Puerto del Carmen holidays

How to reach Puerto del Carmen

• Flight time: Flights to Puerto del Carmen from major UK airports are well serviced. The flight time from London to Lanzarote Airport takes around 4 hours.

• Transfer time: The journey from Lanzarote Airport to Puerto del Carmen generally takes about 10 to 15 minutes by taxi or car; buses take a bit longer.

• Price: A taxi from the airport to Puerto del Carmen costs between €20 and €35. Alternatively, the more economical bus service charges around €1.50 per person.

Best time to visit Puerto del Carmen

Puerto del Carmen is a year-round destination in terms of climate but the resort’s vibe and accommodation costs vary over the seasons, largely dependent on the number of tourists visiting the island.

• March to May temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C and rainfall is minimal. Spring is when many escape the colder climates of the UK to explore the outdoors and enjoy the blooming natural landscapes.

• June to August highs of 29°C or more are expected, perfect for beach lovers and water sports. The summer also brings numerous local festivals and a bustling nightlife.

• September to November brings slightly cooler temperatures, ranging from 25°C to 28°C, which is comfortable for sightseeing and continuing to enjoy the beaches with fewer crowds.

• December to February is mild with temperatures around 17°C to 21°C. Winter in Puerto del Carmen is much quieter, making it ideal for a winter getaway without the intense heat and congestion.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Spanish is the official language but as English is widely spoken in tourist areas, communication is easy for UK travellers.

• Local habits and customs: Siestas in the afternoon are often adhered to, and dinner times are later than in the UK, typically starting around 8 pm or later.

• Currency: The Euro is the official currency used in Lanzarote. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are readily available.

• Getting around: The local bus service connects to major attractions and nearby towns, with fares starting at around €1.50. Many visitors rent a car to explore more of Lanzarote at their own pace.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage in Lanzarote is 220 to 240 volts with European two-pin plugs, so UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Lanzarote operates on Western European Time, which is the same as GMT.

Best things to do in Puerto del Carmen

With such a wide choice of things to do, from lazy days beachside to fascinating natural landscapes that invite outdoor adventure, Puerto del Carmen holidays should appeal to everyone.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Mirador del Río: Designed by artist César Manrique, blending art with natural beauty, this viewpoint offers stunning vistas across the small islands north of Lanzarote.

• Puerto Calero Marina: A few minutes’ drive from Puerto del Carmen, the marina boasts beautiful ocean views and luxury yachts to longingly gaze at as you take a sunset stroll.

The best districts

• Varadero: The old town’s harbour area, Varadero is an attractive blend of traditional architecture and modern eateries and bars where you can enjoy live music on the terrace.

• Avenida de las Playas: The main strip of Puerto del Carmen, Avenida de las Playas is lined with shops, bars and restaurants that cater to every preference.

Day trips in the area

• Timanfaya National Park: Spend an intriguing day exploring moon-like landscapes formed by volcanic activity and sampling food cooked over geothermal heat at El Diablo restaurant.

• Jameos del Agua: Another of César Manrique’s creations, this unusual attraction has a natural cave, a subterranean salt lake and a concert hall.

• Playa Blanca: Only a short drive away, Playa Blanca boasts some lovely beaches, and the ferry to the island of Fuerteventura leaves from here.

• La Geria: A trip out to La Geria, Lanzarote’s unique wine region, is rewarded with the chance to sample local wines grown in volcanic ash.

Activities for families in Puerto del Carmen

Holidays to Puerto del Carmen are an excellent option for families. From beaches with calm waters to interactive attractions, the resort ensures that all family members have a fun and fulfilling holiday.

• Beaches: With golden sands, shallow waters and lifeguards, the main beach at Playa Grande is perfect for children to paddle and build sandcastles. Many of the beaches also have well-maintained playgrounds.

• Aquariums and zoos: 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. The Aquarium Lanzarote in nearby Costa Teguise is a fantastic visit for families. It offers educational tours and hands-on experiences that help children learn about marine conservation.

Free things to do in Puerto del Carmen

Enjoying Puerto del Carmen doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. The area offers a range of free activities that allow you to explore its culture, nature and history without spending a Euro.

