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13 Best Things To Do in Arrecife - Visit Lanzarote's capital

Arrecife is the capital of Lanzarote and you can easily spend at least half a day walking around the city. There are plenty of things to do in Arrecife, from going to local markets to visiting an art museum situated in an old stone fortress.

What to do in Arrecife - Lanzarote's capital

How to get to arrecife, best places to stay in arrecife, 1. artisanal tourist market in arrecife, 2. walk around charco san gines, 3. visit castillo de san gabriel (castle of saint gabriel), 4. castillo de san jose, 5. walk around the pedestrian street of arrecife, 6. shopping at centro comercial marina lanzarote, 7. playa del reducto in arrecife, 8. arrecife carnival, 9. lunch with a view at arrecife gran hotel's top-floor restaurant, 10. marina lanzarote, 11. shopping at lanzarote open mall shopping centre, 12. the shipwreck in arrecife, 13. mercadillo de arrecife - suspended.

Arrecife is not only the capital of Lanzarote but also the island's largest city, at around 57,000 residents. 

If you have a rental car you can drive here but keep in mind that the traffic in Arrecife can sometimes be crazy and it's hard to find a parking place. So look for the paid parkings around Charco San Gines if you want to be close to the best sightseeing places in Arrecife. 

Coming to Arrecife by bus is another easy and handy option. Since this is the capital of Lanzarote there are direct buses from most places on the island.

Direct bus lines to Arrecife:

• From Puerto del Carmen - bus line 2 
• From Costa Teguise - bus line 1
• From Playa Blanca - bus line 60
• From Puerto Calero - bus line 24

Also, there's always the option to actually walk to Arrecife if you're staying either in Puerto del Carmen or Costa Teguise , but you'll probably be tired by the time you arrive in town. Also, there's no shade on the coastal walks so it should be avoided during the hot days and midday hours in general.

Is Arrecife a good place to stay in Lanzarote?

If you're a city person, then Arrecife is probably the best place to stay in Lanzarote for you since it's the largest city on the island.

Also, if you want to use the bus system to visit Lanzarote, Arrecife has the best connections with all the places since it's the island's capital. It also has a beautiful beach, many restaurants & cafes and a long promenade for evening walks.

Where to stay in Arrecife

• Best apartments: Apartamentos Islamar Arrecife (beachfront, good value for money)
• Luxury Hotels in Arrecife: Arrecife Gran Hotel & Spa 5* (beachfront, panoramic views)
• Popular hotels in Arrecife: Hotel Diamar 3* (1 minute from the beach) •   Hotel Miramar 3* (2 minutes walk from the beach) 

This market is held in Arrecife every Saturday and you'll find everything from fruits and local products to souvenirs and other handicraft items. Enjoy a shopping experience in the historic centre of Arrecife and after you're done you can stroll around towards the charming Charco San Gines.

• Days: Saturday
• Location of the market: Plaza de Las Palmas
• Market hours: 09:00 - 14:00 h

Charco San Gines is a lagoon of natural seawater, situated right in the heart of Arrecife. The area has a lovely vibe, with old buildings and a lot of fishing boats. There are some restaurants and cafes around Charco san Gines, or you can walk on the palm tree promenade, that will take you towards Castillo de San Gabriel. The area of Charco San Gines is a popular lunch spot when visiting Arrecife, with lots of places that serve fresh fish or paella.

You could also stop for a visit to the Church of San Gines while in the area.

Castillo de San Gabriel was originally built as a wooden fortress and was then rebuilt as a stone castle after pirates had burnt it down.

It is located on an island called Islet of the English and it will offer you a gorgeous view over the Atlantic. The waters surrounding it are of turquoise color, very calm and shallow, especially during low tide.

The walk around Castillo de San Gabriel is very pleasant and you can admire the place and the views. Also, if you wish, you can visit the Museum of History for Arrecife, which is hosted inside the fortress.

A visit to the Museo Internacional de Arte Contemporáneo , MIAC-Castillo de San José is a must if you have a passion for art.

The museum is the result of a collaboration between the Cabildo and Cesar Manrique, so you will be following in his footsteps here.

A complete visit takes around 1 hour. You will certainly enjoy also the gardens and the top terrace, with amazing sea views.

Castillo de San Jose is actually a bit outside of the city center, but even though you don't plan to visit the museum inside, you should still go for the views.

