Lanzarote With Kids: 9 Best Things to Do for Families

Looking for a sunny and varied family vacation? Lanzarote with kids is a surprisingly fun destination. On this unique Canary Island, you can walk across lava fields, swim in natural pools and explore charming villages filled with whitewashed houses. The island’s volcanoes and the remarkable creations of César Manrique make Lanzarote feel completely different from the other Canary Islands.

Whether you’re traveling with a toddler or older children, these are the 9 best places you won’t want to miss during your family trip to Lanzarote.

Mini Guide:
Lanzarote

Best Time to Visit
Thanks to its mild climate, Lanzarote is a great destination year-round.

Where to stay
Hipotels La Geria: A relaxed family-friendly hotel right by the beach.
Casa Los Olivos: A beautiful finca with a garden and private pool.
Finca De Arrieta: Unique eco-friendly accommodations, fun for families.

Before You Go
Would you like to receive our personal Lanzarote My Maps guide? Follow us on Instagram and send “LANZAROTEMAP” in a DM.

Jardín de Cactus With Kids: A Garden Full of Surprising Discoveries

A cactus garden might not be the first thing that comes to mind when planning a family trip to Lanzarote, but trust us, this place is a lot of fun. The moment you step inside, it almost feels like you’ve landed on another planet. Everywhere you look, you’ll find cacti in the most unusual shapes and sizes, from tiny round ones to towering giants.

Our kids especially loved wandering through the garden and spotting the “craziest cactus.” Some look like giant arms, others resemble furry green balls, and yes, our youngest wanted to touch every single one of them (spoiler: not a great idea 😅).

The paths wind through the garden and are easy to follow, making it a relaxed place for families to explore. At the top, you’ll get beautiful views across the garden, with the iconic white windmill in the background. Need a break? There’s a small café where you can grab a drink, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try the cactus ice cream. It’s one of those little travel moments that sticks with you.

Why Is It Fun With Kids?

• Plenty to discover without feeling like a museum.
• Compact and easy to explore, no long walks required.
• Funny cactus shapes that spark children’s imagination.
• Cactus ice cream makes a fun reward after your visit.

Good to Know

• Easy to combine with a visit to Punta Mujeres or Arrieta.
• Allow around 45 to 60 minutes for your visit.
• There is very little shade, so visiting early or later in the day is recommended.
• Not fully stroller-friendly, a baby carrier is often easier.

Playa de Papagayo With Kids: A Beautiful Beach With Crystal Clear Water

The moment you arrive, you immediately understand why so many people love Lanzarote. Playa de Papagayo sits in a sheltered bay, which means the water is often calm, perfect when you’re traveling with children. The sand is soft, the sea stays shallow for quite a while and the water is an almost unreal shade of turquoise.

Getting there is part of the adventure. The road is unpaved and a little bumpy, so take it slow. But once you’ve parked and walked down to the beach, it feels like you’ve discovered a hidden paradise away from the crowds.

We happily spent several hours here. Swimming, building sandcastles, getting buried in the sand, jumping back into the water, and repeating the whole process over and over again. Above the beach, you’ll find a simple restaurant overlooking the bay. It’s a nice spot for a drink or lunch, although bringing your own snacks and drinks is definitely a good idea.

Why Is It Fun With Kids?

• Calm, clear water that’s great for swimming and playing.
• Soft sand, perfect for hours of beach fun.
• A sheltered bay that feels safe and easy to oversee.
• Ideal for a relaxed family beach day.

Good to Know

• Access is via an unpaved road, so drive carefully.
• Entry to the nature reserve costs €3 per car and €2 per motorcycle. Access is free for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Bring plenty of water, snacks and a beach umbrella.
• There is very little natural shade on the beach.

In our opinion, this is one of the best beaches in Lanzarote for families. It’s not only beautiful, it’s also easy, relaxed and exactly the kind of place you hope to find on a family vacation.

