Lanzarote Papagayo Beaches

Tucked away at the southern tip of Lanzarote, the Papagayo beaches are a series of sheltered coves set within the Los Ajaches natural monument. With their clear turquoise waters, soft golden sand and gentle cliffs, these beaches have long been a favourite among those of us who call the island home. Many visitors and locals alike consider them the most beautiful spots to relax by the sea.

If you ask around for a quiet, spacious beach in the south, most of us will send you straight to Playa Mujeres. It’s the first of the Papagayo coves you come to from the main track, and it never disappoints. The beach curves gently, offering lots of room to spread out, even when the sun is shining and the island is busy. The sand is soft and pale, and the water here is beautifully clear—just what you’d hope for on Lanzarote.

Families and couples who want a little more space often make their way here, and because it sits just a touch beyond the main Papagayo cove, it always feels peaceful. The walk down is gentle, and as you make your way, you’re treated to sweeping views of the coastline. It’s the sort of spot where you can simply sit back, watch the ships drift by on the horizon, and let the sound of the waves wash over you.

There aren’t any bars or restaurants at Playa Mujeres, so it’s best to pack a picnic and plenty of water. Settle in and enjoy a full day of sunshine and sea—just the way we like it here.

Playa del Pozo is just a short stroll further along the coast, and its peaceful, out-of-the-way setting is part of its charm. The sand is soft beneath your feet and the sea stays shallow for quite a distance, making it ideal for a gentle swim or just dipping in to cool off. With cliffs on either side, the cove feels safe and secluded—a true hidden gem that locals and those in the know quietly treasure.

You may come across friends sharing a picnic or hear the gentle sound of a guitar in the background, but there is always plenty of space to settle into your own peaceful corner. The mood is easy-going, with a friendly mix of locals and visitors who appreciate a quieter spot by the sea. Just remember, there is no natural shade here, so it is wise to bring a beach umbrella if you plan to stay a while.

Playa de Papagayo is probably the best known of all the beaches here, and with good reason. Its golden sand curves around in a gentle horseshoe, and on a sunny day the water takes on a beautiful turquoise hue. It is a little smaller than some of the other beaches nearby, but that only adds to its charm, giving it a cosy, picture-perfect atmosphere.

Just above the beach, perched on the cliffs, you will find a small chiringuito. It is the perfect spot to enjoy a cold drink or some freshly cooked fish while taking in what I think is one of the finest views anywhere on Lanzarote.

The bay is sheltered from the wind and waves, so the water is usually calm and ideal for swimming or snorkelling. For many people, this is the classic Papagayo experience, and if you only have time for one beach in this part of Lanzarote, I would happily recommend this one.

If you take a gentle stroll a little further along the coast, you will find Playa de la Cera, known to some locals as Playa del Caracol. Nestled between two low cliffs, this small cove has a wonderfully secluded feel. Couples often come here for a quiet escape, but truly, anyone who appreciates a peaceful day by the sea will feel right at home.

The sand here is soft underfoot and the sea is often calm, especially at low tide when you can wander between the coves and discover hidden corners that seem untouched by time. There are no facilities, just the gentle sound of the waves and the quiet company of others who have come to enjoy Lanzarote’s slower pace. Bring a picnic, whatever you need for the day, and settle in to soak up the simple, natural beauty that makes this spot so special.

If you wander a little further east, you will come to Playa del Congrio, a favourite for those who appreciate Lanzarote at its most natural and unspoilt. Here, the beach is a gentle blend of sand and pebbles, and even on busier days, there always seems to be space to stretch out and enjoy the peace. It is a popular spot for naturists and for anyone who simply wants to lose themselves in the wild beauty of the landscape for a while.

The cliffs and dunes that rise up behind the beach give Playa del Congrio its wonderfully untamed character. The sea here can be a little more spirited, so I always recommend keeping a watchful eye on younger swimmers. It is an ideal place for a long, leisurely walk, a peaceful picnic, or simply to soak up that special sense of freedom you find in Lanzarote’s wilder corners.

Tucked away at the far end of the Papagayo area, Playa Puerto Muelas is one of those hidden gems that locals quietly cherish. With its rustic campsite just behind the sand, the beach has a gentle, easy-going feel that draws in families, campers and anyone looking for a peaceful day by the sea.

The waves here are calm and the sand is soft beneath your feet, perfect for a barefoot stroll or a lazy afternoon. As evening falls, you’ll often find people gathered together, sharing food, laughter and the occasional tune drifting through the air. If you enjoy spending time in good company and want the chance to wander along nearby dunes and walking trails, Puerto Muelas is a spot I always recommend.

Facilities here are quite limited, with just a small kiosk at the main beach, so it is a good idea to come prepared. I always recommend bringing plenty of water, sun cream, a hat, and perhaps something to create a bit of shade. 

If you plan to explore the rockier coves, reef shoes can be very useful. You will not find sunbeds for hire here, just the simple beauty of an unspoilt, natural beach.