Visiting Papagayo Beach Lanzarote should be at the top of your itinerary if you’re planning a trip to the island. Nestled within the Los Ajaches Natural Park, this immaculate beach stands out as one of the most picturesque and frequented spots in Lanzarote. Its transparent waters, powdery white sand, and breathtaking vistas make it an undeniable attraction for both visitors and residents.
Getting to Papagayo Beach
If you’re planning to visit Papagayo Beach in Lanzarote, there are a few ways to get there.
To get to Papagayo Beach, you can walk, drive a car, or take a bus or a taxi. If you choose to walk, be prepared for a bit of a hike. The beach is located at the end of a dirt road, and the walk can take up to 30 minutes.
The views along the way are breathtaking, and the beach is definitely worth the effort. If you prefer to drive, there is a parking lot near the beach.
If You walk – bring plenty of sunscreen, water, and a hat! Otherwise, the hike will be pure hell!
By Car
One of the most popular ways to get to Papagayo Beach is by car. You can rent a car from one of the many rental companies on the island. Once you have your car, head towards Playa Blanca and follow the signs for Papagayo Beach. The road to the beach is an unmade road called LZ-705, so be prepared for a bone-rattling experience.
On our drive, we constantly thought “Is this the right way?” But luckily there are signs pointing to “Papagayo Beach” almost always. So don’t be discouraged by the seemingly neverending dirt road.
Renting a car is by far the LivingFuerteventura.com recommended way!
By Bus
If you don’t have access to a car, you can also get to Papagayo Beach by bus. The number 30 bus runs from Playa Blanca to Papagayo Beach. The bus departs from the bus station in Playa Blanca and stops at various points along the way, including the entrance to the beach.
The bus fare is €3 each way (this can change), and the journey takes around 20 minutes. However, be aware that the bus can get busy during peak season, so be prepared to queue.
Once at Papagayo Beach
Once you arrive at Papagayo Beach, you’ll be greeted by turquoise waters and a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere.
The beach is relatively small, but there is plenty of space to spread out and relax. You can swim, sunbathe, or simply take in the stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and ocean.
There are also several restaurants and bars nearby, so You can grab a bite to eat or a drink while you soak up the sun. But You have to take a small hike up the mountain to purchase anything. We came prepared – bought snacks from the supermarket!
Activities at Papagayo Beach
When You visit Papagayo Beach, there are plenty of activities to keep You entertained and make the most of Your time on this beautiful stretch of coastline. Here are some of the top activities You can enjoy:
Swimming
One of the main draws of Papagayo Beach is the crystal-clear water, which is perfect for swimming. Whether You want to cool off after sunbathing or take a refreshing dip, the calm waters are ideal for a leisurely swim.
There are no lifeguards on duty, so You should always be careful and aware of Your surroundings.
Snorkeling
For those who want to explore the underwater world, snorkeling is a great option at Papagayo Beach.
The clear water makes it easy to see a variety of marine life, including colorful fish and even the occasional octopus.
Hiking
While Papagayo Beach is known for its sandy shores, there are also plenty of hiking trails in the surrounding area.
You can explore the nearby Los Ajaches Natural Park and take in the stunning views of the coastline and volcanic landscape. Just be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.
Mountain Biking
For those who want to get their adrenaline pumping, mountain biking is a popular activity in the area.
There are several trails that wind through the rugged terrain, offering a challenging and exciting experience for experienced riders. You can rent bikes from local shops or join a guided tour.
Nudism
Papagayo Beach is known for its relaxed atmosphere, and some visitors choose to embrace this by sunbathing or swimming in the nude.
While there is no designated nudist area, it is generally accepted and common practice in certain parts of the beach. You should always be respectful of others and follow local customs and laws.
Exploring Papagayo Beach
When we visited Papagayo Beach in Lanzarote, we were amazed by the natural beauty of the area. The beaches are surrounded by cliffs, making them feel secluded and private.
The Beaches
There are several beaches in the Papagayo area, each with its own unique charm.
Playa Blanca
Playa Blanca is a long stretch of white sand beach located just outside of the Papagayo area. It is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming, and there are several beach bars and restaurants nearby.
Playa Caleta del Congrio
Playa Caleta del Congrio is a small cove with golden sand and pure water. It is a great spot for snorkeling, as there are several rocks and reefs in the area.
Playa de la Cera
Playa de la Cera is a smaller cove with white sand and turquoise water. It is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, and there are several restaurants nearby.
Playa del Pozo
Pozo Beach is a petite inlet boasting pristine white sand and transparent ocean water. It serves as an excellent location for activities like swimming and snorkeling, given the presence of numerous rocks and coral reefs in the vicinity.
