Best Beaches in Lanzarote

April 24, 2025

For visitors seeking a beach-based holiday in Europe, look no further than Lanzarote. With its golden sands, volcanic-formed shores and crystal-clear waters, Lanzarote is a beach lover’s paradise. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to soak up the sun, dramatic backdrops for the perfect Instagram shot, or tumbling waves to try your hand (or feet!) at surfing, this Canary Island has something for everyone. With so many stunning beaches to choose from, you’re never far from a slice of coastal heaven. From the white sands of Playa Blanca to the rugged beauty of Famara, Lanzarote’s beaches offer a mix of relaxation and adventure. You’ll find tucked-away coves for a peaceful escape, as well as busy stretches of coastline perfect for families, water sports and snorkelling. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best beaches in Lanzarote, highlighting what makes each one unique and why they deserve a spot on your must-visit list.

Playa Blanca

Found on Lanzarote’s southern coast, Playa Blanca, Spanish for “white beach”, is one of the island’s most popular resort areas. It’s known for its small, clean and well-maintained beaches, with three stretches of sand all within a short walk of each other.

The main beach, Playa Blanca itself, is a Blue Flag beach, meaning its gained certification for its soft sands, gentle waters, strict safety and environmental conditions and excellent facilities. The shallow shoreline makes it ideal for families and swimmers, while the local scuba diving school offers opportunities for underwater adventures.

One of the best things about Playa Blanca is its convenient location. It’s just a short stroll from shops, cafes and restaurants, meaning you can easily grab a meal or a refreshing drink after a day in the sun.

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Playa Flamingo

Located in Playa Blanca, Playa Flamingo is a family favourite thanks to its calm, shallow waters protected by breakwaters – perfect for paddling and snorkelling.

One of the best beaches for children, the sand stretches out for about two hundred metres and is enclosed, making it easy to keep an eye on little one. Plus, with nearby bars and minimarkets, it’s easy to top up on food and supplies while by the water. Just keep in mind that it can get busy in peak summer, so plan your visit if you prefer a quieter spot!

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Playa de Papagayo

One of the best beaches in Lanzarote, Playa de Papagayo is located within a protected natural park on the southern tip of the island. This breathtaking cove is known for its white sand, turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs.

The horseshoe-shaped bay provides shelter from the wind, making it one of the best spots on the island for snorkelling and swimming. Due to its secluded location, the waters here are incredibly clear and calm, ideal for spotting fish in the shallows.

There are no toilets or amenities directly on the beach, but a short walk uphill leads to restaurants with spectacular sea views. The dirt track leading to Playa Papagayo is rough, so it’s best to visit by car. If you’re looking for a truly picturesque and tranquil beach experience, this is the place to be.

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Playa Chica

Located in Puerto del Carmen, Playa Chica is a small but vibrant beach, famous for its glassy waters and excellent snorkelling conditions. It’s one of the best spots in Lanzarote for underwater exploration, with a huge variety of colourful fish to spot just under the surface.

There’s a dive centre right on the beach, making it easy to rent snorkelling or diving equipment. Apart from water activities, Playa Chica also offers restaurants, a snack bar and nearby shops, making it a convenient and enjoyable beach for visitors of all ages.

During peak season, Playa Chica can get quite busy, but early mornings offer a quieter, more peaceful experience, perfect for enjoying the underwater life.

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Caleton Blanco

For those seeking a quieter, more secluded beach, Caleton Blanco in northern Lanzarote is an idyllic escape. This beach features stunning white sand, black volcanic rocks, and shallow, crystal-clear waters, creating a striking contrast and a peaceful atmosphere.

One of the best aspects of Caleton Blanco is that it’s great for families and groups of mixed-ability swimmers. Some areas are calm and shallow, perfect for children or those who prefer gentle waters, while other spots are deeper and cooler, ideal for stronger swimmers.

Because of its remote location, Caleton Blanco remains quiet even during peak months, making it one of the best beaches in Lanzarote for those wanting a more private beach day. Just bring your own food and drinks, as there are no shops or restaurants directly on the beach. However, the nearby village of Orzola has fantastic local seafood restaurants, perfect for a meal after your beach visit.

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Famara

For a wild, dramatic beach experience, Famara Beach in the northwest of Lanzarote is the place to be. Found in the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park, Famara is a 6-kilometre stretch of golden sand, surrounded by towering cliffs and rolling sand dunes.

This beach is famous for its surf-friendly conditions, making it a favourite for surfers, kitesurfers and bodyboarders. There’s even a surf school on the beach, making it easy for beginners wanting to catch their first wave.

For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, Famara is great for long walks, enjoying the stunning scenery, and sunbathing with plenty of space. Since it’s slightly more exposed, it can be windy and the waves can get rough, but at low tide, calmer rock pools appear, offering a gentler place to paddle. There is plenty of parking, and the nearby village of La Caleta de Famara has restaurants and cafes for post-beach refreshments.

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Lanzarote is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse beaches in the Canary Islands. Whether you’re after family-friendly shores, hidden coves, or adrenaline-inducing fun at one of the world’s best surfing spots, there’s a perfect beach for everyone.

We have curated a wonderful selection of villas with swimming pools in Lanzarote. Family holidays require some thoughtful planning, so get in touch and let us help you to alleviate the stress, by guiding you through our portfolio. With our expert knowledge, we can certainly make your villa holiday in Lanzarote that little bit easier.

Disclaimer: We are not affiliated with any of these businesses. This information is gathered from client and staff experiences and feedback and we are happy to share as a helpful guide. We do not vouch for or recommend any service or establishment.