Water Fun and Wildlife on Lanzarote: Rancho Texas, Aqualava or Aquapark

Looking for a day packed with action and water fun during your family vacation in Lanzarote? These three attractions are among the most popular choices for families:

• Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park is probably the best-known option. It combines a zoo, playground, water park and animal shows in one place. That variety makes it especially appealing for families with children of different ages.
• Aqualava Waterpark in Playa Blanca is smaller and more relaxed. It’s a great choice for families with younger children who may not be ready for the biggest slides yet. One unique feature is that the pools use saltwater instead of chlorine, which can be gentler on the skin and eyes.
• Aquapark Costa Teguise is larger and offers more thrills. You’ll find bigger slides, faster rides and plenty of excitement, making it a good option for families with older children looking for a bit more adventure.

We actually skipped all three during our trip to Lanzarote. With a private pool at our accommodation and so many beautiful beaches, volcanic landscapes and unique attractions to explore, we preferred spending our time discovering the island itself.

That said, if your kids love water parks or animals, any of these attractions can be a fun change of pace during your vacation.

When Is This a Good Choice for Families

• If you want a break from beaches and nature.
• If your children love water slides and splash parks.
• If you’re looking for an active and adventurous family day out.

Jameos del Agua With Kids: A Hidden World Inside a Lava Cave

Before visiting Lanzarote, we had never heard of César Manrique. Once we started planning our trip, though, his name seemed to be everywhere. The artist and architect played a huge role in shaping the island’s identity, and one of his most remarkable creations is Jameos del Agua, built inside an ancient lava tunnel.

As you descend into the cave, you suddenly find yourself standing beside a crystal-clear underground lagoon. Look closely and you’ll spot tiny white crabs living in the water. These rare creatures are blind and can only be found here. Our daughters spent ages staring into the lagoon, excited every time they discovered another one.

Further along, the cave opens into a beautiful space where nature and architecture blend seamlessly together. This is also where you’ll find the famous turquoise-blue swimming pool, surrounded by white walls and palm trees. Our youngest immediately wanted to jump in. We ended up telling her that only one person in the world is allowed to swim there, the King of Spain. Whether that’s actually true or not, we’ll leave that open for debate, but it certainly worked.😄

Why Is It Fun With Kids?

• Educational without ever feeling boring.
• A chance to spot unique animals found nowhere else.
• Compact and easy to explore with children.
• Completely different from any other attraction on Lanzarote.

Good to Know

• Allow around 45 to 60 minutes for your visit.
• Swimming in the pool is not permitted.
• It can get busy, so visiting early or later in the day is recommended.
• Easy to combine with a visit to Cueva de los Verdes nearby.

You might wonder whether this attraction is really suitable for children. We had the same thought beforehand. In the end, though, our whole family enjoyed it. The girls were surprisingly fascinated by the peaceful atmosphere, and searching for the tiny white crabs turned out to be one of the highlights of the visit.

Timanfaya National Park With Kids: Exploring Lanzarote’s Volcanic Landscape

Timanfaya National Park is one of the most impressive places on Lanzarote. Visiting this volcanic landscape feels a bit like stepping onto Mars. Everything is black, red and rugged. There are no forests or green fields here, just vast lava fields and dramatic volcanic peaks. It’s one of the best places on the island to experience the raw power of nature.

If you’re visiting independently, try to arrive as early as possible, ideally when the park opens. We heard plenty of stories, and saw it ourselves, about long lines of cars building up later in the day. If you join an organized tour, you’ll usually bypass most of the queue.

After paying the entrance fee, around €20 for adults and €10 for children, you’ll drive to the visitor area. From there, everyone boards a bus, which is included in the ticket price. Visitors are not allowed to explore the park on their own, so the bus tour is the only way to see the protected volcanic landscape.

Tip: Sit on the right-hand side of the bus for the best views.

The route takes you through an almost otherworldly landscape. Along the way, you’ll learn more about the volcanic history of the area while passing endless lava fields and colorful craters. Near the visitor center, rangers often demonstrate the heat that still exists beneath the surface. Water instantly turns into steam, and dry brush can burst into flames within seconds. Our oldest daughter found these demonstrations especially fascinating.

Don’t expect playgrounds or places where children can run around freely. This is very much a sightseeing experience. Our kids enjoyed it, but after a while they were definitely ready for something a little more active.

Why Is It Fun With Kids?

