- Natural pools that are approximately two kilometers north of Faro Pechigera.
- How to arrive by car. Difficult access, maximum attention is required if taking children.
- Safe place, although precaution is required due to the wayward behavior of the sea in this area.
- Climatology.

- Map.

This is known as one of the little known treasures of Lanzarote. The natural pools of Charcones form a haven of relaxation. Away from the busy tourist resort of Playa Blanca and its densely populated beaches, to get lost in this natural sea would result in a powerful battery charge. On the clear sheltered southwest coastline of the island, Los Charcones benefits from a cooler climate due to the dominate winds within the area which create a bearable temperature.

The pools extend from approximately two kilometers north of Faro de Pechiguera heading northwards towards Janubio. The most spectacular coves coincide with a nearby abandoned hotel. This gloomy building has been standing since the mid 70´s and ruins this beautiful and majestic stretch of coastline. As the sea renews the pools waters, orographic shapes are formed in the lava passages.

Entering is safe although extreme caution is necessary during your journey to reach the pools. Once you are down its time to enjoy. There are some pools that have great depth and allow you to take big jumps and others that are shallow inviting you to a relaxing dip, clearly a matter of taste.
The quietness of this area allows relaxation. A good book would be the perfect companion. If in a group you could take advantage of the stoned coves and make a barbecue. Another option would be to go on a natural pools tour. Walk from the south to the north and take the opportunity to bathe in each appealing pool that you stumble upon. In summer it is possible to stay on Los Charcones until 8 o´clock in the evening, although it is important to keep an eye on the lack of light that could cause you difficulty in returning to your car.

What to do before or after:

An ideal tourist route for bathers on the south coast of Lanzarote, close enough to allow you the opportunity to visit Timanfaya. Five minutes’ drive by car from Playa Blanca, enjoy this beach and why not compliment your visit with a good lunch or dinner, a coffee or light refreshment. Why not dine in one of our recommended local restaurants, Casa Brigida or Aromas Yaiza. Or simply enjoy a good coffee in the company of good music in Café del Mar. If you have children another option before or after visiting the beach would be to enjoy a game of bowling.

- Nudist urban development in the village of Mala.

- Map of location.

German citizens, retired and fed up with so much cold. That is the starting point. Charco del Palo, the retirement place of their dreams, a nudist urban development by the village of Mala, sun, natural swimming pools and … little clothing. Very little clothing. To be more precise, no clothing at all. Who would have imagined that an Opel or Audi executive at this stage in his life would be swimming stark naked in February, while Berlin shivers in the cold? Well, don’t be shocked; if you choose Charco del Palo as a bathing area, don’t be shocked, just… let yourself go.

There are three coves in Charco del Palo. Two natural swimming pools, one on either end of the urban development, very well organized spatially with natural stone nooks. The geophysical configuration of the area constantly renews the waters of these pools. Besides, as opposed to the strong surf on the outside, the swim is very placid. Between the pools there is a large rocky outcrop that serves as a small pier (see the picture below). Therefore diving into the water is more than allowed. Since it’s not advisable to break your neck while climbing the rock to return to where you left your towel, you can use the small staircase that’s hanging from the pier, just like at any municipal pool.

They do not live only on sun and tide at Charco del Palo. In the north pool you can play beach volleyball, have tea at five o’clock or play Parcheesi among some powerful conversation pieces, or otherwise, play beach petanque. Away from the tourist routes, Charco del Palo is a quality alternative in contrast to the narrow traditional beaches.

- Stretch of one mile [1.5 km] comprised of three beaches and several coves in the south of Lanzarote.
- Arrival by car. Parking.
- Calm beach, absolute liberty with children.
- Weather forecasts.

- Map of location.

Together with Famara, Papagayo is the most attractive beach in Lanzarote. Located in the south tip of the island, its protected coast, together with its majestic silhouette, make it the perfect sun and beach enclave. Papagayo is part of the Los Ajaches Natural Monument. This area extends from the limits of the Playa Blanca tourist area to the most southeastern point of the island.

Five beaches make up Papagayo: Mujeres, El Pozo, Caleta del Congrio, Puerto Muelas and El Papagayo. Surrounded by the rustic violence of Los Ajaches, its beach areas are separated by very low rocky outcrops. Among these beaches there are some hidden nooks, very small coves that provide the bather great tranquillity and privacy. Papagayo is a popular destination in the summertime, but due to its size, the saturation seen so often on the beaches at tourist centres is not felt here. If you visit the island at any other time of the year, you will see few souls in Papagayo, which makes it a paradise.

The water at Papagayo beach is superb; its clarity and intense turquoise blue colour will make you think you are in the Caribbean. With views of the islet of Lobos and the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura, the seascape has a special beauty. Besides, it enjoys the almost always magnificent weather of the south of Lanzarote: The sea here is always very calm with little wind and bright sunshine.

