The best beaches in Lanzarote: coves, golden sand and volcanic landscapes

Beaches·LIVVO Team

The beaches of Lanzarote have a beauty different from the tropical postcard. Here the sea meets the lava, the sand shifts from gold to black and the wind is part of the landscape as much as the sun. Choosing the best beaches in Lanzarote depends on the kind of trip: looking for calm waters for a family day is not the same as searching for a wild cove, a beach with services or a perfect spot to walk without watching the clock.

Southern beaches: calm waters and long days

The south of Lanzarote concentrates some of the most sought-after beaches for those travelling in search of rest. Around Playa Blanca you'll find beaches with clear waters, a well-kept atmosphere and good connections to hotels, restaurants and seafront walks. It is an especially comfortable area for families, couples and travellers who want to combine beach, gastronomy and lodging without depending too much on the car.

The Playas de Papagayo usually take the top spots on any list of must-sees. Their fame is more than justified: sheltered coves, turquoise water and an almost untouched landscape inside the Monumento Natural de Los Ajaches. It's worth arriving early, bringing water and respecting the surroundings, because part of the charm lies precisely in their natural character.

Family-friendly beaches with services

For those looking for comfort, Playa Flamingo, Playa Dorada or some areas of Puerto del Carmen work very well. They are accessible beaches, with services nearby and usually easier for swimming. They are also a good option if you travel with children or if you prefer to have restaurants, shops and a seafront promenade just minutes away.

Wild beaches to see Lanzarote in another way

Lanzarote also has beaches that are enjoyed more with the eyes than with the towel. Famara, in the northwest, is one of them. Its enormous stretch of sand facing the cliff is one of the most powerful landscapes on the island. It is a place deeply tied to surfing, long walks and sunsets that stay with you. Bathing may depend on the state of the sea, but the visit is worthwhile even without going into the water.

Which beach to choose for your trip

If you're looking for tranquillity and scenery, Papagayo is a safe bet. If you travel with family, the south offers comfortable and protected options. If you want surf, a young vibe and spectacular views, Famara is essential. And if what you want is to have the beach close to your accommodation, Playa Blanca or Puerto del Carmen make for very easy holidays.

In Lanzarote, the best beach is not always the most famous. Sometimes it's the one you find after a road through lava, the one that appears around a curve or the one you choose to stay on until the sun goes down.

Frequently asked questions

It depends on your trip: Papagayo for scenery and almost untouched coves, the south (Playa Blanca, Flamingo or Dorada) for families and convenience, and Famara for surfing and spectacular sunsets.

The southern beaches, such as Playa Flamingo, Playa Dorada or parts of Puerto del Carmen, are accessible, with services nearby and calmer waters, ideal for families.

They are sheltered coves of turquoise water within the Los Ajaches Natural Monument, near Playa Blanca. It's best to go early, bring water and respect the surroundings, as their charm lies in their natural character.

Famara stands out for its huge stretch of sand beneath the cliff, but swimming depends on the state of the sea, as it is a surf area with currents. It's worth the visit even if you don't go into the water.