Lanzarote, a jewel in the Canary Islands archipelago, offers an ideal blend of sun-soaked beaches, otherworldly landscapes, and family-friendly attractions. This volcanic paradise has evolved into a premier destination for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. From pristine shores to fascinating geological wonders, Lanzarote caters to diverse interests and age groups, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience for all.
The island's unique charm lies in its ability to seamlessly combine natural beauty with well-designed tourist infrastructure. Families can explore dramatic lunar-like terrains, lounge on golden beaches, and immerse themselves in rich cultural experiences. With its year-round mild climate, Lanzarote presents an appealing escape for those looking to create lasting memories in a truly extraordinary setting.
Playa Blanca: Lanzarote's premier family resort town
Nestled on the southern tip of Lanzarote, Playa Blanca has established itself as the go-to destination for families seeking a perfect balance of relaxation and excitement. This charming resort town offers a slower pace of life compared to its bustling counterparts, making it ideal for those traveling with children of all ages.
Marina Rubicon: luxury yachting and waterfront dining
At the heart of Playa Blanca's allure is the sophisticated Marina Rubicón. This upscale harbor area serves as a hub for family-friendly activities and culinary delights. Parents and children alike can marvel at the array of luxury yachts docked in the marina while enjoying a leisurely stroll along the promenade. The area boasts a selection of family-oriented restaurants offering everything from local Canarian cuisine to international favorites, ensuring even the pickiest eaters are satisfied.
Aqualava Waterpark: thrilling slides and relaxation pools
For families seeking aquatic adventures, Aqualava Waterpark provides an exhilarating day out. This Polynesian-themed water park features a variety of slides and attractions suitable for different age groups. Toddlers can splash around in shallow pools while older children and adults tackle more challenging rides. The park's geothermally heated pools ensure comfortable swimming temperatures year-round, a unique feature that sets Aqualava apart from other water parks.
Playa Dorada: golden sands and gentle waters for toddlers
Playa Dorada, or "Golden Beach," lives up to its name with its expansive stretch of soft, golden sand. This Blue Flag beach is particularly well-suited for families with young children due to its gentle slope into the sea and calm waters. The beach is equipped with excellent facilities, including sunbeds, parasols, and beachside cafes, making it easy for families to spend an entire day by the shore.
Puerto del Carmen: blend of beach life and family entertainment
Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote's largest and most popular resort, offers a vibrant atmosphere that appeals to families seeking a mix of relaxation and entertainment. This former fishing village has transformed into a bustling tourist hub while retaining much of its traditional Canarian charm.
Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park: wildlife encounters and western shows
A highlight for many families visiting Puerto del Carmen is Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park, an animal park and western-themed attraction. Children can get up close with a variety of animals, including sea lions, birds of prey, and reptiles. The park also features educational shows and interactive experiences, such as pony rides and gold panning. In the evenings, the park transforms into a lively venue for country and western nights, complete with line dancing and barbecue dinners.
Playa Grande: extensive beach with family-friendly facilities
Playa Grande, the main beach of Puerto del Carmen, stretches for nearly 2 kilometers along the resort's coastline. This Blue Flag beach offers ample space for families to spread out and enjoy the sun and sea. The beach is well-equipped with lifeguard services, shower facilities, and beach bars, ensuring a comfortable and safe environment for family beach days.
Biosfera Plaza: shopping and cinema complex for all ages
For days when the beach doesn't beckon, Biosfera Plaza provides an excellent alternative. This modern shopping center features a mix of local and international brands, as well as a multiplex cinema showing the latest releases in various languages. The rooftop area of the complex offers stunning views of the coastline and hosts occasional events and activities, making it a versatile destination for family outings.
Costa Teguise: watersports haven for active families
Costa Teguise, situated on the eastern coast of Lanzarote, is a purpose-built resort that caters exceptionally well to families with a penchant for water-based activities. Its sheltered beaches and consistent trade winds make it a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts of all levels.
