Are you looking for a small, intimate beach in Puerto del Carmen, on the southern coast of Lanzarote? Playa Chica is a small cove 60 meters long, surrounded by a rocky barrier that forms a natural pool with calm waters.
In this article, check out our photos and all our tips for making the most of your visit to Playa Chica.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is Playa Chica in Puerto del Carmen worth a visit?
Yes, it’s a small beach that’s worth a visit. We especially love its natural pool, formed by a rocky barrier that shields the cove from the waves and keeps the water calm. The sand there is fine, and the crystal-clear water offers a glimpse of the seabed—a real plus for snorkeling.
It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto del Carmen.
Facing due south, the cove enjoys plenty of sunshine all day long. We also enjoyed the view of the mountains south of Lanzarote, which offers a different setting from the city’s more urban beaches.
Type of beach
Sand or no sand?
The beach at Playa Chica is made up of fine, golden-white sand that feels soft underfoot. We liked its texture, which contrasts with some of Lanzarote’s darker volcanic beaches. This sand adds to the charm of the natural pool formed by the rocky barrier.
Swimming conditions and supervision
The conditions for swimming are ideal thanks to the rocky barrier that surrounds the cove and calms the waters, creating a true natural pool. We recommend this beach to snorkeling enthusiasts, as the crystal-clear water makes it easy to see the seabed. The beach is patrolled during the season, which gives families peace of mind.
Installations
You’ll find restrooms and a shower at the exit of the beach.
HAVE FUN WITH THESE Lanzarote activities
- Dolphin watching
- Buggy / Quad
- Kayak excursion
- But also: Diving at the Museum of the Atlantic, Catamaran outings, Paddle excursions, Parasailing
Playa Chica in Puerto del Carmen: Access
Where to find Playa Chica
- West of downtown Puerto del Carmen
- Toward the harbor
- Accessible from the waterfront promenade
Access by car and parking
To get to Playa Chica by car, head west from downtown Puerto del Carmen toward the harbor. There is a small parking lot near the beach. We’ve noticed that it fills up more slowly than the more popular downtown parking lots.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING A CAR IN Lanzarote
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- A small car is all you need.
- But you can also choose a larger one if you wish, as the parking spaces are rather large.
- Demand is high, so book early.
Access from the parking lot
From the parking lot, Playa Chica is directly accessible via the boardwalk, which runs along the cove to the entrance of the beach.
Otherwise, from downtown, the waterfront promenade is the perfect way to get there.
WHERE TO STAY IN Puerto del Carmen
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
In the center, around the main beach.
Hotel Los Fariones, sumptuous – see prices, photos and availability
In Matagorda, quieter.
Hotel Aequora, for families – Check prices, photos and availability.
Around the port, old town.
Hotel Gloria Izaro Club Hotel – prices, pictures and availability
Useful information
Dog
Dogs are not allowed.
Reduced mobility access
Playa Chica has an accessible chair that makes it easier for people with limited mobility to enter the water.
With children
The natural pool formed by the rocky barrier has calm waters, making it ideal for children to swim in. Please note, however, that the beach has no shaded areas, so be sure to bring a beach umbrella or a shelter for the little ones.
Naturism
It is not possible to practice naturism on this beach.
Eating out
You’ll find restaurants and snack bars right next to Playa Chica—perfect for a break after swimming.
More photos
We especially enjoyed taking pictures of this beach. It has a different atmosphere with divers training and gathering there.
The contrast between the sand, the rocks, and the mountains in the background is very pleasing.
Here are a few more photos:
PLAN YOUR STAY IN Puerto del Carmen
