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Lanzarote holidays serve up year-round summer weather and sandy beaches with the sci-fi-style scenery of Timanfaya National Park.
Sunny Lanzarote
Lanzarote’s a long shot off being the biggest of the Canary Islands. But we all know size doesn’t matter… Good-time seaside resorts are parallel parked along its south coast, while Timanfaya National Park is the star in the north. It’s also the closest of the lot to Africa, which means it bakes in the sun all year round – that’s some solid tanning time.
All the beaches
Considering its teeny size, Lanzarote’s beach game is still strong. Places like Playa Blanca and Playa de los Pocillos have got Blue Flag status. The latter’s also backed by a prom that runs all the way to Puerto del Carmen, so a night out’s not a trek either.
Natural beauty
Volcanic eruptions in the 18th century spewed lava all over the island’s countryside, leaving some extra-terrestrial landscapes to phone home about. You can watch spurting geysers, check out the Mars-like lava fields and see fish grilled over a volcano vent. There are loads of manmade marvels as well, courtesy of artist César Manrique. He’s the one behind the famous Mirador del Rio viewpoint and you can thank him for the sugar cube buildings, too.
Lots to do
As far as holidays to Spain go, Lanzarote’s got its fair share of resorts. Puerto del Carmen brings the theme park, mall and nightlife, while Costa Teguise is stocked with a waterpark and an aquarium. They’ve also got plenty of bars and restaurants – from tapas bars to fast food joints. If you’d prefer something sleepier, there are some cute fishing villages to catch your eye, too.
Best time to go to Lanzarote
You’re getting a real winner with a Lanzarote holiday. There’s no real bad time to visit. It’s on the same latitude line as Florida and the Bahamas, so temperatures don’t tend to dip under 16˚ C in winter, and summer stays around 25˚ C. Plus, it’s a lot less humid than its sister islands.
Best resorts in Lanzarote
Lanzarote’s capital is on the south coast, so claims plenty of sun and a sandy beach. It’s fairly chill for a capital, too, with cute backstreets around the church and lagoon, a couple of castles and buzzing shopping areas. Ofc, you can also spot a few César Manrique creations here.
Lanzarote’s OG resort, just a 10-minute drive from the airport. It’s giving Brits abroad, with bars, pubs, clubs and plenty of watersports. It’s the buzzing hub of the island and has become its most popular pick, spanning seven kilometres of the south coast.
This part is a bit more quiet and sophisticated if you want to escape the big bars. It used to be a small fishing village but the nearby port with ferries to Fuerteventura mean it’s a prime spot. There are three sheltered bays and Marina Rubicon’s shops are worth a browse.
Your classic beach resort with five strong sandy picks, palm trees and plenty of bars. Bastian Beach is a popular sheltered spot, Playa Cucharas is a powdery stretch and Playa Jabillo’s pretty peaceful. Pueblo Marino’s for shopping, there’s a waterpark and Mount Tahiche as you head inland.
Matagorda’s nice and easy from the airport. There’s a good selection of bars and restaurants, Irish bars, sports bars etc. and a lot of them come with a sea view along the prom – cyclists and runners love it, heading to Puerto del Carmen one way and Arrecife the other.
One of the three ‘Great Beaches of Puerto del Carmen’. It’s got a low-key vibe but there are still bars along the prom – Puerto del Carmen is just a 15-minute walk down there. The beach is a big one, with golden sand and lovely calm waters that make it so popular.
This is a small marina resort, so what it lacks in beach, it makes up for in super-yacht-spotting. Every Tuesday and Friday morning there’s the Puerto Calero market and there are a few boujie boutiques and big-name brands back from the waterfront.
Popular Lanzarote holiday deals
Hotel H10 Timanfaya Palace
Glasgow - 7 Nights - Half Board
Based on 2 Adults - 8 May 2025
Riu Paraiso Lanzarote
Glasgow - 7 Nights - All Inclusive
Based on 2 Adults - 8 May 2025
H10 Rubicon Horizons Collection
Glasgow - 7 Nights - Half Board
Based on 2 Adults - 8 May 2025
Secrets Lanzarote Resort and Spa
London Luton - 7 Nights - Bed and Breakfast
Based on 2 Adults - 11 May 2025
HL Rio Playa Blanca
London Gatwick - 7 Nights - All Inclusive
Based on 2 Adults - 4 May 2025
Why pick Lanzarote holidays
FAMILY-FRIENDLY VIBES
PARTY WITHOUT THE PRICES
VOLCANIC SCENES
BIG BEACH ENERGY
Your guide to Lanzarote
If you like some sightseeing with your days on the sand, these things to do are the perfect match.
- Timanfaya National Park – One of the island’s most iconic attractions. This park was shaped by massive volcanic eruptions in the 18th century, and you can explore on guided bus tours, which take you deep into the Montañas del Fuego, or Fire Mountains. And don’t miss the opportunity to dine at El Diablo, a restaurant where food is cooked using the natural volcanic heat.
