What to do in Lanzarote with children: family plans among volcanoes and beaches

Lanzarote has everything needed to spark children's imaginations: volcanoes, caves, coloured lagoons, calm beaches, camels and viewpoints that look straight out of an adventure film. Short distances help a lot, and much of the island's best-known experiences can easily be adapted for a family trip.

Timanfaya: the volcano as a great experience

Timanfaya National Park is usually the moment that impresses children most. Feeling the heat the ground still gives off, exploring the Fire Mountains and seeing a landscape with no trees or buildings helps them understand that Lanzarote is different from any other destination. It's best to go early, bring water and tell them beforehand what they're going to see, to make the visit even more exciting.

Caves, jameos and a different kind of nature

Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes are two visits families tend to enjoy a lot. Both let you venture into the island's underground world and see how lava created unique tunnels and cavities. Jameos del Agua also carries César Manrique's artistic stamp, with gardens, water and architecture that surprises at any age.

Beaches to visit with children

For swimming days, it's best to choose beaches that are easy to access with calm waters. Playa Flamingo, Playa Dorada or some stretches of the south tend to work well because they have facilities nearby and let you organise the day without complications. The wilder beaches, though very beautiful, call for a bit more planning because of the wind, the swell or the lack of shade.

Relaxed plans for windy days

When the wind picks up, Lanzarote still has plenty of alternatives. Strolling around a village like Teguise, visiting the Cactus Garden, taking a short route through La Geria or eating by the sea are good options for slowing down. It also works well to combine a cultural visit in the morning with the pool or some rest in the afternoon.

Tips for travelling as a family

The key to enjoying Lanzarote with children is not overloading the day. A good plan in the morning and an afternoon at the beach or pool usually work better than trying to see everything at once. You get more out of the island when there's time left to take in the scenery, stop at a viewpoint or improvise a snack by the sea.

Travelling to Lanzarote with children is also a way of showing them that landscapes tell stories. And here, every volcano, every cave and every beach has its own.