Lanzarote with kids: the complete guide to a successful family holiday

I’m convinced that Lanzarote is a real paradise for children and teenagers. This volcanic island in the Canaries offers the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation and discovery. With sunshine all year round, beaches with calm, shallow water and fascinating lunar landscapes, Lanzarote promises unforgettable family holidays. Right, I should also point out that I go there without kids, but I always see loads of families and children of all ages, and they certainly don’t look bored!

Also, during my few stays on the island, I’ve seen that Lanzarote really stands out from other family destinations. Here, there’s no need to choose between beach and culture, or between peace and quiet and things to do: it’s all there, on a small, manageable island where distances are short and the facilities are perfectly suited to families. Absolutely everything is within easy reach, as you can see in this article on exploring Lanzarote without a car.

Anyway, let’s see what you can do so your kids enjoy it at least as much as you do, and nobody grumbles (too much)!

Why Lanzarote is the perfect family destination

An ideal climate all year round

With temperatures ranging from 20 to 28°C depending on the season, Lanzarote enjoys an exceptional subtropical climate. Even in winter, your children can swim comfortably, with the water temperature varying between 18 and 23°C. This steady climate means you can plan your family holiday without worrying about rain or cold.

• In fact, in the following article I go into much more detail to help you work out when to come to Lanzarote.

A small island that’s easy to explore

Lanzarote has developed quality family tourism. Everywhere you go, you’ll find restaurants with kids’ menus, well-equipped accommodation, activities designed for all ages and a sense of service that puts families at ease. The general atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming towards children.

On the other hand, when it comes to accommodation, Lanzarote tries not to build huge hotel complexes. Yes, there are holiday clubs and all-inclusives, but they stay on a human scale, as they say. If you prefer bigger holiday resorts, you might want to look at Gran Canaria instead, for example. Here, it’s family-friendly and laid-back.

Nature and adventure activities to do as a family

Timanfaya National Park: a journey to the heart of the volcanoes

This is THE must-see visit in Lanzarote with kids. Timanfaya National Park, listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers a truly unique spectacle: lunar landscapes shaped by the volcanic eruptions of the 18th century.

What kids love:

• The impressive geothermal demonstrations: water poured into a hole shoots back out as a geyser, and dry twigs burst into flames
• The camel ride through the volcanoes – a unique experience of around 30 minutes that delights young and old alike. Mind you, I’ll admit I’m not a fan myself (ok ok, I’m not a child!)
• The one-hour coach tour through Martian landscapes with red, yellow and ochre lava flows
• The visitor centre, where they learn all about how volcanoes form

Practical info: The camel ride costs around €12 per person (free for under-4s riding on your lap). The coach tour is included in the park entry price.

Careful: Timanfaya works on a “first come, first served” basis. You can buy your tickets in advance, but there’s no set arrival time. So keep that in mind and don’t arrive late, or you’ll end up waiting in the car until a space frees up in the car park (it’s still a very old-school way of doing things)

The ticket costs €30/€15. If you buy it on the official website, you’re guaranteed entry as long as you arrive before 1 pm. If you don’t buy your ticket, you might not get in at all. You can buy your tickets here.

If you don’t have a car: Timanfaya can’t be reached by public transport. You can go through an agency that will take you round the site, and possibly a few others too, which is ideal for discovering the island.

Lava caves and tunnels

Beneath its surface, Lanzarote hides a fascinating network of caves and tunnels created by lava flows. Three sites are particularly well suited to families:

Jameos del Agua: This César Manrique creation turns a lava tube into a work of art. Kids love spotting the blind albino crabs in the underground lake, wandering through the tropical gardens and exploring the lit-up caves. The atmosphere is magical and a little mysterious, perfect for firing up their imagination.

Cueva de los Verdes: These spectacular caves carved out by lava offer a fascinating guided tour. The lighting effects and rock formations impress the kids, and there’s even a surprising optical illusion at the end of the route!