Arrecife is an old town and the pedestrian street in the center is quite lovely, full of small shops and cafes. You can join the locals and order a cafe and churros, for a well-deserved break.

If you love the Spanish lifestyle, laid back and relaxed, then a walk around the center and Charco san Gines is what you need. This is one of the best things to do in Arrecife, as it will give you the chance to sample the local lifestyle.

If you want to do some shopping, then the Centro Comercial Marina Lanzarote is the best place you can come. You will find some local brands and also big international brands, a Hiperdino, rental car offices and also a food court.

Address: Avda. Olof Palme s/n 35500 Arrecife

Playa del Reducto is the main beach in Arrecife, with golden sand and palm trees. The water here is very calm and good for swimming since the beach is protected by natural reefs.

After a few hours of walking through the town streets, you can take half a day to relax on this beautiful beach while enjoying the view and the change of scenery from your usual beach in the resort. 

Every year, sometimes between the months of February and March, there's a carnival in Arrecife and the entire town is celebrating.

You can find in our dedicated article more info about the next edition of the Arrecife Carnival , including the dates, theme and other important information.

The Arrecife Gran Hotel is the tallest building in Arrecife, and also the tallest in all of Lanzarote.

It was built before Cesar Manrique put in place the height rule regarding new constructions, which says that no building should be so tall that it obstructs the views of other buildings and becomes an eyesore for visitors.

The restaurant on the top floor offers amazing views though, so if you come to visit Lanzarote you should go up there to have at least some cocktails, if not a proper lunch. The restaurant offers a gorgeous view of Playa del Reducto, especially during sunset, so it's a nice place to visit for a romantic date. A visit to this iconic place in Arrecife could be the best ending to a full day of visiting Lanzarote's capital.

This is a new and modern marina in Arrecife, which has a few shops and restaurants, where you can take a break if you've walked here from town. 

This stylish marina is quiet on some days and it usually comes to life when the big cruise ships arrive in port. On the rest of the days, you can walk on the waterfront and admire the beautiful yachts, do some relaxed shopping and maybe enjoy a drink at sunset, taking in the view. 

Lanzarote Open Mall is the newest and most modern shopping centre in Arrecife, plus it's home to the only Primark store in Lanzarote.

It has an open floor type of concept, with a modern design and you can easily spend a few hours here if you want to skip the beach for a day and visit Arrecife.

The mall offers big underground parking, lots of options for kids' entertainment, plus many restaurants to grab something to eat if you're hungry after all the shopping.

If you drive on the old road by the port Muelle de Los Marmoles, you will be able to see the remains of a ship that was built in Dundee, Scotland in 1954. The ship was called Temple Hall when it was first launched, but it later changed owners and was renamed Telamon.

Many tourists come here just for the photos and you can easily enter by car in the industrial marina, in order to take better photos of the shipwreck.

You could also walk here, but it's not really worth the effort to walk all the way here just to see the ship. But if you happen to be in the area, especially by car, and you can spare a few minutes to make a detour, you can stop here for a few photos maybe.

This market is currently SUSPENDED.

The market in Arrecife is held every Wednesday and Thursday, usually during cruise season, and you can find everything from local food to souvenirs.

It's smaller than the market in Teguise , but it's less crowded also. Parking is still difficult since the city has lots of narrow streets and you will have to find a paid parking place for 2-3 euros.

• Days: Wednesdays & Thursdays
• Location of the market: in the old quarter of the city - around El Charco and the Church of San Gines
• Market hours: 09:00 - 12:00 h
• Best apartments in Lanzarote: Apartamentos Fariones (Puerto del Carmen) • Apartamentos El Guarapo (Costa Teguise) 
• Popular hotels in Lanzarote: Barceló Teguise Beach - Adults Only  4* (Costa Teguise) • Hyde Park Lane 3* (Puerto del Carmen)
• Luxury 5* hotel in Lanzarote: Iberostar Selection Lanzarote Park (Playa Blanca) • Arrecife Gran Hotel & Spa (Arrecife)
• See our dedicated guide for the best places to stay in Lanzarote .
• Best Excursions & Tours: Volcanoes and Caves: Full-Day Tour  • Fire Mountains in Southern Lanzarote: Half-Day Tour

Short guide to Arrecife - FAQ

Arrecife is not the prettiest city in the Canary Islands, but if you've visited all the other major attractions in Lanzarote and you want a day out to do some exploring, then Arrecife is worth visiting.

