The top 17 things to do in Lanzarote with kids

The site of my daughter’s first overseas holiday – and somewhere we’ve visited repeatedly since – the mix of things to see in Lanzarote with kids and the dramatic lava-blasted landscape makes it perhaps my favourite island in the Canary Islands.

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And whether you’re visiting with a baby or a toddler, as I’ve done, or with older kids who are looking for more active excitement, you’ll get the usual warm Spanish welcome in Lanzarote for families.

So if you’re planning any Lanzarote family holidays, check out my top things to do in Lanzarote with kids, including some of the best family-friendly activities for all ages.

Visit Timanfaya National Park 

If you only get off your sunlounger to do one thing, make it this. I’m eternally fascinated by volcanoes, but everyone from toddlers to teenagers will be mesmerised by this lava-blasted landscape, created in eruptions nearly 300 years ago.

The magma under the surface is still so hot, it turns water into steam in seconds – guides regularly demonstrate the trick and I never get bored of watching the sudden eruption of mist.

Best to do with older preschoolers and up, to appreciate some of what you’re seeing or with a baby (at three months, my daughter was happy to snooze and gaze out of the window).

There are paths to wander and you are required to join the coach tour to explore further, so it’s possible with toddlers but not quite as easy.

You can visit independently, buy a ticket that includes hotel pick-up or there are a variety of day tours including entry to Timanfaya. 

Wondering what to do in Lanzarote with a baby? Check out my review of our visit to Timanfaya with a baby…

Wine tasting in La Geria

When you think of a valley dotted with vineyards, you’re unlikely to picture La Geria. But Lanzarote has a flourishing wine industry that dates back centuries, with tours and tastings as well.

Venture down into the cellars with their huge barrels stacked to one side, before looking at the unique sight of green shoots of vines against the black volcanic earth, all surrounded by a protective horseshoe of rocks.

Many vineyards have restaurants if you want to combine wine tasting with lunch – Bodega Stratvs has its own cheese as well. El Grifo is the oldest, while I’ve also visited Bodega La Geria, just off the LZ30, and Bodega Rubicon.

Definitely one of my top things to do in Lanzarote.

César Manrique culture

We have the local artist to thank for helping limit high rises and encourage the traditional white and blues of the architecture across Lanzarote.

His style is characterised by the blending together of nature, art, and architecture in a creative and modern way. And his quirky and unique artworks are a sure-fire hit with kids of all ages.

You’ll discover the artist has left his mark all over the island, from the artworks you’ll find across Lanzarote to his home to quirky sculptures at most main tourist spots, including a giant lobster near Jameos del Agua and ‘wind toys’ dotted across the island including roundabouts in Tahiche and Puerto del Carmen.

The Cesar Manrique Foundation

The César Manrique Foundation is a museum located inside one of the artist’s distinctive former homes, in Tahiche, not far from Costa Teguise.

The house is set inside a series of volcanic rock bubbles and showcases Manrique’s unique style – think retro-chic with a futuristic touch. Today, the museum is a fascinating tribute to the artist’s life and work.

You can explore the galleries, which feature a range of Manrique’s paintings and sculptures, and learn about his life and legacy.

If you’re looking for family hotels in Lanzarote, HD Hotels in Costa Teguise has some great family activities, pools and splash park, play area and a kids’ club

Mirador del Rio

Mirador del Río is another great place to see Manrique’s work. Located on a cliff overlooking the ocean, as well as the large viewpoint (scroll down for more on what you can see) there are multiple sculptures and artworks, all designed by the artist himself.

Not only are the views amazing, but – in true Manrique style – the entire viewpoint blends seamlessly into the nature surrounding it.

Set in the northernmost point of the island, 474m up, don’t miss the sculpture by Manrique at the entrance representing a bird and a fish.

Visit the Jardin de Cactus 

El Jardin de Cactus is another of César Manrique’s works, but as one of the biggest and most iconic works – not to mention faintly surreal – it easily deserves to have its own section

Located in Guatiza, the cactus garden features thousands of cacti belonging to over 500 different species from all around the world. 

Wandering through the garden, kids will feel like they’ve set foot onto another planet – or into a strange wild west movie. Make sure you don’t forget the camera – there are some great family photo ops!

