Set Sail for Lanzarote, Spain’s Most Unique Island

If you’re seeking some fun and sun, why not explore Spain’s famed Canary Islands? Lanzarote is a jewel among gems but there are several key factors that set it apart from its siblings. From swimming at black-sand beaches to visiting active volcanic pits, let’s dive into the best things to do in Lanzarote besides working on your tan!

Visit one of the island’s famous black sand beaches.

The easternmost Canary Island is renowned for its otherworldly volcanic landscapes, thriving wine culture and eclectic art scene. As only the fourth-largest, Lanzarote offers travelers laidback beach vibes without the notorious party scene of the other islands, making it ideal for families, couples or watersports enthusiasts in search of thrills. 

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1. Plan a Beach Day

Your first stop in Lanzarote has to be the beach, and thankfully, you’re spoiled for choice since there’s enough coastline for everyone, from sheltered coves to surf-ready havens. While renting a car is the best way to explore the island, you can also hire taxis to take you around to more remote locations. Still, the bus system is often reliable and by far the most budget-friendly method of transportation, connecting to several popular beaches all across the island (find schedules here). Depending on where you’re staying on the island, you might even have time to visit a different location each day.

Unless you’re planning on surfing, it’s best to stick to the island’s southside since constant wind gusts blow across the north, stirring up sands and riptides, which can put a damper on any beach day. Instead, head for calmer waters, such as Playa Chica close to Puerto del Carmen – a great choice for beginner snorkelers looking to explore Lanzarote’s underwater life. Playa del Papagayo near Playa Blanca is one of the island’s most beautiful, with tranquil, turquoise waters perfect for diving. Families also love Playa del Jablillo in Costa Teguise, a safe lagoon ideal for spotting colorful fish. Just want to sunbathe with a round of cocktails? Playa de los Pocillos provides bar-side beach loungers for added convenience.

My top pick would be Playa de la Arena, a secluded black sand beach that you’re likely to have all to yourself (cross from Playa Quemada at low tide to avoid a steep hike). Other notable ebony-shaded shorelines include Playa de los Charcos and El Golfo. If you want scenery with even more dramatic flair, head to the expansive Playa de Famara to the north, where golden sands meet striking cliffs. Wind-surfers beware.

PRO TIP: You can rent snorkeling and surfing gear instead of booking a tour to save money. 

2. Hike through Timanfaya National Park

The incomparable Timanfaya National Park has several claims to fame, offering a striking glimpse of Lanzarote’s uncanny landscape. Spanning over 50 square kilometers, the “Fire Mountain” is the only completely volcanic national park in Spain and home to the island’s last active volcano, recognized for its unique landscapes by UNESCO in 1993. Visiting its copious craters and lava fields makes it feel like stepping onto another planet, far removed from the sandy beaches near the coast. 

Due to the park’s geothermal activity, hiking without a guide isn’t permitted, though complementary hiking and bus tours are included in the entrance fee if you reserve a place (up to a month in advance). There are three main guide routes:

  • Ruta de los Volcanes - a 30-minute bus tour (given in English, Spanish and German)

  • Tremesana Route - a 3-kilometer hike from Yaiza through the park’s heart (guided in English or Spanish)

  • Coastal Route - 2.8-kilometer hike from El Golfo (guided in English or Spanish)

If you don’t have much time, a prepaid tour is the most convenient way to visit since queues for private cars are generally longer than for tour buses unless you plan to arrive extremely early or very late (after the lunch crowd). Some operators offer packages bundled with other destinations, and more adventurous visitors can opt for a camel ride, adding a unique twist to the experience. My favorite location within the park is the Green Lagoon in El Golfo, a surreal emerald pool set against black sand and red cliffs. The lagoon is inaccessible to better preserve it, but the viewpoint above makes for the perfect place to take pictures before wandering down to the adjacent beach. Then, top off your visit by dining at El Diablo, a restaurant poised right next to a lava pit used to grill meat to perfection. Can you say delish?

PRO TIP: Budget-conscious travelers should visit the bordering Parque Natural de Los Volcanes instead since it’s free and no obligatory guide is needed as long as you stay on the indicated trails. As the park is the site of Caldera Blanca Volcano –the highest and widest volcano in Lanzarote– and filled with a multitude of lava tunnels and lakes on top of volcanic craters and cones, try not to press your luck. 

 
 

3. Take Up Surf Lessons in Caleta de Famara

Many travelers head to Lanzarote for the blustering surf rather than black sand, and Caleta de Famara is Lanzarote’s surfing capital, located to the north. With steady Atlantic swells and a laid-back beach-town vibe, the wide sandy bay makes it a great training ground for novices, while more experienced surfers can test their skills further out. 

