Puerto del Carmen is Lanzarote’s busiest, most bustling resort. It offers an appealing harbour beside the original old town, plus a great range of modern accommodation. For beaches, dining, nightlife, water sports and more, there’s no better base on the island.
Puerto del Carmen is conveniently located in central Lanzarote, around 10 minutes southwest of the airport. Once a sleepy fishing village, it has grown into the island’s most popular resort. The resort comprises the harbourside old town, plus the newer tourist developments that lie to the east.
The modern, built-up part of Puerto del Carmen is a bustling resort packed with holiday apartments, hotels, cafes, restaurants, bars, clubs, shops and water sports outlets. These are clustered around Avenida de las Playas, the resort’s main street by the beach.
The original harbour still has a Canarian feel, and this area is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the region. You can also board a range of boat trips from here. Other things to do in Puerto del Carmen include sunbathing, shopping and water sports.
Even if you are staying in another Lanzarote resort, we heartily recommend spending at least one day in Puerto del Carmen, not least because this appealing place offers a lively nightlife scene.
Read on to discover all the best activities in Puerto del Carmen. Along with our recommendations for the best places to stay, should you decide to make this resort your Lanzarote base.
How to Get to Puerto del Carmen
Whether you want to reach Puerto del Carmen 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 Puerto del Carmen
Bus number 161 will get you to the resort from the Arrecife airport. The whole trip takes around 15 minutes. The bus runs every 30 minutes between Monday and Friday from 7:30 am to 22:30 pm, with less buses at the weekend and public holidays. You can check the timetable here.
You can also grab a taxi for about 20 euros.
Playa Blanca to Puerto del Carmen
The same bus number 161 will take you from Playa Blanca to PDC. The whole trip will take around 45 minutes.
Taxi will cost around 40-50 euros one way.
Costa Teguise to Puerto del Carmen
The bus you need to arrive from Costa Teguise is number 3. Here is the timetable. It runs every half an hour. The trip will take around 45 minutes.
Taxi costs around 25-35 euros one way.
Things to Do in Puerto del Carmen
Relax at the Beaches
There is no shortage of beaches in Puerto del Carmen. As they’re all connected by a seafront promenade, it’s simple to visit them all before picking your favourite. Each is briefly outlined here, and to find more information you can read our Puerto del Carmen beach guide.
Playa Grande
As the name suggests, Playa Grande – literally translating as large beach – is the main one in the resort. With soft, golden sands and crystal clear water, it stretches for more than a kilometre.
Playa Grande offers great amenities, including parking, showers, a lifeguard service and an abundance of sunbeds and parasols. The beach also offers disabled access and even has aquatic chairs. Palm trees provide shade, and you can also enjoy the gardens, or unparalleled views towards Los Ajaches, a sizable volcanic rock formation.
Avenida de las Playas fronts Playa Grande, and this sociable area offers a good variety of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants.
Location: Google Maps
Playa Chica
Playa Chica is Puerto del Carmen’s southernmost beach. It’s a family-friendly coastal spot with calm water ideal for children and scuba divers alike. Driving there involves travelling down some narrow roads and it can be tricky to find a parking space, but the beach that awaits makes the trip most worthwhile.
Playa Chica is picture postcard perfect, with volcanic rock providing a pleasing contrast to the white sands and azure waters. The facilities here are also impressive, particularly for snorkelers and scuba divers. Local diving schools can take you out to see the shipwrecks, underwater caves and marine life close to Playa Chica.
Kids love to throw some bread into the water here, as this attracts fish in a range of sizes, colours and shapes.
Location: Google Maps
There’s also the lovely and less crowded Playa de los Pocillos and Playa Matagorda beaches, which are located on the eastern outskirts of the resort. You can read more about them in this guide.
Admire the Old Town Harbour
The resort’s atmospheric old town, which is clustered around the harbour, is a wonderful place for a wander. Some of the best restaurants in Puerto del Carmen can be found here. Or take an early morning stroll and you can fully appreciate how peaceful and picturesque it is.
The harbour is lined with cafes, bars and restaurants, and you can also book fishing charters, glass-bottomed boat trips and more here. Every evening, the local eateries serve up the freshest seafood, and there’s a vibrant, welcoming ambience at the old town’s bars. It’s a lovely place to watch the sun sink over the horizon, too.
A children’s playground is also positioned conveniently close to the harbourside restaurants.
Location: Google Maps
Wander Along the Promenade
Another of the best places to eat in Puerto del Carmen is at the restaurants lining the promenade. This is the world’s longest coastal walkway, and it runs for 26 kilometres (or 16 miles) between Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise. The promenade also runs through Los Pocillos, Matagorda, Playa Honda and Arrecife.
You can walk or cycle along the promenade. If you stray too far, it’s always easy to get back to your resort by bus or taxi.