The size of its coves allows for safe recreation for children, taking long walks, or practicing sports such as playing racquetball on the beach or fishing. The silence, accompanied by the soft lullaby of the waves, makes this a perfect spot for relaxation. Reading, quiet contemplation or even a good nap are other possibilities to complement swimming and sunbathing.

The Papagayo sea route is a common anchoring place for recreational vessels. The closeness of the Marina Rubicón sports centre and the shores of Playa Blanca multiply the opportunities to enjoy its waters in another way, aboard these ships dedicated to maritime leisure.

- Four miles [6 km] of spectacular beach in the northwest of Lanzarote.
- Arrival by car. Parking.
- Dangerous beach, beware of the ocean currents.
- Weather forecasts.

- Map of location.

Four miles [6 km] of majestic beach. Sheltered by the mountain cliff which has the highest point on the island, Peñas del Chache (670 metres), Famara has some of the most striking scenery on the island. From the access road you can see the paradise you are about to enjoy. From the beach you can enjoy great views: looking back there is the Famara cliff and opposite, there are the islands of La Graciosa, Alegranza, Montaña Clara and Roque del Oeste (islets of the Chinijo Archipelago). Although its waters look calm most of the time, the imposing “river” that separates Lanzarote from those islets hides extremely strong currents which you need to be careful of when swimming at Famara beach.

The predominant trade winds in the area make this beach an ideal scenario for adventure sports like surfing and kite surfing. In the village of Caleta de Famara there is a wide offer for learning these sports. On this beach there is room for everybody: bathers, kids, and the not-so-kids, with their boogie boards and surfboards. The area is a multiple sports redoubt where walking, jogging, soccer matches, racquetball games are a popular sight.

When the weather is pleasant the time of day we choose to enjoy Famara does not matter. A walk early in the morning or at sunset is pleasant, and so is bathing at midday, or a barbecue in one of the multiple sheltered corners of natural stone scattered along the rustic stretch right before getting to the beach. However, it’s true that at low tide Famara reaches its maximum splendour. And if to the low tide we add the fact that the calendar says it’s September or the first half of October… there are those who prefer Famara to Paris.

The prevalence of the trade winds means a much more pleasant beach swim. The breeze is nice and cool in Famara and therefore the heat is not so oppressing. The closeness of Caleta Famara, with its gastronomic offer of fresh fish and its pleasant terraces right on the volcanic sand called jable, invite us to have some snack, recover strength and return to the beach. The atmosphere of the town blends perfectly with its majestic beach. Relaxed, barefoot people walk out of their homes surrounded by jable volcanic sand, stroll to the beach, take a swim, and return home or stops at an outdoors terrace to drink a beer.

- Almost one mile [1.2 km] of beach.
- Arrival by car. Parking.
- Weather forecasts.

- Map of location.

This is the beach between the beaches of the tourist centre of Puerto del Carmen. Playa Blanca, known in Lanzarote as Playa Grande, is almost one mile [1.2 km] long and it has an average width of approximately 21 yards [20 m]. The spacious shoreline features a great number of services: Hammocks, beach umbrellas, roller blades, nautical leisure, parking, restaurants, restrooms and dressing rooms… The sheltered coast of the Lanzarote southeast and its unsurpassable climate make it perfect for lovers of sun and beach.

Playa Grande is the main attraction around which the urban area of Puerto del Carmen centres. On its pleasant promenade, with views of this stretch of coast, there is an extensive offer of restaurants, nightlife and recreation. The area next to the beach is a multiple sport enclave full of cyclists, strollers, runners, skaters. The tree-lined avenue, with several resting places, is open to the beach so as to take advantage of the magnificent picture of the shoreline along with the sea that surrounds the south of Lanzarote.

Beware of the sun, because it really hits hard. Protect yourself, drink a lot of liquids and take frequent baths. The waters of Playa Grande are amazing: they are calm and refreshing, and their colours are beautiful, ranging from blue, turquoise and soft green. In the evening the climate is fresher and the quietness of its setting transforms it into the perfect spot for a relaxing stroll. You can fish from the shore, take a walk, jog, or get lost observing the playful moon that appears in the nights of Puerto del Carmen. On the avenue, the revelling and the lights become a paradox to this natural spot.

- Spectacular cove located between the tourist resorts of Puerto del Carmen and Puerto Calero.
- How to arrive by car. Parking.
- Space reserved for nudism.
- Climatología.

- Plano de situación.

Barranco del Quíquere as well as Charco del Palo and Papagayo, are one of the few areas of nudism in Lanzarote. It is located approximately three miles south of Puerto del Carmen. Its long rocky coast and its excellent climate make this stretch of coastline a dream come true. To arrive to the main beach cove it is necessary to go down at a safe and slow step. Its amazing view from its peak however, encourages you to descend quickly. Below there are dozens of nude sunbathers that look like lizards lying on natural stones.