Los Hervideros: Located in Los Volcanes Natural Park, next to Timanfaya National Park, this area where petrified lava met the sea forms impressive caves and hollows. At high tide, watching the waves crash into the caves is quite a show. Secure paths let you explore the site safely with the kids.

The Cactus Garden: a fascinating prickly world

Designed by César Manrique, this surreal garden turns an old lava quarry into a botanical paradise with more than 4,500 cacti from five continents. Kids are fascinated by these strangely shaped plants, some gigantic, others tiny. The contrast between the lush vegetation and the black volcanic rock creates an almost unreal setting.

The little extra: a restored traditional windmill overlooks the garden and gives you a lovely view over the whole place. It’s a chance to explain to the kids how these plants survive in the desert!

Water activities for families in Lanzarote

Underwater safari in a panoramic submarine

This unique activity is open to children from age 2 and delights young and old alike! From the port of Puerto Calero, you board a real panoramic submarine that dives down to explore Lanzarote’s seabed. Kids discover marine life through large portholes without getting wet. It’s fascinating and comfortable, perfect for families who want to discover the underwater world without diving.

The commentary is easy for children to follow, so they properly understand what they’re looking at.

Personally, it’s something I dream of doing, and I didn’t manage it either in Lanzarote or in Gran Canaria, thanks to some poor planning on my part. But I’ll do it next time!

Dolphin-watching trips

Several companies offer boat trips to see dolphins, and sometimes whales, off the coast of Lanzarote. These half-day trips usually include:

• Watching wild dolphins (average success rate)
• Time for swimming and snorkelling in a cove
• A meal or drinks on board

Kids are amazed to see these marine mammals in their natural habitat. Some trips are on a catamaran, which is very comfortable for families.

I’ve done it several times elsewhere, and seeing dolphins is always a treat!

Kayaking and snorkelling

For families with children from 5-7 years old, kayak trips are fantastic. There are several options:

Kayaking to Playa Papagayo: A 3-hour trip from Playa Blanca to the cliffs, caves and various beaches of the protected Papagayo area. Includes time for snorkelling and a picnic. The water is calm and clear, perfect for watching fish.

2-hour beginner kayak trip: Especially recommended for families with young children, this shorter trip from Playa Blanca is a gentle way to try the activity.

All the equipment is included and a professional guide goes with the group to keep everyone safe.

Kid-friendly diving

For children over 8 who dream of discovering the underwater world, Sea Trek is perfect. This innovative activity lets you walk on the seabed wearing a panoramic helmet that lets you breathe normally. No need to know how to swim! Kids discover the fantastic marine life of Jablillo beach in Costa Teguise in complete safety.

Water sports in Puerto del Carmen

On Playa Grande in Puerto del Carmen, there are lots of water activities on offer for families:

• Jet skiing (with an instructor for children)
• Parasailing
• Banana boat and Crazy UFO (towed inflatables)
• Paddleboarding and pedalos

Learning to surf in Famara

Famara beach is one of the best-known surf spots in the Canaries. Several schools offer lessons suited to families, with children from age 8. Professional instructors run 2- or 4-hour sessions with all the equipment included. Even though the waves are powerful, the learning areas are safe and the lessons are properly supervised.

On the other hand, it’s a beach with currents, so it’s not the ideal place for a swim.

Theme parks and zoos

Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park: the must for families

It’s the biggest animal park in Lanzarote, and honestly, you can spend a whole day there. The park combines a zoo, animal shows and a small water area (two slides) on one site.

What you’ll find there:

• Daily shows with dolphins, sea lions and exotic birds
• The dolphin interaction experience: your kids can swim with dolphins (paid extra, around 30 minutes in the water). An unforgettable experience!
• A water park with pools, slides for all ages and shallow areas for the little ones
• A zoo with sea lions, penguins, birds of prey, domestic and exotic birds, mammals and reptiles
• Pony rides so the kids can feel like real cowboys
• An environmental classroom with 4K technology where children learn interactively about marine life and the environment

2026 prices: €30 per adult, €22 for children over 3 (free for under-3s). On-site restaurant with decent food.