• An impressive landscape unlike anywhere else on the island.
• Fun and educational fire and steam demonstrations.
• No long hikes required.
• Easy to visit independently or as part of a guided tour.

Good to Know

• Entrance fees are approximately €20 for adults and €10 for children.
• The bus tour is included with your ticket.
• Independent exploration of the park is not permitted.
• Arrive early to avoid long waiting times.
• Bring snacks and drinks.
• There is very little shade, so sun protection is essential.

This may not be the most playful attraction for children, but it is certainly one they’ll remember. Combined with a beach visit or another active activity later in the day, it makes for a great family outing on Lanzarote.

Punta Mujeres With Kids: Swimming in Natural Sea Pools

Punta Mujeres is one of the most charming villages on Lanzarote. You won’t find busy promenades or major attractions here. Instead, you’ll discover a relaxed coastal village with whitewashed houses, colorful fishing boats and natural sea pools carved into the volcanic shoreline.

Along the coast, you’ll find several lava pools where you can swim, especially during low tide. The water is usually much calmer than in the open ocean, making it a great spot for families with children.

What makes Punta Mujeres so enjoyable is its laid-back atmosphere. There’s no need to rush from one attraction to another. Simply wander along the waterfront, explore the different pools, sit on the rocks for a while and enjoy the views.

Why Is It Fun With Kids?

• Natural swimming pools with often calm water.
• Small-scale and easy to explore.
• Perfect for a short stop during a day of sightseeing.
• Much quieter than many of Lanzarote’s more popular attractions.

Good to Know

• The pools are usually calmest at low tide.
• Water shoes are highly recommended because of the volcanic rocks.
• Easy to combine with Jameos del Agua or Mirador del Río.

Punta Mujeres may not be one of Lanzarote’s most famous attractions, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s a place where you can experience a more authentic side of the island and enjoy a peaceful moment with your family away from the crowds.

Teguise With Kids: A Charming Village Full of Streets and Shops

Teguise was one of our favorite places on Lanzarote with our kids. In fact, we enjoyed it so much that we visited three times during our 10-day stay on the island. With its narrow cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, palm trees and cozy squares filled with cafés, it’s easy to see why.

One of the things we loved most was simply wandering around. The village is packed with small shops selling everything from local products and souvenirs to unique gifts and children’s items. We also enjoyed visiting the aloe vera shop, which includes a small free museum that’s worth a quick look.

The historic center is largely traffic-free, making it much more relaxed when exploring with children. On the main square, you’ll find a playground where kids can burn off some energy, while parents can enjoy a coffee or lunch at one of the nearby terraces.

Visiting on a Sunday? That’s when Teguise hosts its famous weekly market. The streets fill with market stalls, musicians and visitors from across the island. It’s fun to experience, but we actually preferred visiting on quieter days. Without the crowds, the village feels more authentic and it’s easier to soak up the atmosphere.

Why Is It Fun With Kids?

• Traffic-free and easy to explore on foot.
• Playground located on the main square.
• Lots of charming streets to wander through.
• Plenty of fun shops, including some aimed at children.

Good to Know

• Parking is available outside the historic center.
• Sunday is market day, lively and fun, but also much busier.

Famara Beach With Kids: Lanzarote’s Surf Beach With Incredible Views

Famara Beach feels completely different from the rest of Lanzarote. Instead of a sheltered bay with calm water, you’ll find a wide sandy beach, powerful waves and the dramatic cliffs of Risco de Famara rising in the background. It’s also one of the windiest spots on the island.

Our kids spent most of their time here playing in the sand and running back and forth from the waves. Swimming is possible, but we stayed close to the shoreline. The currents can be strong, so it’s important to be careful, especially with children.

What we loved most about Famara was the sense of space. The beach feels endless, with sweeping ocean views and towering cliffs stretching along the coast. At the same time, you’ll see surfers heading into the water all day long. Watching them became entertainment in itself for our whole family.

The village of Famara is simple and a little rough around the edges, but in a charming way. You’ll find sandy streets, low-rise houses and a handful of trendy restaurants with a relaxed atmosphere.

Why Is It Fun With Kids?