While the cactus plants are the main draw, El Jardín de Cactus also has a historic windmill, some quirky art installations, a fish pond, and a restaurant with a lovely terrace boasting panoramic views over the garden.

Head underground at Jameos del Agua

The crab-filled subterranean lake and underground concert hall with incredible acoustics at Jameos del Agua are another of Lanzarote’s quirkier family attractions.

Formed from lava tubes which collapsed during another eruption to the one which created Timanfaya, you can wander from one cave (with a cafe) past the lake, which is home to albino crabs, and onwards to the second cave housing the concert hall.

Outside, it’s a total contrast with bright white surroundings housing the sparkling turquoise of another pool – supposedly only the king of Spain can swim in the underground pool (although I’d prefer to leave it to the crabs!) and there’s no longer swimming in the outdoor pool either.

Discover how my visit to Jameos del Agua with a baby went – click here

Explore Cueva de los Verdes

For something even more active, you can also scramble through the volcanic tunnels of Cueva de los Verdes, which stretch for around five miles from the crater to the sea, with tales of local inhabitants hiding here from pirates over the centuries.

Formed by La Corona volcano, there are at least 16 lava caves – or Jameos – in the tunnel which leads all the way underwater. You’ll need to join a guided tour, and allow around an hour.

This isn’t one to try with babies or toddlers needless to say, but it’s a great adventurous option for older kids and easily one of the most unusual things to do in Lanzarote.

See the lagoon at El Golfo

The perfect spot to sit and enjoy seafood right on the sea (so fresh, I’ve seen someone filleting fish on the beach below our restaurant more than once), El Golfo is just a short drive from Playa Blanca if you’re wondering where to go in Lanzarote for an easy day trip out.

Enjoy a lazy lunch in the sunshine with fantastic fish and seafood from a string of seafront restaurants – all very child-friendly but you can discover my favourite restaurant in El Golfo here – then head off on a relaxed walk to Charco de Los Clicos, the emerald lagoon.

Algae turns the water bright green against the black sand beach, just a short walk from the village, and you can discover some fabulously dramatic coastline in this part of the island.

There’s a playground not far from the main seafront restaurants to put on your list of Lanzarote toddler-friendly activities too.

The best beaches in Lanzarote with kids

Unlike the volcanic black beaches across many of the Canary islands (or the golden dunes shipped in from the Sahara), you’ll find natural white sand on Lanzarote, and a choice of great beaches for families.

Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca in the south of the island has natural white sand, and breakwaters to keep the waves calm as well.

The promenade here stretches around from the quieter section in the west past the hotels, restaurants and shops of the main stretch and onwards to Marina Rubicon where there’s a market on Wednesdays and Saturdays (great for souvenirs and jewellery).

Along the way, the protected stretches of sand are perfect for paddling, lounging or enjoying a huge ice cream – in typical Spanish style, the staff always seem to melt at the sight of small kids, who end up with supercharged cones bigger than the adults.

Playa Blanca Lanzarote: things to do – for more ideas including the best places to eat, click here

Playa de Papagayo

Further along from Playa Blanca itself, you can enjoy the more isolated protected dunes of the Papagayo beaches – the Playa de Papagayo is a gorgeous curve of sand surrounded by cliffs (with a cafe at the top) and a car park nearby. There’s a dirt track to reach it and you may need to pay a fee though.

Busy in summer, it’s a lovely spot for families, although the walk down is easier with older kids than very little ones.

For a quieter alternative, head across the headland to Caleta Del Congrio – you’ll find even fewer facilities as at Papagayo, but you can also escape the crowds here

Playa de Famara

Playa de Famara is one of the longest beaches in Lanzarote, stretching six kilometres along the island’s northern coast. Surrounded by volcanic cliffs, the large golden sand beach is a great spot for kids to run around and play. 

Due to its strong wind and waves, Playa de Famara isn’t the safest beach for paddling or swimming with little ones. But it is great for taking older children and teens to enjoy a day of water sports such as surfing or windsurfing. There are several surf schools and rental spots along the beach.

Flamingo Beach

If you want white sand with all the essential facilities, Flamingo Beach ticks the boxes – there are restaurants plus showers and toilets, deck chairs and sunshades to hire, plus calm clear waters to swim and snorkel in.

A little way along from the small beaches of Playa Blanca, there are shops in strolling distance – not somewhere to get away from it all as it’s a very popular spot, it’s a good easy option with younger kids though.