Aquapark Lanzarote (Costa Teguise)

Located in Costa Teguise, it’s THE island’s main water park, perfect for a day of 100% water fun. The park offers:

• Corsario Bay: an area designed especially for the little ones, with shallow ramps and safe water games
• Timanfire: a system of thrilling slides for older kids (minimum height 1.20 m)
• Magma River: where the whole family can go round together on rubber rings
• Several pools of varying depths
• On-site restaurant with reasonable prices

2026 prices: Adults €26/day or €19/half-day (from 3 pm). Children €18/day or €15/half-day. Bus transfer included from Costa Teguise, Puerto del Carmen or Puerto Calero.

Lanzarote Aquarium

Located in Costa Teguise, the aquarium is ideal for spending a few hours with the kids, especially on a windy day or just for a change. The route is well thought out, with:

• A shark tunnel where children can even dive (special activity)
• A seahorse tank that the little ones love
• Interactive pools where children can touch certain species
• A wide variety of tropical fish and Atlantic species

I haven’t visited it yet, but given its reputation, if it’s as good as the one in Gran Canaria (Poema del Mar), you’re in for a treat!

The Pirate Museum (Castillo de Santa Bárbara)

Kids love pirates, and this museum, set in a castle perched above Teguise, is perfect for them. The spectacular location alone gives you a superb view over the island. Inside, the museum tells the story of piracy in the Canaries in an interactive, fun way. A nice cultural outing that kids enjoy while learning about local history.

Day trip to La Graciosa: the unspoilt island

La Graciosa is a real favourite of mine! This small island north of Lanzarote is a 30-minute ferry ride from Órzolaaway. It’s a world of its own: no tarmac roads, very few buildings, just pure nature. A perfect day trip!

I visited the island over 2 days, hiring a bike when I arrived. It works really well, because you can’t hire a car there (but you don’t really need one!)

What you can do there as a family:

• E-bike hire: ideal with kids for exploring the island without too much effort. The scenery is stunning and the tracks are well marked. You can also hire regular mountain bikes, but pay close attention to the quality and comfort of the saddle. My backside still remembers it!
• Playa de Las Conchas: a spectacular, almost deserted white sand beach (careful, the sea is rough for swimming)
• Playa Francesa: calm turquoise water, perfect for swimming with the kids
• Caleta del Sebo village: one of the island’s two villages, authentic and charming, with a few fish restaurants

Organised catamaran trips often include the transfer, lunch, drinks and water activities. A real adventure day that makes a change from the usual beaches!

• In the following article, find out more about visiting the island of La Graciosa!

The best beaches for families

Southern beaches: calm water and good facilities

Playa Dorada (Playa Blanca): THE family beach par excellence. Fine golden sand, calm, shallow water sheltered in a bay, and full facilities (sunloungers, parasols, showers). Kids can paddle safely and there are restaurants and shops nearby. Perfect for a relaxing day with every comfort.

Playa Flamingo (Playa Blanca): Right next to Playa Dorada, this town beach offers the same advantages with a laid-back atmosphere. The water is sheltered by two artificial breakwaters. Ideal for families who want restaurants and services close at hand.

Papagayo beaches: These are the most beautiful beaches in Lanzarote! A series of golden sand coves sheltered by volcanic cliffs. The turquoise water is calm and shallow, perfect for kids. The best known is Playa del Papagayo, but Playa de Mujeres is even bigger and wilder. Careful: there are no facilities, so bring water, food and a parasol. Access costs €3 per vehicle, with 15 minutes on a stony dirt track. Get there early to avoid the crowds in summer!

Puerto del Carmen beaches

Playa Grande: The main beach of Lanzarote’s biggest resort. Over a kilometre of fine sand, a calm, clear sea and every service you can think of. A seafront promenade lined with restaurants runs alongside it. Perfect for families who want comfort and a lively atmosphere. Lifeguarded and very safe for children.