• A huge beach with plenty of space to run and play.
• Fun to watch the surfers tackle the waves.
• Often quieter than many of Lanzarote’s other beaches.
• A completely different atmosphere from the rest of the island.

Good to Know

• A great place to stop for lunch in the village.
• Strong currents mean it’s best to stay close to the shore.
• It can be very windy, so bring an extra layer.
• This is not a typical swimming beach.

La Graciosa With Kids: A Unique Day Trip From Lanzarote

La Graciosa is a small island just north of Lanzarote and, in our opinion, one of the best day trips you can make during your vacation. You reach the island by ferry from Órzola, and even the crossing itself was a highlight for our kids.

As soon as you arrive, you’ll notice how different La Graciosa feels. There are no paved roads, only sandy tracks. No crowds, just peace, space and beautiful landscapes. You can wander through the village on sandy streets and explore the island by bike or 4×4 vehicle.

We chose to rent bikes with child seats, and honestly, it was more challenging than we expected. The island is surprisingly hilly and cycling through the sand can be hard work. At the same time, that adventure was part of the fun. Along the way, we stopped at quiet beaches, the kids played in the sand and we searched for little crabs along the shoreline.

If you’d rather take it easy, a 4×4 tour is a great alternative. It’s especially convenient if you’re visiting with younger children or during the hotter months.

The island’s main village, Caleta de Sebo, is also worth exploring. With its sandy streets, whitewashed houses and relaxed atmosphere, it’s a lovely place to stop for a drink or something to eat.

Why Is It Fun With Kids?

• The ferry ride is an adventure on its own.
• Sandy roads and almost no traffic make it feel completely different from Lanzarote.
• Exploring by bike or 4×4 adds to the experience.
• Quiet beaches that are perfect for discovering and relaxing.

Good to Know

• The ferry departs from Órzola and takes about 25 minutes.
• Book ferry tickets in advance during school holidays and peak travel periods.
• Cycling with children is possible, but it can be quite challenging.
• A 4×4 tour is a comfortable alternative.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks.

La Graciosa was one of the absolute highlights of our family trip to Lanzarote. It’s the kind of place that feels like a real adventure, and one we still talk about long after returning home.

Where to Stay in Lanzarote With Kids?

When traveling to Lanzarote with kids, there’s one thing that matters most: finding a place where your family feels comfortable and that makes it easy to explore the island. Fortunately, there are plenty of family-friendly accommodations in Lanzarote, ranging from all-inclusive resorts to charming vacation rentals.

Good family-friendly accommodations on Lanzarote tend to book up quickly during school holidays, so it’s worth reserving your stay well in advance.

All-Inclusive Resort or Family Hotel

Looking for a stress-free vacation? An all-inclusive resort or family hotel can be a great choice. Breakfast is taken care of, there are swimming pools, entertainment programs and often playgrounds as well.

You’ll find many family-friendly hotels in Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen, making them great bases if you simply want to relax and enjoy your vacation.

➜ Check package holidays to Lanzarote (flight + hotel).

Small-Scale Vacation Rental or Finca

We personally prefer staying somewhere smaller and more authentic. Think of a vacation home with a garden, a swimming pool and plenty of space for the kids to play.

It immediately feels more relaxed. No crowded buffets, no early-morning race for sunbeds, just your own space. If you’re planning a road trip around Lanzarote, this is easily our favorite way to stay on the island.

These are the two places where we stayed ourselves, and we would happily recommend both:

Casa Los Olivos
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,4 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (Mid-Range)
A beautiful finca in a peaceful location in southern Lanzarote. The private pool and spacious garden make this a fantastic place to stay with kids. This was our personal favorite.
➜ Check availability

Finca de Arrieta
⭑⭑⭑ 8,8 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (Mid-Range)
A small-scale and very family-friendly accommodation in northern Lanzarote, with animals, plenty of play areas, a swimming pool and a relaxed atmosphere. You can stay in a yurt or an eco-cottage, which makes it even more fun for children. A great base for exploring the island.
➜ Check availability

Other Great Family-Friendly Accommodations in Lanzarote

Hipotels La Geria
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 8,9 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (Mid-Range)
A family-friendly hotel close to the beach, just outside the busy center of Puerto del Carmen. With a swimming pool and spacious rooms, it offers a nice balance between convenience and relaxation.
➜ Check availability