Arrecife is the largest city in Lanzarote so in consequence, it's busy and parking can be difficult. Arrecife is an old town, with narrow one-way streets, lots of authentic restaurants and cafes and historical buildings.

Yes, Arrecife actually has a lovely urban beach called Playa del Reducto. It's a nice beach to spend a day soaking up the sun and afterward you can go to the nearby Arrecife Gran Hotel to grab for some stunning aerial views and to grab a coffee and cake.

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10 Best Things to Do in Arrecife, Lanzarote + MAP

Home | Travel | Europe | Spain | Canary Islands | Lanzarote | 10 Best Things to Do in Arrecife, Lanzarote + MAP

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Arrecife is the capital of Lanzarote and one of the most important tourist destinations on the island. The city, which is close to the airport, offers a variety of services and accommodations, so it’s a great place to stay while discovering all the best things to do in Lanzarote .

There are a lot of things to do in Arrecife, from visiting ancient fortresses and monuments to exploring its beautiful beaches. A good starting point to introduce yourself to this city is this free tour (in Spanish), where you can take a walk through the historic center and learn some interesting facts about this place.

If you’d like to get to know this area better, here are the 10 best things to do in Arrecife , Lanzarote, as well as the top restaurants and hotels.

1. Charco de San Gin és, a must-see in Arrecife, Lanzarote

El Charco de San Ginés is a marvel that you cannot miss when you visit Arrecife . It’s a natural saltwater lagoon in the middle of the city and looks gorgeous any time of day. Surrounding this beautiful pool, you’ll find all kinds of bars, restaurants, and some of the best nightclubs in Lanzarote so it’s a great place to hang out.

While this natural pool is a huge tourist draw, what makes this area stand out are the small fishing boats docked here, as well as the old homes along the coast, which have blue and white facades.

1. Charco de San Ginés, a must-see in Arrecife, Lanzarote

This pretty scene is one of the best things to see in Arrecife , so I recommend spending the afternoon walking around the lagoon and crossing the bridge to get different perspectives of the city. This is also a lovely place to watch the sunset.

Another interesting sight to see here is a 36-foot whale skeleton. A few years ago, the whale became beached on the coast of Lanzarote, and the skeleton serves as a reminder of environmental awareness.

2. Puente de las Bolas & San Gabriel’s Castle, two iconic places in Arrecife

Visiting the historic complex of the Puente de las Bolas and San Gabriel’s Castle is one of the best things to do in Arrecife . The fort, which was built in the 14 th century to protect the city from pirates, is integrated into the sea. The Puente de las Bolas bridge used to be the only way to get to the fort from Lanzarote, but today, there are different ways to get across.

Even so, this monumental stone bridge is quite impressive. It owes its name, Puente de las Bolas (“Bridge of the Balls”), to the two orbs on its columns, which symbolize the world. Walking across the bridge is a wonderful thing to do in Arrecife , not only for the views of San Gabriel’s Castle but also the views of the sea and the city.

These days, San Gabriel’s Castle serves as the headquarters of the History Museum of Arrecife, another place in Arrecife worth visiting .

3. Casa Amarilla, one of the most important sites in Arrecife, Lanzarote

The Casa Amarilla , or Yellow House, is one of the most beautiful buildings in Arrecife, and easily recognizable thanks to its lovely yellow tiles. The building previously housed the Cabildo, or council, of Lanzarote.

These days, the ground floor of the Casa Amarilla serves as a cultural center that features temporary exhibits, most of them pertaining to the history and ethnography of Lanzarote. The center is open Monday-Saturday, and admission is free, so it’s another place in Arrecife, Lanzarote that I recommend visiting.

4. Church of San Gin és, the most famous church in Arrecife

The Church of San Ginés , in the Plaza de las Palmas, is the oldest and most important temple in the city, having been completed in the 18 th century. It’s in Arrecife ’s oldest neighborhood, La Puntilla, which is characterized by its narrow streets.

4. Church of San Ginés, the most famous church in Arrecife

The old town of Arrecife, Lanzarote centers around the Church of San Ginés, and its tower can be seen from various points in the city, such as El Charco de San Ginés and the Puente de las Bolas. Interestingly, the church’s tower was inspired by the Church of La Concepción de Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Spend some time contemplating the beauty and elegant simplicity of the church’s interior, which has walls made of black volcanic rock that stand out against the white wooden frames of the building. You can also see two large frescoes of San Ginés de Clermont and the Virgen del Rosario, which were brought from Havana, Cuba. Finally, there is an authentic Mudejar-style ceiling, so this is undoubtedly one of the most impressive things to see in Arrecife .

