Costa Teguise is the perfect base for exploring Lanzarote — central, walkable and 15 minutes from the airport. Stay at Selectum Lanza to be 5 minutes from Playa de las Cucharas.
Costa Teguise
Located on the eastern coast of Lanzarote, Costa Teguise is a lively resort town known for its beautiful beaches, excellent restaurants, and year-round mild climate — temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C.
1. Playa de las Cucharas — The Star Beach
Costa Teguise's main beach is a 650-metre stretch of fine white sand, protected by two large breakwaters that keep the waters relatively calm. It's the undisputed heart of resort life, with sun loungers, showers, toilets, a rescue station, and a lovely promenade running alongside it. Windsurfers and kitesurfers flock here for the reliable trade winds — it's a world-class spot for those sports — and if you visit in June, you may even catch the PWA World Windsurfing Tour.
2. Playa del Jablillo — Best for Snorkelling
Tucked into the town centre, Playa del Jablillo is smaller and quieter than Las Cucharas, and widely considered the best beach in Costa Teguise for snorkelling thanks to its calm, clear waters.
3. Playa Bastian — The Sheltered Escape
To the south of town, Playa Bastian sits on a terrace that offers good shelter from the wind. The beach is a mix of sand and rock, and has a quieter, more local feel than the main resort strip.
4. Lanzarote Aquarium
The only aquarium in the Canary Islands, the Lanzarote Aquarium is a compact but worthwhile attraction housing 33 tanks with thousands of species — from typical Canary Island fish like moray eels, bream, and sea bream, to tropical and Amazonian species. Great for families and rainy days.
5. Aquapark Costa Teguise
The largest water park in Lanzarote sits right on the resort's doorstep. It features a wide variety of slides for all ages — straight slides, spiral slides, a children's lagoon, a mini-pool — as well as deck chairs and activity areas. Ideal for families with children of mixed ages.
6. Windsurfing, Kitesurfing & Wing Foiling
Costa Teguise is one of the best places in Europe for wind-powered watersports. Several schools and hire shops are based right at Las Cucharas beach, offering lessons and equipment for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and the newer sport of wing foiling. Rescue boats accompany sessions for quick safety support.
7. Scuba Diving
Several dive schools in Costa Teguise — including the well-regarded Dive Point 57 — take visitors to the best dive sites around the island on any given day. Lanzarote's clear Atlantic waters and diverse marine life make diving a highlight for many visitors.
8. Off-Road Buggy Tours
One of the most popular activities in the resort, buggy tours take you on Lanzarote's extensive network of dirt tracks through volcanic landscapes, past cliffs and craters. Buggies seat two, and tours run for two or three hours. Drivers must be over 20 with at least two years' experience.
9. E-Bike Rides Along the Coast
For a more relaxed alternative to buggies, electric bike hire is readily available. A dedicated coastal promenade stretches for two miles south from Costa Teguise, and it connects to further cycling and walking tracks heading in both directions along the coast.
10. Pueblo Marinero & the Town Centre
The charming Pueblo Marinero is a whitewashed village-style square in the heart of Costa Teguise, designed by the island's most celebrated artist, César Manrique. Lined with bars, restaurants, and shops, it's the hub of the town's evening atmosphere. The surrounding streets of the town centre — near Playa del Jablillo — offer arcades, cafés, and a lively promenade.
11. Costa Teguise Golf Club
Set among over 3,500 palm trees against the backdrop of Lanzarote's volcanic landscape, the 18-hole Costa Teguise Golf Club has been one of the island's finest courses since it was designed in 1978. It includes a driving range and putting green.
12. Nightlife
Costa Teguise is lively after dark, especially around Avenida del Jablillo, where you'll find a mix of British and Irish pubs, sports bars, and restaurants. The resort has a relaxed but fun atmosphere — not as intense as some Canary Island resorts, but never short of options.
Wider Lanzarote
Once you've explored Costa Teguise, the island opens up with some of the most dramatic and distinctive landscapes in all of Europe.
