Costa Teguise is Lanzarote’s third-largest resort, only behind Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen. Its origin dates back to 1977 when the luxurious Gran Melia Salinas hotel (today known as Paradisus Salinas) was built with the help of the famous local artist Cesar Manrique.
Today the resort is beloved by many tourists for a number of reasons. It has a great golf course, the best water park in Lanzarote, the only aquarium on the island, and a great selection of sandy beaches. The restaurant and bar scene is exciting too.
Costa Teguise is also the northernmost resort of the island so the location makes it a great base for exploring the attractions based in the north of Lanzarote.
The resort is popular among water sports lovers because it’s the windiest one on the island but it’s also popular with families due to its quiet, peaceful, and laid-back atmosphere and the selection of some really nice large hotels with plenty of attractions for little ones.
A few more reasons to choose Costa Teguise are:
- The short distance to the airport (meaning short transfer time – only 15 minutes).
- It’s a compact and flat resort making it perfect for those with mobility issues (those who are not new to the Canary Islands know how hilly some places can be).
We compiled the list of the best things to do in Costa Teguise so you would not miss out on anything while staying here or visiting the resort from other parts of the island. You’ll also find tips on getting to the resort and our recommendations for the best places to stay.
How to Get to Costa Teguise
Whether you want to reach Costa Teguise from the airport or are staying in a different resort and just want to visit this lovely place for a day trip, there are plenty of transportation options available.
Lanzarote Airport to Costa Teguise
There are no direct buses from Arrecife airport to Costa Teguise. You would have to use two different buses to get to the resort.
First, at the airport, take bus number 22, which goes to the capital Arrecife. You will end up at the main bus station. From there, change to bus number 3, which will get you to Costa Teguise. Alight at the stop nearest to your hotel. The full list of stops can be seen here.
Alternatively, grab a taxi which will cost you around 25 euros. You can find them just outside the airport at the taxi rank.
If you are staying in Costa Teguise, we would recommend grabbing a taxi since it’s not that expensive and because changing buses with your luggage will be a pain. The car trip takes only 15 minutes and this way you’ll be able to arrive and check-in before transfer buses arrive.
Puerto del Carmen to Costa Teguise
Take bus number 3. Check out the full route map. It will take around 45 minutes to reach Costa Teguise.
Alternatively grab a taxi, which will cost you around 30 euros one way. We would recommend using the bus service, though, as it’s only 3 euros one way and you can spend the money on meals and drinks instead.
Playa Blanca to Costa Teguise
Playa Blanca is on the other side of the island but the trip is still doable. First, catch either bus 60 or 62 going to Arrecife’s bus station. There change to bus number 3.
Or catch bus 161, alight at the “Matagorda” stop, and change to bus number 3 from there.
Visit the main Lanzarote public transport website for timetables. A taxi would cost around 70-80 euros one way.
Things to Do in Costa Teguise
Start by visiting the Costa Teguise tourist information office on Avenida Islas Canarias. You’ll get some recommendations there and tips on getting around the resort.
Location: Google Maps
Opening hours: Daily from 10 AM to 2 PM
Enjoy the Beaches
Costa Teguise offers an abundance of sandy beaches for everyone. They are all connected by a seafront promenade so it’s easy to visit them all and pick your favorite one.
We will briefly mention them here but for more information head to our Costa Teguise beach guide.
Playa de las Cucharas
The largest beach in Costa Teguise, which can also be considered the main one because it’s the most central and buzzing one out of all. Plenty of hotels, bars, and restaurants are located around it.
Playa de las Cucharas is 650 metres long and is very clean and beautiful, with nice golden sand. It can get quite windy so the beach is popular with water sports lovers. If you are looking for calm waters, we recommend heading to the northern part of the beach. It’s more protected from waves.
Location: Google Maps
Playa Las Salinas
At the northern end of Playa de las Cucharas, near the famous Salinas hotel, you will find a hidden white sand beach. The surroundings are beautiful with palm trees lined up along the shore (thanks to the 5-star hotel) and the beach itself is sheltered and with calm waters.
You don’t have to be a guest of the hotel to enjoy the beach, all beaches in Lanzarote and all other Canary Islands are open to the public.
Location: Google Maps
Playa del Jablillo
Located in the southern part of Costa Teguise, Playa del Jablillo is probably the best beach for families with small children. The sand is golden, the waters are calm thanks to breakwaters protecting from large waves.