Playa Grande

In Puerto del Carmen, Playa Grande lives up to its name – big beach. More than a kilometre of golden sand, it’s unsurprisingly one of the most popular beaches on the island and easily the most popular in this area.

For good reason: whether you’re looking to swim in the calm waters, sunbathe or take a stroll along the promenade to the bars, restaurants and shops – add in deck chairs and sunshades to hire, a lifeguard service, showers and a playground, and you’ve got everything you might need.

Caleton Blanco

If you’re looking to head off the beaten track and find a family friendly alternative to the main tourist beaches, Caleton Blanco in the north of the island is a gorgeous spot.

With white sand, turquoise water and black volcanic rocks, it’s instantly eye-catching, plus you’ll find lots of rock pools for kids to explore at low tide. Popular with locals, if you’re looking for a tranquil stretch of sand, you might even have this to yourself!

Visit a waterpark

You’ll find several waterparks in Lanzarote for kids, whether you’re staying in the southern part of the island or near Costa Teguise.

Aquapark

The biggest waterpark in Lanzarote, Aquapark is in Costa Teguise, with a whole string of rides and attractions for kids and adults of all ages, great if you’re looking for something to suit the whole family.

For little ones, there’s a dedicated children’s lake, a splash zone for under 8s, and some smaller slides for kids under 1.2 metres. Meanwhile, bigger kids and adults can enjoy the adrenaline-fueled Kamikaze or race against each other on the Multipista.

As well as all the water rides, Aquapark also has an indoor paintball court, mini go-karts, and an exciting adventure trail for children. There’s more than enough to do to fill an entire day out!

It’s worth knowing that Aquapark isn’t far from Rancho Texas animal park – which has its own waterpark areas if you’re looking for a Lanzarote zoo and waterpark in one.

Aqualava

Playa Blanca is home to two of Lanzarote’s smaller waterparks, including Aqualava waterpark – not as big as Aquapark, there’s still with enough to keep everyone entertained.

As well as the slides, the waterpark has a wave pool and Magma lazy river to enjoy among its volcano-themed attractions. Open year-round, there are also heated pools using geothermal energy.

It’s worth getting there early too as sunbeds do fill up fast. There’s an option to get a transfer included with your ticket if you’re not staying nearby too, although there’s also a bus route running several days per week.

Dino Water Park

Not far from Aqualava, Dino Water park is part of the HL Paradise Island resort complex – free for guests, you can also normally pay to visit even if you’re not staying there.

Smaller than the other two waterparks, there are around a dozen slides and splash area, all with a dinosaur theme. There’s also a small lazy river to enjoy.

Even the highest ‘Kamikaze’ adult slide is 12.5 metres so this isn’t somewhere for serious adrenaline thrills, though there’s enough to keep bigger kids entertained, plus a separate children’s area which is lovely for younger kids.

See Lanzarote Aquarium

Sat in the coastal resort of Costa Teguise, Lanzarote’s Aquarium is the largest of its kind in the Canary Islands and a great way to spend a fun and educational day with kids.

The aquarium is home to an impressive variety of exciting marine species, with everything from sharks, turtles, and rays, to fire dragons, puffer fish, and hermit crabs. Kids will love the interactive exhibits too, where they can touch creatures such as sea urchins and sea cucumbers, while learning about the species and their habitats. 

A unique feature of the aquarium is its “garbage aquarium,” a small recreation of the current state of certain areas of our coasts, which aims to teach children about the danger of ocean pollution and promote environmental awareness.

Great if you’re unlucky enough to be faced with a rainy day in Lanzarote with kids too.

Lanzarote boat trips with kids

Lanzarote has a gorgeous coastline, dotted with beautiful beaches, quaint coves, rocky outcrops, and towering cliffs. And one of the best ways to explore the coast is on a boat trip. 

There are various boat tours that are perfect for families, such as this 90-minute dolphin and whale spotting trip from Puerto del Carmen marina.

Or for something a little longer, this chilled-out coastal cruise from Playa Blanca takes you along the southwest coast of Lanzarote to see the beaches of the Costa de Papagayo. Kids can enjoy swimming, snorkelling, paddle boarding, and other water activities, while parents join in or sit back in the sun and enjoy the views. There’s even a tasty BBQ on board the boat for lunch.

