Puerto del Carmen isn’t just a beach resort—it’s a great base for exploring Lanzarote in all its diversity, without needing a car. Between boat trips, volcanic landscapes, vineyards on black soil, and golden-sand beaches, the island has much more to offer than just relaxation.
We’ve designed this one-week itinerary in Puerto del Carmen to alternate between organized excursions and relaxing moments along the coast, giving you a comprehensive overview of what Lanzarote has to offer from Puerto del Carmen.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
1 Week in Puerto del Carmen: Tips
What can you see in Puerto del Carmen in one week? Is that long enough?
A week in Puerto del Carmen offers much more than just enjoying the beaches: it’s also the perfect amount of time to explore the entire island and discover its most memorable sights, including volcanoes, vineyards, works of art integrated into the landscape, and the underwater world.
Driving time
To help you follow along as you read our itinerary below, here is a map showing the main tourist attractions, cities, and travel times:
Getting Around Puerto del Carmen Without a Car
Puerto del Carmen is a long, narrow town, but its waterfront is very easy to explore on foot thanks to the Paseo Marítimo. The bike path runs along all the beaches, from the Matagorda neighborhood to Playa Chica.
For longer trips or organized excursions around the island, nearly all tour operators offer pickup directly from the hotel areas: be sure to check this when making your reservation. Taxis and a bus network also serve the city and its surrounding areas. A week without a car is entirely possible if you take advantage of these options.
And if you’d rather create your own itinerary, check out our articles:
- Top Attractions in Puerto del Carmen
- best excursions
- The most beautiful places in Lanzarote
- Our itineraries: 1 week in Lanzarote
Where to Stay in Puerto del Carmen
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
Day 1 – Dolphins and the Beach
To kick off this week in Lanzarote, we suggest starting with what we consider to be one of the island’s most memorable experiences: heading out to sea to watch the dolphins. Dolphins live in the waters off the coast of Lanzarote year-round, offering good chances of sightings no matter the season.
The tour departs from the port of Puerto del Carmen, which is easily accessible on foot from most accommodations. We were lucky on our outing, and the sight of a pod of dolphins swimming alongside the boat is hard to describe. Even if the dolphins are slow to show up, the boat ride with its views of the volcanic coastline is well worth the trip.
We recommend the daytime speedboat option, which lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes and includes swimming: See details and availability. You can also opt for a sunset cruise, lasting 2 hours and 30 minutes and including champagne: See details and availability.
Beach Time: Playa Chica, Our Favorite Beach
Back on land in the early afternoon, we headed to Playa Chica, our favorite beach in Puerto del Carmen. This 60-meter-long cove is sheltered by a natural rocky barrier that creates a pool of calm water, ideal for swimming or snorkeling. The sand there is very fine, and the water is crystal clear. We spent a relaxing afternoon there, with the mountains in the south of the island as a backdrop. The beach is accessible from the Paseo Maritimo, west of downtown, heading toward the harbor.
Day 2 – Timanfaya, Lanzarote’s Volcanic Park
Timanfaya National Park is, without a doubt, the must-see attraction on Lanzarote. Located on the island’s west coast, about 30 minutes from Puerto del Carmen, this park consists entirely of volcanic soil formed during the eruptions that lasted from 1730 to 1736. Access is strictly regulated: no independent walking is permitted, and a guided bus travels along the only road inside the area.
This structured framework may seem restrictive at first glance, but it quickly fades in the face of the landscapes’ grandeur. We were struck by the intensity of the colors there, with shades of red, brown, and black flowing seamlessly into one another. At the park entrance, a demonstration of underground heat provides a very tangible illustration of the geothermal activity that still exists there: water sprayed into the ground immediately rises as steam, and the rocks remain scorching hot to the touch.
On the park shuttle bus, sit on the right side to enjoy the best views of the craters. Most of the tours organized from Puerto del Carmen offer pick-up service in the hotel zones: View options and availability. There are also full-day tours that combine Timanfaya with other sites: see prices, photos and availability.
Afternoon: Playa Grande to unwind
Back in Puerto del Carmen in the middle of the afternoon, Playa Grande is the most convenient beach for a stop at the end of the day. With its kilometer-long stretch of golden sand facing the mountains in the south of the island, its lounge chairs, and its pedal boat rentals, it’s a well-equipped spot right in the heart of the city. We particularly appreciate its location, which is ideal for admiring the island’s ancient landscapes. The avenue that runs along the beach is full of restaurants where you can have dinner on your way back.
Day 3 – Excursion to La Graciosa Island
La Graciosa is worth spending a whole day exploring. This small island north of Lanzarote is accessible only by ferry from Orzola, a 45-minute trip from Puerto del Carmen, which you can reach by bus or taxi. As soon as you cross over, the Famara cliffs offer breathtaking views. S
Once you’re there, things change dramatically compared to the rest of Lanzarote: no paved roads, only sandy trails, and a striking contrast between the white-gold sand of the beaches and the black volcanic soil. We’re convinced that this excursion is one of the most exotic you can take from Puerto del Carmen. You can explore the island on foot in the areas near the village, or take a 4WD taxi to reach more remote sites such as Playa de las Conchas.
