Lanzarote: Perfect Mix of Beach and Culture

When the time came to book my summer vacay, I knew I wanted a mix of beachy vibes and cultural flair. Plus, I had made a little New Year’s promise to myself: visit at least a couple of places I’d never been before. My usual go-to spots in mainland Spain were way too hot this summer, so I looked elsewhere – and that’s when a friend suggested the Canary Islands. Moderate temperatures all year round? Yes, please! Lanzarote it was – and what a great decision that turned out to be.

Lanzarote – Some General Facts 

Lanzarote looks like something straight out of a sci-fi movie. When I first arrived, I was struck by its surreal volcanic landscape – dramatic lava fields, endless stretches of golden sand, and quirky art installations by local legend César Manrique. It’s the kind of place where modern art meets Mother Nature in the coolest way possible. If you’re into natural beauty, unique architecture, and long, uncrowded beaches, Lanzarote absolutely deserves a spot on your travel wish list.

Puerto del Carmen – My Home for Two Blissful Weeks 

Puerto del Carmen – My Home for Two Blissful Weeks

I stayed in Puerto del Carmen, a buzzing resort town on the island’s southeastern coast. It has a little bit of everything: long sandy beaches, a lively promenade full of shops, bars, and restaurants, and that easygoing holiday vibe that makes you instantly relax. The golden sand and turquoise water gave off some serious Caribbean vibes!

While I was more than happy lounging on the beach with an iced coffee and people-watching, adrenaline junkies around me were busy paragliding, surfing, or speeding across the waves on jet skis. 

🏖️ Feeling Active? Here Are My Top Things To Do Around Puerto del Carmen

Because let’s face it – lying on the beach is great, but sometimes you get that little itch to explore, right? Here are my favorite low-effort, high-reward activities for sunny days around town.

 1️⃣ Walk to Playa de Los Pocillos

A lovely 4–5 km coastal walk takes you from Puerto del Carmen to Playa de Los Pocillos. You’ll enjoy ocean views, gentle sea breezes, and maybe even a dolphin sighting if you’re lucky!

There are plenty of spots to stop along the way for a quick swim or a drink. I especially loved the golden sand against the clear blue sea – photo heaven!

Keep an eye out for local wildlife and vibrant marine life visible in the clear waters. You can also opt to walk along the promenade as well. The route is dotted with cafes and bars, so you can reward yourself with a cool drink or a tasty snack. The vibrant contrast of the golden sand and turquoise sea makes for fantastic photo ops. So be sure to capture every moment of this scenic adventure! 

 

 

 

 2️⃣ Head the Other Way: Discover the Old Town & Port

Walking in the opposite direction brings you to the charming Old Town and the lively port area. Narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed buildings, and cozy seafood restaurants – this is where Puerto del Carmen’s heart beats slower and sweeter.

We found a little craft beer and cocktail bar with nightly live music and a super laid-back crowd. Nothing beats sipping a cold drink while watching the sunset over the harbor.

 Beers n’ Roses: The Perfect Place to Watch the Sunset! 

 

 

3️⃣ Half-Day Thrill: Timanfaya National Park

Looking for something truly unforgettable? Book a guided bus tour to Timanfaya National Park – trust me, it’s worth every minute. Driving there by car usually involves painfully long queues, so the bus tour is both smarter and more relaxing.

The park itself is out of this world: lava fields, craters, and geothermal demos that prove the earth underneath is still very much alive. They even grill your food over volcanic heat – how cool is that?

 

The volcanic wonderland of Timanfaya offers a unique glimpse into nature’s power. Your trip will take you through the park’s surreal landscape of craters and lava fields, where the barren, otherworldly scenery feels like stepping onto another planet. Witness geothermal demonstrations, such as steam geysers and scorching heat from the ground, showcasing the park’s ongoing volcanic activity. If you decide to visit the park’s restaurant, your food will be cooked solely through the scorching heat the ground provides. It’s pretty amazing to see!

 For a touch of excitement, opt for a camel ride across the volcanic terrain for a truly unforgettable experience. The park’s volcanic origin makes for incredible photo opportunities, and the sheer scale of the landscape is awe-inspiring. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and take lots of pictures to capture the striking contrasts of black lava against bright, clear skies! 

 4️⃣ Stylish Detour: Puerto Calero by Water Taxi

Another fun activity for those wanting to explore the surroundings of Puerto del Carmen is a short trip to Puerto Calero.  

Puerto Calero is an elegant marina only 6 Kilometers away from Puerto del Carmen known for its upscale atmosphere and stunning coastal views. It has a very relaxed vibe and boasts a range of stylish boutiques, sophisticated restaurants, and waterfront cafes. It’s a great spot to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade, admire luxury yachts, or savor a meal with a sea view. 

The nicest and most exciting way to get there is by water taxi from the marina in Puerto del Carmen. A round trip will cost you around  €18 and it will take you 20-25 minutes to get to Puerto Calero.  I’d recommend that you take the first water taxi there and arrive before the rest of the tourists. Then make your way to the lively market where you can browse local crafts, savor delicious snacks and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Grab a drink or snack from one of the many waterfront cafés before you head back to Puerto del Carmen. 

Finnegan’s in the Port

 We decided to have some iced coffee at this awesome place right by the water. Lots of people decided to grab some late breakfast and we noticed they had lots of great breakfast options. Their lunch menu also looked promising. Prices were very affordable, the service friendly and the views outstanding. 

 

 

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