Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca nestles in the south west corner of Lanzarote, looking out across the shimmering strait towards the golden sands of Fuerteventura. Over the past thirty years, this once quiet fishing village has gently grown into the island’s most laid-back resort. Unlike the lively nights of Puerto del Carmen or the energetic buzz of Costa Teguise, Playa Blanca has always drawn those who prefer a slower, more peaceful pace. It’s a favourite with couples, families with little ones, and anyone who wants to soak up the sunshine without the hustle and bustle.

For many of us, the real jewel of Playa Blanca is the Papagayo coastline, where a series of unspoilt turquoise coves sit tucked away inside the Los Ajaches nature reserve. These beaches are some of the most beautiful you’ll find anywhere in the Canaries. Alongside this, you’ll find the elegant Marina Rubicon, a lively and ever-expanding choice of restaurants, easy ferry trips over to Fuerteventura, and the wild volcanic landscapes just a short drive away. Whether you’re discovering Playa Blanca for the first time or returning for another visit, I hope this guide helps you make the most of everything our lovely resort has to offer.

Playa Blanca is blessed with some of the calmest, most welcoming beaches on the island, and it is easy to see why families return here year after year. Playa Dorada is the main stretch of sand, a gentle golden arc with low-rise hotels and a lovely promenade just behind. The sea here is shallow and wonderfully peaceful, thanks to the breakwaters that keep the Atlantic waves away. You will find everything you need for a relaxing day: Blue Flag quality, lifeguards during the season, sunbeds and parasols for hire, showers, toilets and even full disabled access with amphibious beach wheelchairs. It is a favourite spot for families with little ones, who can splash safely in the warm, gentle shallows while parents unwind nearby.

Just a short stroll to the east, Playa Flamingo offers a slightly smaller but just as inviting stretch of sand, with the same calm waters and excellent facilities. The promenade between Playa Dorada and Playa Flamingo is perfect for a leisurely walk, with plenty of restaurants and ice cream parlours to tempt you along the way. If you wander further towards the old town, you will come across smaller rocky coves where the water is crystal clear and snorkellers can discover colourful marine life among the volcanic rocks.

For many of us who live here, the real treasure is the Papagayo coastline. Just east of Playa Blanca, you will find a string of untouched coves nestled at the foot of the Los Ajaches cliffs, all within a protected nature reserve. Playa de Papagayo is the best known, with water so clear and turquoise you can spot every ripple of sand from above. The neighbouring beaches of Playa Mujeres, Playa del Pozo and Playa de la Cera are just as beautiful and often quieter, perfect if you are seeking a little more solitude. Getting there is part of the adventure: you can drive along a bumpy dirt track (there is a small entry fee), walk the scenic coastal path from Playa Blanca in about half an hour, or hop on a water taxi from the harbour during the summer months. Facilities are minimal, with just a simple beach bar at Papagayo itself, so it is wise to bring water, sunscreen and some shade. These wild, unspoilt beaches are a true Lanzarote experience, and that is exactly what makes them so special.

Marina Rubicon, tucked away at the western end of Playa Blanca, is a favourite spot for many of us who call the island home. This modern marina is beautifully designed, with space for everything from small sailing boats to Catamarans and the occasional superyacht. The wide promenade that winds around the harbour is always lively, and it is the perfect place to enjoy a gentle stroll or to sit and watch the world go by. With its palm trees, neat gardens and whitewashed buildings, the marina has a relaxed, upmarket atmosphere that feels both Mediterranean and unmistakably Lanzarote.

Around the marina, you will find a wonderful mix of restaurants, cafes, bars and small boutique shops. Dining by the water is always a treat here, especially as the sun slips down behind Montaña Roja and the boats sway gently in the harbour. On Wednesday and Saturday mornings, the Rubicon Market brings a real buzz to the area, with stalls offering everything from handmade jewellery and crafts to local food and aloe vera products. It is a much more enjoyable way to shop than browsing the usual tourist shops in town, and you are sure to find something special to take home.

If you fancy getting out on the water, the marina is the place to be. There are daily boat trips, from relaxing catamaran cruises along the Papagayo coast with stops for swimming and lunch, to deep-sea fishing adventures and dolphin or whale watching. 

