Puerto del Carmen Travel Guide

Everything you need to know about Puerto del Carmen, including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Puerto del Carmen

Puerto del Carmen is a picturesque coastal town located in the eastern part of Lanzarote, one of the seven Canary Islands in Spain. Known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches, Puerto del Carmen has something for everyone.

The town was once a small fishing village, but in recent years it has transformed into a popular tourist destination attracting millions of visitors from all over the world.

In this comprehensive guide to Puerto del Carmen, we will cover everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to this vibrant town.

List of Places to Visit in Puerto del Carmen

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Casa Museo Monumento al Campesino: This museum showcases the life and work of local farmers and artisans of Lanzarote.

  2. Castillo de San Jose: This castle was built in the 18th century as a fortification against pirates. It now houses a contemporary art museum.

  3. Fundacion Cesar Manrique: This museum houses the works of the artist and architect Cesar Manrique and shows his contribution to the preservation of Lanzarote’s natural beauty.

Natural Attractions of Puerto del Carmen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Timanfaya National Park: This national park is home to Lanzarote’s famous lunar-like landscape and active volcanoes. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the park.

  2. Playa Grande: One of the largest beaches in Puerto del Carmen, Playa Grande is ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

  3. Los Hervideros: A unique natural attraction, Los Hervideros features cliffs that have been eroded by the sea and create a beautiful natural spectacle.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Puerto del Carmen

  1. Montana Blanca: A challenging hike up the Montana Blanca volcano, which offers panoramic views of the island.

  2. La Geria: Wine country, La Geria is an otherworldly experience for hikers and bikers alike. The green landscapes of vineyards can be seen stretching for as far as eyes can see.

Best Things to Do in Puerto del Carmen: Activities and Tours

  1. Submarine Safari Lanzarote: A submarine ride that provides a unique opportunity to explore the underwater landscape of Lanzarote.

  2. Parasailing: A thrilling way to see Puerto del Carmen and its coastline from above.

  3. Water Sports: Puerto del Carmen offers a range of water sports, including scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and surfing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Puerto del Carmen

Day 1 Visit Timanfaya National Park and see the dramatic volcanic landscape.
Day 2 Spend the day on Playa Grande beach.
Day 3 Take a tour of the Fundacion Cesar Manrique museum.
Day 4 Go hiking in La Geria wine country.
Day 5 Explore Castillo de San Jose.
Day 6 Enjoy water sports at Puerto del Carmen beach.
Day 7 Take a submarine ride at Submarine Safari Lanzarote.

Food and Drink Scene of Puerto del Carmen

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Papas Arrugadas: Local potatoes cooked in salt and served with mojo sauce.

  2. Gofio: A traditional Canarian dish made from roasted cornmeal.

  3. Queso: Lanzarote is known for its award-winning cheeses made from goats milk.

Local Beverages

  1. Lanzarote Wine: Lanzarote’s unique volcanic soil produces some exceptional wines.

  2. Sangria: A fruity wine punch, perfect for hot summer days.

Where to Stay in Puerto del Carmen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Hotel Fariones: A luxurious, boutique hotel located directly on the beach.

  2. Lani’s Suites del Mar: A romantic hotel with stunning views of the ocean.

  3. Hostal San Francisco Park: A budget-friendly guesthouse located in the heart of Puerto del Carmen.

What to Buy in Puerto del Carmen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Aloe Vera Products: Lanzarote has several aloe vera farms, and the products made from the plants are well-known for their quality.

  2. Local Artwork: Lanzarote is known for its unique art scene, and you can find many galleries and shops selling everything from pottery and paintings to jewelry and sculptures.

Local Culture and Customs of Puerto del Carmen

Puerto del Carmen has a rich culture filled with music, dance, and religious festivals. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and respect for the environment is a big part of the culture.

Best Time to Visit Puerto del Carmen

The best time to visit Puerto del Carmen is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. The summer months can be incredibly hot, with temperatures reaching over 30 degrees Celsius, and the winter months can be rainy and windy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Puerto del Carmen

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and customs.

  2. Be mindful of the environment and reduce your use of plastic.

  3. Try the local food and wine.

Don’t:

  1. Ignore the warning signs at the beach and swim in dangerous waters.

  2. Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting religious sites.

  3. Disrespect the locals or their customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Puerto del Carmen

Puerto del Carmen is a relatively safe town, but tourists should be aware of pickpockets and keep their valuables safe.

Health in Puerto del Carmen

Tap water in Puerto del Carmen is safe to drink, but it is advisable to drink bottled water to avoid any health issues.

Getting to Puerto del Carmen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Puerto del Carmen

  1. Lanzarote Airport: The main airport serving Puerto del Carmen, located just 10 miles away from the town.

Bus Stations Near Puerto del Carmen

  1. Arrecife Bus Station: The main bus station in Lanzarote, located just 6 miles away from Puerto del Carmen.

Other Options

  1. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Puerto del Carmen and are a convenient way to get around the town.

How to Get Around in Puerto del Carmen

The best way to get around Puerto del Carmen is on foot as most of the major attractions in the town are located within walking distance. Taxis and buses are also available for longer journeys

Where to Go Next from Puerto del Carmen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Arrecife: The capital city of Lanzarote, located just 6 miles away from Puerto del Carmen.

  2. Teguise: An historic town located in the heart of the island, just 10 miles away from Puerto del Carmen.

Conclusion

Puerto del Carmen is a beautiful coastal town with something for everyone. From its breathtaking natural attractions to its lively cultural scene, Puerto del Carmen is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Lanzarote.

Beach of Puerto del Carmen Beach of Puerto del Carmen The old restaurant «La casa roja» in the old harbour The old restaurant «La casa roja» in the old harbour