Even if you’ve never done watersports, there are several surf schools offering group or multi-day courses, as well as various surf camps where accommodation is included. Why not combine the experience with a yoga retreat or change to windsurfing or kitesurfing for extra excitement? If money is no expense, you can even book yourself an individual class for more focused guidance. Whether you’re catching your very first wave or polishing your technique, Caleta de Famara provides the perfect setting for a surf holiday in the Canary Islands.

PRO TIP: Shop around for the best package, but operators like Calima Surf School and Red Star Surf come highly recommended. 

4. Explore the Depths in a Submarine in Puerto del Carmen

Ever ridden in a submarine before? For a truly unique experience, climb aboard at Puerto del Carmen and descend 30 meters below the waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Submarine Safari is an underwater journey that lets you peek into a world normally reserved for divers as you pass shipwrecks, volcanic reefs, and marine life like rays, barracudas, and even the occasional shark. Simply book an early-morning or midday tour so that the lighting makes the water almost crystalline. 

While not recommended for claustrophobics, the fully-pressurized submarine is very roomy, and the views from the large windows are unmatched. Included in the hour-long tour is an audio guide provided in at least 5 languages, so you can uncover more about the island’s biodiversity. This activity is an excellent option for travelers of all ages, especially those curious about the ocean’s mysteries without needing to swim or dive. Who knows? You might even spot Davy Jones’ Locker. 

PRO TIP: Snag a seat near the pilot at the front of the boat for the best views, starting on the left side and switching to the right if there’s room on the return leg. 

 
 

5. Try Kayaking in Playa Blanca

If you’re a kayaking fanatic like me, one of your first destinations should be Playa Blanca. Lanzarote’s liveliest resort town is also a hub for watersports, thanks to its calm currents and impressive coastal scenery. You can rent a kayak to explore on your own or try a guided tour to know more about the region’s hidden gems. These excursions often take you around volcanic cliffs and into secret bays, with opportunities to stop for snorkeling along the way. 

The nearby Papagayo Beach is especially popular for kayaking due to its sheltered coves and crystal-clear water. If you’d like to add some variety, rent a jet ski or charter a private motorboat, or even go parasailing for a more high-energy day on the water. There’s something for every pace, from leisurely paddles to adrenaline-filled adventures. You’ll be merrily rowing yourself along before you know it.

PRO TIP: While in the area, stop by Piscinas Naturales Charcones, a seaside swimming hole surrounded by volcanic rock. Playa Blanca also has some of the best nightlife in Lanzarote so hang around until after dark.

6. Discover the Way of Water at the Aquarium or Aquapark

Lanzarote Aquarium in Costa Teguise is not only the biggest aquarium in Lanzarote but also in all the Canary Islands, showcasing an extensive collection of marine species across over 30 tanks holding one million liters of seawater. Voyage into an underwater world without stepping into the ocean as you wander through glass tunnels surrounded by sharks, rays, and a kaleidoscope of fish. There are also touch pools where children and adults alike can feel starfish and sea cucumbers for an interactive experience. The aquarium focuses on both Atlantic species and tropical ecosystems, making a visit both educational and entertaining as part of their conservation program. Too boring for you? Adventure seekers can also go diving with sharks for an extra shot of adrenaline. 

Still not entertained? Perhaps a trip to the waterpark is just what you need, and luckily for you, Lanzarote is home to a few. The most popular aquaparks are Coste Teguise Aquapark, which features rapids and a looping double slide, and Aqualava Water Park in Playa Blanca, boasting heated pools, several slides, and a lazy river. Go ready to make a splash!

PRO TIP: Book tickets in advance to receive discounts and/or avoid surge-pricing during peak season.

 
 

7. Book a Dolphin-Watching Cruise for Sunset

Haven’t got enough of the water yet? Then set sail for a dolphin-watching cruise since few experiences rival observing the world’s cutest aquatic mammals against the backdrop of a Lanzarote sunset. For traveling couples, this activity is about as romantic as you can get, but nature enthusiasts of all ages are sure to delight in the experience. Tours typically occur from sun-up to sun-down, but the best time would be at the golden hour, when the sun’s rays reflect off the water in warm waves of color.

Choose either a catamaran cruise or speedboat tour since both offer the chance to behold these playful creatures in the wild, with some tours even spotting whales depending on the season. Many trips include drinks, snacks, and time to relax onboard while enjoying the island’s coastline from a new perspective. Eco-conscious travelers can also select operators that use quieter or zero-emission vessels, creating a more sustainable way to enjoy Lanzarote’s marine life. How many dolphins can you spot?