Here is a map of the complete walk from Puerto del Carmen to Costa Teguise.
If you want to rent a bike, we can highly recommend Bike Sensations.
Visit the Upmarket Puerto Calero
Located only a few kilometres from Puerto del Carmen, Puerto Calero was the very first marina built in Lanzarote in 1989. Today it is able to accommodate 450 yachts.
It’s much more than a marina, though. Puerto Calero waterfront hosts plenty of restaurants and bars catering for everyone. Shopping enthusiasts also won’t be disappointed since Puerto Calero hosts some nice boutiques plus a market which takes place every Tuesday and Friday from 9 AM to 2 PM. The market here is more sophisticated with more handmade stuff compared to other markets on the island. A good place to get some souvenirs.
Puerto Calero is also home to some of the finest Lanzarote hotels such as 4-star Hotel Costa Calero Thalasso & Spa and 5-star Secrets Lanzarote Resort & Spa (adults-only).
There are numerous ways to visit Puerto Calero: on foot, by bus, by taxi or a water taxi.
It takes around 1 hour to walk here from Puerto del Carmen.
The most popular option is hopping on a water taxi which runs between Puerto Calero and the old harbour of Puerto del Carmen. Or you can go on foot forward and return back on a water taxi.
Location: Google Maps
Take a Dive in a Real Submarine
Another unique activity you can do in Puerto Calero is to explore the Lanzarote coast in a real submarine. Watching the underwater world from up close will create memories you won’t forget.
The yellow air-conditioned submarine will take you 30 metres below the sea and you’ll be able to watch the diversified marine life through available viewing ports for 1 hour. It’s a great activity for the whole family.
Puerto Calero is easily accessible from Puerto del Carmen, as we’ve already explained above.
Click here to view current yellow submarine ticket prices
Duration: 1 hour.
Location: Google Maps
Head to Matagorda for Plane Spotting
Matagorda is a small resort on the Eastern outskirts of Puerto del Carmen. We actually have a full guide about it here.
It’s a great alternative to Puerto del Carmen if you are looking for a more calm and laid-back vibe. Another great thing about it, Matagorda is really close to the main Lanzarote airport. That’s why it’s a perfect place for plane enthusiasts.
You can watch planes come and go from one of the restaurants overlooking the ocean or you can arrange a picnic on the beach.
The best spot for perfect photos is at the end of the runway (exact location). The airplanes land right over your head!
It’s a great unique attraction for both adults and children. There are few places in the whole world where you can get so close to a runway.
Our kids were absolutely thrilled and asked to come back here again and again. The pictures and videos you can get here are amazing!
Sample Snorkeling or Scuba Diving
Puerto del Carmen is perfect for new or experienced fans of water sports, scuba diving and snorkelling. An abundance of marine life, coupled with a stunning underwater landscape, place the resort among Europe’s best dive sites. You can see shipwrecks, caverns, tunnels and volcanic reefs here.
Species to look out for include anemones, angel sharks, barracuda, groupers, rays, seahorses, squid and tuna. You might also spot orange corals, sea slugs and sponges.
If you’re not an experienced diver, we recommend allowing local professionals to lead the way by booking an organised trip.
Scuba Diving Experience with 2 Dives
This four hour experience includes full instruction. You’ll dive in shallow waters as part of a small group, and there’s no more than two participants per instructor. The two dives will take you to depths of six and 12 metres, and you’ll even get a diving diploma to take away.
Snorkeling Trip with Dive Instructor
When you’re short of time or prefer snorkelling to diving, this two hour trip is ideal. You’ll get up close to colourful fish and other forms of marine life, without having to learn to dive. Scubapro snorkelling equipment is supplied, as are the services of a PADI-certified guide.
Shop ‘Til You Drop
There are plenty of shopping opportunities in Puerto del Carmen and surrounding areas.
In the resort itself, you have a big Biosfera Plaza shopping centre. It offers a range of international clothing labels such as Timberland, Zara, Levi’s and many more. The centre has an open-air structure with beautiful views over the ocean. There is also a very fun dinosaur-themed mini golf on the top floor!
Location: Google Maps
Soco shopping centre is not as big as Biosfera Plaza but it’s conveniently located on the strip opposite the Fariones hotel. It features such brands as Adidas, Superdry and a large Mercadona supermarket on the ground floor. For kids, a new indoor play park opened in October 2023.
Plus, adjacent to the shopping centre you can find standalone Mango, Esprit, and Fundgrube stores.
Location: Google Maps
If you are willing to grab a taxi or catch a bus, we also recommend visiting Deiland in Playa Honda (location) and the newest and largest Open Mall in the capital Arrecife (location) with such brands as Primark, Stradivarius, Calzedonia, and many more.