Aquapark Costa Teguise: multi-level water attractions
The Aquapark Costa Teguise is a major draw for families visiting the area. This expansive water park features a diverse range of attractions suitable for various age groups and thrill levels. From gentle slides for younger children to adrenaline-pumping rides for teenagers and adults, the park ensures entertainment for the whole family. The park also includes relaxation areas and on-site restaurants, allowing for full-day excursions.
Pueblo Marinero: charming square with family restaurants
At the heart of Costa Teguise lies Pueblo Marinero, or the "Fisherman's Village." This picturesque square, designed by renowned Canarian architect César Manrique, captures the essence of traditional island architecture. Families can enjoy alfresco dining at the various restaurants surrounding the square, many of which offer child-friendly menus. The relaxed atmosphere and occasional live music make it an ideal spot for leisurely family evenings.
Timanfaya National Park: volcanic landscapes and geothermal marvels
No family trip to Lanzarote is complete without a visit to the otherworldly Timanfaya National Park. This vast expanse of volcanic terrain offers a unique opportunity for families to witness the raw power of nature and learn about the island's geological history.
El Diablo Restaurant: geothermal cooking demonstrations
Perched atop a volcanic peak, El Diablo Restaurant provides not only panoramic views of the park but also a fascinating dining experience. Families can watch in awe as chefs prepare meals using the geothermal heat from the dormant volcano below. This unique cooking method serves as an excellent educational opportunity, demonstrating the practical applications of natural thermal energy.
Camel rides at Echadero de Los Camellos
For a truly memorable experience, families can embark on a camel ride through the volcanic landscape at Echadero de Los Camellos. These gentle giants, historically used for agricultural purposes on the island, now offer visitors a unique perspective of the rugged terrain. The short trek provides excellent photo opportunities and a chance for children to connect with these fascinating animals.
Montañas del Fuego: guided bus tours through lava fields
To fully appreciate the vast expanse of Timanfaya's volcanic landscape, families can join guided bus tours through the Montañas del Fuego or "Fire Mountains." These tours offer insight into the park's formation and ongoing geothermal activity. Stops along the route include demonstrations of the intense heat just below the surface, where water poured into bore holes instantly erupts as steam geysers.
César Manrique foundation: art and nature fusion for curious minds
The César Manrique Foundation provides an enriching experience for families interested in art, architecture, and environmental conservation. This cultural center, housed in the artist's former home, showcases Manrique's vision of harmonizing art with nature.
Taro de Tahíche: Manrique's subterranean home and gallery
The foundation's main building, Taro de Tahíche, is a marvel of architectural ingenuity. Built within five volcanic bubbles, the structure seamlessly integrates with its surroundings. Families can explore the various rooms and galleries, each offering a unique perspective on Manrique's artistic philosophy. The subterranean areas are particularly fascinating, with rooms and corridors carved directly into the volcanic rock.
Jameos del Agua: underground concert hall and albino crab habitat
Another of Manrique's masterpieces, Jameos del Agua, combines natural wonder with artistic vision. This series of lava caves has been transformed into a cultural complex featuring an underground concert hall, restaurant, and swimming pool. The site is also home to a species of blind albino crabs, found nowhere else in the world, adding an element of ecological interest for curious young minds.
Mirador del Rio: panoramic views of la Graciosa island
Perched high on the Famara cliffs, the Mirador del Río offers breathtaking views of the neighboring island of La Graciosa. This architectural marvel, another Manrique creation, blends seamlessly into the clifftop. Families can enjoy the panoramic vistas from the large windows or the outdoor viewing platform, providing an unforgettable perspective of Lanzarote's dramatic coastline.
Lanzarote's diverse attractions offer something for every family member, from sun-seekers to adventure enthusiasts and culture aficionados. The island's commitment to sustainable tourism, largely influenced by César Manrique's vision, ensures that its natural beauty and cultural heritage are preserved for future generations to enjoy. Whether exploring volcanic landscapes, lounging on pristine beaches, or immersing in local art and culture, families are sure to create lasting memories on this extraordinary Canary Island.