Playa Chica: A small, sheltered 100-metre beach surrounded by lava flows. The calm, clear water makes it an excellent spot for family snorkelling. Kids love looking for Felix, the big resident grouper! It can get crowded, so arrive early.

Costa Teguise beaches

Playa del Jablillo: A small crescent-shaped beach with turquoise water and golden sand. Sheltered from the waves and the wind, it’s a paradise for young children. When the tide goes out, shallow natural pools form and the kids can watch countless fish. A relaxed, family atmosphere.

Playa de Las Cucharas: A large beach with an area protected by breakwaters. A bit windy (it’s a windsurfing spot), but the swimming area is pleasant and the atmosphere laid-back. Well equipped with restaurants and shops.

Arrecife beaches

Playa del Reducto: The capital’s town beach. A good option if you’re staying without a car. A clean, well-sheltered beach with a park and restaurants all around. Easy access, lifeguards and a children’s playground nearby. Its Caribbean feel, with the coconut palms, is very pleasant.

Free and unusual activities

El Golfo and its green lagoon

This fishing village is home to a fascinating natural phenomenon: the green lagoon, El Charco Verde. Its surprising colour comes from a specific plankton. The lagoon sits on Playa Los Clicos, a black sand beach that creates a striking contrast. Kids are fascinated by this natural spectacle! The village also has excellent fish restaurants with sea views. Plus, it’s a pretty good spot for the sunset.

Janubio salt flats

The largest salt flats in the Canaries offer a superb view, especially at sunset. The panorama from the LZ-701 road is spectacular, with its geometric pans in different colours. Since 2018, guided tours have been available to explain how the salt is produced. An educational activity, and free (unless you take the guided tour).

Open-air cinema in Puerto del Carmen

In the evening, an open-air cinema shows family films under the stars. Cocktails, juices and snacks are available. A lovely way to wind down at the end of the day.

Pardelas Park: educational farm

This farm gives kids the chance to feed and stroke the animals. They can also go on donkey rides or try their hand at pottery. The setting is magnificent and the prices very affordable: €4.50 per adult, €3.50 per child, €3.50 for a donkey ride.

⭐️ Download your free Lanzarote guide! ⭐️

Sports activities for teens and active families

Go-karting

The go-kart track in San Bartolomé has karts suited to both children and adults. There’s a bar where you can relax between races. A fun activity that makes a change from water sports!

Family hikes

Lanzarote has some lovely hikes that are easy enough for families:

• Caldera Blanca trail: runs along the rim of one of the largest volcanic craters on the island, with superb views over the lava fields
• Trails around Timanfaya Park: several marked routes let you get close to the volcanoes
• Coastal paths: lots of trails follow the coast and offer spectacular views

Go for hikes early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the hottest hours.

Practical tips for travelling with kids in Lanzarote

When to go?

You can visit Lanzarote all year round thanks to its exceptional climate. However:

• Best time for swimming: June to November (warmer water)
• Best time overall: April-May and September-October (perfect temperatures, fewer people)
• Winter: mild and pleasant, perfect for activities, but the water is a bit cool if you feel the cold
• Summer: hot but windy, lots of families, book ahead

How long should you stay?

I recommend at least 7 days to make the most of the island with kids. That gives you time to:

• Alternate beach days and excursion days
• Take a trip to La Graciosa
• Visit the main sights without rushing
• Have time to rest

In the following article, I list everything you can see in Lanzarote. And it’s really worth taking your time!

Where to stay with kids?

Playa Blanca: A family resort in the south, ideal for families who want comfort. Close to the Papagayo beaches. Lots of family hotels and apartments.

• • Hotel: Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel Resort ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
  • Apartment: Grupotel Flamingo Beach

Puerto del Carmen: The biggest resort, very lively, with every service. A lovely seafront promenade. Perfect for families who want a lively atmosphere.

• • Hotel: Hipotels la Geria
  • Apartment: R2 Bahia Kontiki

Costa Teguise: A quieter, family-friendly resort. Lovely sheltered beaches. A good compromise between liveliness and tranquillity.

