Playa Chica (Lanzarote): Snorkelling and Diving in Puerto del Carmen

Playa Chica is not about scale; it is about concentration. This small, sheltered and very practical cove sits within Puerto del Carmen, with transparent water and seabeds that can be reached straight from the shore. That is why it has become one of Lanzarote’s key hubs for recreational diving. It is common to see beginners’ groups, snorkellers and divers entering the water with equipment directly from the beach.

The great advantage of Playa Chica is how easy it is to get into the water. For first-time divers, it removes much of the friction: there is no difficult entry point and no excessive logistics. For snorkelling, choose a day with clear, calm water, respect the access routes and avoid touching marine life. Although the cove feels comfortable, it becomes open sea once you move beyond the sheltered area, so it is important to act with care and always follow local guidance.

Playa Chica is linked to Playa Grande and the rest of Puerto del Carmen by the seafront promenade. That proximity makes it easy to combine a quieter swim or snorkelling session with a walk, lunch or a longer beach afternoon in a wider area. If you are travelling with people who do not dive, this is a clear advantage: some can enjoy the water while others stay nearby, stroll along the coast or head towards the avenue without relying on the car.

When the sea is settled, Playa Chica is comfortable for families because the setting is sheltered and the services of Puerto del Carmen are close at hand. Even so, sand space is limited and it fills up faster than a large beach. For beginner divers or snorkellers, the best approach is to take it slowly, avoid the busiest hours and respect the entry and exit of divers carrying tanks. This is a small cove, so shared use is much more noticeable.

Access is free of charge. If you plan to dive, book with an authorised centre and confirm sea conditions before the immersion. If you are simply going to watch fish with a mask, bring water shoes if you find them comfortable, do not feed the animals and avoid stepping on delicate areas. For a fuller day out, combine it with the old town of Puerto del Carmen or use it as an easy stop before an excursion towards Timanfaya.