5. Castillo de San José & the International Museum of Contemporary Art

El Castillo de San José (Castle of San José) is another fortress to see in the capital of Lanzarote . It was built in the 18 th century and has remained intact until the present day, so much so that it serves as the headquarters for the International Museum of Contemporary Art (MIAC).

The Castle of San José has a privileged seaside location and sits on a beautiful cliff. When you visit Arrecife , be sure to stop here, not only for the stunning views but to peruse the best collection of contemporary art in the Canary Islands, with works by masters like Picasso and Miró.

Moreover, the ground floor of the castle has a restaurant where you can relax, enjoy a great meal, and get panoramic views of the scenery. Afterward, I recommend taking a nice walk through Puerto de Naos, a port in Arrecife, Lanzarote with a lighthouse.

6. Playa Reducto, the best beach in Arrecife, Lanzarote

When you visit Arrecife, Spain , not only will you find monuments and culture, but you’ll also see one of the best beaches in Lanzarote . El Reducto Beach is Arrecife’s main beach, boasting more than a half-mile of golden sand and beautiful palm trees.

Moreover, the waters here are quite calm, and the surrounding reef is well-preserved, so it’s a beautiful beach in Arrecife, Lanzarote to see marine life. El Reducto Beach is also known for its lively promenade, which has restaurants, beach bars, restrooms, and showers. So, it’s the perfect place to go with family for a comfortable beach day.

7. The music kiosk, a popular place in Arrecife, Canary Islands

One of the most famous places in Arrecife, Lanzarote is the promenade. Here, you’ll find the José Ramírez Cerdá Park , a small green space with lovely views.

This is also where the Music Kiosk , one of the coolest things to see in Arrecife , is located. The kiosk is an exact replica of the kiosk that once sat there in the 1950s. It has become a symbol of Arrecife, commemorating the city’s traditions and customs, and locals will gather here to listen to the municipal orchestra and dance.

Today, the Music Kiosk’s ground floor is the site of the Tourist Information Office , while the upper level serves as a stage for musical events. So, if your visit to Arrecife coincides with one of these shows, I recommend attending.

8. Walk along Calle Le ón y Castillo, one of the best things to do in Arrecife

Another fun thing to do in Arrecife is to take a walk along Calle León y Castillo , formerly known as Calle Real. This is one of the town’s main streets where you’ll find most of the area’s clothing stores.

8. Walk along Calle León y Castillo, one of the best things to do in Arrecife

In addition, this is the site of the Heraclio Niz Mesa statue, representing one of Arrecife’s most important figures. Also known as “El Pollo de Arrecife”, Heraclio achieved fame in the 1950s as a Canarian wrestler. He also appeared in several films and served as the head of the Arrecife Local Police for a few years.

Here, you can also mingle with the locals and get a glimpse of the day-to-day life in the capital of Lanzarote . If you’d like to continue browsing the shops, check out Calle Quiroga near Plaza de la Constitución and Calle Otilia Díaz, which is perpendicular to Calle León y Castillo.

9. Casa de la Cultura Agust ín de la Hoz, an artistic place to visit in Arrecife

The Agustín de la Hoz House of Culture is a municipal building that holds lots of history about Arrecife, Lanzarote . It’s an interesting place to visit if you want to learn about the capital’s 19 th -century architecture and traditional art.

9. Casa de la Cultura Agustín de la Hoz, an artistic place to visit in Arrecife

While the building was closed for renovations for 12 years, it has reopened and remains a cultural benchmark in Arrecife. Inside, you’ll find different free exhibits and murals by Lanzarote artist César Manrique . The murals, which were restored a few years ago, are believed to have been Manrique’s first paintings.

In addition, the House of Culture has several rooms and a spectacular wooden staircase leading to the second floor. During the 20 th century, the building served as the seat of the Casino de Arrecife , then Town Hall. For this reason, it has earned a Historic-Artistic Heritage of Arrecife designation.

10. “El Aguaresío” Alley, the most beautiful corner of Arrecife, Lanzarote

Finally, another place to visit in Arrecife is “El Aguaresío” Alley , a beautiful and quiet corner that connects to the Charco de San Ginés and the Church of San Ginés.

