Golden beaches, volcanic drama, and wine that tastes like sunshine, welcome to Puerto del Carmen. This lively slice of Lanzarote is where chill seaside vibes meet wild Atlantic adventures, and every day ends with a sunset worth toasting. Whether you’re here for wind-in-your-hair catamaran rides, diving into crystal-clear waters, or just lazy lunches by the sea, you’ll find something that makes you fall in love a little. And if your perfect getaway includes a glass of crisp Malvasía and sweeping vineyard views, you’re in luck, some of the island’s top Canary Island wine tour experiences start right here. Ready to soak it all in? Here’s everything you need to do in Puerto del Carmen for a trip that’s sun-drenched and unforgettable.
Best things to do in Puerto del Carmen
Stroll along Playa Grande
Playa Grande is exactly what it sounds like, a big, beautiful beach that lives up to the hype. Calm waves and endless sunshine make it the perfect place to drop your towel and forget what time it is. You can swim, sunbathe, or drift between beach bars and ice cream stops along the promenade. It’s chill enough for families, romantic enough for couples, and lively enough to keep you entertained all day long.
Encounter wildlife at Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park
Rancho Texas isn’t your average day out, it’s a full-on wild adventure wrapped in sunshine and splash zones. Just minutes from Puerto del Carmen, this family-friendly park mixes zoo, water park, and live entertainment into one unforgettable experience. Watch sea lions do their thing, dolphins steal the spotlight, and eagles soar overhead. Cool off in the lazy river or hit the splash zone when it gets hot. It’s one of the top things to do around Puerto for a reason, kids love it, and let’s be honest, adults do too.
Relax on a catamaran to Papagayo Beaches
Hop aboard a luxury catamaran and glide your way to paradise, aka the Papagayo beaches. With their crystal-clear waters and untouched coves, this coastal escape is all about chill vibes and sun-soaked moments. Swim, snorkel, sip a drink, or just stretch out on deck like you’re made for this life. Most tours offer free cancellation too, so it’s one of those easy “yes” moments on your Lanzarote adventure list.
Set sail to La Graciosa
Hop on a ferry and trade the crowds for barefoot bliss on La Graciosa. Just off the coast of Lanzarote, this tiny gem is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and feels like a well-kept secret. No paved roads, no rush, just golden beaches, bike trails, and that delicious feeling of being completely off-grid. Perfect for a day of sun, sea, and switching off.
Book a buggy adventure through volcanic trails
Kick up some dust and go full throttle on a buggy adventure across Lanzarote’s wild side. These off-road tours take you through bumpy lava trails, volcanic backdrops, and epic viewpoints that feel straight out of a sci-fi movie. It’s one of Puerto del Carmen’s top-rated thrills, part rollercoaster, part geology class, all adrenaline.
Best things to do around Puerto del Carmen
Explore the unique vineyards of La Geria
Swap your beach towel for a wine glass and head into the lunar landscape of La Geria. Just 20 minutes from Puerto del Carmen, this volcanic wine region is where vines grow in black ash, hugged by little stone crescents, it’s bizarre, beautiful, and totally Lanzarote. Join a tour, sip crisp Malvasía straight from the source, and learn how wine thrives where nothing should grow. It’s the perfect detour for beachgoers with a taste for something bold (and delicious).
Savor volcanic vines in a hidden corner of Lanzarote
Tucked away at the foot of the Testeina volcano, this bodega invites you to experience Lanzarote’s winemaking like nowhere else. Here, vines grow in harmony with the volcanic landscape, producing expressive wines that carry the soul of the island in every sip. Explore sun-drenched terraces, stroll through lava-lined rows of vines, and taste award-winning wines made with passion and patience. It’s not just a tasting, it’s a deep dive into the Canary Island wine story, surrounded by views that feel like another planet.
Discover Lanzarote’s oldest winery in a volcanic mosaic
In the heart of Lanzarote’s wine country, this historic winery is one of the oldest in Spain, and a must-visit for wine lovers: Bodegas El Grifo. Picture rows of vines growing in black volcanic ash, surrounded by low stone walls that make the landscape look straight out of another planet. Inside, you’ll find a charming museum with old wine tools, and best of all, a relaxed tasting area where you can sip award-winning local wines like their famous pale rosé. It’s a delicious way to soak up Lanzarote’s history, scenery, and sunshine, all in one stop.
Venture into Timanfaya National Park
Just 20 minutes from Puerto del Carmen, Timanfaya National Park feels like stepping onto another planet. Think fiery craters, twisted lava fields, and steam bursting from the earth, it’s Lanzarote’s raw beauty at its boldest. Ride a camel over Montana del Fuego, hop on a guided coach tour through this volcanic wonderland, and don’t forget to snap a photo where the ground sizzles. Easy to book and often with free cancellation, it’s one of those can’t-miss adventures that turns a beach holiday into something unforgettable.