The water is also shallow and clear making it perfect for snorkelling activities. It actually looks like a large natural pool. You’ll always find groups of kids splashing around at this beach.
Location: Google Maps
Playa Bastián
Playa Bastián is located a bit farther away from the Costa Teguise centre but it depends on where you are staying. There are plenty of hotels around this beach so it may as well be the closest one to your accommodation. We have many friends who prefer staying in the Bastian area.
The beach itself is small but natural and picturesque. It has golden sand, however, it can get a bit rocky in some places. If you plan to swim, try to choose high tide for your visit because low tide reveals unpleasant rocks.
Location: Google Maps
Playa de los Charcos
This is the northernmost beach of Costa Teguise located at the far end of the resort but it’s actually a short walk from Playa de las Cucharas. This beach is located near the HD Beach Resort & Spa and Sands Beach Resort.
Enclosed by artificial breakwaters, this beach is safe for swimming. Outside of the lagoon is a perfect place for windsurfers.
Los Charcos beach is not as popular as other ones probably because at low tide you have to get over some rocks to access the ocean.
There is a large parking lot right next to the beach which makes it super accessible.
Location: Google Maps
Make a Splash at Lanzarote’s Largest Water Park
The resort is the home to the largest water park on the island – Aquapark Costa Teguise. It offers a nice selection of rides for children and adults of all ages.
Even though it has its shortcomings, we absolutely loved visiting this park with our children. The section for toddlers is great with plenty of different little slides and splash zones. Our kids enjoyed it even better than the almighty Siam Park in Tenerife.
There are thrilling rides for adults too. Try steep Kamikaze or Super Kamikaze for adrenaline-fuelled fun. Winding Turbolancha and Aqualancha are amazing too.
Don’t expect it to be as large as Siam Park in Tenerife but the price is much better too. In our opinion, this water park is a must-visit if you are visiting Lanzarote. Especially with children. For a more detailed review check out our guide on Aquapark in Costa Teguise.
Keep in mind that the water park is usually open from April to November and closes for winter.
Wander Along the Promenade
Did you know that Lanzarote has the longest promenade in the world? No kidding.
It runs along the coastline from Costa Teguise up to Puerto del Carmen. Whopping 26 kilometres! The promenade also runs through the capital Arrecife and the resorts of Playa Honda, Matagorda, and Los Pocillos.
You can either walk or cycle on this path and if you walk too far away, you can always get back by bus or taxi.
Check out the map of a full walk here.
If you are not ready to embark on such an adventure, we highly recommend walking at least part of the promenade situated in Costa Teguise. You’ll be able to check out all the beautiful beaches in the area stopping by countless shops, bars and restaurants on your way.
Play a Round of Golf
Yes, Costa Teguise has its own golf course and it’s amazing! Located only 5 minutes away from the centre of the resort, this course is surrounded by a stunning volcanic landscape and offers magnificent ocean views.
It’s an 18-hole course designed back in 1978 by the well-known architect John Harris. It can be played all year round.
Location: Google Maps
For more information check out the official website.
Encounter a Remarkable Underwater World at Lanzarote Aquarium
Costa Teguise is also home to Lanzarote’s only aquarium. It’s not the largest one but still makes for a very fun and educational activity, especially for children.
The aquarium has 33 tanks on display with hundreds of different species. Among them are native Canarian species such as gilt-head breams, tiger fish and also exotic ones such as clownfish, puffer fish, hermit crabs, and more.
When we were visiting the aquarium, there also was a large sea turtle that was rescued near the shore of Lanzarote and brought here.
There is also a glass tunnel where sharks and other sea animals are swimming right over your head! It’s such an awesome experience.
You can also opt for a unique experience of diving with sharks inside the aquarium. It’s possible even without having an official diving certificate – under the strict supervision of experts.
Click here to view current Lanzarote Aquarium ticket prices
Chill Out at the Charming Pueblo Marinero Square
Pueblo Marinero (fishing village in Spanish) is the most famous square in Costa Teguise with plenty of action happening around it. It was designed by Cesar Manrique and reflects traditional Canarian style with beautiful whitewashed houses clustered around the square.
Some of the best bars and restaurants are located here so it’s a perfect place to spend an evening.
Pueblo Marinero also hosts a weekly local market which takes place on Wednesdays and Fridays from 5 PM to 10 PM. You can find fake designer goods, handmade stuff, gifts, and more here.