Located in La Puntilla, the alley is a hidden gem where you can take stunning photos and admire a beautiful environment. It’ll make you forget that you’re in the historic center of the capital of Lanzarote .

This charming alley was named after Luis Hernández Fuentes, better known as El Aguaresío. He spent most of his 89 years at sea, but he left a legacy and an imprint on the history of Arrecife . Today, El Aguaresío Alley not only pays homage to his life, but also to all those fishermen and seafarers who navigated the labyrinth of reefs and islets around Arrecife, Lanzarote .

Other places to visit in Arrecife, Lanzarote, Canary Islands

While you’re in the capital of Lanzarote , take some time to explore the surroundings. You’ll discover some charming places, such as Costa Teguise , a paradisiacal beach about six miles north of Arrecife.

Moreover, a little over nine miles south of Arrecife is Puerto del Carmen , a city known for its great diving spots. It’s also one of the best places to see dolphins in Lanzarote , so if you have time, I recommend visiting this city and enjoying its attractions.

Best tours from Arrecife, Lanzarote

The distance between Arrecife and Lanzarote Airport is very short, so many tourists choose this town as their base while exploring the rest of the island. Moreover, some of the most popular tours in Lanzarote depart from Arrecife , so it’s easy to travel around the island even if you don’t want to drive or rent a car.

For example, this day tour will take you to the most impressive places in Lanzarote, including Timanfaya National Park , the Cueva de los Verdes , and the Jameos del Agua .

Best hotels in Arrecife

We stayed at the Arrecife Grand Hotel and Spa , which had an unbeatable oceanfront location next to El Reducto Beach and is one of the best 5-star hotels in Lanzarote . The hotel has a large indoor pool, a delicious restaurant, and a terrace bar with great views. There is even a spa with a Turkish bath and hydromassage services, which you can access for an extra fee. Anyway, it’s one of the best boutique hotels in Lanzarote .

Next door is the Hotel Lancelot , one of the best all-inclusive hotels in Lanzarote . It has an outdoor pool, a solarium, a fitness center, a bar, and a restaurant serving a variety of dishes. The rooms here are spacious, comfortable, and very clean.

The last place to stay in Lanzarote that I’ll recommend is the Hotel Miramar , which is right in front of San Gabriel’s Castle. In addition to its bar and restaurant, which serves amazing local cuisine, the hotel has rooms with lovely views so for me it’s one of the best hotels in Arrecife .

Best restaurants in Arrecife

Arrecife has several great places where you can taste typical Canarian food , with the most famous being the Barbacana Bar & Grill . It’s the best restaurant in Arrecife to try traditional Mediterranean cuisine and delicious meats. I recommend reserving your table in advance since this place fills up quickly.

Another great restaurant Lanzarote is El Nido , which also serves Mediterranean dishes as well as vegetarian options.

For the best seafood in the area, I recommend Malecón Restaurante & Copas , where you can order hearty dishes while enjoying beautiful views of the Charco de San Ginés. Not only are the prices great, but the restaurant makes incredible cocktails.

How to get to Arrecife

One of the best ways to get around the capital of Lanzarote is to rent a car at Lanzarote Airport . With a rental car, you can easily get to Arrecife by taking the LZ-2 and continuing along Manolo Millares street to the city center.

You can also take public transportation Monday through Friday via Lanzarote’s Line 22 Intercity Bus , which runs every 25 minutes and departs from Airport Terminal 2. The bus costs about USD $1.50 and takes about 10 minutes to get to Arrecife . On the weekends, you can take the Intercity Bus Line 23 , which runs every 50 minutes.

A more comfortable option is to reserve a private transfer from the airport. It’s also worth checking with your Arrecife hotel to see if they offer pick-up service.

Map of Arrecife, Lanzarote

I hope you enjoyed learning about all the places to see in Arrecife, Lanzarote . To help you organize your trip and not miss any sites, I recommend checking our tourist maps of Lanzarote . Keep these maps handy so you can consult them during your trip.

I’m also leaving you with a map of Arrecife with all the attractions I mentioned in this guide.

That’s it from me! If you have any questions or you’d like to share your suggestions or experience in Arrecife , leave me a comment below. Until then, have a wonderful trip!

