Where to stay in Lanzarote? 4 Best Areas & Places to Stay + Where to Avoid!

Lanzarote is a fantastic holiday island with several nice areas & hotels. Here, I share my favourites, and I'll also share where not to stay on the island.

where to stay in lanzarote

As part of the Canary Islands, Lanzarote is one of the best travel destinations in Europe – all year round.

Lanzarote is a fantastic destination where you can experience the most beautiful landscapes and beautiful beaches. The island is geared towards tourism, so it is a very easy place to go on holiday.

I have been to Lanzarote several times in the winter, and I must admit that I love the island.

Kristoffer Fons from Destination Well Known in Lanzarote

I’m also a big fan of Tenerife, Fuerteventura and Gran Canaria, but I really liked Lanzarote on my last trip there.

In this guide, I will talk about the best areas to stay in Lanzarote and describe hotels in different price ranges.

Whether you want a child-friendly beach holiday in a popular holiday town or stay in a slightly more unknown part of the island, there is a place in Lanzarote for you.

So let’s start with the guide: where to stay in Lanzarote?

Best areas in Lanzarote

If you just want a quick overview, here are the best areas to stay in Lanzarote:

Click on the area name above and see the best hotels.

The guide on where to stay in Lanzarote continues below with more info on each area & my recommended hotels.

1. Puerto del Carmen – best all-round holiday area ⭐️

Puerto del Carmen is the best place to stay in Lanzarote for travellers looking for a classic holiday town with good beaches, a good selection of hotels in different price ranges and plenty of restaurants and bars.

Long Beach in Lanzarote's Puerto del Carmen
The beach bar ‘Long Beach Club Lanzarote’ is a nice place to relax with a drink.

I stayed here on my last trip to Lanzarote and was surprisingly happy with the area.

The city is very similar to a classic European tourist area, packed with Irish pubs, Spanish and international restaurants, and lots of small shops.

But if you scratch the surface a little, you can also find really good restaurants with local charm.

Puerto del Carmen, best area to stay in Lanzarote

The large Playa Grande is a surprisingly good sandy beach. Since the water is relatively shallow, it is also very child-friendly. Along the seafront, you will find plenty of restaurants, shops, and bars.

See the best hotels in Puerto del Carmen here.

If you go further into the city, you can go to the old town, where I also spent a lot of time.

Here, we find, among other things, the somewhat smaller, very cosy Playa Chica – a little hidden gem where many locals enjoy the cosy surroundings and swim.

The old town’s harbour is also an excellent place to enjoy a cold drink, and I recommend following the sea to the west, where you can walk along a path to the neighbouring town of Puerto Calero.

Puerto del carmen old town harbour

Overall, Puerto del Carmen is the best all-around holiday area in Lanzarote if you’re looking for a great place to stay. There are lots of things within walking distance and several good beaches.

Lanzarote Airport is also only a 10-15 minute drive from Puerto del Carmen, so it’s easy to get straight from the plane to the beach.

In Puerto del Carmen I can, among other things, recommend:

  • La Cascada – excellent restaurant with fantastic meat dishes
  • El Laurel – cosy little tapas bar with cheap dishes close to Playa Chica
  • Restaurante Go Chow Mein – really good Asian restaurant with nice waiters
  • Long Beach Club Lanzarote – a beach bar that is elevated above the beach, so you have a great view of the city’s large beach

Places to stay in Puerto del Carmen

There’s a wide selection of hotels in Puerto del Carmen, but here are a few of my favourites.

Hotel Fariones is a luxury hotel with an exceptional location in the heart of Puerto del Carmen. Here, you can enjoy a private, small beach, creating an intimate and tranquil atmosphere.

Hotel Fariones Lanzarote, luxury hotel in Puerto del Carmen

You’ll stay in elegant rooms with modern decor and stunning sea views.

The hotel is close to local restaurants and shops, making it perfect if you’re looking for relaxation and easy access to the town’s amenities.

You can also look forward to an infinity pool, several bars, and a delicious breakfast buffet that ensures a fantastic start to the day.

See more photos and book here.

Gloria Izaro Club Hotel is a 4-star hotel a little outside the old town of Puerto del Carmen. I stayed here at Christmas 2023 and was actually really pleased with it.

Gloria Izaro Club Hotel Lanzarote

I had all-inclusive, which can always be a bit hit-and-miss when it comes to the food, but I actually thought the food was quite excellent here at the hotel.

The room was like a small apartment with a large terrace, there’s a large pool area, and overall it was just a really good place to stay – at a reasonable price.

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Cactus is a budget-friendly choice with fantastic reviews from previous guests. You can expect clean and comfortable rooms that offer good value for money.

Hotel Cactus Puerto del Carmen

The hotel is known for its friendly service and relaxed atmosphere.

It’s located near local attractions and eateries, making it a great base for exploring Lanzarote.

There’s also a lovely pool where you can relax after a day of sightseeing.

See more photos and book here.

Also, check out my video from Lanzarote:

2. Costa Teguise – best area to stay for families with children

Costa Teguise is the perfect place to stay on Lanzarote for families with children who want a holiday focused on fun, safety, and relaxation.