It’s a small market so we wouldn’t recommend going out of your way for it especially if you plan on visiting the huge Teguise market on Sunday. But if you are in the area, why not? You can combine shopping with visiting one of the bars or restaurants in the square.
Location: Google Maps
Enjoy a Nice Meal Out
You are spoiled with great restaurants in Costa Teguise. Here are our favourites in no particular order.
Peskera
This restaurant is located right on the Playa las Cucharas beach. The menu is wide and the food is really really good. Everything from paella and fish dishes to steak, pasta, pizza, and more! The service and atmosphere are top-notch too.
Four Seasons Rock Cafè
A very popular place with stylish decor with music memorabilia all around. The food is great – do try their amazing burgers! Also, great evening entertainment with live music.
El Patio
For amazing steaks and Italian cuisine, bag a table at El Patio. It’s set in a beautiful area and has something for everyone.
La Tabla
The best place in town for tapas, hands down. Try dates in bacon, grilled smoked cheese with honey and their homemade sangria. Desserts are to die for too!
Fuel Stop
Located right on the promenade with great ocean views, this restaurant is best known for their burgers, steaks and ribs but the menu doesn’t end there.
Visit the Spectacular Teguise Market
Although this market has “Teguise” in its name, it’s not actually located in Costa Teguise. Teguise is a different town, around 15 minutes by car from the resort towards the centre of the island.
Teguise is a small beautiful town that served as the capital of Lanzarote until it was moved to Arrecife in 1852. On Sundays, though, this town comes to life when the famous market takes place.
Let me tell you this, the Teguise market is HUGE. It literally blew our minds when we visited it the first time because we had never seen anything like this in the Canary Islands.
You can find everything there: local crafts, clothes, jewellery, Canarian wines and cheeses, fresh produce, souvenirs, fake goods, and the list goes on and on. It’s a must-visit if you are visiting Lanzarote.
Check out our full guide on this market where you will be able to find any information you need.
Teguise market is so important that there are 4 bus lines dedicated just to it. Number 11 from Costa Teguise, number 12 from Puerto del Carmen, number 13 from Playa Blanca and number 14 from Arrecife. Check out timetables here.
Or you can opt for a guided tour that will pick you up at your hotel and take you to the Sunday market as well as other locations during the trip. We recommend these tours:
Teguise Handicraft Market and La Graciosa Island
Combine the Teguise market with a visit to the untouched La Graciosa island. The tour also includes lunch and drinks.
Teguise Market and César Manrique Foundation Tour
Visit the market and the César Manrique Foundation afterwards. You can read more about the foundation in the next section.
Teguise market location: Google Maps
Opening hours: Every Sunday 9 AM-2 PM.
Marvel at Cesar Manrique Foundation
For those of you who are not familiar with this name – Cesar Manrique was an architect, painter, and sculptor who shaped the island of Lanzarote. He was known for his unique ability to combine nature and art. Manrique used the dramatic volcanic landscape to create multiple unique projects throughout the island. He is considered to be a pioneer of modern Canarian art.
There are a few places on the island where you can marvel at Cesar Manrique’s creations. Cesar Manrique Foundation, which is only a 10-minute drive from Costa Teguise, is one of them.
It’s headquartered in a beautiful house designed by the artist himself. It was actually his home for two decades from 1968 to 1988. You’ll be able to see how masterfully Manrique incorporated volcanic surroundings into the design of the house.
The rooms are built inside actual lava tubes! An unforgettable experience is guaranteed. There is also a museum, which features exhibits on Manrique’s life and art as well as his collection of paintings by other artists.
Location: Google Maps
Opening hours: Daily from 10 AM to 6 PM
You can visit the foundation yourself or opt for a guided tour. We recommend these tours:
César Manrique Foundation and Teguise Market – Visit the foundation, the cactus garden (the last project of Manrique) and the amazing Teguise market in one day.
Following the Footsteps of César Manrique: Four Art Centers – Visit the cactus garden, foundation, monument to the peasant and Mirador del Río all created by Manrique.
P.S. Another beautiful house designed by Manrique is also only a 15-minute drive from Costa Teguise. It’s called the Lagomar Museum and once was owned by the famous Egyptian actor Omar Sharif.
You can visit it yourself (tickets here) or check out this guided tour which will bring you to the Lagomar museum, cactus garden, and La Graciosa island on a ferry.