• • Hotel: H10 Suites Lanzarote Gardens
  • Apartment: Alava Suites

Areas to avoid for families: The north of the island (Órzola, Haría) is very beautiful but more isolated and windy. Better suited if your children are already older and you’re looking for peace and quiet.

• In the following article, I go into much more depth on where to stay in Lanzarote, town by town

Find your dream accommodationin Lanzarote!

Car hire: essential?

Yes, I strongly recommend hiring a car to explore the island with kids. Buses do exist, but they’re not very practical with young children, beach gear and so on. A car gives you flexibility: leave when you want, take breaks, carry everything you need.

Also, an important point: car hire doesn’t cost much in Lanzarote (and in the Canaries in general). It ranges from €5 to €20 a day in high season (roughly), and driving on the island is really relaxed and courteous. So taking a car can really be a good option.

Compare prices and rental companies. Personally, I use the comparison site Discover Cars because it’s really handy.

• And if you want to find out more, there’s this article on driving and car hire in Lanzarote.

What to pack?

• Sun protection is a must: SPF 50+ sun cream, caps, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing for the little ones
• Light but covering clothes to protect against the sun
• A windbreaker: the wind can blow hard even in summer
• Comfortable walking shoes for excursions on the lava
• Beach sandals: some beaches have pebbles or very hot sand
• Mask and snorkel: the seabed is beautiful
• Basic first-aid kit: pharmacies are well stocked, but it’s always handy to have the essentials

Restaurants and local food

Canarian cuisine is easy for kids to enjoy. Most restaurants offer kids’ menus, but your little ones can also try:

• Papas arrugadas: wrinkly potatoes cooked in salted water, served with mojo (a spicy or mild sauce)
• Grilled fish: always super fresh
• Croquetas: kids love them
• Gofio: flour made from toasted grains, very nutritious

Restaurants are generally child-friendly, with high chairs available and friendly staff. Given the number of families who come here, I’d say that’s just as well, but it also comes naturally here.

And for the grown-ups, don’t forget there’s good wine here in Lanzarote!

Book your activities in advance

For popular activities like the panoramic submarine, dolphin trips or the dolphin experience at Rancho Texas, I strongly recommend booking ahead, especially if you’re travelling in high season (July-August and school holidays). It’ll save you disappointment and get you the best time slots.

Entry to the parks (Timanfaya, Jameos del Agua, Cueva de los Verdes) can usually be bought on site, but in high season, plan to arrive early in the morning to avoid the queues. That said, I really do recommend getting your tickets in advance, especially for Timanfaya.

Suggested 7-day family itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and settling in
Pick up the car, check in at your accommodation, first swim at the nearest beach. A quiet dinner and an early night to recover from the journey.

Day 2: Timanfaya National Park and the south
Morning: visit Timanfaya park, with a camel ride if you fancy it. Leave early and book your ticket online to avoid any nasty surprises. Afternoon: explore El Golfo (also ideal for lunch facing the sea) and its green lagoon, then Los Hervideros. End the day at the Janubio salt flats for the sunset. If you don’t have a car, you can visit Lanzarote and Timanfaya with an agency.

Day 3: Papagayo beaches
A relaxing day on the island’s most beautiful beaches. Bring a picnic and everything you need. Family snorkelling in the turquoise water. Careful: the best beaches can’t be reached without a car (3 km on foot), only the first ones from Playa Blanca.

Day 4: The north of the island and César Manrique
Jameos del Agua, then Cueva de los Verdes, followed by a visit to the white village of Teguise and the pirate museum. If there’s time left: a stop at the Jardín de Cactus.

Day 5: Day trip to La Graciosa
Ferry from Órzola. A day exploring the unspoilt island by bike or on an organised excursion. Deserted beaches and wild landscapes guaranteed!

Day 6: Rancho Texas Park
A full day at the park to enjoy the zoo, the shows and the water park. Kids love it! Tickets and information.

Day 7: Relaxing and souvenirs
Morning at the beach, afternoon shopping and one last stroll. A special dinner to end the trip in style.