Several options are available depending on your preferences: a round-trip ferry from Orzola (see departures and book), a bus transfer from hotels with the ferry included (book with pickup), or a day-long catamaran cruise around the island (see the itinerary).
Day 4 – The Works of César Manrique
César Manrique (1919–1992), an artist and architect born in Lanzarote in the 20th century, devoted much of his life to integrating his creations into the island’s natural landscape, rejecting any architectural development that clashed with the environment. Learn more.
It is largely thanks to him that Lanzarote has retained its character of small white houses, without any large hotel complexes. Understanding his work means gaining a new perspective on the island’s identity. We find that this excursion offers a rich cultural experience that goes far beyond a simple sightseeing tour.
The organized tours cover several sites, depending on the package you choose:
- Mirador del Rio, a viewpoint hidden in the island’s northern cliff;
- The César Manrique Foundation, housed in his former residence, which is partially carved into lava bubbles;
- Cactus Garden, an unusual blend of plants and architecture that we particularly enjoyed;
- Jameos del Agua, a partially collapsed lava tube that houses an underground lake;
- Monumento al Campesino, dedicated to local culture.
Two organized tour options, both with pickup from Puerto del Carmen: a tour of the northern part of the island (see itinerary and availability) or a full-day tour covering all the major attractions (see itinerary and availability).
Day 4 – Afternoon: Paseo Marítimo and Playa de los Pocillos
When you return to Puerto del Carmen in the middle of the afternoon, take a stroll along the Paseo Marítimo to stretch your legs. This path runs along the entire coastline and all of the city’s beaches; sculptures dot the route, including the Robalo. Playa de los Pocillos, located east of the city, is a large, well-equipped beach known for its shallow waters depending on the tide—a pleasant spot for a late-afternoon swim. You’ll find lounge chairs, showers, and restaurants on the main street behind the beach.
Day 5 – Catamaran to the Papagayo Beaches
The beaches of Papagayo, on the southwestern coast of Lanzarote, are among the most beautiful on the island. Their stretches of golden sand have remained largely untouched, with no paved roads leading to them. These beaches are located in the Macizo de los Ajaches, the oldest region of Lanzarote, which was formed about 14 million years ago.
You can reach them by land via an unpaved road, but the view from the sea is quite different. We find that a catamaran is a very pleasant way to enjoy this coastline, with the added bonus of possibly spotting dolphins during the crossing. On board, you can swim or go kayaking around the boat. Please note that it is not possible to disembark directly onto the beaches from the catamaran.
The tour lasts 4 hours and departs from Puerto del Carmen: View the itinerary and availability. This excursion can easily be combined with an afternoon at Playa Grande or Playa Chica on the way back.
WITH OUR GUIDE PLAN YOUR DREAM TRIP TO lanzarote
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Day 6 – Adrenaline: buggy riding, scuba diving, or parasailing
This day is all about the experience. There are several options available to you, depending on your appetite for adventure.
A buggy tour is one of the most popular activities in Lanzarote: it allows you to venture along dirt roads that are inaccessible to ordinary vehicles, drive through volcanic landscapes, and reach viewpoints overlooking cliffs and volcanoes. A few precautions to keep in mind: a bandana to protect yourself from dust, sturdy shoes, and please note that the driver must have a valid driver’s license. See schedule and availability.
For those who prefer the ocean, Playa Chica is one of the island’s best diving spots, thanks to its calm waters, which are protected by a rocky barrier. An introductory session typically includes two dives led by a certified instructor, with no prior experience required: exploring underwater caves and shipwrecks on your first dive is an experience like no other. See schedule and availability.
Another option with a very different kind of vertical experience: parasailing, which offers a 10-minute flight and exceptional views of the island’s volcanoes from the air. Check availability and book your flight!
Jet-skiing lets you combine speed with views of the volcanic coastline in a single outing: see details and availability. Stand-up paddleboarding is a more laid-back option, perfect for exploring the waterfront at your own pace: see details and availability.
Day 7 – The Vineyards of La Geria
To wrap up this week, let’s head to one of the most unusual landscapes in the Canary Islands: the vineyards of La Geria. Vines growing on black volcanic soil on an island known for being arid and windy: the paradox is fascinating. To capture nighttime moisture and protect the vines from the wind, winegrowers have developed a unique technique by digging small depressions in the ground and building low walls of lava stone around each vine.
The La Geria Valley, just a 15-minute drive from Puerto del Carmen, offers a unique landscape. We think this place is one of the most unusual in the entire archipelago. The tour includes a hike through the valley, surrounded by vineyards, and ends with a tasting of local white wine at the bodega, made primarily from the Malvasia grape variety. Learn more about the Lanzarote Wine Route in our dedicated article.
