Lanzarote, with its dramatic volcanic landscapes, golden sandy beaches, and year-round sunshine, is an exceptional destination for families. Far from being just a party island, it offers a wealth of activities and a welcoming atmosphere that makes traveling with little ones a breeze. If you’re wondering what to do in Lanzarote with children, you’ll be delighted to discover a diverse array of adventures that cater to all ages, ensuring smiles and lasting memories for everyone.
Why Lanzarote is Perfect for Families with Children
Traveling with children can often feel like a juggling act, but Lanzarote’s family-friendly infrastructure makes it considerably easier. Here’s why it’s such a great choice:
- Short Flight Times from Europe: For many European families, Lanzarote is just a few hours’ flight away, minimizing travel fatigue for young travelers.
- Warm Climate Year-Round: The consistent pleasant temperatures mean you can enjoy outdoor activities regardless of the season, avoiding extreme heat or cold.
- Safe and Clean Environment: Lanzarote boasts low crime rates and high standards of cleanliness, offering parents peace of mind.
- Variety of Accommodation: From self-catering apartments with pools to all-inclusive resorts with kids’ clubs, there’s a wide range of options to suit every family’s needs and budget.
- Easy Navigation: The island is relatively small and easy to navigate, whether by rental car or organized transport, making day trips stress-free.
These factors contribute to a relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to focus on the fun and truly explore what to do in Lanzarote with children.
Top Activities: What to Do in Lanzarote with Children
Lanzarote is packed with attractions that are sure to delight children of all ages. Here’s a breakdown of some of the best, along with price indications and recommendations:
Timanfaya National Park
This is an absolute must-do and a highlight of what to do in Lanzarote with children. The otherworldly volcanic landscape feels like stepping onto another planet.
- Activity: Visitors take a coach tour through the “Mountains of Fire,” seeing dormant volcanoes and vast lava fields. At the Islet of Hilario, you’ll witness geothermal demonstrations (water turning to steam, dry brush igniting) that amaze both kids and adults. There’s also a restaurant, El Diablo, where food is cooked using geothermal heat.
- Prices: Approximately €12-€15 per adult, children often discounted or free depending on age.
- Recommendations: Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds. Buggies are not allowed on the coach tour, so bring carriers for very young children if needed. The heat demonstrations are fascinating for curious minds!
Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park
Combining a zoo, a water park, and animal shows, Rancho Texas is a fantastic full-day outing for families wondering what to do in Lanzarote with children.
- Activity: See exotic animals like white tigers, pumas, and bison. Enjoy thrilling bird of prey and sea lion shows. Then, cool off in the splash zones, waterslides, and pools.
- Prices: Around €30-€35 per adult, €22-€25 per child (ages 3-12).
- Recommendations: Pack swimwear, towels, and sun cream. Arrive for opening to catch all the shows and enjoy the water park before it gets too crowded.
Aquapark Costa Teguise
If your kids are water babies, this is one of the best answers to what to do in Lanzarote with children.
- Activity: A large water park featuring numerous slides, a wave pool, and dedicated children’s areas.
- Prices: Approximately €28 per adult, €20 per child.
- Recommendations: Ideal for a hot day. Check height restrictions for certain slides. Bring your own snacks and drinks to save money, though food stalls are available.
Submarine Safaris
An exciting and unique way to explore the underwater world without getting wet, perfect for families considering what to do in Lanzarote with children.
- Activity: A real submarine takes you to depths of 30 meters, where you can see shipwrecks and marine life through large viewing ports.
- Prices: Around €60 per adult, €38 per child.
- Recommendations: Book in advance, especially during peak season. It’s a great option for kids who love marine life but aren’t comfortable with snorkeling or diving.
Jameos del Agua & Cueva de los Verdes
These are two separate but equally captivating attractions created within ancient lava tubes, offering a unique perspective on what to do in Lanzarote with children.
- Jameos del Agua: A unique complex designed by César Manrique, featuring a stunning underground lake with blind white crabs, a concert hall, and beautiful gardens.
- Cueva de los Verdes: A guided tour through fascinating lava tunnels, showcasing incredible geological formations.
- Prices: Each around €10-€15 per adult, children discounted. Combined tickets are often available.
- Recommendations: Cueva de los Verdes can be a bit dark and has some narrow passages, so consider if your children are comfortable with this. Jameos del Agua is generally more accessible and visually striking. Both offer a cool escape from the sun.
Beaches
Lanzarote’s beaches are perfect for families and a fundamental part of what to do in Lanzarote with children.
- Playas de Papagayo (Playa Blanca): A series of stunning, sheltered coves with golden sand and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Access requires a small fee (€3).
- Playa Grande (Puerto del Carmen): A long, sandy beach with calm waters, plenty of amenities, and easy access.
- Playa Dorada (Playa Blanca): Another family-friendly beach with calm waters, pedal boats, and watersports.
- Recommendations: Always bring plenty of sun cream, hats, and protective clothing. Many beaches have lifeguards and gentle slopes into the sea, making them safe for young swimmers.
César Manrique Foundation & Mirador del Río
While perhaps more appealing to older children with an interest in art or architecture, these sites offer breathtaking views and insights into Lanzarote’s unique heritage.
- César Manrique Foundation: Manrique’s former home, built into five volcanic bubbles, showcases his vision of integrating art and nature.
- Mirador del Río: A spectacular viewpoint designed by Manrique, offering panoramic views of La Graciosa island.
- Prices: Around €8-€10 per adult for each, children discounted.
- Recommendations: Pair Mirador del Río with a visit to La Graciosa for a full day out. For the Foundation, perhaps set up a scavenger hunt for younger kids to spot interesting features.
Lanzarote Awaits Your Family Adventure
Lanzarote truly is a treasure trove for families. From its unique volcanic landscapes that spark imagination to its inviting beaches perfect for building sandcastles, the island offers a compelling answer to what to do in Lanzarote with children.
The array of activities, combined with its safe and welcoming environment, ensures that every member of the family, from the youngest to the oldest, will find something to love. So pack your bags, prepare for adventure, and get ready to create incredible family memories under the Canarian sun. Lanzarote is waiting to welcome you and show you just how much fun exploring what to do in Lanzarote with children can be!
