As winter tightens its grip on the UK, the call of the Canary Islands becomes irresistible for British holidaymakers seeking respite. Lanzarote, with its balmy climate and stunning coastline, stands out as a premier destination for those in pursuit of winter sun, emerald shallows, and ideal conditions for watersports.
Lanzarote's Premier Beach Destinations
The island boasts over 100 beaches, offering a remarkable variety from volcanic black and red sands to brilliant golden, man-made stretches. These stunning shores fringe buzzing coastal resorts from the north to the southern tip, providing countless spots to plant a parasol or paddle in the temperate waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Playas de Papagayo, Los Ajaches Natural Park
Widely applauded as the crown jewel of Lanzarote's coastline, the golden beaches of Papagayo hold a prime position on the southernmost tip of the laid-back Los Ajaches Natural Park. Visitors follow a dirt track and pay a €3 vehicle entry fee to access this paradise. The popular crescent cove, sheltered by cliffs, creates a perfectly relaxing spot for reading and sunbathing. Its turquoise waters are ideal for wading and snorkelling over reefs teeming with vibrant marine life. For dining, the clifftop Be Papagayo restaurant offers a menu rich with seafood paella and tapas platters, a significant upgrade from a beach picnic.
Playa de Famara, Teguise
On the untamed north coast, Playa de Famara offers 6km of shore renowned for its world-class surf. Powerful winds produce consistent swells, breaks, and rolling waves within the Natural Park of the Chinijo Archipelago, making it a haven for surfers of all levels. After riding the waves, the local fishing village of La Caleta de Famara provides fresh fish refuels. The area is also dotted with numerous surf shacks and schools ready to guide everyone from complete novices to seasoned experts.
Charco de Los Clicos, El Golfo
The west coast presents a landscape of dramatic contrasts at Charco de Los Clicos. Here, volcanic black sands meet a striking green lagoon, all set within the crater of an extinct volcano. As a protected nature reserve, swimming is prohibited, but a dedicated lookout point allows visitors to witness the dark tombolo withstand the force of wild Atlantic waves, set against a backdrop of green and blue waters.
Family-Friendly Shores and Secluded Coves
Playa Dorada, Playa Blanca
True to its name, Playa Dorada sparkles with clean, fine sand and clear, warm waters in front of the family-centric all-inclusive resorts of Playa Blanca. This 300m artificial bay is peppered with blue parasols and offers pedalos and kayaks for hire. To fully enjoy its charm without the summer crowds, it is best visited during Lanzarote's mild shoulder seasons.
Playa Mujeres, Los Ajaches Natural Park
Located near the Papagayo beaches, the secluded stretch of Playa Mujeres requires a journey down a dirt track, distancing it from the commercial hustle of Playa Blanca. Backdropped by Lanzarote's barren desertscapes, its wide shore is lapped by an inviting palette of blue waters. Snorkelling is a popular pastime here, offering chances to spot octopi and angel sharks just below the surface.
Caleton Blanco, Orzola
In the north, near the fishing village of Orzola, Caleton Blanco presents a unique landscape of black volcanic boulders interspersed with string of white sand coves and turquoise waters. This facility-free stretch features sheltered natural pools and intriguing lava formations to explore while snorkelling at high tide, providing a peaceful paddling experience away from developed resorts.
Playa del Reducto, Arrecife
In the heart of the laid-back island capital, Arrecife, lies Playa del Reducto. This urban crescent boasts golden sands and turquoise waters that have earned the coveted Blue Flag status. Framed by a palm-fringed promenade with beach boutiques and art museums, its calm shallows are perfectly safe for children to paddle in, making it ideal for a sunbathing session with a mojito or mocktail in hand.
Playa de las Conchas, La Graciosa
Though a separate island, La Graciosa is an essential day trip for any beach lover visiting Lanzarote. A short ferry ride from Orzola transports visitors to a pristine playa paradise. The rugged northern coast is home to the expansive golden dunes of Las Conchas, a shore so vast and empty it puts mainland Spanish beaches to shame. Studded only with rocks and tidewrack, it offers an utterly uninterrupted stretch of sand for the ultimate sunning experience.
From surfing havens and family bays to secluded coves and volcanic landscapes, Lanzarote's diverse beaches provide the perfect backdrop for a winter sun escape, promising warmth and beauty for every type of traveller from the UK.