The seas surface is majestic and is one of the stillest in this area of Lanzarote. The seas floor allows those to a very interesting study of biodiversity. Not surprisingly it is a popular attraction point for those who train and practise diving.

The pools run continuously along Barranco del Quiquere. The suns heat is of great power and as already mentioned there is hardly any wind. You must always enter the sea via the rock. You can do this either barefooted or for hygiene purposes (due to the possibility of sea urchins) wearing shoes.
To the north of the main entrance you will come across other appealing coves on this ravine. Approaching them is more difficult however the natural stone paths are safer.

Once you arrive you will come across some naturally sculptured seats due to the climate that are about half a meter from the water. Nudist bathing gives Barranco del Quiquere a natural and relaxing feel. It’s often that many people can be seen in their own company with a good book simply disconnecting from everyday life.

What to do before and after:

You have the possibility to visit the magnificent sports centre “Centro Deportivo Fariones” where you have the option to play tennis, paddle or fronton. You could also have a coffee in the shade of Los Clasicos del Café. Why not have lunch in Puerto Bahia or in Bodega. If it’s only a beer that’s on the agenda why not visit the old town of Puerto del Carmen. Here you will find the San Miguel bar for example.

- An isolated and peaceful cove of Playa Quemada located on the southeast of Lanzarote.
- Travel by foot from Playa Quemada.

- Location map.

The phenomenon of Playa Quemada is very bizarre. It is a very privileged area and is almost always clear, permanently without wind has some spectacular coves. Yet these beaches of pebbles and black sand are always desolate. As is its neighboring beach of La Arena, El Pozo has a beautiful 300 meters coastline that looks like it has four souls. In fact these pools are a balm of tranquility and are an infallible remedy for those suffering from stress, pure luxury.

The only downfall of El Pozo is its access. It can only be reached by car, preferably a 4×4 and then a small hike is required. Your vehicle is to be left at the southernmost point of Playa Quemada. This is reached by following a marked route that takes you to the foot of the beach. It is important that you remain on the zigzag path and that you avoid the temptation of jumping from one path to the other thinking that you will arrive quicker. (In the end you will waste more time and most importantly your safety will become in danger). This path is the heart of the Natural Monument of Los Ajaches and most of the time respects traditional paths used for grazing goats in Femés. Even though these goats seem friendly our last visit gave us the impression that they were cross as if to say “What are you humans doing here?”.

During the half an hour drive you can really take advantage of some truly breathtaking views. The first one that you come will come across when beginning your route looks back at the pretty picture of Playa Quemada. Its ancient and messy urban settings ironically give it a particular charm with boats stranded on the shore. In the middle, on a clear day and looking south we can appreciate the figure of the dunes of Corralejo (on the neighboring island of Fuerteventura) and the ever intriguing island of Lobos. Certainly, adventurers and nature lovers have the perfect opportunity to bathe in El Pozo, however beforehand must cross the path of Ajaches Femés-Playa Quemada.

Upon reaching the beach bathing knows best. The limited space seems huge thanks to the huge panoramic view of the deserts horizon at sea. A flock of seagulls accompany us on our visit. They are bedridden on the shore as they are confident that the oceans current will grant them a delicacy from the nearby farms that disfigure the bay. The water is clean and the sea calm, when entering the tide, depending on the area, we will come across the presence of some pebbles on the shore. It is possible to enter barefooted however it is recommended to use jellybean shoes or something similar to help avoid discomforts. Due to the preliminary and permanent heat which can be sometimes suffocating in this part of the south of Lanzarote it is required to be well equipped with plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

What to do before and after:

An ideal tourist route for bathers on the south coast of Lanzarote, close enough to allow you the opportunity to visit Timanfaya. If you are on the beach we recommend that you combine the pleasure of a prior trek crossing between Femes and Playa Quemada. Bathing knows best! With respect to excellent cuisine, we recommend Salmarina.

- Natural pools.
- How to arrive by car. Parking.

- Location map.

From 11:30 on a summer`s morning you can already feel the first rays of sun in the northern town of Lanzarote, Punta Mujeres. However it is occasionally possible that the sky is cloudy throughout the entire day. Even on days like this the house is tidy, the fish is prepared and ready for the oven and the husband is socialising in the towns bar. At this time you will find the children hanging around the bay playing, fishing or even jumping off the water´s edge. Perhaps it’s the best time of the day to take a dip in any of the many pools that dot the coastline of Punta Mujeres.

Unlike the centre and the south of Lanzarote, the northern part of the island enjoys a milder climate. A constant breeze helps to soften the suns heat and occasionally between Arrecife and Playa Blanca it can get very sticky and uncomfortable. It would seem silly to bathe withinthis area if not at the time mentioned. The sky is almost always cloudy up until midday other than in July and August and from then onwards the sky becomes clear.

