Playa Blanca Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty, cultural attractions, food scene, and more of Playa Blanca in Lanzarote with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca is a beautiful resort town situated on the southern coast of Lanzarote, one of the Canary Islands of Spain. The town is known for its crystal-clear waters, golden sandy beaches, and mild climate all throughout the year. It’s the perfect holiday destination for families, couples, and solo travelers, offering an array of attractions and activities for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Playa Blanca

There are plenty of places to visit in Playa Blanca, from museums and historical sites to outdoor adventures and scenic views. Here’s a list of some of the top attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Castillo de las Coloradas: a 17th-century fortress situated on a cliff overlooking the sea, offering stunning views of the coast.

  • Museo Atlántico: a unique underwater museum featuring a collection of sculptures and installations designed to promote marine biodiversity and raise awareness of environmental issues.

  • Fundacion Cesar Manrique: a museum dedicated to the life and work of César Manrique, a famous artist, and architect from the Canary Islands.

Natural Attractions of Playa Blanca: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Timanfaya National Park: a vast expanse of volcanic landscapes, featuring dormant craters, rocky valleys, and geysers. Visitors can explore the park on foot, on bike, or on a guided bus tour.

  • Papagayo Beach: a series of sheltered coves with turquoise waters and pristine white sand, surrounded by stunning volcanic cliffs.

  • Los Hervideros: a rugged coastline with impressive natural rock formations and sea caves, where strong waves crashing against the shore create spectacular geysers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering endless hiking and biking routes that showcase the island’s unique natural beauty. Some of the popular routes include:

  • The Ajaches Natural Park: a challenging hike that features stunning panoramic views of the ocean and rugged coastline.

  • The Montana Roja volcano: a moderate hike that offers incredible views of Playa Blanca and the neighboring islands.

  • The Tinajo biking route: a scenic cycling route that follows the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the sea and cliffs.

Best Things to Do in Playa Blanca: Activities and Tours

Playa Blanca offers a wide variety of activities and tours, catering to all ages and interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Playa Blanca:

  • Catlanza Catamaran Sailing: enjoy a luxurious catamaran sailing tour along the coast, stopping at secluded beaches for swimming and snorkeling.

  • Submarine Safari: explore the underwater world of Lanzarote in a comfortable submarine, witnessing marine life and sunken shipwrecks.

  • Surfing lessons: learn how to surf the waves of the Atlantic Ocean with experienced and certified instructors.

Week-Long Itinerary for Playa Blanca

If you’re planning a week-long vacation in Playa Blanca, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your stay:

Day Activity
1 Relax on Papagayo Beach
2 Visit the Castillo de las Coloradas and Museo Atlántico
3 Hike the Ajaches Natural Park
4 Take a Submarine Safari tour
5 Explore the Timanfaya National Park
6 Learn how to surf with experienced instructors
7 Enjoy a catamaran sailing tour along the coast

Food and Drink Scene of Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca offers a wide range of cuisine, from traditional Spanish dishes to international delights. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Papas Arrugadas: a Canary Islands specialty, consisting of small potatoes boiled in salty water and served with mojo sauce.

  • Fresh seafood: served in most local restaurants, including grilled fish, lobster, and octopus.

  • Gofio: a toasted cereal flour used in many traditional Canary Islands dishes, including desserts and sauces.

Local Beverages

  • Malvasia wine: a sweet white wine produced in the Canary Islands, particularly in Lanzarote.

  • Tropical fruit juices: made with local fruits like papaya, mango, and passion fruit.

  • Licor de hierbas: a herbal liqueur made with local herbs and spices, served as a digestif after a meal.

Where to Stay in Playa Blanca: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Playa Blanca offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to affordable hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Hesperia Lanzarote: a luxurious resort situated on the beach, featuring several pools, a spa, and multiple dining options.

  • Elba Lanzarote Royal Village Resort: a family-friendly resort with spacious rooms, a kids’ club, and several restaurants and bars.