Another fun option is a boat trip from Lanzarote to explore one of the Canaries’ smaller islands, like this full-day sailing trip around La Graciosa. Pick-up included from around the island, as well as the ferry from Orzola to La Graciosa.

Take a submarine safari

Dive, dive, dive – without getting wet… For something a little bit different from your average boat tour of Lanzarote, you can dive to around 30m below the surface without even dipping a toe in the water on one of the submarine safaris.

The hour-long experience takes you down to the ocean floor to explore shipwrecks and discover more about some of the marine life of the Canary Islands.

The 106-ton Finnish submarine has TV monitors to give you different views, as well as the main submarine viewing ports, so you won’t miss out on any of the underwater sights.

Because the cabin is pressurised to keep it at normal atmospheric conditions, it’s suitable for pregnant women (as well as those with heart conditions and ear problems). Kids over two are welcome as well.

Find pirate history at the Pirate Museum

The former capital of Teguise is home to the island’s pirate museum (as well as a huge Sunday market, so make your plans depending whether you’d prefer to do both or avoid the crowds).

Set in the Santa Barbara castle, the small museum mixes tales of the pirates which threatened the island with history about its inhabitants and while you only need a short visit, it should definitely make the list of fun things to do in Lanzarote with kids.

View the minor islands

There are 13 Canary islands in total, and from the Mirador del Rio, you can look out onto La Graciosa, and even Montana Clara and Alegranza – there are telescopes on the viewing platform – or just watch the boats zipping across the blue sea.

It’s only around 15 minutes from the Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes, so easy to combine with those rather than making a special visit to the north, especially as most Lanzarote family hotels are based further south.

If you’re unlucky enough to time your visit for when a coach tour stops by – not uncommon in peak season – you could also head 10 minutes away to Mirador de Guinate, which has its own similarly great views without the crowds.

If you’d like to do more than just look, the ferry to La Graciosa only takes 30 minutes, so it’s easy to visit for the day

Head to the zoo at Rancho Texas animal park

Rancho Texas animal park is the closest thing the island has to a zoo – in fact, if you’re looking for a Lanzarote theme park, the choice boils down to Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park and the water parks.

Themed around the US state, you’ll find cowboys and a gold mine, along with animal shows, some waterslides and plenty of areas to play – you can also find skip the line tickets – and it’s very close to the hotels of Puerto del Carmen, or around 20-30 minutes from Costa Teguise and Playa Blanca

There are also dolphin shows and interaction experiences (as well as with sea lions) – although I don’t personally recommend these.

For those also concerned about animal welfare, the project has been approved by the European Program of Protected Species and those dolphins in the park were born in captivity and cannot be released into the wild).

See the Janubio Salt Flats 

While there were once salt flats all across Lanzarote, the largest and most important ones that remain today are located on the south of the island. Known as Salinas de Janubio, these 120-year-old salt flats offer a fascinating insight into the island’s history of salt production. 

You can take a guided tour of the Salt Flats to learn about the traditional methods of salt extraction and the importance of the salt trade in the Canary Islands. 

Kids will enjoy seeing the unusual salt ponds and learning about the natural processes that make the salt crystals form. You can even sample some of the site’s uniquely flavoured salts.

Take a day trip to Fuerteventura 

Fuerteventura is another of the most popular Canary Islands, located just a short distance to the south of Lanzarote. 

The two islands are separated by only a 30-minute ferry ride that runs multiple times a day, making it the ideal destination for a day trip.

Once you arrive in Fuerteventura, you’ll find plenty of things to see and do. The ferry arrives in the town of Corralejo, which is home to the Acua Water Park and the towering sand dunes of the Parque Natural de Corralejo. 

You could even take the speedy water taxi, or another 15-minute ferry, out to Isla de Lobos. This tiny island is an amazing nature reserve filled with walking trails and charming hidden lagoons.

With several companies running between the islands, you can compare ferry prices from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura on the Ferryhopper site.

For more ideas, check out my guide to the Canary Islands with kids

*First published 2013, updated 2023*

PIN FOR LATER: THINGS TO DO IN LANZAROTE WITH KIDS

Images: El Golfo lagoon/Playa Blanca/boats/Mirador view copyright MummyTravels, all other images courtesy of Depositphotos

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