Costa Teguise, best place to stay in Lanzarote for families with children

The town is known for its family-friendly facilities and atmosphere, making it a favourite among travellers with children.

There are several good hotels with child-friendly pools and activities, and most restaurants have children’s menus that cater to even the pickiest eaters.

See the best hotels in Costa Teguise here.

The main attraction in Costa Teguise is the beautiful beaches. Playa de las Cucharas is a large and safe beach, perfect for children to play and build sandcastles.

The water is calm, making it ideal for swimming and snorkelling for both children and adults. Along the beach, you’ll find many ice cream parlours and cafes where you can enjoy a refreshment in the sun.

Playa del Jablillo
Playa del Jablillo in Costa Teguise.

Additionally, Costa Teguise offers a wealth of activities for children.

The local water park, Aquapark Costa Teguise, is a favourite, where both children and adults can spend many hours enjoying the slides and pools.

For the more adventurous, there’s the option to go on a family-friendly bike ride around the area or visit the fascinating Museo de la Piratería in nearby Teguise.

Costa Teguise is also a great starting point for exploring the rest of Lanzarote, with short drives to the island’s attractions such as Timanfaya National Park and Jameos del Agua.

And with Lanzarote Airport only a 15-minute drive away, it’s easy to get from the plane to the holiday paradise.

Places to stay in Costa Teguise

Let’s take a closer look at some of the best hotels in Costa Teguise – in different price ranges, of course.

Grand Teguise Playa is a lovely luxury hotel located right on the beach in Costa Teguise.

Here, you can book rooms with half board at a good price, making it an attractive choice for those who want comfort and convenience.

Grand Teguise Playa, luxury hotel in Costa Teguise

You’ll find modern facilities, a large pool, and easy access to the beautiful coastline.

The hotel is perfect for those who want a relaxing holiday with a bit of extra luxury.

See more photos and book here.

H10 Suites Lanzarote Gardens is a fabulous hotel that is particularly suitable for families.

Here, you can enjoy a child-friendly pool and many activities for children of all ages.

H10 Suites Lanzarote Gardens

The hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, making it easy to unwind after a day full of fun.

The location is also excellent, with a short distance to the beach and local attractions.

See more photos and book here.

Nazaret Mansion is a quite decent but very cheap hotel in Costa Teguise.

Here, you get simple and comfortable rooms that suit budget travellers.

Nazaret Mansion, cheap place to stay in Costa Teguise

Previous guests praise the hotel’s location close to both shops and restaurants, as well as its relaxed atmosphere.

It’s a great choice if you’re looking to experience Lanzarote without breaking the bank.

See more photos and book here.

3. Playa Blanca – peaceful holiday area with great beaches & nature

Playa Blanca is the best place to stay if you’re looking for a peaceful holiday area on Lanzarote with beautiful beaches and stunning nature.

Playa Blanca, best area for a peaceful holiday near beaches and nature

The town is known for its relaxed atmosphere and fantastic views over the Atlantic Ocean. It’s also where you can catch the ferry to Fuerteventura, which takes you to the charming harbour town of Corralejo.

The beaches here are among the best on the island, especially Playa Dorada, with its fine sand and crystal-clear water, perfect for a relaxing day in the sun.

Playa Flamingo is another gem, suitable for families with its shallow water and calm waves.

See the best hotels in Playa Blanca here.

Playa Blanca also has a charming town centre with cosy restaurants and cafes along the promenade. It’s a perfect place to enjoy a romantic dinner with views of the sunset.

One of the biggest advantages of staying in Playa Blanca is the easy access to some of Lanzarote’s most spectacular natural areas.

From the town, you can take a short boat trip to the nearby island of Isla de Lobos or explore the fantastic landscape in Los Ajaches National Park.

Papagayo Beach in Lanzarote

It’s also worth visiting the famous Papagayo beaches, known for their unspoiled beauty.

Playa Blanca is a peaceful paradise on Lanzarote, where you can enjoy your holiday at your own pace and still have easy access to both beach and nature.

Places to stay in Playa Blanca

Here on the southern tip of Lanzarote, you’ll also find an excellent selection of hotels – here are my favourites.

Iberostar Selection Lanzarote Park is a large luxury hotel in Playa Blanca with a wealth of pools and facilities.

Iberostar Selection Lanzarote Park, luxury hotel in Playa Blanca

The hotel has modern rooms with sea views and offers a wide range of activities for both adults and children.

You can enjoy several restaurants, a spa, and a fitness centre, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing and entertaining holiday.

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Cordial Marina Blanca is a classic holiday hotel that offers a good balance between price and quality.

The hotel has spacious rooms and is close to both the beach and Playa Blanca’s lively marina.

Hotel Cordial Marina Blanca

Here, you’ll find a large pool, good dining options, and a friendly atmosphere, making it a popular place for families and couples to stay in Lanzarote.

See more photos and book here.

Grupotel Flamingo Beach is a very lovely and inexpensive hotel right by the beach in Playa Blanca.

