Description
General information about the beach
Playa de Papagayo is Lanzarote's most famous beach, located in Los Ajaches Natural Park. White sand, turquoise water, and cliff-sheltered coves create a unique atmosphere, and swimming here is safe and pleasant.
Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
20 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
desirable
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
120 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa de Papagayo: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal, average temperature +22.0°C, warms up to +25.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa de Papagayo: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.3 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Playa de Papagayo: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 20 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Playa de Papagayo: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — fine. Beach length — 120 metres.
Playa de Papagayo: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in May. It ends in October. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Playa de Papagayo: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa de Papagayo: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: sea urchins (near rocks). We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa de Papagayo: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa de Papagayo: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Playa de Papagayo: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Chiringuito de Papagayo, Restaurante Playa Blanca. Cuisines available: Canarian. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa de Papagayo: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Water shoes, Headwear, Cash for parking.
Playa de Papagayo: when is the best time to swim?
The best time to visit is early morning, when there are fewer people and the water is calmest.
Playa de Papagayo: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming is not recommended in windy weather. Take your trash with you. Do not disturb wildlife.
Playa de Papagayo: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa de Papagayo: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for nature lovers and photographers. Suitable for families with children thanks to calm water. Not suitable for those seeking developed infrastructure and nightlife.
Playa de Papagayo: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is located in the Los Ajaches nature reserve and is famous for its crescent shape, golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. Many compare it to the Caribbean. It is one of the most photographed beaches in Lanzarote.
Playa de Papagayo: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Crystal-clear turquoise water, Golden sand, Scenic volcanic rock surroundings, Calm water, ideal for snorkelling, Sheltered from the wind, Part of the Los Ajaches nature reserve, One of the most photographed beaches in Lanzarote. Cons: Paid parking, No lifeguards on the beach, Limited infrastructure: only one beach bar, Can be crowded due to popularity, No natural shade on the beach, Dirt road to the beach.
Playa de Papagayo: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Los Ajaches Nature Reserve, Playa Blanca Resort, Punta Pechiguera Lighthouse. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa de Papagayo: how do I get to the city of Lanzarote?
The beach is located near the city of Lanzarote. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Lanzarote.