PRO TIP: If you don’t mind getting a bit splashed occasionally, grab a seat at the front of the boat for the best views. 

8. Go Off-Roading by Buggy

After all that aquatic fun, perhaps you’d prefer a change of pace. For an unforgettable adventure on dry land, try off-roading through Lanzarote’s volcanic terrain. The rugged landscape is often compared to the surface of Mars, so go off the beaten path on a guided tour, passing everything from lava fields and rock quarries to panoramic viewpoints such as Peñas del Chache, the island’s highest peak, or El Cuervo, an accessible crater. 

Want to steer the buggy yourself? Driving isn’t a problem as long as you’ve had a valid driving license for more than 2 years. These 3-hour trips usually include hotel pick-up and drop-off, all safety gear, photo ops, and experienced guides who share insights about the island’s geology and culture. Buggies seat 2-4 people, so the more, the merrier to save on expenses. This experience is ideal for couples, groups, or anyone wanting a more thrilling excursion since it’s a fun, fast-paced way to see parts of Lanzarote that most visitors never reach. 

PRO TIP: Book a tour that explores Las Grietas, an incredible rock formation that might be the most picturesque stop. 

 
 

9. Visit Natural & Man-Made Wonders

Lanzarote’s surreal scenery is sprinkled with both natural marvels and artistic creations shaped by beloved local architects, like César Manrique. Located to the north is Cueva de los Verdes, a lava tube formed about 20,000 years ago during the eruption of Monte Corona. Now explore the strange rock formations, featuring a 2-km illuminated cave, a 500-seat concert hall and an underwater section known as the Tunnel of Atlantis. The latter holds the claim as the world’s longest submerged tube at 1.5 kilometers, reflecting an eerie underwater realm, The 50-minute tour generally ends at the Gorge of Death, a staggering cliff overlooking a dark cavern. 

After staring into the abyss, visit the nearby Jameos del Agua, where volcanic caves are transformed into cultural landmarks, blending raw geology with striking design. Similarly created by the eruption of Monte Corona, the site consists of three main caverns, a 550-person natural auditorium, an international restaurant, along with a secret entrance to the Tunnel of Atlantis. Upgrade your ticket to include a visit to Casa de los Volcanes, a center dedicated to teaching Lanzarote’s volcanology through interactive simulations. You can also attend Jameos Night, a sensory experience blending nature, art, and gastronomy for a truly unique experience.

For claustrophobic travelers, there’s also Jardín de Cactus, a beautiful open-air museum of desert plants, and Museo Lagomar –built into caves and cliffs by the same architect as Cueva de los Verdes– which offers a glimpse into the architect’s vision of harmony between nature and art. These sites are affordable must-sees for understanding the one-of-a-kind character of Lanzarote.

PRO TIP: Book your tickets for Cueva de los Verdes to coincide with a concert in its auditorium for the unbeatable acoustic experience. 

10. Dive Down to Atlantis

Did you know Lanzarote is home to Europe’s first underwater sculpture museum, the Atlantic Museum? Nestled just off the coast of Playa Blanca at a depth of 12-14 meters, divers can explore hauntingly beautiful sculptures, and travelers of all experience levels are welcome. The 300+ life-sized figures you’ll uncover are designed to encourage ecological growth but are certain to leave visitors with nothing but chills.

For non-divers, a great alternative experience is Sea Trek in Coste Teguise, a helmet dive that allows you to walk on the seabed while surrounded by aquatic specimens. Relish the sensation of walking on the moon at zero gravity while at the bottom of the ocean among mesmerizing marine life. Both experiences are extraordinary ways to mix art, conservation, and adventure, making them some of Lanzarote’s most unique attractions.

 
 
 

Final Thoughts

 

Regardless of whether you’re visiting Lanzarote for one week or two, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained from dawn until dusk and beyond. The island is a beach-lover’s paradise, especially for its diverse palette featuring gold, white, and black sands. Thrillseekers can also rejoice with plenty of outdoor activities, from surfing and diving to hiking and spelunking. 

Moreover, traveling between the Canary Islands is made easy by local and private ferries, meaning you have even more territory to uncover. Visit other nearby islands such as Fuerteventura, Lobos Island, or La Graciosa Island, each with its own hidden charms. For connoisseurs, La Geria has various vineyards offering wine tasting sessions whose flavor profiles are unique to the island due to its volcanic soil. Lanzarote might be small, but it’s certainly a heavy hitter that packs a punch, deserving just as much recognition as the more popular Canary Islands. I’m sure you’ll agree soon enough!

Write me when you get there!

M