all year round. The summer months are hottest, but even in winter, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it a great option for a winter sun break.
Can you drink the tap water in Lanzarote?
It is not recommended to drink the tap water in Lanzarote. Bottled water is widely available in all supermarkets and shops and is very affordable.
About the Author
Jade Cloete is a seasoned travel professional with a passion for helping Irish holidaymakers discover their dream destinations. With years of experience at Budget Travel, Jade has extensive knowledge of family-friendly resorts, budget-savvy travel, and crafting unforgettable holiday experiences. His expertise lies in sun-drenched European locales, with a particular fondness for the unique charm of the Canary Islands.