Visit the traditional village of Teguise
Step back in time with a trip to Teguise, located around 25 minutes north of Puerto del Carmen. This charming historical town was once Lanzarote’s capital and is best known for its vibrant Sunday market. You’ll find local crafts, food, art, and souvenirs among its cobblestone streets and whitewashed architecture. It’s a perfect place to explore local culture away from the beach and coastline crowds, and many excursions here include a stop at a local vineyard or restaurant.
Visit Teguise and unlock the best things to do around the city for your next journey!
Wander the colorful Capital Arrecife
Arrecife may not shout for your attention, but it rewards every traveler who stops to listen. This laid-back capital city blends island tradition with modern flair, think pastel buildings, palm-lined promenades, and a chilled-out harbor buzzing with local life. Stroll over the Puente de las Bolas bridge to reach the 16th-century San Gabriel Castle, sip coffee with sea views along the Marina, or browse quirky boutiques and galleries that reveal Lanzarote’s artistic soul. With street art, seafood, and a golden beach right in the city center, Arrecife is more than just a pit stop, it’s where you meet the real Lanzarote.
Discover the best things to do in Arrecife and explore the town like a local!
Explore the wild beauty of Lanzarote
Lanzarote turns every moment into a postcard. From black-sand beaches and otherworldly lava fields to whitewashed villages and cliffside vineyards, this island is full of contrasts that somehow all make perfect sense together. Hike through the epic terrain of Timanfaya, sip Malvasía wine under the sun in La Geria, or dive into crystal-clear coves near Papagayo. Art lovers will find magic in César Manrique’s legacy woven across the island. And if you’re chasing that perfect mix of nature, flavor, and adventure, Lanzarote is your place.
See all the things to do in Lanzarote and fall for the island’s wild side!
Good to Know before visiting Puerto del Carmen
What are the top things to do in Puerto del Carmen?
Puerto del Carmen offers a wide range of activities to suit every traveler. Highlights include relaxing on the golden sands of Playa Grande, snorkeling or diving at Playa Chica, enjoying water sports along the coast, exploring the scenic Avenida de las Playas promenade, and visiting the charming town harbor. Don’t miss nearby attractions like the Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park and the Timanfaya National Park for a volcanic adventure.
Is Puerto del Carmen worth visiting?
Yes, Puerto del Carmen is one of Lanzarote’s most popular resort towns for a reason. It combines beautiful beaches, a lively atmosphere, excellent dining, and a fantastic base for exploring the island’s unique volcanic landscapes. Whether you’re into nightlife, nature, food, or family fun, it’s a destination that offers something for everyone.
What are the best things to do in Puerto del Carmen?
Puerto del Carmen, known as El Varadero, features a lovely fishing harbor, cobbled streets, and incredible sea views. Enjoy a seafood dinner at a traditional Canarian restaurant, take a leisurely stroll along the marina, or hop on a boat excursion to spot dolphins or explore nearby Papagayo beaches. The area is quieter and more relaxed than the main strip, perfect for those seeking a more authentic experience.
What can adults and couples do in Puerto del Carmen?
Adults and couples can enjoy romantic beachfront walks, sunset dinners with ocean views, wine tasting tours in the nearby La Geria wine region, and relaxing spa treatments. The nightlife scene includes beach bars, open-air lounges, and live music venues like La Delicatezza Cocktail Bar or Rooftop Lanzarote Cinema & Chillout Bar for unique nighttime experiences.
What are some enjoyable things to do in Puerto del Carmen at night?
Puerto del Carmen comes alive after dark with a mix of vibrant nightlife and laid-back experiences. Enjoy cocktails along the Avenida de las Playas, dance at clubs like Heineken Bar or Rooftop Puerto del Carmen, or watch a film under the stars at the rooftop cinema. If you’re into live performances, the Music Hall Tavern offers comedy drag shows that are always a hit.
What are the best hotels in Puerto del Carmen?
Popular accommodations include:
- Hotel Fariones: A 5-star hotel with beachfront access and stunning sea views.
- Suite Hotel Fariones Playa: Ideal for families or longer stays, with spacious suites and pools.
- La Isla y el Mar Hotel Boutique: A luxurious adults-only retreat with eco-friendly credentials.
- THB Flora: A great budget family option with entertainment and pools.
- Lani’s Suites Deluxe: Highly rated for couples looking for an exclusive experience.
What are the best restaurants in Puerto del Carmen?
For authentic Canarian cuisine, try:
- La Cascada Puerto: Traditional dishes in a rustic setting, famous for grilled meats and local wines.Taberna De Nino: Tapas and local cheeses in Old Town with a lovely ambiance.Casa Cabana: Offers both local and international favorites with vegetarian options.La Carmencita del Puerto: A contemporary restaurant for modern takes on Canarian classics.