  • Sun Grove Villas & Spa: a collection of stylish villas with private pools and outdoor to enjoy the spectacular views of Lanzarote.

What to Buy in Playa Blanca: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Playa Blanca, there are plenty of local products and souvenirs you can buy as a reminder of your stay, including:

  • Aloe Vera products: from cosmetics to health supplements, Lanzarote produces some of the finest Aloe Vera products in the world.

  • Cactus Jam: a unique treat made from prickly pear cactus, which is abundant in the Canary Islands.

  • Handmade pottery: crafted using local volcanic soil, the pottery produced in Lanzarote is known for its rustic charm and unique patterns.

Local Culture and Customs of Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca is a town steeped in rich culture and customs, deeply rooted in the history of the Canary Islands. Some of the local customs practiced in Playa Blanca include:

  • The Feast of Our Lady of the Snows: celebrated every August, a religious feast that honors the patron saint of the town.

  • Carnival of Playa Blanca: a colorful and lively event, celebrated in February, featuring processions, dancing, and music.

  • Folklore: traditional music, dance, and costumes play an important role in the cultural heritage of Playa Blanca.

Best Time to Visit Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca enjoys a mild climate all year round, making it an ideal holiday destination at any time of the year. However, the best time to visit is between April and June, or between September and November, when the temperatures are moderate and the crowds are thinner.

Do’s and Don’ts of Playa Blanca

Here are some do’s and don’ts of Playa Blanca:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Canarian dishes.

  • Take time to relax on the beautiful beaches and soak in the sun.

  • Explore the natural beauty of the island, including its volcanic landscapes and unique flora and fauna.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the environment.

  • Don’t be too loud or disruptive in residential areas.

  • Don’t forget to carry sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.

Safety and Health

Safety in Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca is a safe and secure holiday destination, with low crime rates and a helpful and friendly local community. However, like any tourist destination, visitors should be cautious with their belongings and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.

Health in Playa Blanca

The healthcare system in Playa Blanca is of high quality and easily accessible, with several hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies located in the town. Visitors are advised to carry adequate travel insurance and to take precautions against sunstroke and heat exhaustion during the summer months.

Getting to Playa Blanca: Transportation Options and Logistics

Playa Blanca is easily accessible from most major cities in Europe. Here are some transportation options to help you get to the town:

Airports Near Playa Blanca

  • Lanzarote Airport: the nearest airport to Playa Blanca, located about 34 km away.

  • Fuerteventura Airport: located about 80 km from Playa Blanca, with frequent flights to many European destinations.

Bus Stations Near Playa Blanca

  • Playa Blanca Bus Station: located in the town center, with regular buses connecting to other parts of Lanzarote.

  • Arrecife Bus Station: the main bus station in Lanzarote, with connections to major destinations in the Canary Islands.

Other Options

  • Rent a car: car rental is available at the airport and in the town center, offering a convenient way to explore the island at your own pace.

  • Taxi: taxi services are available throughout Playa Blanca, providing easy transportation for short distances.

How to Get Around in Playa Blanca

Playa Blanca is a small town, easily accessible by foot or bike. There are several car and bike rental agencies located in the town center, offering affordable rates for tourists who wish to explore the surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Playa Blanca: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lanzarote offers a wealth of attractions and destinations to explore beyond Playa Blanca. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth considering:

  • Arrecife: the capital city of Lanzarote, featuring historic landmarks, a lively nightlife, and a bustling shopping district.

  • Fuerteventura: a neighboring island with breathtaking white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a vibrant cultural scene.

  • La Graciosa: a tiny island located off the northern coast of Lanzarote, boasting untouched natural landscapes, pristine beaches, and plenty of outdoor adventures.

Conclusion

Playa Blanca is a gem of a destination, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the natural beauty of the island, or immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the Canary Islands, Playa Blanca is the perfect destination for your next holiday.

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