Elba Lanzarote Royal Village Resort
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 8,3 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (Mid-Range)
A large resort with multiple swimming pools and plenty of space for kids to play. A great option for families looking for a comfortable and affordable stay with everything within easy reach.
➜ Check availability

Finca Tomaren
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 9,3 on Booking.com
Price Range: €€ (Mid-Range)
A charming finca surrounded by Lanzarote’s volcanoes and vineyards. Stay in your own private cottage and enjoy the beautiful swimming pool. There’s no busy entertainment program here, just a peaceful setting where you can truly slow down and enjoy time together as a family.
➜ Check availability

Renting a Car in Lanzarote With Kids

In our opinion, renting a car is an absolute must when visiting Lanzarote with kids. Not only does it give you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace, but many of Lanzarote’s best places, including Famara, Playa de Papagayo, Punta Mujeres and Timanfaya, are difficult to reach without one.

We paid around €150 for ten days for a spacious rental car, and it was worth every euro. The roads are easy to navigate, parking is often free and you’ll always have everything within reach, from snacks and drinks to beach gear and spare clothes.

Our Experience Renting a Car in Lanzarote

For this trip, we booked our rental car through DiscoverCars, and the experience was excellent. It was easy to compare different providers and quickly see which option suited us best. What stood out most were the price differences, which could be surprisingly large for very similar vehicles.

We also liked how clear everything was before arrival. There were no unexpected surprises at pickup and no hassle with additional paperwork. When you’re traveling with children, that peace of mind makes a big difference.

Picking up the car at the airport was quick and straightforward as well. Before we knew it, we were on the road and ready to start exploring the island. It was the perfect start to our family vacation in Lanzarote.

Practical Tips for Visiting Lanzarote With Kids

Here are a few things that are good to know before your family trip to Lanzarote:

• Apply Sunscreen, Then Apply Some More
  Even on cloudy days. The sun in Lanzarote is stronger than it may seem, so make sure to apply sunscreen regularly and bring a hat, cap or UV-protective swim shirt for your kids. You’ll especially notice it at the beach or in places with little shade.
• Many Attractions Have Very Little Shade
  Places like Timanfaya, Playa de Papagayo and La Graciosa offer almost no natural shade. Bring your own umbrella, sunshade or other protection if possible.
• Always Bring Water and Snacks
  Especially if you’re planning a road trip or visiting one of the island’s more remote beaches. Restaurants and supermarkets aren’t always nearby, so having water and snacks with you is highly recommended.
• A Baby Carrier Is Often Easier Than a Stroller
  Many places in Lanzarote aren’t particularly stroller-friendly. Sandy paths, stairs and uneven surfaces are common. A baby carrier can make sightseeing much easier, especially at attractions like Jameos del Agua or during a day trip to La Graciosa.
• Keep the Siesta in Mind
  Many villages become quieter around lunchtime, and some shops close between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM. It’s a great time to enjoy a relaxed lunch or spend a few hours at the beach.
• Expect Plenty of Wind
  Lanzarote is known for its windy conditions. You’ll notice it most at beaches like Famara, but strong winds can appear almost anywhere on the island. Bringing an extra layer or a spare towel is never a bad idea.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lanzarote With Kids

More Inspiration for Your Lanzarote Family Vacation

Lanzarote has so much to offer, from rugged beaches and charming villages to unique volcanic landscapes. Looking for even more ideas for your trip? We’ve got you covered.

➜ Discover the most beautiful villages in Lanzarote.
➜ Read our guide to La Graciosa, the best day trip from Lanzarote.

We’re also working on guides to our favorite beaches in Lanzarote and a complete Lanzarote itinerary for families.

Plan Your Lanzarote Family Vacation

Where to Stay in Lanzarote
➜ Discover the best family-friendly accommodations in Lanzarote

Rent a Car in Lanzarote
➜ Compare prices with DiscoverCars, Booking.com and Sunny Cars

Best Tours and Activities in Lanzarote
➜ Browse the best tours, excursions and activities in Lanzarote

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