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Year Round Sun, Dreamy Beaches & Otherworldly Landscapes: Why Lanzarote Is Unlike Any Other Canary Island

And we found the perfect family villa too…

So, Why Lanzarote?

Winters here in the UK are long – grey skies, constant rain and freezing temperatures (especially if you’re up North like us!). By March, we were craving blue skies, warmth and a little adventure.

We chose Lanzarote, one of the Canary Islands, and I’m so glad that we did.

Not only are the beaches breathtaking – some considered among the best in Spain – but the landscape is something else entirely. With volcanic craters, lava fields and dramatic black rock formations, you will feel as if you’ve landed on another planet.

This isn’t just an island where you sit by the pool (although you absolutely can if that’s what you fancy). It’s an island to explore, discover and experience.

Car Hire Is Essential

To really experience Lanzarote, hiring a car is a must.

There’s simply too much to see – from hidden beaches to volcanic landscapes – and while taxis do exist, they can be limited and less practical with little ones.

We used Cicar, one of the most reputable car hire companies on the island and we honestly couldn’t fault them. They’re based directly at the airport so you can walk straight out and collect your car with no shuttle needed.

Car seats were included and we had full coverage giving real peace of mind.

This was actually my first time driving abroad and Lanzarote is probably the best place to try it. The roads are:

  • Well maintained
  • Mostly straight
  • Clearly signposted
  • Surprisingly quiet

There are a lot of roundabouts and zebra crossings but you quickly get used to it.

If I can do it, you definitely can.

I’ve linked the company, here.

The Villa of Dreams

While there are plenty of hotels in Lanzarote, we knew a villa would suit us best due to more space, more flexibility and a much more relaxed pace.

We truly found the villa of dreams.

Sleeping up to 8 people, it’s perfect for larger families. Inside, we had:

  • 4 bedrooms (with A/C in 2)
  • 3 bathrooms
  • A spacious living and dining area
  • A fully equipped kitchen

The real highlight though was the outdoor space.

We had our own heated private pool, a BBQ area with outdoor dining and a separate astro-turf space where the boys could safely run around = away from the pool (though always supervised, of course).

It’s worth noting the pool isn’t fenced, so something to consider depending on your children’s ages.

The villa also had:

  • Private parking
  • A secure gated entrance
  • A peaceful, private road setting

Location wise, it was perfect:

  • 35 minutes from the airport
  • 5 minutes from Playa Blanca
  • 15 minutes from Marina Rubicón

Close enough for beaches, restaurants and exploring but still quiet and relaxing.

See for yourself just how amazing this place is, here.

Where We Ate (Family Favourites)

If you’re heading to Marina Rubicón, these are must visits:

  • Jungle Vibes – a fun, immersive dining experience where animals are everywhere (literally!). The boys loved it – from the giraffe towering nearby to the playful staff antics – see my Lanzarote highlight for what I mean. Make your reservation, here.
  • Il Commendatore Lanzarote – a great family friendly Italian. Don’t miss the glass floor panels where you can spot fish swimming below! Book right here. Top tip: grab dessert from the ice cream shop just opposite.

Best Beaches in Lanzarote

You’re truly spoiled for choice when it comes to beaches here.

Easy, family friendly beaches
  • Playa Dorada
  • Playa Flamingo

These are perfect with little ones:

  • Soft golden sand
  • Calm, shallow water
  • Easy access & free parking
  • Restaurants & facilities nearby
Wild & natural beaches (Papagayo area)

For something more rugged and untouched, head to the Papagayo beaches.

  • Playa Mujeres – easiest to access with kids. Park near Sandos Papagayo Hotel and walk15 minutes (note: uneven terrain, so pack light and wear appropriate footwear!).
  • Playa de Papagayo – the most beautiful, but requires driving along a dirt road & €3 entry fee (most car hire companies don’t cover you up here so be careful!) Don’t miss Casa El Barba for incredible food with unreal views.
Other beaches worth visiting
  • Playa Chica (in Puerto del Carmen) – great for snorkelling & easy to pair with lunch or dinner
  • Playa de Famara – dramatic, wild and famous for its huge cliffs and surf scene – completely different to the calm southern beaches. 
 

Natural Wonders for Under 5s

Lanzarote’s landscape is incredible – and surprisingly accessible with young kids.

Here are some easy, low-effort spots:

  • El Golfo – a volcanic crater with a surreal green lagoon beside black sand and crashing waves
  • Los Hervideros – dramatic lava cliffs where waves crash through natural rock formations
  • Las Grietas – narrow volcanic cracks you can walk through – feels like another planet
  • Volcán El Cuervo – an easy volcano walk where you can explore inside the crater
  • Jardín de Cactus – a unique cactus garden 
  • Montaña Roja – a gentle hike with stunning views, great for little explorers (right by the villa too!)

Other Family Friendly Things To Do

If you want to mix in some organised fun:

  • Rancho Texas Lanzarote Park – animals, shows & water play
  • Biosfera Plaza (Puerto del Carmen) – open air cinema, mini golf, play areas
  • Local waterparks – perfect for a half day activity.
 

We absolutely loved our time in Lanzarote.

The combination of relaxed beach days and its unique landscapes made it the perfect balance for a family trip. The villa gave us space to slow down, while having everything within easy reach meant we could explore without stress. For us, it ticked every box and the sunshine in March was a real treat. 

Don’t overlook Lanzarote – it’s not just a holiday – it’s an adventure.

Head over to my Instagram page to join us on our travels in real time – if you missed this one, check out my Lanzarote highlight!