Over the years, Playa Blanca’s restaurant scene has really come into its own, offering a wonderful mix of quality and choice. The Marina Rubicon waterfront is our favourite spot for dining, with places like Casa Brasa, El Almacen de la Sal and La Cocina de Colacho serving up creative Mediterranean and Canarian dishes in elegant surroundings overlooking the harbour. Most of the waterfront restaurants specialise in fresh fish and seafood, often landed by the local fleet and simply prepared with papas arrugadas and a generous spoonful of mojo verde.

Strolling along the main seafront promenade between Playa Dorada and the town centre, you will come across a wide range of restaurants to suit all tastes. Indian cuisine is especially popular here, with several restaurants earning loyal followings and glowing reviews. There are plenty of Italian spots too, where you can enjoy wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta. Chinese buffets offer a reliable option for families, while British-style pubs and cafes serve up everything from full English breakfasts to roast dinners and classic fish and chips for those who fancy a taste of home.

If you wander into the old town near the original harbour, you will find a handful of simple, authentic restaurants where Canarian home cooking is served at local prices. This is the place to sample traditional dishes like puchero canario, ropa vieja, garbanzas compuestas and freshly grilled fish, often brought in straight from the boats. Tapas bars dotted around the resort offer excellent small plates for sharing. As a guide, main courses on the promenade usually cost between 10 and 15 euros, while a meal at the marina waterfront tends to be a little more, around 15 to 25 euros. If you are planning to dine at one of the more popular marina restaurants during peak season, it is wise to book ahead.

The bar scene here in Playa Blanca is delightfully relaxed, especially when compared to the livelier nights up in Puerto del Carmen. You will find plenty of welcoming sports bars tucked into the commercial centres, where you can catch all the big matches, including Premier League football, Champions League, rugby and more on large screens. There are also several friendly Irish bars, where a pint of Guinness and some live music make for a cheerful evening out.

Down at Marina Rubicon, you can enjoy a sunset cocktail or a glass of crisp Lanzarote wine from the La Geria vineyards as you watch the yachts drift in the harbour. Wine bars are becoming more popular here, and the local Malvasia white is always a favourite. Along the seafront promenade, you will find cocktail bars serving up frozen margaritas, mojitos and sangria, often with happy hour offers in the early evening, making it easy to settle in and soak up the atmosphere.

Most bars in Playa Blanca tend to wind down by midnight or one in the morning, which suits many of us who appreciate a peaceful night’s sleep. This isn’t the place for all-night parties, and that’s exactly why so many visitors return year after year. If you are in the mood for a livelier night out, Puerto del Carmen is just a short taxi ride away.

Playa Blanca’s nightlife is understated, which is exactly how many of us here like it.  There are only a couple of  nightclubs, but that’s part of the charm.

Instead, evenings here revolve around a friendly circuit of bars offering live music, karaoke and quiz nights. It’s all about relaxed fun, without the noise and bustle you might find in the bigger resorts.

You’ll often hear live music drifting from the seafront bars and the Marina Rubicon, with talented local singers, acoustic duos and small bands playing familiar favourites most evenings during the season. Some of the bigger hotels also host evening entertainment, from tribute acts to cabaret and poolside shows, and these are sometimes open to everyone. Karaoke bars are a favourite with our British and Irish guests, and always guarantee a lively night out.

In summer and during local fiestas, Playa Blanca truly comes alive. The plazas fill with music, outdoor stages and fireworks light up the night sky. One of the highlights is the Fiesta de Nuestra Señora del Carmen in July, when the old harbour is filled with processions, music and celebrations in honour of the fishermen’s patron saint.

Shopping in Playa Blanca is a relaxed affair, with several areas to explore at your own pace. The main seafront promenade is lined with souvenir shops, beachwear boutiques, and friendly local businesses where you can pick up everything from sun hats to postcards. You will also find a handful of pharmacies, tobacco shops and places to book your next island adventure. Scattered throughout the resort are commercial centres like Papagayo and Rubicon, each offering their own mix of shops, restaurants and bars, perfect for a leisurely browse after a morning on the beach.

For those who enjoy a spot of boutique shopping, Marina Rubicon is a real treat. Here, independent stores offer everything from designer clothing and handmade jewellery to unique homewares and locally crafted gifts. The real highlight is the Rubicon Market, held every Wednesday and Saturday morning. It is a lively affair, with stalls brimming with handmade leather goods, silver jewellery, local cheeses, Lanzarote wines, cactus jams and aloe vera products. Many of us who live here consider it one of the island’s best markets, and it is always a pleasure to wander through and discover something new.