- Jameos del Agua – Jameos del Agua is a masterpiece by César Manrique. Stroll through the illuminated caves, marvel at the turquoise underground lake and spot the tiny, endemic white crabs that live in its waters. In the evening, you can even go to a concert or event here – it’s got incredible acoustics. The café and gardens make it a great day out, too.
- Cueva de los Verdes – An extensive lava tube formed by an eruption over 4,000 years ago. It’s a real natural wonder, with dramatic rock formations and hidden chambers. You can learn about the cave’s historical use as a refuge from pirate attacks and its modern role in showcasing the island’s volcanic heritage.
- La Geria Wine Region – Here, grapevines are cultivated in volcanic ash, protected by semi-circular stone walls that you can spot all over the island. Visit family-run bodegas to taste unique Malvasia wines, known for their crisp and fruity flavours, and learn about the methods used to farm in this arid, volcanic land. This is no ordinary wine tasting…
- Mirador del Río – A clifftop viewpoint designed by César Manrique, 400 meters above sea level. You get some serious sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and nearby island of La Graciosa from up here. Walk through the cleverly integrated building, which blends seamlessly into the natural rock, check out the café with its floor-to-ceiling windows and definitely bring your camera.
Lanzarote holidays are known for their nightlife – here are the best picks…
- Puerto del Carmen – Head to Puerto del Carmen for the liveliest nightlife scene on the island. The main buzz is around Avenida de las Playas, home to the famous Centro Atlantico, where you can find multiple floors packed with bars, clubs and restaurants.
- Costa Teguise – In Costa Teguise, the party vibes are all along Avenida Islas Canarias. This area has a whole range of pubs, sports bars and late-night venues with live music. Costa Teguise’s nightlife is a bit more of a more relaxed alternative to Puerto del Carmen but there’s still lots going on.
- Marina Rubicón – For a more boujie night out, visit Marina Rubicón near the harbour in Playa Blanca. The restaurants here are tucked away in picturesque alleys and plazas, ideal for a romantic dinner or a quiet evening with mates. After your meal, explore the art gallery that stays open into the evening or stroll through the beautiful pond-dotted gardens – it’s all very gorg.
- Jameos del Agua – Go to a concert at Los Jameos del Agua, an iconic volcanic cave that’s been transformed into a cultural venue. It’s only a 25-minute drive from Costa Teguise and the acoustics and unique setting are something else.
Come back from your holiday to Lanzarote with something to show for it.
- Puerto del Carmen – Pop into the shops along Avenida de las Playas in Puerto del Carmen, where you’ll find plenty of souvenir shops.
- Arrecife – Stroll along Calle León y Castillo, where there are shops selling handmade pottery, textiles and other authentic crafts. On Saturdays, don’t miss the market near the Church of San Ginés – you’ll find colourful ceramics and fabrics there.
- Teguise Sunday Market – This is the largest and liveliest market on the island and it takes place every Sunday in Teguise, just a short bus ride from Costa Teguise. The stalls line the streets, offering everything from handmade lace to African tribal masks.
- Playa Blanca – For chic and upscale shopping, pick the El Paseo promenade in Playa Blanca, where stylish high-end boutiques line the waterfront. Nearby, Marina Rubicón is also home to a collection of Italian fashion and perfume shops, as well as art galleries.
Lanzarote and beach days just go together…
- Playa Grande – Head to the island’s most popular beach, Playa Grande – it’s a six-kilometre sweep of soft sand in Puerto del Carmen. This Blue Flag beach is perfect for families, with calm, safe waters and more adventurous types can go jet-skiing, parasailing and diving. There are also loads of beachfront cafés and bars, so you can grab a snack and stay for the whole day.
- Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise – For a laidback vibe, check out the coves of Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise. They’re both family-friendly beach towns with your classic soft sand and clear water, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The promenades also have plenty of spots for ice cream, seafood and drinks.
When you’re not working on that tan, these watersports picks are perfect for some action.
- Famara Beach – Head to Famara Beach on Lanzarote’s northwest coast – it’s one of the island’s top surf destinations. Known for its consistent waves and strong winds, this beach is loved by surfers and kiteboarders of all different levels. It also helps that the setting is beaut, with towering cliffs of the Risco de Famara as a dramatic backdrop and sunsets that you’ve got to see.
- Playa Chica – Playa Chica’s a small but popular beach in Puerto del Carmen. It’s a sheltered cove with calm waters, and so is a favourite for snorkelling and diving. Beneath the surface, you can spot schools of colourful fish and starfish – there are dive shops nearby to get some equipment. There are plenty of cafés and restaurants nearby, so it’s also a win for families to escape the buzz of the bigger beaches.
