Child Friendly Holidays On Lanzarote, Canary Islands
photo credit LanzaroteGuidebook.com
The Canary Islands are one of the most popular holiday destinations in Spain. Second only to Catalonia in terms of the number of tourist arrivals clocked up each year. But whilst some of the larger islands may have a reputation as package holiday party zones little Lanzarote is geared more towards families and couples. Boasting great safe beaches, high standards of accommodation and absolutely loads to keep even the choosiest of children happily entertained.
The climate on Lanzarote is clement all year round – and is often likened to an eternal spring. Which not only makes the island the closest genuine winter sun destination to the UK, at a bearable four hours flying time. But also means it´s a sensible choice during the summer months. When cooling breezes keep the temperatures well below the oven like heat of the Spanish mainland and other Mediterranean destinations.
Explore The Moon
All family members tend to enjoy the eerie and surreal scenery of the Timanfaya Volcano Park. Which was created by a series of huge eruptions in the 1730´s. Leaving much of the island’s interior carpeted in lava and resembling the surface of the moon. The volcanoes today are all thankfully dormant – but the park is alive with visitors of all ages. As this is the most popular attraction on Lanzarote.
Most kids love the coach tour around the park – as this allows them to see the destructive power of nature up close. Whilst back at the main visitor centre wardens conduct child friendly demonstrations that testify to the geothermal heat still evident just below the earth’s surface here, pouring buckets of water into bore holes which are then expulsed as steam jets just seconds later. Whilst chefs cook lunch on massive grills – powered by the heat emanating from below.
The Timanfaya National Park is open seven days a week from 10.00 to 18.00 and admission costs €8 per adult and €4 per child. Older children will also enjoy the camel rides that can be taken on the outskirts of the park – which cost €10 per camel.
Undersea Adventure
From one other wordly experience to another. Lanzarote is home to its very own Yellow Submarine, which takes passengers on a fascinating voyage of discovery in the waters surrounding the island – an experience that is greatly enhanced by the clarity of the waters here as well as the abundance of sea life.
Expect to see rays, sharks and even dolphins. As well as a host of colourful tropical fish species – all identified by the experienced guides on board a $3.2 million craft which has been operating successfully on the island for over ten years.
The sub measures 18.5 metres and has huge viewing windows. So avoiding any feelings of claustrophobia, whilst a TV viewing screen is also set in to each headrest, ensuring passengers miss none of the spectacle taking place just outside their porthole.
The Yellow Submarine is based in the marina of Puerto Calero, just five minutes drive from the largest resort area on the island, Puerto del Carmen. It dives every day five times per day and costs €52 for adults and €30 for kids.
Animal Magic
Few children can resist the charms of animals and the Guinate Tropical Park, located towards the northern tip of Lanzarote, makes for an ideal family day out. Boasting an array of bird life that encompasses penguins, Macaws, toucans, ostriches and flamingoes. As well as furry mammals such as meerkats, wallabies and lemurs.
Six bird shows are staged throughout the day – featuring macaws and cockatoos riding miniature bicycles and scooters on a high wire. There’s over 45,000 square metres of park to explore.
The Guinate Tropical Park is open daily from 10.00 to 17.00 and admission costs €14 for adults and €5 for children.
Find more kid-friendly activities in Lanzarote at LanzaroteGuidebook.com.
Nick Ball is the editor of Lanzarote Guidebook – the in-depth island information guide. Where kids and adults alike can download a free 96 page guidebook to the island. Whilst browsing and booking holidays in Lanzarote direct online.
Find great rates on accommodations on Lanzarote using our secure hotel-finder.
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The best child friendly beaches in each of the Lanzarote resorts, all with beautiful golden sand and calm seas for paddling in……
Playa Jablillo in Costa Teguise
Playa Grande in Puerto del Carmen
Playa Dorada in Playa Blanca
If you fancy something away from the resorts, check out Playa La Garita at Arrieta with waves for bodyboarding, children’s play area and two tapas bars for mum and dad!
Fantastic, thank you, Jules,for adding these beaches!!
This is an excellent post. I know the beaches of Lanzarote are fantastic, and I have found some very reasonably priced beachfront accommodation while there. However, there are a few activities geared more toward family vacationers that I did not know much about. This article has been quite informative.
Dan
Dan from Spain Travel Deals Blog´s last blog ..Spain Travel Deals: Good Deals in Zaragoza
The volcanic island Lanzarote makes the northernmost part of the Canary Islands. it has nearly 300 volcanic peaks, of which most are extinct. Many of these peaks feature on volcanic tours for visitors to the island. the island’s lunar landscape contrasts strikingly with rich fauna and flora, which are unique to Lanzarote.In addition to its beautiful landscape, the island offers those who want to take a Lanzarote holiday golden beaches with crystalline water, modern and comfortable holiday resorts, and an excellent climate.