When it comes to everyday shopping, HiperDino is the go-to supermarket for most of us, with a spacious store in Playa Blanca where you can find all your groceries, local wines, sunscreen and household essentials at fair prices. For those last-minute bits and pieces, you will spot smaller Spar shops dotted around the resort. If you fancy a bigger market adventure, the Teguise Sunday market is well worth the 40-minute drive north. Set in the island’s historic old capital, it is a bustling day out with hundreds of stalls and a lively atmosphere.

Playa Blanca is a wonderful starting point for anyone keen to enjoy both the sea and the island’s unique landscapes. The waters around the Papagayo coves are beautifully clear, perfect for snorkelling among volcanic rocks and colourful fish. If you are interested in diving, there are friendly local centres offering courses and guided trips to some truly memorable spots, including the underwater sculptures of the Museo Atlantico. For those who prefer to stay above the waves, you will find paddle boards, kayaks and jet skis available for hire at Playa Dorada and down at the marina.

Families often enjoy a day at the Aqualava waterpark, which is easy to reach on foot from most parts of the resort. There are slides, a gentle lazy river, a wave pool and plenty of splash zones for younger children, making it a favourite with visitors of all ages. Another highlight is heading out from Marina Rubicon on a boat trip. Catamaran cruises along the Papagayo coast are especially popular, with stops for swimming and snorkelling, and lunch served on board. It is a lovely way to see the coastline from a different perspective.

One of the joys of staying in Playa Blanca is how easy it is to explore the island’s volcanic west coast. In just a short drive, you can visit El Golfo with its striking green lagoon, watch the waves crash through the volcanic tunnels at Los Hervideros, or wander among the salt pans at Salinas de Janubio. Timanfaya National Park, with its famous fire mountains and camel rides, is only half an hour away. Hiring a car from one of the local agencies is straightforward and gives you the freedom to discover Lanzarote at your own pace, just as we locals love to do.

Playa Blanca has long been a favourite for families, and it is easy to see why. The beaches at Playa Dorada and Playa Flamingo are sheltered and gentle, with shallow waters where little ones can paddle safely. Lifeguards are on hand during the main season, and all the facilities you might need are close by. You will also find several playgrounds dotted around the resort, including a lovely one near the seafront promenade, where children of all ages can enjoy climbing frames, swings and slides.

Aqualava waterpark is always a hit with families, offering plenty of water slides and splash zones to keep children happy for hours on end. Many of the bigger hotels and apartment complexes have their own children’s pools, play areas and kids’ clubs, so there is always something for younger guests to enjoy. Down on the main beaches, you can try banana boat rides or hire a pedalo, and in the evenings, a round of mini golf is a popular way for families to wind down together.

Most of the restaurants along the promenade and at the marina are very welcoming to families, and many have special menus just for children. The resort is wonderfully flat, making it easy to get around with a pushchair, and the wide pavements and pedestrian areas mean you can enjoy a relaxed stroll with little ones without worrying about traffic.

Playa Blanca gently unfolds along the southwest coast of Lanzarote, from the golden sands of Papagayo Beaches all the way to the El Faro Lighthouse. The landscape here is mostly flat, which makes it easy for everyone to get around, whether you are using a wheelchair, a mobility scooter or simply pushing a pram.

You will find taxis waiting at the marina, along the main promenade and in the heart of the old town, so getting around is never a problem. Journeys within Playa Blanca are usually just a few euros, and if you need to reach the airport, you can expect to pay around 50 to 60 euros for the 35 to 40 minute drive.

Playa Blanca is well connected by local buses, making it easy to explore both the resort and the wider island. There is a handy loop bus that links the main hotels with the town centre, marina and beaches, and it is either free or very affordable. If you fancy a day out in Arrecife or Puerto del Carmen, intercity buses run regularly, though not quite as often as in the north. The trip to Puerto del Carmen takes about half an hour, and Arrecife is just a little further.

If you want to discover Lanzarote at your own pace, hiring a car is a great option. There are plenty of rental companies in Playa Blanca itself, as well as at the airport. Parking here is usually straightforward, especially compared to Puerto del Carmen, and you will find free spaces at the marina and in the streets around the centre.

