Playa Blanca holidays

How to reach Playa Blanca

• Flight time: Flights to Playa Blanca arrive via Lanzarote’s main airport in Arrecife. Direct flights from Dublin, Cork, Shannon and other Irish airports take approximately 4 hours 15 minutes.

• Transfer time: From the airport, Playa Blanca is about a 30-minute drive. You can choose a private taxi, shared shuttle, or a public bus, which takes around 45 minutes to reach the resort.

• Price: A private taxi costs around €50 one way. Shared airport shuttles start at about €10 per person, while the local bus is the most budget-friendly option at just €4 for a single ticket.

Best time to visit Playa Blanca

With its year-round sunshine and warm temperatures, Playa Blanca is ideal for both winter sun and classic summer beach holidays. When to go depends on what kind of trip you're after.

• March to May: Spring brings pleasant temperatures of 20°C to 25°C, plenty of sunshine (8–10 hours a day), and minimal rain. It’s a lovely time to enjoy walks along the promenade or venture out to Timanfaya National Park without the summer crowds.

• June to August: Summer is peak season, with temperatures often reaching 29°C or higher. This is the time for long beach days, snorkelling and lively nightlife. Expect busy beaches and higher accommodation costs—book early if you're travelling during school holidays.

• September to November: Late summer and early autumn remain beautifully warm, with daytime highs between 25°C and 28°C. It’s quieter than summer and still ideal for swimming and dining alfresco. You’ll also find better value on accommodation and flights.

• December to February: Playa Blanca is a popular spot for winter-sun holidays. Temperatures stay mild at 17°C to 21°C, with more sunshine than rain. It’s a quieter time of year, great for exploring the island at a relaxed pace.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Spanish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, so Irish visitors won’t have any trouble getting by.

• Local habits and customs: Many smaller shops and businesses observe a siesta in the early afternoon. Dinner is typically served later than in Ireland, from around 9 pm.

• Currency: Lanzarote uses the Euro. You’ll find ATMs throughout Playa Blanca and most restaurants and shops accept card payments, though it’s handy to carry some cash for local markets or taxis.

• Getting around: Playa Blanca is walkable, but taxis are easy to find and not expensive. Local buses connect the resort with other towns like Puerto del Carmen and Arrecife. Car hire is a good option for seeing more of the island, including remote beaches and volcanic landscapes.

• Electricity and plug types: The island uses European-style plugs (Type C and F) with a 230V supply. Irish travellers will need a standard two-pin adaptor.

• Time zone: Lanzarote operates on Western European Time (GMT), the same as Ireland.

• Required travel documentation: Irish citizens can travel to Lanzarote with a valid passport and do not need a visa.

Best things to do in Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca is slightly smaller and more low-key than its neighbouring resorts. The town's laid-back vibe makes it perfect for lazy days beside the ocean or to venture inland to explore the fascinating natural landscapes.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Montaña Roja (Red Mountain): Hikers can witness stunning panoramic views of Playa Blanca and the coastline from this volcanic cone.

• Castillo de las Coloradas (Red Castle): Just a short walk from Marina Rubicón, this old watchtower offers beautiful views over the sea as well as an insight into the island's past.

The best districts

• Marina Rubicón: Home to smart boutiques, outstanding restaurants and chic bars, the sophisticated marina is a great place for a leisurely stroll and people-watching.

• Playa Flamingo: In the vicinity of this family-friendly area there are plenty of amenities, including cafés, shops and a beautiful beach with calm waters.

Parks and gardens

• Timanfaya National Park: A 15-minute drive outside Playa Blanca, the national park features dramatic volcanic landscapes that can be explored by bus tour or on a guided walk.

Day trips in the area

• La Graciosa: For a day of cycling, hiking and enjoying unspoilt beaches, take a ferry from Orzola to this peaceful island.

• Fuerteventura: Fuerteventura is just a short ferry ride from Playa Blanca and boasts beautiful beaches, in particular the Corralejo Natural Park with its famous sand dunes. You can also check our offers on cheap holidays to Fuerteventura.

• Jameos del Agua: An hour's run from Playa Blanca, this César Manrique creation features an unusual series of volcanic caves, which have been transformed into a cultural and entertainment centre with a concert hall, restaurant and subterranean salt lake.

• Mirador del Río: This mirador blends the art of César Manrique with breathtaking views of the small islands north of Lanzarote. It's a bit of a drive north from Playa Blanca but well worth it for the vistas.

Activities for families in Playa Blanca

Holidays to Playa Blanca are an ideal choice for families, offering a variety of family-friendly activities and beaches with calm waters to guarantee that all family members have an enjoyable holiday.

• Beaches: Playa Dorada and Playa Flamingo both have calm, shallow waters that are safe for little ones to paddle, and golden sand perfect for building sandcastles or enjoying a picnic.

• Water-themed attractions: With a wave pool, thrilling slides, a splash park and lazy river, the volcanic-themed Aqualava water park provides a fun day out for kids of all ages.

Rancho Texas Park is a zoo combined with water attractions, where kids can see animals up close and enjoy water slides and a splash zone. If you don't want to actually get wet, take an underwater journey on a Submarine Safari tour to discover life beneath the ocean – a firm favourite with children.

Free things to do in Playa Blanca

Making the most of a holiday in Playa Blanca doesn't have to be expensive. There are some simple, yet highly enjoyable activities to partake in during your stay without going over budget.

• Promenade walk: The broad waterfront promenade from Marina Rubicón to the lighthouse runs for almost 10km. Strolling this flat paved path soaking up the atmosphere is a favourite pastime for many, and there are lots of benches to rest and appreciate the views.