13. Timanfaya National Park
Lanzarote's unmissable highlight. Spanning over 12,600 acres of the southwest of the island, Timanfaya is an eerie, otherworldly stretch of dormant volcanoes and lava fields — often compared to a moonscape. The park's famous "Fire Mountains" still generate enough underground heat for on-site demonstrations: rangers pour water into the rocks to create instant geysers, and the park's restaurant even cooks food using volcanic heat. The best way to visit is with a guided tour, especially in peak season when private car queues can be very long. Keep an eye out for the lesser-visited Los Cuervos caldera nearby — equally striking, without the crowds.
14. Jameos del Agua
An extraordinary space created by the artist and architect César Manrique inside a system of lava tubes formed by an ancient eruption of the Monte Corona volcano. Underground tunnels open into a mysterious lake inhabited by a tiny albino blind crab (the jameito) found nowhere else in the world. Manrique transformed the caves into an art and cultural space complete with lush rock gardens, a turquoise lagoon, a bar, a restaurant, and a stunning auditorium used for concerts. One of the most photogenic spots in all of the Canary Islands.
15. Cueva de los Verdes (Green Caves)
Close to Jameos del Agua, the "Green Caves" are a labyrinth of underground volcanic lava tubes formed by the same Corona eruption. Visitors follow a maze of galleries and stairways illuminated with atmospheric coloured lighting, leading to a remarkable natural underground auditorium — with a famous optical illusion at the end. Sixteen caves have been discovered in total.
16. Mirador del Río
Perched nearly 475 metres above sea level on the cliffs of the northern coast, the Mirador del Río is one of César Manrique's finest architectural works. The building is almost entirely concealed within the rock face, and from inside you get jaw-dropping panoramic views over the small island of La Graciosa and the Chinijo archipelago. There's a café inside for drinks with arguably the best view in Lanzarote.
17. César Manrique Foundation
The former home of the island's most celebrated artist, built into a series of natural volcanic bubbles in Tahiche. The foundation preserves Manrique's artistic legacy and showcases his work in a space that perfectly embodies his philosophy: that architecture should blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. A must-visit for anyone interested in art, design, or the cultural soul of Lanzarote.
18. Jardín de Cactus (Cactus Garden)
Another Manrique masterpiece. A beautifully landscaped garden housing around 4,500 cacti and succulents from 450 different species, many of them towering well above head height, set within a former volcanic quarry. There's also a historic windmill and an excellent café serving local cuisine — including dishes made with prickly pear cactus fruit.
19. Teguise Sunday Market
Every Sunday for around 600 years, the old capital of Lanzarote — the historic village of Teguise — has hosted one of the largest open-air markets in the Canary Islands. Over 400 stalls offer everything from local crafts and food to jewellery and clothing. The village itself, with its whitewashed buildings and the 15th-century Palacio del Marques (the oldest building in Lanzarote), is worth exploring beyond the market too.
20. La Geria Wine Region
The volcanic heart of Lanzarote's winemaking country. Vineyards here grow in craters dug into black volcanic ash, each vine sheltered by a low semicircular stone wall — an entirely unique method developed after the Timanfaya eruptions of the 18th century. The local Malvasía white wine is world-renowned. Several bodegas offer tastings and tours, and this is one of the most romantic and visually striking parts of the island.
21. Playa de Papagayo
Set within a protected natural reserve on the south coast, Papagayo is one of Lanzarote's most beautiful beaches — a sheltered golden cove between dramatic volcanic cliffs, with calm turquoise water perfect for swimming. It's unspoilt and relatively quiet, with just one restaurant on site. Take everything you need for the day, and don't forget a camera.
22. Playa de Famara
On the wild northwest coast, Famara is a sweeping, dramatic beach backed by towering cliffs. It's a favourite with surfers and photographers, with world-class waves and breaks, as well as one of the most photogenic settings of any beach in the Canaries. Not ideal for families with young children due to the strong surf, but spectacular to visit.