Bus number 3 stops at both of these shopping centres. Here is the route map. The stop for Deiland is C.C. Deiland while the stop for Open Mall is Los Alonso.
Play a Round of Mini Golf
Mini golf is one of our favourite things to do with children in Lanzarote. Puerto del Carmen has two great mini golfs:
- Jurassic Kingdom Mini Golf. Amazingly decorated mini golf course located on the rooftop of Biosfera Plaza shopping centre (location). You will also find the open-air cinema, 6D cinema, the escape room, and other great attractions on the same rooftop. Check out the official website.
- Forbidden Temple Park. The brilliant 15-hole mini golf course with an onsite bar. Conveniently located on the strip (location).
Visit the Capital of Lanzarote
Arrecife is a short 15-minute drive away from Puerto del Carmen. Bus number 3 will take you to the Arrecife bus station and you can walk into town from there.
It’s not a touristy place but we definitely recommend visiting it. There are plenty of things to do there and the town is really beautiful.
The main town beach, Playa Reducto, is very nice with palm trees, calm waters and nice golden sand. Right near the beach, you’ll see the tall building, the tallest on the island, in fact. That’s Arrecife Gran Hotel & Spa (location) and you can get up to the top floor to enjoy a cup of coffee and dessert in their restaurant with mindblowing views! Anyone can go in, you don’t need to stay in the hotel.
Other things to check out 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.
Have Fun at Rancho Texas Park
When staying in Puerto del Carmen, you happen to be really close to Rancho Texas park. This is one of Lanzarote’s top attractions, and ideal for a whole day out. The park combines a zoo and creature-centred demonstrations with a water park.
Feel impressive birds of prey soaring just above your head when the resident condors, eagles, hawks and vultures spread their wings each day. Mammals you can see here, meanwhile, include bison, cougars, seals and white tigers.
Rancho Texas also offers daily demonstrations, themed events, pony rides for children and cowboy-style barbecues.
A free daily bus service runs from Puerto del Carmen to Rancho Texas. Check out the schedule here.
Click here to view current Rancho Texas ticket prices
Opening hours: Daily from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm
Location: Google Maps
Go for a Round of Golf
The Canary Islands’ warm sunny weather and stunning volcanic landscapes provide the perfect setting for a game of golf. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, Puerto del Carmen is the place to hone your handicap.
The Lanzarote Golf Resort is located right by Puerto Del Carmen, and offers superb views over the mountains and coastline. It’s an 18-hole, par 72 course in a rather windswept spot, with wide fairways and fringed by beds of gravel formed from dark lava.
Location: Google Maps
For more information check out the official website.
Take Off on a Fun-Filled Day Trip
Day Trip by Catamaran to Papagayo Beaches
Jump aboard a luxury catamaran for a four hour adventure to Papagayo beaches. Your ticket includes a lunch of Spanish paella and access to an open bar, plus kayaking equipment and instruction. Highlights include the unspoiled Papagayo beaches and sunset views during the return journey.
Timanfaya, Cueva Verdes, Jameos & Mirador del Rio
Take in all of the island’s top spots with this nine hour day trip. You’ll see the volcanic and thermal landscapes of Timanfaya National Park, wander through the Cueva de los Verdes caves, discover artist Cesar Manrique’s Jameos del Agua and take in views of Chinijo Archipelago and La Graciosa Island from the Mirador del Rio viewpoint.
Dolphin-Watching Sunset Cruise
Watch the sun sink as another idyllic island day draws to a close with this two hour cruise. The aim is to spot wild dolphins, while sipping cocktails and savouring yummy canapes.
Jet Ski Tour
Take a jet ski tour for the ultimate adrenaline rush while enjoying incomparable coastal views. You can choose between three routes, with each trip lasting for 40 minutes, one hour or two hours.
Tuck into a Freshly-Prepared Feast
With all the great restaurants in Puerto del Carmen, you truly are spoiled for choice. Here are our local favourites, in no particular order.
El Golfo
TripAdvisor Travellers Choice award winner El Golfo is a lovely family-run restaurant serving authentic Spanish and Canarian fare.
Spoons
Spoons has also received a TripAdvisor Travellers Choice award, and is a British-style gastropub offering great food, drinks and views.
Cantina Don Rafael
Cantina Don Rafael serves both Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine. Expect efficient service and generous portions of tasty food.
Black Buffalo Steakhouse & Grill
Black Buffalo is another TripAdvisor favourite. It offers a range of succulent meat dishes cooked to perfection, plus some local and Mexican dishes.
Peking Duck
Peking Duck is a Chinese restaurant offering plenty of vegetarian options. The all-you-can-eat buffets are great value for money.
Maritoni
Maritoni serves a range of steaks and European food, including pasta and pizza. It’s worth the wait for delicious food and sea views.
Dos Mil
This is not a restaurant, but a brilliant coffee shop selling a delicious selection of pastries and sandwiches. We can personally recommend this one.