The pools run along the entire south bay of this northern village. Its natural shape has been formed by the solidified lava that has been left behind from the nearby volcanic eruption of La Corona. To reach the pools you need to make your way down the strong and secure steps which lead you directly down to the natural pools. The rocks surface is generally flat and is not slippery making it easy to remain on the rocks edge therefore is also an ideal location to visit with children.

The village of Punta Mujeres is very quiet. It hasapproximately only 500 residents welcoming comfort and welfare. Its urban structure is a little ragged but this doesn`t stop it from remaining quaint and charming.Surrounding the natural pools you will see many peculiarlooking houses. You will also be struck by a big naturalstone. From here you can look out to the horizon and on days when there is a high tide you can use this stone as a springboard to jump into the sea. There are two pools that are very popular in this area, the first that you come across when arriving from the south and the centre one(near the village pub). In the other bays you may feel a little more tranquility allowing you to read a good book, sunbathe or to simply watch the local fishermen in their small boats catch the fish of the day.

What to do before or after:

Punta Mujeres is one step away from Cueva de losVerdes and Jameos Del Agua, two of the most spectacular visiting attractions on Lanzarote. In thenearby village of Arrieta you can dine in one of the most popular fresh fish restaurant on the island. If travelling with children why not visit the Tropical Park and LasGuinate Pardelas of Órzola.

- 20 metres cove.
- Arriving on foot or by bicycle. Approximately an hour and a quarter from Caleta del Sebo which is thecapital of La Graciosa (the Archipelago islandChinijo off the northeast of Lanzarote).
- Precaution required when entering the sea.

- Location map.

From Caleta del Sebo it takes a quarter of an hour to reach the cliff. From here you are required to hire bicycles from the town and to head eastwards. For approximately 5 minutes follow the very narrow and defined road. When the road begins to widen you are required to walk 15 minutes and even though you have the wind against you it makes it a more enjoyable and refreshing journey. Once you reach the cliff of Los Conejos, southeast of LaGraciosa, you will come across its beach of only 20metres long and 6 metres wide however with thanks to the breathtaking view of the ghost town of Pedro Barbaon the southeast corner of La Graciosa it seems much bigger.

From here you can also see the stunning cliffs of Famara and on the horizon the marvelous view of Roque del Este. As well as its exquisite, powerful, metal golden like yellow sand and its crystal clear waters you feel able to relax and frolic in the cool and foam breaking waves. During September (for example; 3rd September 2010 at 11:30) it would be silly to leave Lanzarote during this time. The calmness due to the drop in wind and the early morning sunshine makes us want to cry out to the horizon: Long live Septembers!.

If travelling with children be careful of the seas currents. The sea can get a little rough and can produce small waves. These waves however never reach more than a metre in height but caution is always required. The water is of a high quality and despite the heat Los Conejos cliff benefits from a permanent sea breeze from the north. Without a doubt, on hot days the best option is to spend the day on the northern coast of Las Conchas. On the other hand, due to the lack of bathers, Francesa and Montaña Amarilla are ideal options if looking for relaxation. These coves are also ideal if wishing to bathe nude.

- Small cove with black sand that is not evencomprised of 300 metres.
- How to arrive by car. Parking.

- Location map.

The hardest thing is to arrive to Las Malvas. It is a small black sand cove that consists of barely 300 metres due to the erosion of the ancient lava flows of Timanfaya. The mystery goes that the immense flow of lava floods from the fiery mountains of Lanzarote also flooded our minds.Las Malvas is reached by going through the village centreof Tinajo, it is clearly signposted. From inland to this coastal area you must travel approximately five metres on dirt tracks.

Las Malvas faces north towards the Atlantic Ocean and is a permanent gateway as to where trade winds fly over the island. As can be imagined therefore it is a windy beach although the surrounding black sand that mainly consists of volcanic lava occasionally creates wind barriers isolating you from the wind. This small beach has an intriguing look about it thanks to its attractive shape, its flood of volcanic ash and a stream of malvas dotted all over the scenery. Two huge natural rock pillars help to ease the Atlantic current allowing you to bathe safely, however the seabed can be a little rocky so it is recommended that you wear shoes when entering so that you can bathe with ease. Las Malvas is one of the least visited beaches on Lanzarote therefore it is ideal for those who want to get away from the tourist and crowded beaches on the island.

What to do before or after:

Why not also enjoy one of the most appealing trails on the island by the road from Mancha Blanca to Caldera Blanca. On the way you could visit the Ethnographic museum El Patio obviously allowing you to pass by and stop of at Timanfaya. For lunch and dinner we recommend Amendoa in the nearly village of La Santa.