Location: Google Maps
Opening hours: Daily from 10 AM to 6 PM
Visit the Capital of Lanzarote
Arrecife is only a short 15-minute drive away from Costa Teguise so we would definitely recommend visiting it. You can also catch bus number 1.
It’s not a touristy place but there are enough things to do for a fun day there. First, the main town beach, Playa Reducto, is very nice with palm trees, calm waters and nice golden sand. We enjoyed it with our children.
We also can’t recommend enough getting up to the top floor of the Arrecife Gran Hotel & Spa (location) for a cup of coffee and dessert in the restaurant. It’s the tallest building in Lanzarote and the views from the top are mindblowing.
Other things we enjoyed are: Castillo de San Gabriel fortress (location), Charco San Gines lagoon (location), the church nearby, and the shipwreck site, which is a little bit out of the town here.
Book a Fun-Filled Day Trip
Booking one of the day trips from Costa Teguise is always a fun idea, as you get to experience something that would be difficult to organise yourself. Here are our favourite tours with pick-up from Costa Teguise.
One of the most fun tours you can find on the island. Explore the wild north of Lanzarote by a buggy. An adrenaline rush is guaranteed!
E-Bike Tour among the Volcanoes
Explore volcanic landscapes with this electric bike tour. Cycling allows you to experience the surroundings from a totally unique perspective. Highly recommended!
Hike through volcanic formations with an experienced guide. You’ll walk to the top of one of the volcanoes where you’ll be able to admire breathtaking views of the area.
Sample Some Water Sports
Costa Teguise is a great place to stay in Lanzarote if you are into surfing, kite-surfing, paddle boarding or any other water sports. You’ll find lots of surfing schools in the resort if you want to take some lessons or rent the equipment.
There are also a few great diving centres in the resort, such as Aquatis Diving, Native Diving Lanzarote, and more.
Motorised water sports, such as jet skis, are not available, though. For that, head to Puerto del Carmen or Playa Blanca.
If you are inexperienced but still would like to have some fun in the water, we recommend trying the amazing guided activities. You can have an introductory dive, without no prior experience needed, or even walk on a sea floor wearing a special helmet providing you with oxygen.
For a lighter activity, an experienced instructor will take you snorkelling providing all the equipment needed.
An unforgettable experience is guaranteed.
Intro to Diving Experience for Beginners
Underwater Sea Trek Experience
Snorkeling Tour with Instructor & Equipment
Explore the Northern Part of the Island
By staying in Costa Teguise you are the closest you can get to all the attractions based in the North of Lanzarote. And there are plenty of them.
One of the undisputable stars of the island is the Jameos del Aqua complex. Cesar Manrique converted multiple volcanic tubes into a unique space where art and nature collide.
The complex features a natural seawater pool with endemic blind lobster species not found anywhere else in the world, a restaurant, a concert hall, beautiful gardens with an artificial lake and a museum.
This place is visited by hundreds of thousands of tourists every year for a reason. It’s actually the second most popular attraction in Lanzarote preceded only by Timanfaya National Park.
It’s a 25-minute drive from Costa Teguise (location). If you plan to visit it yourself, get the ticket here. Or book this guided tour which will take you not only to Jameos del Agua but also to the volcanic cave Cueva de los Verdes and the amazing viewpoint designed by Manrique, Mirador del Rio.
Cueva de los Verdes is on the other side of the road from Jameos del Aqua so you can also visit it yourself. The catch is – queues get really long there because you are allowed to go inside the cave only in groups with a guide. By booking the guided tour mentioned above you skip the lines. How cool is that? Plus you also get to visit Mirador del Rio, which is highly recommended.
If you have a hire car, we also recommend visiting the beautiful villages of Haria, Arrieta, and Punta Mujeres.
Hop on a Ferry to the Secluded La Graciosa Island
By staying in Costa Teguise you are also close to the Orzola port from where the ferry to La Graciosa departs. This small island was officially named the eighth Canary Island a few years ago. It’s still a 30-minute drive from Costa Teguise but it’s even further from other spots in Lanzarote.
We highly recommend visiting this wild island. It’s the least explored and most peaceful of all of the Canary Islands. There are still no asphalted roads in La Graciosa! You can’t even drive there. You have a choice to explore it on foot, on a bike or hire a 4×4 taxi.
