Looking for the best things to do in Lanzarote? Whether you’re after relaxing beaches, volcanic landscapes, family-friendly fun or incredible food, this island has something for everyone. Here’s our guide to the very best things to do in Lanzarote — updated for 2026 and written by the team at Optima Villas in Playa Blanca.
Lanzarote has over 100 beaches, from sheltered golden coves to wild, wave-battered surf spots. Here are three of the best:
At the southern tip of Lanzarote, the Los Ajaches Natural Park is home to a string of pristine sandy coves known as the Papagayo beaches. Regularly rated among the best beaches in Spain, these sheltered bays have calm, crystal-clear water and dramatic cliff scenery. They are easily reached from Playa Blanca on foot, by car or via the seasonal waterbus from the harbour.
On Lanzarote’s northwest coast, Famara is the island’s longest beach and its premier surf spot. The powerful Atlantic waves draw surfers from around the world, and several local surf schools offer lessons for beginners. Swimming is often restricted because of the strong currents, but the beach itself — backed by the towering Famara cliffs — is spectacular for a walk or a day watching the action.
In the heart of Playa Blanca, this sheltered 200-metre beach is protected by two breakwaters, making it ideal for families with young children. Lifeguards are on duty year-round, and the promenade behind the beach has restaurants, bars and a supermarket within easy reach.
Lanzarote’s unique volcanic landscape and the artistic legacy of César Manrique combine to create some truly one-of-a-kind attractions. These are the three you should not miss:
The most visited attraction on the island, Timanfaya — also known as the Fire Mountains — is a vast volcanic landscape created by eruptions between 1730 and 1736. The park covers 51 km² of dormant volcanoes, lava fields and dramatic rock formations that feel like the surface of another planet. The admission price includes parking and a guided bus tour through the Route of the Volcanoes, plus geothermal demonstrations at the Islote de Hilario where staff pour water into fissures to create instant geysers.
Tip: queues to enter by car can be very long in peak season. Booking a guided tour from Playa Blanca is often quicker and easier, as coaches get priority entry. You can book online through Civitatis or GetYourGuide.
Admission: €30 adults, €15 children (7–12), under 7 free
Open: Daily 9:30 am – 5:30 pm (last entry 3:45 pm)
Tickets: cactlanzarote.com
Created by César Manrique inside a volcanic lava tunnel, Jameos del Agua is a stunning fusion of nature and art. A stone staircase leads down into the Jameo Chico cave, where a crystal-clear underground lagoon is home to tiny blind albino crabs — a species found nowhere else on Earth. Beyond the cave, the Jameo Grande opens out into a tropical garden with an iconic turquoise pool and a 550-seat auditorium carved into the rock. The on-site Casa de los Volcanes museum is included in the ticket price.
Admission: €20 adults, €10 children (7–12), under 7 free
Open: Daily 10:00 am – 5:15 pm
Tickets: cactlanzarote.com
Another Manrique masterpiece, this viewpoint sits 479 metres above sea level on the Famara cliffs in the far north of the island. The building is built into the rock and almost invisible from outside. Step inside and you are rewarded with panoramic views across the strait of El Río to La Graciosa and the Chinijo Archipelago. There is a café inside with floor-to-ceiling windows — perfect for a coffee with a view.
Admission: €8.50 adults, €4.25 children (7–12), under 7 free
Open: Daily 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Tickets: cactlanzarote.com
None of these attractions are served by regular public buses, so you will need either a hire car or a guided tour. See our Lanzarote car hire guide for the best local rental companies.
Lanzarote’s markets are a great way to pick up local crafts, food and souvenirs. Here are the three best:
The biggest and most popular market in the Canary Islands, Teguise Market fills the old town every Sunday morning with over 400 stalls selling food, wine, crafts, clothing and souvenirs. Give yourself plenty of time to wander. The number 13 bus runs from Playa Blanca harbour at 9 am every Sunday, returning from Teguise at 1:30 pm — see our bus services guide for details.
Open: Every Sunday, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
A smaller, more local affair in the Charco de San Ginés area of the island’s capital. Fresh produce, local cheeses, mojo sauces and organic goods are the main draw.
Open: Every Saturday, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Right on the seafront in Playa Blanca, surrounded by yachts and waterfront restaurants. Stalls sell handmade crafts, clothing, jewellery and refreshments. A lovely way to spend a morning without leaving the resort. For more on the marina, see our Marina Rubicón guide.
Open: Every Wednesday and Saturday, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Looking for things to do in Lanzarote beyond the main sights? The island has a brilliant range of excursions and activities, both on and off the water.
Take a trip on the Sub Fun Tres yellow submarine, which dives to 30 metres so you can spot marine life through its 22 viewing windows. For something more adventurous, dive the Museo Atlántico — Europe’s only underwater sculpture museum, just off the coast of Playa Blanca. Guided dives are led by qualified ECO dive guides. Book via Submarine Safaris.
Lanzarote is a world-class surf destination. Beginners can take lessons at several schools on Famara beach, while experienced surfers will find excellent reef breaks around the island. If fishing is more your style, deep-sea fishing trips depart from Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen year-round.
Guided walking tours take you through Lanzarote’s volcanic landscapes, or you can rent a buggy and explore the trails around Timanfaya. Cycling is popular too — see our excursions guide for bike hire and tour options. For a full rundown of activities available from the resort, including boat trips, diving and quad tours, visit our Playa Blanca excursions page.
Lanzarote is a fantastic family destination with plenty to keep children of all ages entertained.
A Wild West-themed animal park in Puerto del Carmen with a zoo, live animal shows, a splash park and cowboy-themed activities. A free bus runs daily from Playa Blanca — check ranchotexaslanzarote.com for the timetable.
Open: Daily 9:30 am – 5:30 pm
Admission: Check the website for current prices
A riding centre near Puerto del Carmen offering pony rides, camel rides and horse-drawn wagon rides for younger children. A great option for animal-loving families.
Open: Daily 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Lanzarote’s biggest waterpark, with pools, slides and a splash zone. A fun day out for families, especially in the warmer months. Check aquaparkcostateguise.com for opening dates and prices.
Right in Playa Blanca, Aqualava is a smaller waterpark that’s perfect for younger children. With heated pools, slides and a lazy river, it’s an easy half-day out without leaving the resort.
Lanzarote’s food scene is one of the highlights of any holiday here. Fresh seafood, Canarian tapas and locally grown wine from the volcanic vineyards of La Geria are all worth seeking out. For our top picks in the resort, see our Playa Blanca restaurants guide. If you’re exploring the island, keep an eye out for these spots:
On the Avenida Marítima seafront promenade, La Chalanita is known for its stunning views across to Fuerteventura and excellent local fish and seafood. Grab a first-floor terrace table for al fresco dining at sunset.
A tiny, easy-to-miss local restaurant serving generous portions of home-cooked Canarian food at very reasonable prices. An authentic experience and a favourite with residents.
While exploring the wine region, stop at Bodegas La Geria for a tasting. The volcanic vineyards — where vines are grown in hollows dug into black volcanic ash — are unlike anything you will see elsewhere. For more on this area, see our Exploring Yaiza guide.
With so many things to do in Lanzarote, the hardest part is deciding where to start. Browse our collection of villas in Playa Blanca to find your perfect base, and explore our Lanzarote guide for everything from weather and ferries to healthcare and bus services. Check availability and book your Lanzarote holiday today.
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