Seek out some more secluded spots like these…
- Playa Las Conchas – This beachy secret’s on the island of La Graciosa, just a 20-minute ferry ride from Lanzarote’s northern port of Orzola. Once you dock, you have to take a 4×4 taxi or hire a mountain bike to reach this breathtaking spot, famous for its white sand, turquoise waters and calm vibe. It’s also framed by a dramatic red volcano, so we promise it’s worth the effort.
- Playa de Papagayo – This beach is a collection of unspoiled coves in the southern part of Lanzarote, near Playa Blanca. They’re sheltered by rocky cliffs, creating calm waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling and, ofc, sunbathing. You have to drive there via a dirt road, which really makes it feel in the middle of nowhere – although, it’s a bit further out, it’s still worth getting here before midday to get the best parking spot and your pick of a place on the sand. Pack a picnic or grab a table at the small beachfront restaurant overlooking the sea.
The Canary Islands have their own tapas specialities you’ve deffo got to try.
- Papas Arrugadas – No visit to Lanzarote is complete without sampling the island’s beloved papas arrugadas, or ‘wrinkled potatoes’ – they’re tastier than they sound… They’re boiled in their skins with plenty of salt, then dried in the pan to create a crispy, salty crust. They also go perfectly with mojo sauce (see below, you’re welcome).
- Mojo Sauce – Pronounced ‘moho’, this garlicky, peppery sauce comes in two popular varieties. Mojo rojo has a spicy kick and vibrant red colour from paprika and sometimes chilli. Or, mojo verde is a fresh and tangy green one made with coriander or parsley. Pair them with papas arrugadas or drizzle over grilled fish.
- Sancocho Canario – A hearty dish enjoyed during celebrations and family gatherings. This meal combines salted fish and potatoes, topped with salsa and a generous helping of mojo sauce. It’s usually a communal dish, served in a big pan in the middle of the table for everyone to share.
Lanzarote’s volcanic landscape is as practical for growing wine as it is pretty to look at.
- Volcanic wines – You can’t beat the vineyards of La Geria here. Thanks to the island’s rich volcanic soil, grape varieties like Malvasía Volcánica produce citrusy and crisp wines.
- Barraquito Coffee – Treat yourself to a barraquito, a layered coffee drink that’s a Canarian specialty. It’s espresso, condensed milk, foamed milk and a hint of cinnamon or lemon zest. Some versions even include a splash of Licor 43 for an added kick.
- Local craft beers – Lanzarote’s growing a pretty decent craft beer scene, thanks to local breweries like Cervecería Malpeis. Their beers are crafted using traditional methods and you can try everything from crisp lagers to rich ales.
- Tropical juices – The sunny climate here was made for growing tropical fruits. Many local cafés and beachside bars serve refreshing drinks made from papaya, mango and passion fruit. For something different, try a blend of these fruits with local aloe vera.
What's on in Lanzarote
Plan your stay around these festivals and events. Or, if you’re already booked, see what’s on while you’re out there. Powered by OccasionGenius
Why we love Lanzarote
Popular holiday types
Holidays to Lanzarote are all about the warm weather, so, there’s no place for stress… Go All Inclusive and get all your food and drink included for one price upfront. It’s so much easier to budget and you can feel boujie ordering all the drinks you want at the same time.
Lanzarote loves a resort and so do families. Loads of hotels here have facilities, like pools and kids’ clubs, and a few even have waterparks to keep the little ones busy. If you’d rather go Self Catering, pick an apartment and you can still stick to your family routine on holiday.
Luckily, the weather’s pretty great in Lanzarote all year round, so you can forget the forecast. The climate is one reason why last-min trips here are always are great shout and another is it’s well known for its cheap flights.
Island destinations were made for luxury holiday options. Of course, there are five-star hotels here and they’re usually right by beaut beaches with terraces that capture the stunning landscape. Think private catamaran cruises, wine-tasting tours and spa treatments.
Lanzarote FAQs
Lanzarote is unique for its volcanic landscapes, designed by nature but enhanced by artist César Manrique – the dramatic Timanfaya National Park and Jameos del Agua are big reasons to visit. Its smaller size also makes it easy to explore in just a few days, with stunning beaches, family activities and world-class vineyards all in one place.
Yes, Lanzarote is a great starting point for exploring nearby islands. You can take a 20-minute ferry to La Graciosa and a 25-minute one to Fuerteventura for different daytrips. Or, hop on flights to Tenerife and Gran Canaria to stay in multiple places.
Yes, Lanzarote is very budget friendly. Affordable accommodation options range from self-catering apartments to budget hotels. Public transport and car hire are also reasonably priced, and loads of the classic attractions, like beaches and volcanic viewpoints, are completely free. Markets, like the one in Teguise, offer great souvenirs at low prices, and local dishes are always the most affordable.
Public transport and tours are great to get to the major attractions, but renting a car is the best way to explore the whole of Lanzarote. The roads are well-maintained, and parking is generally easy. A car’s especially useful for reaching remote beaches like Playa Las Conchas or scenic viewpoints like Mirador del Río.
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