Because of this reason, the beaches are still secluded there and the whole atmosphere is wild. It’s all about nature. And the beaches there are amazing. One of the absolutely best we have seen in the Canaries.
If you plan to travel to the port of Orzola yourself, get the ferry tickets here. If you would like to be picked up from your hotel, here are ferry tickets with a transfer. Or, if you prefer the whole trip organized for you, check out this luxury catamaran cruise where you will be picked up from your hotel and head out on a memorable cruise around La Graciosa with lunch, unlimited drinks, and plenty of water activities.
Where to Stay?
There are many great places to stay in Costa Teguise. We only recommend accommodations tried by us or our friends and family.
Recommended Hotel for Adults
Even though Oasis Lanz Beach Mate is not an adults-only hotel, there were very few children when we stayed there. The reason is that it doesn’t have enough facilities or entertainment for kids. There is a kids’ pool but that’s about it.
So if you are looking for a calm, tranquil stay, this hotel is exactly what you need. The location is great – it’s right in the centre of Costa Teguise. Only 5 minutes from the busiest Playa de las Cucharas beach where all the action happens. Plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops are right at your doorstep.
The facilities are also amazing. Great heated pools and a beautiful outside area lined with palm trees. We made some really nice photos! The staff was very helpful and immediately solved any problems we had.
The rooms are all modern, spacious, and clean. Great selection for breakfast.
I can’t think of any downsides. Oh, maybe the fact that the only bar at the hotel closes at 6 PM is not the most convenient, but there is plenty of entertainment a stone’s throw away from the hotel.
Our verdict: Perfect for adults travelling without children and looking for a calm stay.
The Best Option for Families
On the other hand, if you are looking for a place to stay with your children, we can’t recommend H10 Suites Lanzarote Gardens enough.
The location is top-notch – all the fun is right at your doorstep! You can even walk to the aquarium, which is only 4 minutes away from you on foot. Perfect if you are with little kids who are not keen on walking long distances. The beach is also a couple of minutes away across the road.
There is plenty of entertainment for kids all day long to keep them busy. The animation team is amazing. There is also a baby club packed with toys. There is a pool with the slides and even a pirate ship! Oh and don’t miss the kids’ disco.
The rooms are spotlessly clean. The buffet was also excellent. We thoroughly enjoyed the food.
Our children absolutely fell in love with the hotel because it’s so kids-focused so we can definitely recommend it for all families coming to Costa Teguise.
Our verdict: The best hotel for families with small children in Costa Teguise.
Self-Catering
If you would rather stay in apartments, look no further than Nazaret apartments. A perfect option for a self-catering holiday.
Every apartment features kitchen facilities (oven, stovetop) allowing you to cook meals from scratch. There is a supermarket next door. There is also a washing machine and dishwasher available.
Apartments are spacious, air-conditioned, spotlessly clean, and with sunbeds on the terrace or balcony, depending on which room you choose.
Many pools are available to choose from.
The location is great too. Right nearby is the Pueblo Marinero square where you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants and also a weekly local market takes place there.
Breakfast is included in the price and you can also pay extra for dinner. We would recommend skipping dinner and eating out since it’s not that great plus there are plenty of awesome restaurants nearby.
Our verdict: A bit pricey apartments but totally worth it if you are looking for a true home from home.
For more budget-friendly apartments, check out Apartamentos Celeste. These are also right near the Pueblo Marinero square and have all the facilities you need for self-catering.
Luxury Hotel
Formerly known as Gran Melia Salinas, today it’s named Paradisus Salinas and it’s the most luxurious adults-only hotel in Costa Teguise. This property dates back to 1977 and it’s actually the very first hotel built in the resort!
Surrounded by two beautiful beaches, it’s located in the middle of the buzz so you’ll find plenty of shops and restaurants nearby. The exterior features a fantastic lagoon pool boasting ocean views with palm trees, cacti, and volcanic-stone bridges around it.
The interior was designed with the help of the legendary Cesar Manrique and is centred on lush tropical gardens. All rooms have large private terraces overlooking either tropical gardens or the ocean.
The food, as can be expected, is brilliant. The hotel restaurant Mosaico offers a luxurious buffet for breakfast, delicious light lunches, and exceptional Mediterranean buffet dinners.
Our verdict: If you can afford Paradisus Salinas, don’t even bother looking at other hotels in Costa Teguise. The best of the best, no doubt about it.