Playa Las Ahogaderas
Playa Las Ahogaderas is a quaint cove featuring golden sands and unspoiled waters. It’s an ideal location for swimming and soaking up the sun, with a variety of bars and eateries conveniently located in the surrounding area.
Playa Mujeres
Mujeres Beach is a charming cove adorned with white sand and transparent waters. It’s a perfect location for swimming and basking in the sun, with a selection of bars and restaurants in close proximity.
Playa Puerto Muelas
Playa Puerto Muelas is a small cove with golden sand and unclouded water. It is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, and there are several bars and restaurants nearby.
Facilities at Papagayo Beach
When visiting Papagayo Beach, we were pleased to find that there were several facilities available to make our stay more comfortable and enjoyable. Here are some of the facilities we found:
Restaurants
There are several restaurants located near Papagayo Beach that offer a variety of cuisines to suit different tastes.
We found that most of the restaurants serve seafood, which is a specialty of the region. Some of the restaurants we visited had outdoor seating areas with beautiful views of the beach and the ocean.
Cafes and Bars
If you’re looking for a quick snack or a refreshing drink, there are several cafes and bars located near Papagayo Beach.
We found that most of the cafes offer light snacks such as sandwiches, salads, and pastries. The bars serve a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including cocktails, beer, and soft drinks.
Camping Area
For those who want to spend more time at Papagayo Beach, there is a camping area located nearby. The camping area has several facilities such as showers, toilets, and a small shop that sells basic supplies.
We found that the camping area was clean and well-maintained, and it offered a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area.
This is a common theme we found in Lanzarote – everything is clean and extremely well taken care of.
Nearby Attractions
When visiting Papagayo Beach in Lanzarote, there are several nearby attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some of the top attractions that we recommend checking out during your visit.
Los Ajaches Natural Park
Los Ajaches Natural Park is a beautiful nature reserve located near Papagayo Beach.
This park is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, birdwatching, and stunning views of the coast.
Be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen if you plan to spend time exploring the park. This part is valid for every part of Lanzarote and Canaries!
Marina Rubicon
Marina Rubicon is a picturesque marina located just a short distance from Papagayo Beach.
This marina is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, making it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening. Visitors can also take a boat tour or rent a boat to explore the coast.
Puerto Calero
Puerto Calero is a charming fishing village located just a few miles from Papagayo Beach.
This village is known for its beautiful marina, which is home to a variety of luxury yachts and boats. Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and relaxing at one of the many cafes or bars in the area.
Mirador Papagayo
Mirador Papagayo is a scenic viewpoint located near Papagayo Beach.
From this viewpoint, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the coast and surrounding landscape. This is a great spot to take photos or simply enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Sandos Papagayo Hotel
The Sandos Papagayo Hotel is a luxury hotel located just a short distance from Papagayo Beach.
This hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, and several restaurants. Visitors can also enjoy easy access to the beach and other nearby attractions.
Natural Monument of Los Ajaches
The Natural Monument of Los Ajaches is a protected area located near Papagayo Beach. This area is known for its unique geology and diverse plant life. Visitors can explore hiking trails, enjoy picnics, and take in the stunning views of the coast.
Day Trip Destinations in Lanzarote
In addition to the nearby attractions, there are several day trip destinations in Lanzarote that are worth exploring. Some of the top destinations include Timanfaya National Park, Jameos del Agua, and the Cueva de los Verdes.
These destinations offer a variety of activities, including hiking, sightseeing, and cultural experiences.
Tips for Visiting Papagayo Beach
If you’re planning to visit Papagayo Beach in Lanzarote, here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip.
Cleanliness
Papagayo Beach is known for its clean, clear waters and pristine white sand. However, it is important to note that the beach is not regularly cleaned, so visitors are encouraged to take their rubbish with them and dispose of it properly.
Atmosphere
Papagayo Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
The beach can get crowded during peak season, but it is still possible to find a quiet spot to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
The atmosphere is generally laid-back and relaxed, and there are no loud music or party scenes.
General Tips
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
- Wear appropriate footwear, as the road surface to the beach can be ghastly.
- The short hike down to the beach requires some maneuvering.
- Although flip-flops are preferred at beach areas – Papagayo Beach does require sturdier footwear to make the trip pleasant.
- Be aware of the currents, especially if you plan to swim.
- Stay for sunset, as the view is breathtaking.
Are You planning to visit Lanzarote Canary Islands? Or have You been there already? What was Your favourite thing about this incredible place? Let us know in the comments below!
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