10 Best Beaches in Lanzarote to Explore

One of the greatest advantages of visiting Lanzarote is that you aren't restricted to traveling only during school holidays. The island's proximity to Africa, rather than Spain, grants it a perpetual springtime climate. Imagine warm, gentle breezes and intense sunshine in the summer, along with mild, dry weather during the winter.

1. Playa de Papagayo and its smaller beaches

I have to begin with Playa de Papagayo. If you've ever seen postcards from Lanzarote, I can assure you this beach is on the cover. Picture turquoise waters and soft white sand; Playa de Papagayo is perfect for relaxing and enjoying a peaceful swim.

The road to this beach is unpaved and will remain so as it's a protected area. It's manageable for small cars, just proceed with caution.

Situated at the southern tip of the island, the beach lies at the base of a cliff with a crescent shape, shielding you from Lanzarote's strong northern winds. It's likely one of the island's best beaches for wind protection.

Playa de Papagayo draws both tourists and locals, so expect crowds on weekends and during summer. Fortunately, to the right of the main beach, there are several smaller beaches to explore.

The farther you venture, the less crowded it becomes, so if you're seeking solitude, head in that direction. Playa de Papagayo is a protected area, requiring a small entrance fee of €3 per car. Island residents enter for free.

Upon reaching the bottom of the hill, you can either go straight (slightly right) or follow the road to the left. Going left leads to the main beach (the busiest), while going right lets you park and walk to the smaller beaches on your right. Either way, it's worth driving to the main beach, even just to admire its beauty!

2. Caleton Blanco

Next is Caleton Blanco, a beach situated at the northern tip of the island near Orzola. This part of the island is quite distinctive, featuring a combination of white sand dunes and black lava rocks. Along this coast, there are several beaches to choose from, some quieter than others and some with shallow rock pools.

There are two "main" areas: one is a small, incredibly beautiful beach, while the other has shallow pools.

Both areas are primarily frequented by locals.

As you drive towards Orzola along the coast, you will notice several parking spots on the left side of the road. Just park your car and cross the road to reach the beach.

By entering "Caleton Blanco" into Google Maps, you can locate the main areas.

If you prefer something more secluded, there are various spots to stop at before reaching the main beach.

There are small rock walls on the beach where you can sit to shield yourself from the wind. Be sure to wear sunscreen and bring your swimming gear, as these little coves are ideal for sunbathing.

You’ll start to feel hot quickly, so a refreshing dip in the cool ocean will be necessary!

3. Playa del Risco

Imagine Jurassic Park by the sea.

In spring, the island turns lush green, making the cliffs leading to the beach reminiscent of Jurassic Park. During summer, the cliffs revert to their natural brown hues, yet remain stunning.

Playa del Risco is likely one of the least visited beaches on the island due to its challenging access.

The hike is steep but manageable for those in good shape and absolutely worth the effort!

If you're not very fit, you might find this hike difficult. Climbing back up is challenging, but the journey rewards you with the softest sand and a clear view of La Graciosa.

Playa del Risco is situated near the Mirador del Rio in northern Lanzarote. The descent is as beautiful as the beach itself, so if you're ready for an adventure, be sure to visit this hidden gem!

Is it safe to walk to Playa del Risco?

The path is well-marked and easy to locate. It can be slippery in some areas due to loose gravel, but it's manageable. Just take your time 🙂

4. Playa de Montaña Bermeja or Playa del Janubio

When discussing the top beaches in Lanzarote, it's essential to mention a black beach! Lanzarote is home to several stunning black beaches that are definitely worth exploring. 

Black beaches are quite rare and incredibly soft, and they seem to have a unique sparkle. 

One small black sand beach on the island is situated between El Golfo and Los Hervidores. Another black beach you might want to visit is located right in front of the salt fields (las salinas).

5.Famara beach Lanzarote - The best beach for taking a stroll

Not all beaches were made for sunbathing. Some lend themselves perfectly for a gentle barefoot stroll along the shoreline. This is certainly true for the 6 km long Lanzarote Famara beach. While this picture-postcard beach looks like the ideal sunbathing spot, it usually gets pretty windy here making it perfect for surfers.

If you’re planning on riding some waves during your holiday, Playa Famara is certainly the best surfing beach in Lanzarote, where you’ll spot plenty of professionals showcasing their skills.

6. Las Cucharas beach

If you are a thrill-seeker looking for your next adventure head to Las Cucharas, one of the best beaches in Lanzarote for watersports. This white sand beach on the east coast is the home to the windsurfing European Freestyle Pro Tour championships which are held here each year. It is one of the top beaches in Lanzarote for adrenaline junkies and there are numerous places to rent the correct gear for your chosen activity.

7.Playa Dorada Lanzarote- a paradise for watersports

Situated to the east of Playa Blanca, Playa Dorada is a gorgeous man-made beach that encompasses calm waters that are ideal for kids. Hammocks, sunbeds and sun shades are available to rent, as well as exhilarating water sports activities on offer for adrenaline junkies.

8. Playa de las Conchas, La Graciosa

If you weren't aware, La Graciosa island is part of the Teguise Municipality of Lanzarote, meaning it is essentially "associated" with the island. 

This allows me to include my top 3 favorite beaches on La Graciosa in this post! If La Graciosa is new to you or you hadn’t planned to visit, I highly recommend taking a trip to La Graciosa

In my view, La Graciosa boasts some of the finest beaches in the entire Canary Islands. 

Playa de las Conchas, which means ‘shell beach,’ features the softest white sand and turquoise waters that might make you think you're in Greece or the Philippines, rather than the Canaries. 

TIP! Be cautious of the waves on this side of the island. They can be quite large and dangerous. There are times when the water is calmer, making it safe for a dip. Playing in the waves can be enjoyable, but ensure you’re not alone.

If you’re looking to swim, the next 2 beaches are excellent choices.

9. Montaña Amarilla, La Graciosa

This beach closely resembles Playa de Papagayo with its stunning turquoise waters. It is situated at the base of Montaña Amarilla, which translates to "yellow mountain."

The colors at this beach are breathtaking, and I highly recommend visiting. You can either take a 45-minute walk from Caleta de Sebo (the main port/town in La Graciosa) or pay €5 per person for a 4×4 jeep to drop you off.

If you need a ride back, make sure to arrange it with your driver in advance, and it will cost another €5 per person for the return trip.

Lastly, on my list of the best beaches in Lanzarote is Playa de La Francesa, La Graciosa.

10. Playa de la Francesa, La Graciosa

As you head to Montaña Amarilla from the port, you'll encounter this beach offering views of the Famara cliffs in Lanzarote.

It's a wonderful spot to spend a few hours. Private boats anchor in the waters here, and it's a very tranquil place for swimming. This beach is often favored by young families.