Puerto del Carmen (Lanzarote): a practical guide to the area

Puerto del Carmen was one of Lanzarote’s first major resort areas, and its layout still shows it: a long seafront avenue, several beaches linked on foot, apartments, hotels, shops, terraces and a well-established restaurant scene. In practice, the area falls into two parts: Playa Grande and Avenida de las Playas, where swimming is easy and the promenade is flat, and the old harbour area, smaller in scale, with restaurants and narrow streets climbing towards La Tiñosa. It is a convenient base for families, couples and travellers who do not want to spend the day moving the car. It does not have the secluded feel of newer resorts, but it is not as urban as Arrecife either. Its strength is ease: beach in the morning, lunch nearby, a walk at dusk and services open for much of the year. If you are looking for absolute quiet or wild scenery, use it as a base and save days for Papagayo, La Geria or the north of the island.

The main access is via the LZ-40 and LZ-2, with quick links from the airport and from Arrecife. By car, the area is straightforward, although in high season the spaces closest to Playa Grande fill early; it is often more realistic to park in the inner streets and walk down to the avenue. Without a car, IntercityBus Lanzarote connects Puerto del Carmen with Arrecife, Costa Teguise, Playa Blanca, Puerto Calero and the airport on several interurban routes. Once inside the resort, walking is usually the best option: Avenida de las Playas is long, flat and practical for linking beach, restaurants and shops. The old town is steeper, so factor that in with small children, older travellers or a pushchair.

Playa Grande is the most comfortable choice for a full day: wide sand, easy access, nearby services and an aspect that often allows for calm swimming, although the sea conditions always come first. Mornings are cooler and quieter; by late afternoon the promenade comes to life and the old harbour is especially good for dinner. With children, it is better to settle near clear access points and avoid walking the full length of the avenue in the hottest hours. If the wind is strong, the more exposed sections become less pleasant, but you can usually walk towards more sheltered stretches or eat one street back from the front. For quick shopping, a pharmacy or a supermarket, there is no need to leave the area. For excursions, Puerto del Carmen is well placed for Timanfaya, La Geria and Playa Blanca.