Spain Guide - Article No.011

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The Best Beaches In Lanzarote

By Nick Ball

As you’d expect from an island located in close proximity to the Sahara Desert, Lanzarote is a real beach lover’s paradise. Boasting over ninety great stretches of sand – the vast majority of which are comprised of golden grains, not the black sand found on many other Canary Islands. Lanzarote´s beautiful beaches have helped to establish this small Canary Island as one of the most poplar holiday destinations in Spain. Attracting around 1.5 million visitors every year. Whilst most of the beaches in the main resorts are man made – often using sand shipped in from the Sahara – there are still a number of all natural playas which are sure to set any beach lovers pulse racing.

Which is the best? Locals and long term island residents would both agree that it’s a tight two horse race between the raw allure of Famara in the north of the island and Papagayo in the south. Of the two Famara is a much more picturesque and is located on the island’s North West Coast – where the impact of both the Atlantic and the Trade Winds is much more evident. Factors that also make this beach very popular with surfers and kite surfers. In terms of sheer size and scale Famara can’t be touched. As the beach itself measures around 8km and is flanked at one end by the majestic Famara massif – a range of cliffs standing around 460metres in height. This huge expanse of sand is set within a large bay – whilst just out to sea the small island of La Garciosa is clearly visible. This beach is massive popular with locals – especially during the summer months. And is best visited in September and October when the Trade Winds have died back a little.

Papagayo (or Parrot in Spanish) is located on the more sheltered south east coastline, close to the resort of Playa Blanca. And is therefore accessible all year round. In total contrast to Famara the beaches here are subdivided into a number of small coves and bays. All offering great views across to the neighbouring island of Fuerteventura, The beaches at Papayago form part of a protected zone and are located some twenty minutes from the centre of Playa Blanca. They can be reached either on foot, by car or by water taxi from the ferry port in the resort. Both beaches have little in the way of amenities –so visitors should remember to take their own shade, water and food.

Nick Ball is the editor of Lanzarote Guidebook – where visitors can download a free Guidebook and book their own holidays in Lanzarote direct online.