• Local market: Browsing the colourful stalls at the Marina Rubicón market on Wednesdays and Saturdays does not force you to spend any money – unless you want to. It's a nice spot to visit to observe the local way of life and possibly pick up some samples of local products.

• Hiking: Hiking the paths near Montaña Roja (Red Mountain) is another fantastic activity that will keep your budget intact, however it will put additional strain on your feet. The effort is well worth it for the views from the summit.

• Watch the sunset: Head to Playa Blanca's western coast for some of the best sunset views on the island. Bring a blanket, and a bottle of wine, and enjoy the show.

Nature and outdoor activities in Playa Blanca

• National parks: With its otherworldly volcanic landscapes and geothermal demonstrations, the guided tour of Timanfaya National Park is a must-do.

• Water sports: The crystal-clear waters around Playa Blanca provide the perfect conditions for a variety of water activities. Try your hand at snorkelling, diving, kayaking, windsurfing or paddleboarding.

• Cycling: For cycling enthusiasts, the coastal paths provide a beautiful route with stunning ocean views.

• Adventure activities: For an aerial view of the coastline, the more adventurous should try paragliding, or explore the island's rugged terrain on a jeep safari. Buggy tours are also an exciting way to see the island from a different perspective.

Explore the beautiful beaches of Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Lanzarote, offering a variety of experiences for every type of traveller. Here's a guide to the best beaches to visit during your holidays in Playa Blanca:

Family-friendly beaches

• Playa Dorada: Playa Dorada is perfect for families with its golden sands and clear, calm waters. The beach is well-equipped with amenities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, and nearby restaurants and bars, making it an ideal spot for a day out.

• Playa Flamingo: Another family-friendly beach, Playa Flamingo offers safe, shallow waters and plenty of facilities, including playgrounds, showers, and eateries. It's a great choice for a relaxed family day by the sea.

Secluded beaches

• Playa Mujeres: If you're looking for a more peaceful experience, Playa Mujeres offers a serene escape. This beach is part of the Papagayo Beach complex and is less crowded, providing a tranquil environment with pristine sands and clear waters.

• Playa del Pozo: Another secluded option within the Papagayo Beach area, Playa del Pozo is perfect for those seeking solitude. Its remote location ensures fewer visitors, making it a perfect spot to relax in a natural setting.

Nudist beaches

• Playa de las Coloradas: This beach, located near the Papagayo area, is known for its nudist-friendly zones. It offers a beautiful, natural landscape and a peaceful environment for those looking to enjoy a more liberated beach experience.

• Caletón Blanco: Situated further north of Playa Blanca, Caletón Blanco is a hidden gem with white sands and turquoise waters. This beach is also popular among nudists seeking a quiet and beautiful spot to unwind.

Beaches for water sports

• Playa de Papagayo: Known for its stunning beauty and crystal-clear waters, Playa de Papagayo is a hotspot for snorkelling and diving. The beach's rocky coves provide an excellent habitat for marine life, making it perfect for underwater exploration.

• Playa Blanca Town Beach: Located right in the heart of Playa Blanca, this beach offers a variety of water sports, including jet skiing, paddle boarding, and windsurfing. It's the ideal spot for those looking to add a bit of adventure to their beach day.

These diverse beaches ensure that your holidays to Playa Blanca are filled with memorable moments, whether you're travelling with family, seeking solitude, enjoying a naturist lifestyle, or looking for thrilling water sports activities. Enjoy the best of what Playa Blanca has to offer!

Local dishes in Playa Blanca

One of the great delights of Playa Blanca holidays is indulging in all the culinary delicacies that make it one of Lanzarote's best foodie destinations.

Some typical dishes

• Papas Arrugadas: A classic Canarian dish consisting of wrinkled potatoes boiled in salty water and served with mojo sauce.

• Ropa Vieja: A comforting and flavourful dish, this hearty stew is made with shredded beef, chickpeas and vegetables.

Tapas dishes

• Pimientos de Padrón: Small green peppers, some of which are spicy, are fried and sprinkled with sea salt, making a tasty snack or starter.

• Gambas al Ajillo: Juicy, garlicky and absolutely delicious, these prawns are cooked in garlic and olive oil with a hint of chilli.

• Queso Asado: Simple yet delectable, grilled local cheese served with a sweet mojo sauce highlights the quality of Canarian cheese.

Meat dishes

• Conejo en Salmorejo: Rabbit marinated in a spicy sauce and then slow-cooked is a traditional Canarian dish full of rich flavours.

• Chorizo de Teror: Spicy, savoury and incredibly moreish, this spreadable chorizo from the town of Teror is often served with bread.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Sancocho Canario: This traditional dish of salted fish is served with potatoes, sweet potatoes and mojo sauce.

• Caldereta: A hearty stew, caldereta is typically made with fish, shellfish and potatoes.

• Pulpo a la Gallega: Galician-style octopus is served with olive oil, paprika and sea salt. Though originally from Galicia, the dish is also popular in the Canaries.

Sweets and desserts

• Bienmesabe: This sweet dessert is made from almonds, honey, sugar and eggs, and often served with ice cream or as a filling in cakes.

• Príncipe Alberto: Perfect for chocolate lovers, this rich chocolate and almond cake is dense, decadent and delicious.

Local drinks

• Ron Miel: A sweet and smooth liqueur, honey rum is perfect as an after-dinner drink.

• Barraquito: A coffee lover's delight, this layered coffee drink includes condensed milk, espresso and a splash of liqueur.

• Malvasía Wine: Lanzarote's volcanic soil produces excellent Malvasía wines, which are aromatic and often slightly sweet.