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2 replies on “ 10 Best Things to Do in Arrecife, Lanzarote + MAP ”

Hi thank you for that wonderful tour of Arrecife I am going in one weeks time and cannot wait ……it all looks amazing and have noted all these wonderful sites Thank you again Best regards Dorothy

Hi Dorothy, Thanks for reading! Yes, there are beautiful places in Arrecife to visit. I hope you have an amazing time! 🙂

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Lanzarote's capital is a small, agreeable, south-coast city with a pleasant Mediterranean-style promenade, an inviting sandy beach washed by the sparkling Atlantic, and a disarming backstreet hotchpotch of sun-bleached buildings, unpretentious bars, buzzy shopping streets and restaurants of all kinds. Though a little thin on the ground for a Canarian capital, Arrecife's sights are well worth exploring, including a couple of castles, a pretty saltwater lagoon, an important art gallery and several César Manrique creations; you'll find the most historical charm in the narrow backstreets around the church and lagoon. All that said, Arrecife’s most notable quality is that it’s a no-nonsense working town that earns its living from something other than tourism.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Museo Internacional de Arte Contemporáneo

Converted into an art gallery in 1976, on César Manrique's wish, the well-preserved 18th-century Castillo de San José houses one of the Canaries' major…

Castillo de San Gabriel

On a little islet just off the seafront promenade, reached via the 18th-century Puente de las Bolas or a more recent Franco-era bridge, the 16th-century…

Museo Arqueológico de Lanzarote

Tucked into the repurposed mansion of 20th-century lanzaroteño doctor and architect Fermín Rodríguez Bethencourt and his wife Manuela García Parrilla,…

Charco de San Ginés

Fringed by homes and restaurants in a beguiling combination of mildly down at heel and freshly whitewashed (with blue trim), the attractive natural San…

Centro de Innovación Cultural El Almacén

Occupying a duo of 19th-century townhouses, this cultural centre was remodelled into an arts hub by César Manrique in 1973, then revamped once more in…

Biblioteca Universitaria Municipal

In the green-shuttered former Parador building, right on the seafront, this university library conceals four wonderful early César Manrique murals,…

Playa del Reducto

If you fancy a dip, the city’s main beach is lovely: an arc of pristine pale-gold sand fringed with lofty palm trees and a promenade. It's safe for…

Iglesia de San Ginés

Dating from 1665 and featuring Tuscan-style columns, a neoclassical tower and a 17th-century statue of the island’s patron saint, this triple-nave church…

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Canary Islands

Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote, is a quiet, beautiful port city situated on the eastern coast of the island.

Sharing prominence in its urban layout are the streets of the historic centre, filled with shops, and popular neighbourhoods such as San Ginés. Not forgetting the many museums and historic buildings which permit Arrecife to enjoy an active cultural life. And in the seafront area, it provides attractive beaches and excellent nautical facilities along with the opportunity to play golf while taking in the striking views of the Atlantic.

The development of Arrecife as a city is closely linked to its port and commercial strength, which allowed it to attract political and economic power until, in 1847, it became the capital of the island to the detriment of Teguise . The city grew around San Ginés , a historic fishing centre established on the shore. Amid its streets steeped in the local seafaring atmosphere is the church of San Ginés . Standing on the site of the first hermitage to be constructed in the capital, it was rebuilt in the 17th century, while its slender belltower dates from the 19th century. Arrecife has outstanding examples of defensive architecture . On a small island in front of the historic quarter stands the castle of San Gabriel , which was built in the 16th century as a defence against continuous pirate attacks. Declared to be a National Monument along with the Bolas bridge , it currently houses an astronomic observatory. Not far away is the castle of San José , built in the middle of Naos bay by King Carlos III. Its facilities play host to the International Museum of Contemporaty Art (MIAC) , which contains a valuable collection of work from the 20th century by artists of the stature of Picasso , Miró, Chillida or Tàpies. It is worth a look through the streets of Arrecife to find its significant buildings, such as the “Agustín de la Hoz” Municipal Arts Centre a nobleman's mansion from the mid-19th century and Casa de Los Arroyo , an old house converted into a Science and Arts Centre.

A long promenade runs along the coast of Arrecife. The island's volcanic origins provide a considerable diversity of nature, especially among its reefs, as well as a great many colonies of seabirds which nest in the area. One of the most emblematic images of the city is provided by Reducto Beach , sheltered by the Punta del Camello headland and the small island of Fermina. Visitors who prefer water sports can make use of any of the city's excellent nautical facilities , where there is a variety of options available, such as windsurfing or sailing. Golf lovers, meanwhile, have access to an 18-hole course immersed in an exotic volcanic setting situated on the outskirts of the city. Here players of all levels can enjoy the sport while taking in the exceptional views of the Atlantic.

