Lanzarote Playa de las Malvas

Playa de las Malvas is one of those hidden corners of Lanzarote that locals cherish. Set on the wild west coast near La Santa, it offers a glimpse of the island as it once was, long before the arrival of tourism. If you have spent a few days enjoying the resort beaches and find yourself longing for something more rugged and authentic, this is a place that truly rewards the adventurous. Here, black lava fields stretch out to meet dark volcanic sand, and the Atlantic waves crash with a power that reminds you just how untamed this coastline remains. It really does feel like you have reached the very edge of the world.

This is not the place for swimming or sunbeds. Instead, it calls to explorers, photographers, and anyone curious to see Lanzarote in its most natural state, just as it was before the first visitors ever set foot here.

Starting from the village of La Santa on Lanzarote’s northwest coast, you can follow a coastal track heading south towards Tinajo. The way takes you across wide stretches of lava fields, and the track itself is rough and unpaved. I’d suggest using a hire car with a bit of ground clearance, but if you take it slowly and choose your route carefully, a standard car will usually manage (check your car hire contract for insurance coverage on these types of road). There are no signposts to guide you, which helps keep this spot wonderfully peaceful. If you’re using a hire car, do check your rental agreement, as some companies don’t allow driving on unpaved tracks.

Once you’ve parked as near to the coast as the track allows, you’ll need to walk the last part across the lava field to reach the shore. I always recommend wearing sturdy, closed shoes here, as the volcanic rock is sharp and uneven underfoot. Depending on where you leave your car, the walk usually takes between 10 and 15 minutes. It’s definitely not a place for flip-flops or sandals. It’s also a good idea to let someone know your plans, as mobile phone signal can be a bit unreliable along this stretch of coastline.

Playa de las Malvas is a hidden cove on Lanzarote’s wild west coast, where fine, dark volcanic sand meets striking black lava rocks. It could not be more different from the golden beaches of the resorts. Here, the landscape is untamed and dramatic, and the only sounds are the waves and the wind. It is a place to experience nature in its purest form. Swimming here is only possible when the ocean is calm, so it is always best to take a careful look at the conditions before considering a dip.

On those rare, calm summer days, the water here can be beautifully clear and tempting for a quick swim. Most of the time, though, this stretch of coastline is shaped by strong currents and powerful waves, so it is important to be cautious and only enter the water if you are completely confident in the conditions. There are no lifeguards or rescue services, and even mobile signal is absent, so this is a beach to admire and enjoy for its raw beauty rather than for swimming. For those with plenty of open water experience, a calm day offers the chance to swim in crystal-clear water and feel as though you have discovered a secret corner of Lanzarote.

Playa de las Malvas is a real treat for anyone with a camera in hand. The contrast between the black lava, dark sand, and the white foam of the waves against the deep blue of the Atlantic makes for some truly memorable photos. When the sun is low in the sky, the lava glows with warm reds and oranges, giving the whole area a magical feel. The malpais, or lava field, that surrounds the beach is full of character, with its twisted lava shapes, little caves and craters waiting to be explored. If you take your time, you might spot a Canarian lizard sunning itself on the rocks, or catch sight of a bird of prey gliding overhead.

What really sets this spot apart is the sense of peace and solitude. With no buildings, no power lines and often not another soul around, you can truly soak up the quiet and let the wild beauty of Lanzarote work its magic.

If you are happy to wander a little further from the main resorts, Lanzarote quietly reveals dozens of hidden coves and wild beaches, each with its own character. One of our favourite off-the-beaten-track spots is Charco del Palo, a peaceful naturist village on the east coast where you will find a natural swimming pool and just the essentials for a relaxing day. Playa de la Garita, tucked away near the village of Arrieta, is another gem, less crowded than the resort beaches and perfect for a lazy afternoon at the beach bar or a gentle swim in calm waters. And if you keep walking beyond the main seven beaches of Papagayo, you will discover unnamed coves that feel like your own private slice of Lanzarote.

On the west coast, the stretch between La Santa and El Golfo has several small coves accessible only on foot across lava fields. Playa de Janubio near the salt pans has dramatic black sand and crashing waves. Always bring supplies, wear proper footwear, tell someone your plans and check conditions before swimming at any unsupervised beach.

Playa de las Malvas is one of Lanzarote’s more remote and untouched beaches, reached by a drive along an unpaved track and a walk over rugged lava rock. There are no facilities here, and the approach is quite challenging, so it is not a practical choice for families with young children or for those who need easy access. The swimming conditions can be hazardous, so this spot is best enjoyed by those who are comfortable with wild, natural settings.

This beach is really best suited to adventurous adults and older teenagers who enjoy exploring Lanzarote’s wilder side. Fit and experienced walkers, including some of our more active older residents and visitors, can certainly make the journey, but it does require care and good footwear. Playa de las Malvas is a world away from the resort beaches, offering a raw, natural beauty for those who are prepared for its untamed character.