23. Catamaran Trip to La Graciosa
Just north of Lanzarote lies La Graciosa — a small, traffic-free island with sandy tracks, pristine beaches, and a relaxed fishing village atmosphere. Catamarans depart from the northern port of Orzola (around 30 minutes from Costa Teguise), with the crossing taking about 20 minutes. A day trip here is a genuinely special experience: cycling the island's sandy paths and swimming in its crystal-clear waters.
24. El Golfo — Green Lagoon & Fishing Village
On the west coast of Lanzarote, the small fishing village of El Golfo is home to a remarkable green volcanic lagoon — El Charco de los Clicos — separated from the sea by a strip of black volcanic beach. The green colour comes from algae and the unique mineral composition of the water. Surrounded by the surreal terrain of Los Volcanes Natural Park, it's a short detour from Timanfaya and a great lunch stop, with several good seafood restaurants in the village.
25. Submarine Excursion
For something truly unique, Lanzarote offers a submarine excursion that dives up to 30 metres below the surface of the Atlantic. With large viewing windows, passengers get a window-seat view of the seabed, marine life, and underwater volcanic formations without getting wet.
Tips for Visiting
- Getting Around: A hire car gives you the most flexibility for exploring the island. Costa Teguise is just 15 minutes from Arrecife airport.
- Best Time to Visit: Lanzarote is a year-round destination. Spring and autumn offer the best balance of weather and fewer crowds. Winter brings reliable sunshine. June brings the windsurfing World Tour.
- César Manrique Bundle: If you plan to visit several Manrique sites (Jameos del Agua, Cueva de los Verdes, Mirador del Río, Jardín de Cactus, Foundation), a CACT Lanzarote bundle ticket saves money.
- Timanfaya: Book a tour rather than driving yourself, especially in high season, to skip long queues.
- Beaches: The island's beaches are safe with little to no strong currents, though ocean waves can be powerful at windier times of year.
Frequently Asked Questions & Answers
Practical answers to the most common questions about visiting Lanzarote — covering car hire, health, safety, watersports, parking, shopping, markets and wine.
Car Rental
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Lanzarote?+
The minimum age to rent a car in Lanzarote is usually 21, with at least one year of valid driving experience.
What documents do you need to rent a car in Lanzarote?+
To rent a car in Lanzarote, you usually need a passport or ID card, a valid driving license, and a credit card in the driver's name.
How much does car rental cost in Lanzarote?+
Car rental prices in Lanzarote usually range from around €10 to €80 per day, depending on the season and vehicle type.
How do car rental insurance and deposits work in Lanzarote?+
Most rental cars in Lanzarote include basic third-party insurance, while deposits usually range from €300 to €1,200 on a credit card.
What are the driving rules and speed limits in Lanzarote?+
In Lanzarote, the urban speed limit is usually 50 km/h, while main roads are generally limited to 90 km/h.
Health & Hospitals
Where is the main hospital in Lanzarote?+
The main public hospital in Lanzarote is Hospital Doctor José Molina Orosa, located in Arrecife.
Is the EHIC or GHIC card valid in Lanzarote?+
Yes, EHIC and GHIC cards are valid for emergency healthcare in public hospitals in Lanzarote.
Where are pharmacies in Lanzarote and when are they open?+
Pharmacies in Lanzarote are available in major resort areas and are usually open from 09:00–13:00 and 17:00–20:00.
Can you drink tap water in Lanzarote?+
Tap water in Lanzarote is technically safe to drink, but most visitors prefer bottled water because of its different taste.
Safety & Security
Is Lanzarote safe for tourists?+
Lanzarote is generally a very safe island for tourists, with low crime rates in most resort areas.
What emergency number should you call in Lanzarote?+
In Lanzarote, you should call 112 for all emergencies, including police, ambulance, and fire services.
How can you avoid theft in Lanzarote?+
To avoid theft in Lanzarote, keep valuables secure in busy tourist areas, beaches, markets, and parking areas.
How does beach safety work in Lanzarote?+
Beach safety in Lanzarote is managed with a flag system: green means safe, yellow means caution, and red means do not swim.