Gastronomy and surroundings

Arrecife is a genuine showcase of the gastronomy of Lanzarote . Outstanding are the fish specialities, particularly “vieja”, which is either stewed or opened and roasted on the grill. Not forgetting "sancocho" stew, the fresh seafood and the most well-known dish from the Canaries, "papas arrugadas" (boiled potatoes), which are usually served along with "mojos" (traditional sauces). Cheese, fresh or cured, forms part of the local tradition. The best accompaniment for these delights will always be one of the wines with the Designation of Origin Lanzarote guarantee, among which the aromatic Malvasías are outstanding. The strategic position of the capital means it is quick and easy to reach from any point on Lanzarote. At the northern end of the island is Haría , a small urban centre set among the hills of a fertile valley. In its coastal area we can find Cueva de los Verdes, as well as Jameos del Agua and the Mirador del Río viewpoint, these latter ones the work of Lanzarote-born architect César Manrique. Very close by is Teguise . The former capital of the island of Lanzarote possesses a significant heritage of buildings in its historic quarter, which gathers together beautiful examples of popular and noble architecture. The mark of Manrique is present in Teguise through the Cactus Garden and the foundation which bears his name, which was also the artist's former residence. To the south are towns such as San Bartolomé , with the outstanding Casa del Mayor Guerra and Casa Ajei; Tinajo , in whose sanctuary of Mancha Blanca the island's patron, the Virgen de los Dolores, is venerated; or Yaiza , a town located in a volcanic surroundings which form landscapes of matchless beauty, such as El Golfo or Los Hervideros. All this is complemented by Lanzarote's coastline, sprinkled with beautiful beaches and major tourist centres, such as Costa Teguise, Playa Blanca or Puerto del Carmen. But the greatest centre of tourist attention is, without a doubt, the Timanfaya National Park , a true showcse of the island's volcanic ecosystem. The visit includes a bus trip which covers the Route of the Volcanoes and whose starting point is the visitors' centre. The park is in turn surrounded by the Volcanoes Nature Reserve , where fields of ash and lava run down to the sea.

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10 fabulous things to do in arrecife, lanzarote.

Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote, is a world away from the resort towns commonly associated with this Canary Island. As well as being home to one of the island’s finest beaches and a clutch of historical buildings, it is also one of the best places to stay if you are exploring Lanzarote by public transport.

Are you curious to discover what to do in Arrecife?

As I visited Arrecife on a day trip from Costa Teguise by bus, this is where I can help. Whether you are spending a day there or using it as your base in Lanzarote, here is my pick of the best things to do in Arrecife.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

Best Things to Do in Arrecife, Lanzarote

If you find it helpful to map it out, here’s a free map showing the locations of these fabulous things to do in Arrecife. If it helps, you can use it as a self-guided walking tour of Arrecife.

For an interactive map, simply click here or on the image itself.

1. Soak up the sun on Playa del Reducto

Lanzarote’s best beaches aren’t confined to its resort towns. Arrecife’s curvaceous Playa del Reducto ranks amongst the best on the island.

With half a kilometre of pristine golden sand and safe and calm water, it is the perfect spot for relaxing and taking a cooling dip in the sea. Stately coconut palm trees only add to its appeal and it is flanked by a pleasant seafront promenade.

2. Find the building that upset César Manrique

It’s difficult to miss the hotel that so incensed Lanzarote’s favourite son that it led to the imposition of strict building regulations across the island. 

54 meters in height, Arrecife Gran Hotel & Spa is the tallest building in the capital and the tallest on the island. It so upset Manrique that he returned from New York to ensure that no other building could blight Lanzarote’s landscape.

Take the lift to the Blue 17 on the hotel’s top floor for the views across to Playa del Carmen.

3. Visit Castillo de San Gabriel

Castillo de San Gabriel is located on a small islet (Islote de los Ingleses) at the end of Arrecife’s main shopping street, Leon y Castillo.

You reach the castle via one of two parallel bridges, the oldest of which is Puente de las Bolas, a small drawbridge named after the cannon balls used to repel pirate attacks. The second is a more recent Franco-era bridge.

This sturdy stone fortress, dating from the 16 th Century, replaced an earlier wooden structure that was razed to the ground by Berber pirates. Today it houses a small ethnographic museum, Museo de Historia de Arrecife .

