On Lanzarote's south coast, fifteen minutes from the airport, Puerto del Carmen packs the island's biggest tourist scene into barely seven kilometres of seafront. It started out as a fishing village before turning into the go-to base for beach time, a working marina and sea trips that leave straight from the harbour: a jet ski you ride yourself, or a full day by catamaran to the Papagayo beaches.
The resort stretches between Puerto Calero to the west and Playa Honda, near the airport, with Avenida de las Playas running through the middle: restaurants, bars and shops right on the sand. There are two main beaches, Playa Grande (the longest, golden sand) and Playa Chica, a small, sheltered cove that's one of Lanzarote's most popular snorkelling and diving spots. The original fishing harbour, where small boats still moor next to the sailing yachts, is where both sea excursions below depart from.
The jet ski tour from Puerto del Carmen puts you in charge of your own machine, in a small group of up to 8 riders led by a guide. Pick from three routes: Playa Quemada (40 minutes), passing the Barranco del Quíquere ravine and Puerto Calero; Papagayo (1 hour), following the volcanic coast to the island's most golden beaches; or the Ruta Sur (2 hours), reaching Punta Papagayo and Las Coloradas. It costs €70 per jet ski, for one or two riders, including wetsuit, life jacket and locker use. Hotel pick-up is available for an extra €5 per person.
If you'd rather someone else take the wheel, the catamaran trip to the Papagayo beaches also sails from Puerto del Carmen, aboard a Líneas Romero sailing boat. You're welcomed on board with a cocktail and the classic wrinkly potatoes with mojo sauce, then after cruising along the volcanic south coast, the boat anchors for about 2 hours off Papagayo to swim, snorkel or paddle a kayak, all gear included. A freshly cooked paella or pasta is served at midday, with free-flowing beer, sangria and soft drinks throughout the trip. The boat heads back to port around 3pm, and it costs €66 per adult, with transfers included from Playa Blanca, Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise.
Where is Puerto del Carmen? On Lanzarote's south coast, between Puerto Calero and the airport, about fifteen minutes by car from Arrecife.
How much does the jet ski cost in Puerto del Carmen? €70 per jet ski, for one or two riders, on guided routes lasting between 40 minutes and 2 hours depending on the one you choose.
What's included in the Papagayo catamaran from Puerto del Carmen? Transfers from the main tourist areas, a welcome cocktail, a 2-hour stop to swim and snorkel off Papagayo, a cooked meal on board and free drinks, for €66 per adult.
Planning more days on the island? Check out the Papagayo beaches, Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park and all our tours in Lanzarote.
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