• Beach volleyball: Spend a day at Playa Chica or Playa Grande, which often host informal volleyball games that you can join in.

• Hiking: It doesn’t cost anything to go hiking amid the volcanic landscapes at Los Volcanes Natural Park or along the coastal path from Puerto del Carmen to Puerto Calero.

• Street markets: Visit the vibrant Old Town market on Friday mornings where you can experience local culture and browse without any obligation to buy.

• Cultural festivals: Join in the celebrations of local festivals, such as Carnival or the Fiesta de San Juan. These festivals often feature free events, parades and public performances.

• Art installations: There are public art installations by local artists along the Avenida de las Playas, which are free to view.

• Church of San Antonio: This beautiful church in the heart of the Old Town is open to visitors for free, offering a tranquil place to escape.

Wellness in Puerto del Carmen

• Spas and thermal baths: Many local hotels offer spa facilities where guests can enjoy massages, facials and body treatments. Notable is the VIK Hotel San Antonio.

• Yoga and meditation centres: Yoga studios in and around Puerto del Carmen offer daily classes in various styles of yoga, along with meditation sessions, often held in settings overlooking the beach.

Nature and outdoor activities in Puerto del Carmen

• Paragliding: Paragliders are launched from the cliffs near Puerto del Carmen, enabling amazing views of the island and the ocean.

• Ziplining: There are zip-line facilities within a short drive from Puerto del Carmen, providing an exhilarating way to view the rugged landscapes of Lanzarote.

• Cycling: With its relatively flat terrain along the coast and more challenging routes inland, cycling is a popular way to get around. Several marked trails cater to all fitness levels. Bike rentals are available.

• Water sports: The clear waters around Puerto del Carmen are home to a variety of marine life, making it a top destination for diving and snorkelling. There are many dive centres that offer PADI certification courses. The calm waters off the beaches in Puerto del Carmen are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding, and along the main beaches there are places to take lessons.

• Fishing: Try your hand at sea fishing. Boat trips can be chartered to take you out deep-sea fishing where you might catch marlin, tuna and other species.

Local dishes in Puerto del Carmen

Together with traditional Canary Island dishes, fresh seafood and mouth-watering tapas, Puerto del Carmen ensures that your dining experience is as sunny as the weather.

Some typical dishes

• Papas Arrugadas: Small potatoes are cooked in salted water and served with a hot sauce known as mojo, which is a mixture of peppers, garlic, vinegar and olive oil.

• Conejo en Salmorejo: Rabbit is marinated in a typical Canarian sauce that is made from garlic, spices, vinegar and oil, then fried or baked.

Tapas dishes

• Chorizo al Vino: This recipe is as easy as it comes: chorizo sausage cooked in wine. It may be simple yet this dish is packed full of flavour.

• Queso Asado: Often, this grilled cheese is served with a sweet mojo or green spicy mojo sauce.

Meat dishes

• Carne Fiesta: Popular at local fiestas and celebrations, this dish consists of pork marinated in garlic, spices and wine, then fried.

• Cabrito Asado: Roasted goat is a speciality in Lanzarote, known for its tender and flavourful meat.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Calamares a la Romana: A plate of these battered and fried squid rings is a favourite in coastal areas.

• Pescado a la Sal: This fish baked in salt is the perfect way to highlight the freshness and flavour of the local catch.

Street food

• Bocadillos de Calamares: Squid sandwiches are a simple yet popular choice for a quick and satisfying meal on the go.

Sweets and desserts

• Bienmesabe: Bienmesabe is a deliciously sweet dessert that is primarily made from almonds, egg yolk and honey.

• Frangollo: One of the Canary Islands’ most delicious desserts; cornmeal, eggs, milk, sugar, butter, lemon zest, almonds and raisins are the fundamental ingredients.

Local drinks

• Malvasía wine: Wine lovers should definitely taste this local wine from Lanzarote’s volcano regions, which ranges from dry to very sweet.

• Barraquito: An indulgent layered coffee made with condensed milk, liqueur, cinnamon and lemon, barraquito is served primarily in cafés throughout the island.