Hiking, tours, and wine tastings at the vineyards: See options.
Day 7 – Afternoon: Free time at the beach of your choice
On this final afternoon, let your heart lead the way. Puerto del Carmen has several beaches, each with its own distinct character. See our complete selection of the most beautiful beaches in Puerto del Carmen.
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.
Alternative with children
Lanzarote is ideal for family vacations, and many of the activities on this itinerary are suitable for all ages: the boat trip to see dolphins is often a highlight for children, as is a visit to Timanfaya, where the geothermal spectacle captivates young and old alike. To enrich the week with experiences designed specifically for the youngest children, two options are particularly worth checking out.
Rancho Texas: Zoo, Shows, and Water Park
Rancho Texas is a zoo and botanical garden that includes a section with a pool, kayaking, and a water slide, making it a great way to spend a full day. The water park is still modest in size, but it fits well into a broader plan.
During the tour, you can explore a traditional zoo area, watch shows featuring dolphins, birds, and sea lions, walk through an educational tunnel explaining Lanzarote’s geology, and experience an immersive area dedicated to dolphins. We recommend buying tickets in advance to avoid lines: Buy your ticket to save time.
Exploring the ocean floor in a submarine
For those who want to explore the underwater world without a wetsuit or special equipment, the submarine tour departing from Puerto Calero is an option open to everyone, including children. The submarine departs from the port of Puerto Calero, a 10- to 15-minute drive from Puerto del Carmen, to explore the nearby seabed.
The portholes allow you to observe the underwater wildlife and the seabed terrain. We found the experience quite impressive: being underwater in the cabin, observing the seabed without feeling the slightest discomfort. The room is large enough that it doesn’t feel claustrophobic. From Puerto del Carmen, you can reach Puerto Calero by water taxi, which connects the two ports in a 10-minute ride. The tour lasts 1 hour, and space is limited: Check availability and book.
Option 2: A “Best of Lanzarote” Day Tour
If you want to make the most of your time exploring the island in a single day and spend the rest of the time on the beach, the “best-of” tours departing from Puerto del Carmen take you to several iconic sites without the hassle of planning or driving. They usually include Timanfaya, the Charco de los Clicos (also known as the Green Lake, a lagoon with green hues bordered by red, yellow, and black rocks, which was partially flooded by the ocean during the eruptions of 1730), the La Geria Valley, and the Jameos del Agua.
The pace is fast, but the experience is still fulfilling. We recommend it to travelers who are staying for a short time or who prefer not to drive when planning their visits.
Volcanoes and Caves Tour, Full Day: See itinerary and availability. Or, in combination with other sites: see prices, photos and availability.
PLAN YOUR STAY IN Puerto del Carmen
What You Need to Know for Your Stay in Puerto del Carmen
The Weather in Puerto del Carmen
Lanzarote enjoys a stable subtropical climate year-round, making it a great destination no matter the season. Temperatures remain mild in winter, generally ranging from 18 to 22°, while summers are warm without being excessive, with highs around 28–30°. The wind is a constant feature on the island: it provides a pleasant cool breeze in the summer but can make some exposed beaches less comfortable in the winter. Playa Matagorda is known for being windier than the other beaches in Puerto del Carmen. Be sure to bring an extra layer for the evenings, even in the summer.
The Crowds in Puerto del Carmen
Puerto del Carmen is one of the most popular beach resorts on Lanzarote. During peak season (July–August and European school vacations), beaches and activity providers fill up quickly. We recommend that you book all your excursions in advance, especially the submarine tour—for which space is limited—and the catamaran trip to Papagayo.
During the off-season, the atmosphere is calmer and accommodations are more readily available, though the city is by no means deserted: Lanzarote attracts visitors year-round thanks to its climate.
Adjusting Your Itinerary When It Rains
Rainy days are rare in Lanzarote, but they do happen, especially between November and February. If the weather doesn’t allow you to enjoy the beaches or outdoor excursions, there are still several indoor options available from Puerto del Carmen. Rancho Texas Park features an indoor water park and other indoor attractions; Indoor Crazy Minigolf, right in the heart of the city, offers a fun alternative for the whole family (book your tickets). The submarine tour from Puerto Calero is also ideal for overcast days, since it takes place entirely underwater. Finally, the city’s restaurants offer a wide variety of culinary options for a leisurely meal in case of rain.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Lanzarote
- Best of
Most beautiful landscapes
Best things to do in Lanzarote
Most beautiful beaches
Most beautiful villages
Best boat tours
César Manrique’s attractions
Secret places, off the beaten track
Most beautiful hikes
- Practical advice
25 tips for a successful trip to Lanzarote
How to get around
How to rent a car in Lanzarote
Driving tips
Where to stay in Lanzarote
Best hotels in Lanzarote
Best excursions
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 1 week – 10 days