Frequently asked questions

Is Lanzarote safe for travelling with young children?

Absolutely! Lanzarote is a very safe destination with very low crime. The tourist facilities are good quality and suited to families. The southern beaches have calm water that’s perfect for young children. The only thing to watch out for is the very strong sun: maximum sun protection is a must, because the sun is sneaky. It burns even when it isn’t particularly hot, and you don’t feel the heat, mainly because of the wind!

Can you easily find baby products?

Yes, supermarkets and pharmacies are well stocked with formula milk, nappies, baby food jars and everything else you need for babies. Well-known European brands are available.

Are there doctors and hospitals?

The island has good medical facilities, with several health centres and a hospital in Arrecife. Many doctors speak English. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC, or the GHIC for UK residents) is accepted. I’d still recommend taking out travel insurance as well.

Do activities run all year round?

Yes, thanks to the stable climate, almost all activities are available all year. Some boat trips may be cancelled when the sea is rough (especially in winter), but it’s rare. Tourism never stops in Lanzarote: there are people around pretty much all the time, but never too many.

Do you need to speak Spanish?

No, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and many staff also speak German or other European languages. That said, a few words of Spanish are always appreciated and will make things easier! Lanzarote is a hugely popular island with holidaymakers from all over Europe, so locals working in tourism have adapted.

Can you drink the tap water?

The tap water is drinkable, but it’s heavily desalinated and doesn’t taste great, because you can really taste the treatment. Drinkable, but meh. I recommend buying bottled water for drinking, especially for young children.

Are there mosquitoes or other dangerous insects?

No, there are very few insects in Lanzarote thanks to the dry climate and the wind (and that’s brilliant). No mosquitoes, no snakes, no dangerous animals. It’s a real plus for families with young children!

⭐️ Access the interactive map of Lanzarote! ⭐️

My final verdict on Lanzarote with kids

After several stays on this extraordinary island, I can say that Lanzarote ticks every box for a successful family holiday. The island offers that rare mix of a total change of scene and modern comfort, of wild nature and family-friendly facilities.

What makes Lanzarote really special is its ability to amaze parents and kids alike. The volcanic landscapes fascinate everyone, the beaches are both safe and beautiful, and the activities are varied enough that nobody in the family gets bored.

Kids go home with their heads full of memories: the camel ride through the volcanoes, the colourful fish spotted while snorkelling, the dolphins glimpsed at sea, the mysterious caves, the water park slides… Lanzarote is a life-sized playground where kids learn while having fun.

For parents, it’s a huge playground too, but above all it’s the promise of a stress-free holiday where everything is designed to make family life easier, in an absolutely spectacular setting. The perfect climate, the short distances, the friendliness of the locals and the quality of the facilities mean you can really relax and enjoy every moment with your kids.

So yes, I’m convinced: Lanzarote truly is a paradise for families. A destination you already want to come back to before you’ve even left the island!

More resources on Lanzarote

I’ve written quite a lot about Lanzarote because it’s a destination I love and one that deserves a visit, because everything is really simple and it suits everyone: people looking for peace and quiet, and those who want to explore and get a dose of culture or scenery. And so, those who want to travel with kids too.

• Going on holiday to Lanzarote – in this guide I give you all the information you need to plan your trip
• Where to stay in Lanzarote – this little guide shows you which area is right for you, with a selection of places to stay
• Visiting Timanfaya National Park – the most beautiful place in Lanzarote, an absolute must! Find out how to visit it!
• What’s the best time to travel to Lanzarote – month by month, the pros and cons of Lanzarote
• Hiring a car in Lanzarote – why hire a car, and which company to use
• Visiting Lanzarote without a car – with buses and agencies, you can manage to explore the island!
• The best PDF guide to Lanzarote – a free travel guide for visiting the island, fancy it?
• The interactive map of Lanzarote – a tourist map with all the places to see and the most practical info

If you need more information, don't hesitate to ask me by clicking here 🙂How can I help you ?