Bike Rental
Where can you rent a bike in Lanzarote and how much does it cost?+
Bike rental in Lanzarote is available in Costa Teguise, Puerto del Carmen, and Playa Blanca, usually costing around €10–€40 per day.
What are the best cycling routes in Lanzarote?+
The best cycling routes in Lanzarote include the Costa Teguise promenade, La Geria wine region, and the Arrecife–Puerto del Carmen coastal route.
Scooter Rental
Do you need a license to rent a scooter in Lanzarote?+
Yes, you need a valid driving license to rent a scooter in Lanzarote; a car license is usually enough for 50cc scooters.
How much does scooter rental cost in Lanzarote?+
Scooter rental in Lanzarote usually costs between €15 and €40 per day, depending on the scooter size and rental period.
Where can you go by scooter in Lanzarote?+
By scooter, you can visit Costa Teguise, Puerto del Carmen, La Geria, El Golfo, Timanfaya surroundings, and Mirador del Río.
Surfing
Where is the best place to surf in Lanzarote?+
The most famous surfing spot in Lanzarote is Caleta de Famara, known for consistent waves and surf schools.
How long do surf lessons take in Lanzarote and how much do they cost?+
Beginner surf lessons in Lanzarote usually last 2 to 2.5 hours and cost around €40–€60 per person.
What is the best season for surfing in Lanzarote?+
Surfing is possible all year in Lanzarote, but the strongest waves are usually from October to February.
Parking
Is it difficult to find parking in Lanzarote?+
Parking in Lanzarote is generally easy, and many resort areas offer free parking.
What is Zona Azul in Lanzarote?+
Zona Azul in Lanzarote refers to blue-lined paid parking areas with time limits.
Is parking difficult at Timanfaya National Park?+
Parking at Timanfaya National Park can be difficult in high season due to long vehicle queues, so early arrival is recommended.
Shopping & Malls
What shopping malls are in Lanzarote?+
The best-known shopping malls in Lanzarote are Deiland Centre, Biosfera Plaza, and Las Rotondas.
What are shop opening hours in Lanzarote?+
Small shops in Lanzarote usually open from 09:00–13:30 and 16:00–20:00, while malls and supermarkets often open continuously.
What should you buy in Lanzarote?+
Popular things to buy in Lanzarote include volcanic stone jewelry, Malvasía wine, mojo sauces, goat cheese, and aloe vera products.
Local Markets
What is the biggest market in Lanzarote?+
The biggest and most famous market in Lanzarote is the Teguise Market, held every Sunday in the historic village of Teguise.
Is there a market in Costa Teguise?+
Yes, Costa Teguise usually has an evening market on Tuesdays and Fridays for tourists.
When is Haria Market held?+
Haria Market is held every Wednesday from 09:00 to 14:00 in the village square of Haria.
Can you bargain in Lanzarote markets?+
You can sometimes bargain lightly at souvenir and craft stalls in Lanzarote markets, but strong bargaining is not part of the local culture.
Wine, Agriculture & Tastings
Why is Lanzarote wine unique?+
Lanzarote wine is unique because its grapes grow in volcanic soil, giving the wine a distinctive mineral and aromatic character.
Where are the best places for wine tasting in Lanzarote?+
The best places for wine tasting in Lanzarote are El Grifo, Bodega La Geria, Stratvs, and Rubicón in the La Geria region.
How much does wine tasting cost in Lanzarote?+
Wine tasting in Lanzarote usually costs around €5–€15 and often includes 3–5 different wines.
How do you get to La Geria?+
The easiest way to reach La Geria is by car via the LZ-30 road, about 15–20 minutes from Arrecife.
Where can you buy local agricultural products in Lanzarote?+
You can buy local agricultural products in Lanzarote at Teguise Market, Haria Market, La Geria wineries, and major supermarkets.
Where to Stay: Costa Teguise
Costa Teguise is the most central and walkable resort base for visiting every site in this guide. Selectum Lanza is a luxury 2-bedroom apartment with ocean views, a private terrace, and a 5-minute walk to Playa de las Cucharas. Book direct for the best price guarantee.