If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable family holiday, Lanzarote should be at the top of your list. Known for its unique volcanic landscapes, stunning beaches, and family-friendly activities, this Canary Island is perfect for an all-inclusive holiday that offers more than just relaxation by the pool. We booked an all-inclusive holiday in Lanzarote with TUI, and after just a few days, we couldn’t resist hiring a car to explore everything the island has to offer.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach holiday, an adventurous exploration of the island’s natural beauty, or a mix of both, Lanzarote has plenty to offer. In this blog post, I’ll share some of our favourite things to do in Lanzarote that will keep both kids and adults entertained. From the dramatic volcanic scenery at Timanfaya National Park to the stunning green lagoon at El Golfo, there’s no shortage of exciting things to see and do.
Why Choose Lanzarote for Your Next Family Holiday?
Lanzarote, one of the Canary Islands, offers a warm, sunny climate year-round, making it a perfect destination for families looking to escape the colder months. Its small size means you can explore most of the island in just a few days, while still having time to relax on the beach or by the pool. The island’s unique volcanic landscape makes it a fascinating place for children to explore, while the numerous beaches, waterparks, and family-friendly attractions mean you’ll never run out of things to do.
Best Things to Do in Lanzarote with Kids
1. Timanfaya National Park: Lanzarote’s Must-See Volcano Experience
No holiday in Lanzarote is complete without a visit to Timanfaya National Park, home to the island’s most famous volcanic landscapes. The dramatic scenery was created by a series of volcanic eruptions in the 18th century, and the park is now one of Lanzarote’s most popular attractions. If your kids are curious about volcanoes, they’ll love the interactive visitor centre, where they can learn about volcanic activity and even see demonstrations of how the ground is still hot enough to cook food!
Included in the entrance fee is a 45-minute bus tour, which takes you through the heart of the park to see the craters, lava fields, and unusual rock formations. Don’t miss the chance to eat at El Diablo Restaurant, where your food is cooked using the heat of the volcano – it’s an unforgettable experience.
Entry Prices: €12 per adult, €6 for children aged 7–14, free for children under 7.
2. Cueva de los Verdes – Discover Lanzarote’s Lava Caves
Another must-visit attraction in Lanzarote is the Cueva de los Verdes, also known as the Green Caves. This underground cave system was formed by lava flows from the La Corona volcano and is one of the longest volcanic tunnels in the world. What makes Cueva de los Verdes stand out is the “secret” you’ll discover on the tour – but I won’t spoil it for you!
Guided tours run every 20 minutes, and they’re suitable for all ages. Our toddler loved the adventure of exploring the caves, and we made it even more fun by turning it into a dinosaur hunt! The natural beauty of the caves, combined with the thrill of discovering the secret, makes this one of the best things to do in Lanzarote for families.
Entry Prices: €10 per adult, free for children under 7.
3. Wine Tasting in La Geria – A Unique Experience for the Whole Family
Wine tasting might not seem like the most obvious family activity, but in Lanzarote, it’s an experience everyone can enjoy. The island’s unique vineyards, located in the La Geria region, are a sight to behold. The volcanic soil and unusual semi-circular stone walls protect the vines from the wind, creating a landscape that looks like it’s from another planet.
Many of the vineyards offer wine tasting and tours, and they’re often set in beautiful locations with plenty of space for kids to run around. We visited Bodega La Geria, where we sampled some local wines while the little ones enjoyed ice creams and explored the grounds. The views are stunning, especially at sunset, and it’s a great way to experience a different side of Lanzarote.
4. Explore El Golfo and the Green Lagoon
The village of El Golfo, located on Lanzarote’s western coast, is home to one of the island’s most famous natural wonders – the Green Lagoon (Charco de los Clicos). This striking green pool, set against the backdrop of black volcanic sand and a rugged coastline, is a must-see for anyone visiting Lanzarote. The green colour of the water is caused by algae, and it’s an incredible contrast to the surrounding landscape.
There’s an easy path leading to a viewpoint where you can get the best view of the lagoon, and after you’ve taken in the scenery, you can head down to the beach to explore the rock pools or relax on the black sand. El Golfo also has several excellent seafood restaurants, making it a great place to stop for lunch after exploring the area.
5. Lanzarote’s Best Beaches: Fun in the Sun for the Whole Family
No Lanzarote holiday would be complete without spending some time on the beach, and the island has no shortage of beautiful options. Here are a few of our favourites:
- Playa Blanca: Located in the south of the island, Playa Blanca is one of the most popular beach resorts in Lanzarote. The calm waters and soft sand make it perfect for families, and there are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby if you need a break from the sun.
- Playa Papagayo: Often hailed as one of the most beautiful beaches in Lanzarote, Playa Papagayo is a stunning cove with crystal-clear water and golden sand. However, it can get very crowded, so it’s best to visit early in the day or during the off-peak season. Keep in mind that there’s a small fee to access the beach, as it’s located in a protected area.
- Playa Caletón Blanco: If you’re looking for a quieter beach experience, head to Playa Caletón Blanco in the north of the island. This beach is perfect for families with young children, as the shallow waters and natural rock pools make it ideal for paddling and exploring.
6. Teguise Sunday Market: A Taste of Local Culture
For a more cultural experience, don’t miss the Teguise Sunday Market, one of the largest and most popular markets in Lanzarote. Held in the charming town of Teguise, the market offers a wide range of local products, including handmade crafts, jewellery, artwork, and souvenirs.
Teguise itself is a lovely town to explore, with its cobbled streets, historic buildings, and traditional Canarian architecture. The market is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs to take home, and there are plenty of cafes and restaurants where you can relax and soak up the atmosphere.
Practical Tips for a Lanzarote Holiday
- Hiring a car: While Lanzarote’s main tourist areas are well-serviced by buses and taxis, hiring a car is the best way to explore the island at your own pace. The roads are easy to navigate, and driving between attractions is simple thanks to the island’s compact size.
- Best time to visit: Lanzarote enjoys warm weather year-round, but the best time to visit is between October and April when the temperatures are milder, and the crowds are smaller.
- Where to stay: We stayed in Playa Blanca, which is a great base for families thanks to its wide range of accommodation options, family-friendly beaches, and easy access to many of Lanzarote’s top attractions.
Holiday in Lanzarote – Where to Next?
If you’ve fallen in love with Lanzarote and are already thinking about your next family holiday, why not check out some of our other European destination guides? From the sun-soaked beaches of Spain to the charming villages of Italy, there’s no shortage of amazing places to explore with your family.
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