Lanzarote, the northernmost of the Canary Islands, is among the most popular sun destinations for Irish holidaymakers. Situated off the western coast of Africa, Lanzarote promises year-round sun and spectacular sights. The island formed over 15 million years ago due to a volcanic eruption in the Atlantic Ocean, which accounts for its fascinating landscape of jagged volcanic rock and exotic black sand beaches.

With miles upon miles of dazzling coastline, Lanzarote has no shortage of beaches worth exploring. The following are our top six must-see beaches all around the exquisite island!

Playa de Famara

Playa de Famara in the village of Caleta de Famara is no ordinary beach. First, it boasts brilliant views of the Cliffs of Famara and is blanketed in volcanic sand pebbles. This beach is also particularly well-known as a surfing hotspot. With great waves guaranteed nearly every day, Playa de Famara is an excellent site for watersports and best suited to experienced swimmers. Monitor the wave forecast online to prepare in advance for the surf at Playa de Famara!

This picturesque beach is located slightly off the beaten track on the northern side of Lanzarote. Playa de Famara is a good distance away from the most touristy beaches on the southern half of the island. If thrilling adventures in the rough seas aren’t for you, explore Famara with a camera in hand or looking for seashells on the golden shore.

Playa Chica

A small, safe beach nestled in a rocky cove, Playa Chica is a must-visit for snorkellers, scuba-divers, and families, too! Playa Chica is located on the edge of the popular area of Puerto del Carmen on the southern coast of Lanzarote. The waters are especially crystal clear here and the sand, delicate and soft. For about 50 meters out, the water remains relatively shallow, so kids can swim and play safely.

Explore the rocky reefs at Playa Chica on your own with nearby snorkel and scuba rentals, or even take an introductory course with a dive instructor! Watch schools of fish glide by or brightly-coloured crabs scuttle across the sandy floor. Playa Chica is a tranquil paradise but still isn’t too far away from cafes and restaurants. Families can relax and rest assured that they’ll have easy access to food, drink, and bathrooms at any point during their visit.

Playa de Caletón Blanco

Situated on the beautiful, remote northern tip of Lanzarote, Playa del Caletón Blanco is a unique beach worth visiting. The white powdery sands contrast the black rock formations creating a stunning landscape unlike any other on the island. Therefore, it’s a great spot to stop and snap an iconic photo of Lanzarote.

This beach is best enjoyed at high tide when seawater fills small pools formed by the large volcanic rocks. Kids will love to explore these magical tide pools, while older, stronger swimmers can take to the open seas beyond! You can check the tide schedule online before you visit. Though Caletón Blanco is secluded, it does have good parking and a lovely walking path from the nearby fishing village of Órzola. However, keep in mind that there are no facilities right along the beach, so prepare before you go!

Playa de Papagayo

Unlike Playa del Caletón Blanco, Playa de Papagayo is one of the most popular beach areas in Lanzarote and is located on the southern tip of the island adjacent to Puerto del Carmen. This shell-shaped cove is a haven of soft golden sand, calm waters, and impressive volcanic formations. This bright beach is very near some of the most frequented bars, restaurants, and cafes in Lanzarote. The aquamarine waters are perfect for snorkelling and very safe for swimming.

Perhaps Papagayo is so famous and distinct due to its proximity to the iconic Los Ajaches, the volcanic range spanning Lanzarote’s southwestern region. After taking the spectacular hike through these massive geological structures, you can plunge into the refreshing sea at Playa de Papagayo!

Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca is a similarly popular beach area on the southern coast, situated in a well-knwon district of the same name. The area includes a lively marina, colourful market, bustling shops, and plenty of restaurants all around. In addition to being an excellent place to sunbathe or swim, Playa Blanca offers a range of activities to choose from.

Adventurous travellers can rent a sailboat and take off from the marina for a view of Playa Blanca by sea. You can even take a ferry from this port that will bring you to the nearby island of Fuerteventura in 25-35 minutes! Since its name translates to ‘white beach,’ you can always expect pristine shores as well as placid turquoise waters.

Playa Blanca

Charco Verde

For something totally different, head to the distinctive green lagoon on Lanzarote’s northwestern coast. This pool is perpetually a brilliant emerald colour due to a certain type of algae which thrives within it.

You can get to the Charco Verde, or ‘green puddle,’ via a scenic hike from the nearby village of El Golfo. This beautiful path overlooks the iconic black sand beach below. We recommend a visit to the Charco Verde for something totally unlike any other beaches in Lanzarote, or island setting altogether!

From extraordinary lagoons and rugged cliffs to soft sands and gentle waters, Lanzarote’s diverse beaches have something for everyone. How many of these enchanting beaches will you visit on your trip to Lanzarote?

Start planning your Lanzarote holiday today!