Lanzarote is much more than its popular beaches. If you're someone who seeks out quiet spots, free of parasols and noisy beach bars, this guide is for you. Here we show you the best secret beaches to truly disconnect, with the practical details to get there without surprises.
1. Playa del Paso
Located within the Timanfaya National Park, this beach is only accessible on foot. Volcanic scenery, clean waters and plenty, plenty of calm.
- How to get there: leave the car to the east of the fishing village of El Golfo, where a flat, signposted dirt track begins.
- Distance: 2 km on foot (about 30 minutes each way), within the National Park itself.
- Swimming and vehicle access are not permitted; there are also no toilets, showers or lifeguard, so bring water.
Excursion to the Timanfaya National Park and La Geria with an optional camel rideCheck availability →2. Playa de las Malvas
Near Tinajo, this black beach of volcanic origin is little known even to locals. Ideal for photos and silence.
- How to get there: LZ-67 from the centre of Tinajo towards Tenesár; once the asphalt ends, continue for about 5 km along a dirt track (a high-clearance vehicle and caution are recommended, especially in windy conditions).
- There is no designated parking: cars are left on the sides of the track, with very limited space, so it's best to arrive early.
- Beach open to the Atlantic with frequent swell from the trade winds: not a calm swimming area.
The Fire Route: Hiking in the Volcanoes Natural ParkCheck availability →3. Playa de la Cantería
To the north, next to Órzola. Golden sand, strong swell and views of La Graciosa. Perfect for those seeking isolation.
Round-trip ferry tickets to La Graciosa Island from ÓrzolaCheck availability →4. Caletón Blanco
A natural pool in the north with white sand and volcanic rocks. Ideal for families or a peaceful swim away from the crowds.
- How to get there: via the LZ-1 heading towards Órzola (municipality of Haría), approximately 1 km before reaching the village; the turn-off is not well signposted, so it's best to go slowly and rely on GPS.
- Free parking next to the road, right at the entrance, unsupervised and with limited capacity (arrive before 9:30 am in high season).
- No facilities available: no lifeguard, no beach bar and no showers, so bring supplies.
5. Playa del Pozo
Near the beaches of Papagayo but less busy. Crystal-clear waters and access via footpath, which discourages mass tourism.
Catamaran cruise along Papagayo's beachesCheck availability →Recommendations
- Bring water and food: many of these beaches have no facilities or beach bars.
- Don't leave litter, respect the environment, especially within protected areas such as Timanfaya or Los Ajaches.
- Check the sea conditions before swimming: several of these beaches (Cantería, Malvas) have strong swell and currents.
- If driving to dirt-track areas (Malvas), consider taking a high-clearance vehicle and avoid going in strong wind.