Experience the Island’s Nightlife Scene
Puerto del Carmen offers the best nightlife scene on the island. While there are no clubs here, many of the best bars in Puerto del Carmen are open until late and offer live entertainment.
Even if you are not staying in the resort, it’s worth coming to Puerto del Carmen just to experience this. In no particular order, here are our favourite nightlife spots.
The Scotch Corner Bar
For bargain daytime drinks prices, sublime sunsets, live music and a friendly atmosphere, head to the Scotch Corner Bar by the sea.
Electric Island
Electric Island is the best live music venue on Lanzarote, and is situated in the old town close to the harbour.
Bar Ruta 66
Bar Ruta plays music from the 70s, 80s and 90s, and serves a tempting range of drinks including colourful cocktails.
Africa Bar
Africa Bar is a themed bar and restaurant offering ocean views, a family-friendly vibe, live music and large screens.
Long Beach Club
Long Beach is a great place for cocktails. Overlooking the beach, it also serves modern Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine.
Craic n’ ceól
Expect a warm Irish welcome at Craic n’ ceól, a traditional pub offering big screen sports and live music.
Where to Stay
There are plenty of great places to stay in Puerto del Carmen, in all price brackets. The distance from the strip and the beach can be important things to factor in when choosing where to stay. Here are our favourite accommodation options.
The Best Option for Families
Hotel Lanzarote Village
This four star property fronts Los Pocillos beach, and offers a selection of sea and pool view accommodation. Facilities include a cocktail bar, a buffet restaurant, a games room, tennis courts and a kids’ playground.
The hotel also has a couple of swimming pools, a gym, a hot tub and a bike hire service. It’s a very clean place with plenty of sunbeds, and lies right by the peaceful Los Pocillos beach. Guests love the pool area, elegant accommodation and cleanliness in particular.
Recommended Hotels for Adults
We can recommend two properties for adults, both of which are absolutely brilliant.
La Isla y el Mar is slightly cheaper
La Isla y el Mar is a boutique style property offering a wonderful pool area. This has sun loungers and Balinese beds, plus a pool bar, a relaxation zone and a small waterfall pool. Playa Chica is the closest beach, and is around 15 minutes’ walk away.
This is an eco-conscious property with several restaurants and bars, and the food served here comes particularly highly recommended. Having access to a range of restaurants is also a real perk.
Lani’s Suites de Luxe is more expensive
The five star, adults only Lani’s Suites de Luxe occupies a central position overlooking Playa Grande. With only 25 suites, it offers a more intimate, romantic atmosphere than most properties.
Accommodation here is air conditioned, and each comes with a pool or sea view balcony or terrace. There’s also all the modern amenities you could wish for. This is a clean, comfortable property offering great food at the ocean view restaurant and impeccable service throughout.
Luxury Hotel
Hotel Fariones
This five star beachfront property has recently undergone a complete renovation programme to ensure the ultimate in luxury. There are two infinity pools, one of which is on the rooftop and exclusively for the use of guests staying in selected suites.
Hotel Fariones offers a cocktail bar, tropical gardens dotted with sundecks, a trio of restaurants, an extensive sports complex and a beachfront location. It’s also the local go-to when you’re craving deluxe accommodation.
Self-Catering
There is a wide selection of holiday apartments in Puerto del Carmen. Here we’ve listed four of the best options, each of which is in a different price bracket.
R2 Bahia Kontiki – $$$$
This appealing low-rise resort offers a palm-lined pool and is set among attractive gardens. It is located just 250 metres from Playa Grande, and a 10 minute walk from central Puerto del Carmen. All accommodation comes with a balcony, and on site you’ll find a bar and restaurant, bike hire and a 24-hour reception desk.
Plus Fariones Apartamentos – $$$
Situated just 200 metres from Playa Grande, Plus Fariones Apartamentos offers a selection of studio and one bedroom units. It features subtropical gardens, a hot tub, a cafe-bar, a restaurant, a children’s play zone and a 24-hour front desk. Accommodation comes with a terrace or balcony, satellite TV and a full kitchen.
Rosamar Apartamentos – $$
Rosamar Apartamentos are only 300 metres from Playa Grande. This complex offers a pretty garden with a sun-drenched terrace and an outdoor swimming pool. Each apartment has a terrace or balcony, and comes with a kitchenette. Larger villas are available as well as one and two bedroom apartments, and local shops and restaurants can be reached via a short walk.
Apartamentos LIVVO Oasis – $
Apartamentos LIVVO Oasis are 500 metres from the beach, and are attractively set around a pool with a large, sunny terrace. All one bedroom units come with a spacious balcony or terrace, and a delicious breakfast is available daily. The complex also offers a billiards table, dartboards, and a lovely garden.