Right in the heart of Playa Blanca, you will find the local Centro de Salud, our public health centre. It is open on weekdays and is the place to go for non-urgent medical advice or minor injuries. If you are an EU citizen with a European Health Insurance Card, or a UK visitor with a Global Health Insurance Card, you can use the public healthcare system here. Do keep in mind that you may have to wait a little, and sometimes there can be a language barrier, but the staff are friendly and do their best to help.

There are also a number of private clinics in Playa Blanca, many of which are used to looking after visitors and have doctors who speak English and German. These clinics are usually the quickest option for things like ear infections, insect bites or other minor holiday mishaps, and you can expect to pay from around 50 to 80 euros for a consultation. Pharmacies, or farmacias as we call them here, are easy to spot by their green cross signs and you will find them both along the main promenade and in the shopping centres. They are very helpful and can often provide medicines over the counter that might need a prescription back home, including antibiotics and stronger pain relief.

If you ever need urgent help, just dial 112 for ambulance, police or fire services. The main hospital for the island is Hospital Doctor Jose Molina Orosa in Arrecife, which is about a 35 to 40 minute drive from Playa Blanca. I always recommend making sure you have good travel insurance before you come, as medical care and getting home can be very expensive without it.

One of the real pleasures of staying in Playa Blanca is how simple it is to hop over to Fuerteventura for the day. The Fred Olsen Express catamaran leaves from Marina Rubicon and will have you in Corralejo, right at the northern tip of Fuerteventura, in just about 25 minutes. If you prefer a more leisurely crossing and a lower fare, Naviera Armas runs a traditional ferry service as well.

Corralejo itself is a vibrant spot, known for its beautiful beaches, inviting old town, and a wide choice of restaurants. The sweeping sand dunes of the nature reserve are a real highlight and stretch for miles along the coast. It is a wonderful place for a day out. You can easily explore Corralejo on foot, or if you want to see more of Fuerteventura, it is worth arranging a hire car in advance. Return tickets usually cost between 25 and 35 euros per adult, depending on which ferry you choose and when you book. Booking online ahead of time often means you get the best deal. With several sailings each day in both directions, it is very straightforward to plan a full day exploring our neighbouring island.

Playa Blanca is just a short drive from Lanzarote’s dramatic volcanic west coast, a part of the island that always manages to take our breath away, no matter how often we go. In just fifteen or twenty minutes along the coastal road, you’ll find yourself right in the heart of some of Lanzarote’s most memorable scenery.

The Salinas de Janubio, the largest salt pans in the Canary Islands, are a spot we always love to visit. The geometric pools shimmer in gentle pinks, oranges and whites, set off beautifully by the deep black volcanic rock. If you pause at the viewpoint above, you’ll have the perfect vantage point to take in this colourful patchwork. Just a little further up the coast is Los Hervideros, where the Atlantic puts on a real show, surging through tunnels and arches in the lava cliffs.

From the viewing platforms, you can watch the waves crash and spray through the rocks, and it’s a sight that never loses its magic. Not far along the coast is El Golfo, a small fishing village famous for its vivid green lagoon, Charco de los Clicos, nestled at the base of a dramatic volcanic crater. The waterside restaurants here are some of our favourites for enjoying the freshest seafood you’ll find on the island.

Playa Blanca offers a wonderful range of places to stay, from simple self-catering apartments to luxurious five-star resorts. If you want to be close to the sea, the area around Playa Dorada and Playa Flamingo is where you will find most of the hotels and apartment complexes, just a few steps from the sand and the lively seafront promenade. The Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel Resort stands out as the best-known hotel in town, with its beautiful pools, relaxing spa, excellent choice of restaurants and direct access to the beach.

If you prefer a more upmarket and grown-up atmosphere, the Marina Rubicon area is a lovely choice. Here, you can enjoy waterfront dining just outside your door, and the apartments and villas around the marina are generally modern and very comfortable. The town centre, on the other hand, offers a good mix of mid-range hotels and self-catering apartments at more reasonable prices, all within an easy stroll of both the beaches and the marina.

If you are looking for more space and privacy, the Montaña Roja area and the outskirts of Playa Blanca have plenty of villas to choose from, which are perfect for families or groups of friends. Some of the larger hotels offer all-inclusive stays, but with so many excellent restaurants in town, many people prefer to go for half-board or self-catering so they can sample the local dining scene.