Lanzarote with Kids
Volcanic Landscapes and Year-Round Sunshine
Lanzarote, the most easterly Canary Island, offers families something genuinely unique: lunar landscapes, volcanic wonders, and guaranteed sunshine just four hours from the UK. This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve combines extraordinary natural attractions with excellent beaches and family-friendly infrastructure. From camel rides across volcanic craters to swimming in natural lagoons, Lanzarote provides adventures you simply cannot find elsewhere - all wrapped in a reliably warm climate that works for school holiday escapes year-round.
Why Lanzarote for Families
Lanzarote stands out among the Canary Islands for its extraordinary volcanic landscapes and commitment to sustainable tourism, championed by local artist Cesar Manrique. For families, this translates to genuinely unique experiences beyond typical beach holidays.
- Year-round warmth - Average 22-28C throughout the year. Winter escapes work brilliantly
- Unique landscapes - Volcanic craters, lava fields, and lunar scenery unlike anywhere in Europe
- Excellent beaches - White sand, golden sand, and black volcanic beaches to explore
- Easy flights - 4 hours from UK with frequent connections
- Safe and clean - Low crime, good healthcare, and high standards
Ideal Ages
Lanzarote works for all ages but particularly suits curious children aged 5+ who will appreciate the volcanic landscapes and unique attractions.
Best Time to Visit
Unlike mainland Spain, Lanzarote offers pleasant weather year-round:
- December-February - 20-22C. Perfect winter sun escape. Sea around 19C (too cold for most)
- March-May - 22-24C. Warming up, wild flowers blooming, excellent conditions
- June-September - 26-29C. Warmest months. Sea reaches 22-23C for swimming
- October-November - 24-26C. Still warm, sea at its warmest (23C), fewer crowds
Best for Swimming
For swimming, October offers the warmest sea temperatures combined with thinner crowds. February half-term provides reliable sunshine while escaping UK winter.
Best Areas for Families
Lanzarote's three main resort areas each suit different family preferences:
- Playa Blanca - South coast. Newest resort, excellent beaches (Papagayo), marina, and family hotels. Calmer and more upmarket
- Puerto del Carmen - East coast. Largest resort with long beach, endless restaurants, and entertainment. Livelier atmosphere
- Costa Teguise - Northeast. Purpose-built resort with watersports, Aquapark, and good beaches. Wind can be an issue
- Famara - Northwest. Surfer village with dramatic cliffs. Limited facilities but spectacular scenery
Best Base
For first-time visitors with children, Playa Blanca offers the best combination: excellent Papagayo beaches, modern facilities, and easy access to Timanfaya.
Volcanic Attractions
Lanzarote's volcanic heritage provides genuinely spectacular family experiences:
- Timanfaya National Park - Lunar landscapes of the Fire Mountains. Coach tour through craters, geothermal demonstrations, restaurant cooking over volcanic heat
- Camel rides - At Timanfaya, children can ride camels across the volcanic slopes. Unforgettable photo opportunity
- Cueva de los Verdes - Walk through a spectacular volcanic tube (lava tunnel) with impressive lighting
- Jameos del Agua - Manrique-designed cave complex with underground lake, blind white crabs, and beautiful gardens
- El Golfo - Green lagoon in a volcanic crater. Dramatic colours and excellent seafood restaurants nearby
Must-Book
Book Timanfaya tickets online in advance during peak season - entry is timed and slots sell out. The camel rides operate on a first-come basis, so arrive early.
Best Beaches for Children
Lanzarote offers diverse beaches from white sand to volcanic black:
- Papagayo Beaches - Several pristine coves south of Playa Blanca. Clear water, natural setting, stunning scenery. Access by car or water taxi
- Playa Blanca town beach - Calm, sheltered beach with all facilities. Perfect for young children
- Playa Grande, Puerto del Carmen - Long golden beach with lifeguards, sunbeds, and water sports
- Playa Flamingo - Man-made beach in Playa Blanca with exceptionally calm water
- Playa de Famara - Wild beach backed by dramatic cliffs. Great for paddling but currents make swimming risky
- Caleton Blanco - Natural rock pools near Orzola. Safe swimming in crystal-clear lagoons
Paradise Found
Papagayo beaches require a small entrance fee (3 euros) if driving. Go early to secure parking and claim your spot on these spectacular coves.
Family Activities
Beyond beaches and volcanoes, Lanzarote offers plenty for families:
- Aquapark Costa Teguise - Water park with slides for all ages. Smaller than mainland parks but sufficient for a day
- Submarine Safari - Descend in a submarine to see shipwrecks and marine life. Unique experience
- Rancho Texas - Animal park with Wild West theme, sea lion shows, and bird of prey displays
- Cesar Manrique Foundation - The artist's volcanic bubble home is fascinating even for children
- Cycling - Flat roads and quiet routes make Lanzarote good for family cycling
- Surfing lessons - Famara beach offers gentle conditions for beginner surf lessons
Unique Experience
The submarine safari works brilliantly for children who might be nervous about snorkelling but want to see underwater life. Book in advance for Puerto Calero departure.
Eating Out with Children
Lanzarote dining ranges from international tourist fare to excellent local Canarian cuisine:
- Canarian potatoes - Papas arrugadas with mojo sauces are child-friendly and delicious
- Fresh fish - Grilled or fried fish available everywhere. Children often prefer the simple preparations
- Churros - Found in cafes and markets. Perfect for breakfast or snacks
- British options - Full English breakfasts and fish and chips available in resort areas
- Timing - Tourist areas serve from 12pm for lunch and 6pm for dinner
Memorable Meal
For a special lunch, the Timanfaya restaurant El Diablo cooks food over volcanic heat. Children are fascinated watching meat grilled over the natural geothermal vents.
Day Trips
Lanzarote is compact enough to explore fully, with a possible trip to neighbouring Fuerteventura:
- La Graciosa - Ferry from Orzola (30 mins) to this traffic-free island with beautiful beaches
- Fuerteventura - 25-minute ferry from Playa Blanca. Different landscape, great beaches, animal parks
- Island tour - Drive the volcanic north through Ye and Haria. Stop at Mirador del Rio for views
- Teguise market - Sunday market in the old capital. Craft stalls, food, and atmosphere
Island Adventure
La Graciosa makes an exceptional day trip. Take the morning ferry, hire bikes, and explore the beaches of this tiny, car-free island.
Practical Tips
- Getting there - 4-hour flights from UK to Arrecife airport
- Car hire - Recommended to explore volcanic attractions. Roads excellent
- Wind - Lanzarote can be windy, especially on the east coast. Pack light layers
- Sun protection - Strong year-round. Factor 50, hats, and UV protection essential
- Health - Excellent healthcare. Pharmacies well-stocked. Bring GHIC card
- Currency - Euros. Cards widely accepted
Planning what to pack? Generate a personalised packing list for your Lanzarote family holiday.
Build My Packing ListBudget Guide
Lanzarote offers reasonable value for a year-round destination:
- Flights - 100-400 GBP return per person depending on season and timing
- Accommodation - 70-140 GBP/night for apartments, 100-180 GBP for hotel
- Car hire - 25-45 GBP/day including insurance
- Timanfaya entry - 12 euros adult, 6 euros child
- Meals out - 50-80 GBP/day for family of four
- Water park - 25-30 euros per person
Save Money
Buy a multi-attraction pass if planning to visit Timanfaya, Jameos del Agua, and Cueva de los Verdes. The combined ticket saves around 20%.
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