In Lanzarote's southern corner, hidden behind the golden cliffs of the Los Ajaches Natural Monument, are the beaches the island puts on its postcards: the Papagayo beaches. Pale sand, impossibly calm turquoise water and not a building in sight — the perfect contrast to Timanfaya's volcanic landscapes.
Which one to choose
Papagayo isn't one beach: it's a chain of coves. The three essentials:
- Playa de Papagayo: the famous one — a wind-sheltered shell of transparent water. The most photographed and the busiest; go early in summer.
- Playa Mujeres: the biggest, and the first one you reach from Playa Blanca. More space, same water colour.
- Playa del Pozo: the happy medium — wide, quiet, and a short walk from Papagayo itself.
There's a small beach bar on the Papagayo cliff, but little else: bring water and a parasol — this is protected wilderness.
How to get there
- By car: a dirt track from Playa Blanca into the protected area (fee of about €3 per vehicle). You can park above the coves.
- On foot: 40-50 minutes along the coastal path from Playa Blanca — flat, with great views.
- From the sea — the special way: the guided kayak and snorkel trip covers 6 km of the Los Ajaches coastline you can't see from land — cliffs, caves and untouched coves — and ends with a snorkel session in Papagayo's waters. €50 with gear, photos and snacks included, beginner-friendly.
Quick tips
- The snorkelling is among the island's best: the rocky points between coves concentrate the marine life.
- Sunset from the Papagayo cliff, with Fuerteventura and Lobos on the horizon — few sunsets beat it.
- The wind decides: when the north wind blows hard, Papagayo stays sheltered — that's why windy days are busier.
- No natural shade: parasol, or you'll learn the hard way.
FAQs
How much does it cost to visit the Papagayo beaches?
Car access to the protected area costs about €3 per vehicle. On foot or by kayak, nothing.
Can you snorkel at Papagayo?
Yes — it's one of Lanzarote's best spots: clear, protected water. The kayak trip includes gear and a guided session.
Which Papagayo beach is best with kids?
Playa de Papagayo itself: the most sheltered, with the calmest, shallowest water.
More plans on the island? The Timanfaya excursion, the buggy tour through the volcanic north and all our things to do in Lanzarote.