The hotel has comfortable rooms, several pools, and direct access to the beautiful beach.

Grupotel Flamingo Beach, cheap hotel by the beach in Playa Blanca

It’s an excellent choice for budget travellers who want to be close to the sea and enjoy a relaxing holiday with a fantastic view.

See more photos and book here.

4. Punta Mujeres – charming little fishing village with local life

Punta Mujeres is one of the hidden gems on Lanzarote, a charming little fishing village that offers an authentic glimpse into the local life on the island.

If you’re looking for a unique and charming experience away from the more touristy areas, Punta Mujeres is the place to stay.

The town’s small, white houses and winding streets give an impression of the real Lanzarote, and the local charm is easy to be captivated by.

See the best hotels in Punta Mujeres.

One of the highlights of Punta Mujeres is the natural sea pools, which offer a refreshing dip in the clear water.

It’s a popular activity among both locals and visitors, and it’s an experience not to be missed. Along the coast, there are also small, cosy beaches where you can relax in the sun.

Punta Mujeres is a good starting point for hiking along the coast, where you can experience the island’s raw and untouched nature.

You can also rent a car and drive north to places like Playa De Orzola and Mirador del Río.

In general, there are just so many scenic places in the northern part of Lanzarote.

Punta Mujeres is the perfect choice for an authentic and relaxing holiday experience on Lanzarote, away from the more commercial areas.

Places to stay in Punta Mujeres

Because Punta Mujeres isn’t one of the major tourist areas, there aren’t many hotels here.

However, there is a good selection of holiday apartments, so let’s look at three great places to stay in Punta Mujeres.

Rocamar Sol y Mar is a cosy apartment located close to the sea in Punta Mujeres – and this is a holiday apartment with its own private pool.

Rocamar Sol y Mar

You can expect a fully equipped kitchen, a balcony with sea views, and comfortable rooms.

The apartment is ideal for those who want to experience local life and have easy access to the nearby natural sea pools.

Perfect for a relaxing holiday with peace and views of the beautiful sea.

See more photos and book here.

Luxury Villa Punta Mujeres offers stylish and spacious accommodation with modern conveniences.

Like the above, you also get your own private swimming pool here.

Luxury Villa Punta Mujeres

Here, you can enjoy luxurious facilities such as a private terrace and a large living room, making it a fantastic choice for a more exclusive experience.

The villa’s location close to the sea and the surrounding attractions makes it easy to explore the area.

See more photos and book here.

Casa Román is a charming and quite affordable holiday apartment in Punta Mujeres.

Here, you’ll get an authentic experience with a well-equipped kitchen and comfortable sleeping arrangements.

Casa Román

The location is close to the town’s amenities and the sea, making it a good choice for those who want a simple and peaceful holiday with local flair.

See more photos and book here.

Where Not to Stay in Lanzarote

Lanzarote

Unlike other times when I write these “where to stay” travel guides, there are actually no dangerous areas in Lanzarote.

So if you happen to book a hotel in one of the areas below, it’s not because it’s dangerous – but there are a few places I wouldn’t recommend staying.

Arrecife

Although Arrecife is the capital of Lanzarote, it is different from a typical tourist area. The city lacks the tourist-friendly infrastructure and amenities found in the more popular holiday towns.

There are fewer beaches and attractions than other parts of the island, making it less attractive for those seeking a traditional holiday experience.

Puerto Calero

The area is primarily known for its marina and has limited beach access. It can be a quiet place with few activities and attractions unless you have a car to explore more of the island.

It is not ideal for those seeking a lively atmosphere or family-friendly activities.

Matagorda

Although close to the airport, Matagorda offers limited activities and nightlife outside its central shopping centre.

It is more suitable for families with young children, but those looking for an exciting holiday experience may find it a bit dull.

La Santa

La Santa is known for the large Club La Santa hotel, but it is quite isolated, with limited dining and entertainment options outside the resort.

It is best suited for sports enthusiasts, and those who are not part of this niche may find the area too remote.

I hope you found this guide on where to stay in Lanzarote helpful and are now ready for your trip.

If you have any questions about the areas, please leave a comment below, and I’ll do my best to help.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Which area is best for families in Lanzarote?

Playa Blanca is often recommended for families because of its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. It is a peaceful area with many family-friendly hotels and facilities. However, I think Puerto del Carmen would be excellent for families, too.

Where should you stay to experience the nightlife on Lanzarote?

Puerto del Carmen is known as the best place on the island for nightlife. The area has many bars, clubs, and restaurants, making it ideal for those looking for a lively holiday. I was surprised at how many Irish pubs there are.

Which area is best for surfers on Lanzarote?

Caleta de Famara is popular among surfers due to its consistent wind conditions and waves. The area has several surf schools and a relaxed atmosphere that attracts surf enthusiasts.

Should you rent a car on Lanzarote?

It’s a good idea to rent a car if you’d like to experience more than just the town you’re staying in. Lanzarote has many incredibly beautiful natural experiences, and with a car, you can easily choose your own route. There are also plenty of day trips from the most popular holiday areas.

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