4. Take a peek at Quiosco de la Música

Arrecife has its own Quiosco de la Música. This wooden bandstand is a replica of one from the 1950s.

You’ll find it in front of Arrecife’s Casa de la Cultura Agustín de la Hoz.

5. Watch the boats bobbing in Charco de San Ginés

There are few more relaxing things to do in Arrecife than to take time out at Charco de San Ginés.

Follow the promenade a short distance east and cross the road, and you’ll reach a pretty tidal lagoon. Charco de San Ginés is lined with blue-shuttered white buildings, many of which are restaurants.

This scenic harbour was remodelled by César Manrique and is sometimes referred to as the ‘Venice of the Atlantic.’ It’s the perfect place to stop for lunch. 

A traditional market is held here every Wednesday and Thursday.

6. Pray for good weather at Iglesia de San Ginés Obispo

Dating from 1667, this triple-nave church was built on the site of a 16 th  Century hermitage. It is dedicated to Saint Ginés (Saint Genesius of Clermont), Arrecife’s patron saint.

Built from local lava stone, it features Tuscan-style columns, a Neoclassical bell tower and a 17th-century statue of Saint Ginés.

Iglesia de San Ginés is located in an attractive square that is lined with colonial buildings and filled with the sound of birdsong.

7. Stroll through Arrecife’s historic centre

The narrow streets around Iglesia de San Ginés form the hub of Arrecife old town. I recommend exploring a few of the streets radiating from the Church of San Ginés but the most well-known of these is an alley known as El Aguaresío (I stumbled upon it by chance).

This photogenic street connects Charco de San Ginés to the church. On Saturdays, a traditional market spills into it from the Plaza de las Palmas.

8. Try the local brew at El Camarote Nao

If you follow the promenade towards the marina, you’ll come across El Camarote Nao .

Lanzarote has a burgeoning craft beer industry and this chilled place serves some of the best. If you are not sure what to go for, opt for their tasting of four beers

Nao beer bar is open from 6 pm until 10.30 pm, Thurssday – Saturday. On Friday, it is also open between 12 pm and 4 pm.

Psst! They also deliver to the UK and Ireland.

The final two places to add to your Arrecife itinerary are located a short distance from the city’s main tourist attractions but are good rainy-day activities.

9. Explore the history of Lanzarote at the Museo Arqueológico de Lanzarote

Housed in the 20 th Century mansion of doctor and architect Fermín Rodríguez Bethencourt and his wife Manuela García Parrilla, Lanzarote’s archaeology museum covers the island’s history from the early settlers through the Spanish conquest and numerous pirate raids.

10. Immerse yourself in contemporary art at Museo Internacional de Arte Contemporáneo.

Museo Internacional de Arte Contemporáneo is another brainchild of César Manrique.

The 18 th Century Castillo de San José had fallen into disrepair and in 1975 Manrique directed its renovation and founded this Museum of Contemporary Art. Within the former fortress’s sturdy stone walls is a collection of paintings, sculptures and drawings by internationally acclaimed artists, including César Manrique himself.

The well-regarded restaurant and coffee shop at the foot of the fortress offers views of Puerto de los Mármoles through its floor-to-ceiling windows.

Getting There

Planes land at César Manrique-Lanzarote Airport (ACE), also known as Arrecife Airport, four miles west of the capital. Bus No. 22 will bring you directly from the airport terminal to Arrecife in 30 minutes. This service operates every half-hour.

As Arrecife is the hub for the bus service on Lanzarote, you shouldn’t have a problem getting here by bus from your resort town. IntercityBus Lanzarote is the island’s operator and the price of a bus ticket, bought from the driver, depends on the distance travelled.

If you are arriving by car, come off the ring road at the airport (western) end of town and leave your car in the large car park at the end of the beach.

Getting Around Arrecife

As this is a compact city and very walkable, you won’t need to use city transport. Perfect for hitting the highlights of Arrecife in one day.

Where to Stay in Arrecife

Although I based myself in Costa Teguise, I would be very tempted to stay in Arrecife if were to revisit Lanzarote. Here are a few places that I have picked for myself

5***** Charco loft

This huge apartment is in an excellent location, has views to die for and excellent reviews.

>>> CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Arrecife Gran Hotel & Spa

Next to Arrecife’s lovely El Reducto Beach, this 5-star hotel offers a spa and panoramic views.

Arrecife is 100% Worth Visiting!

There is no better place in Lanzarote to experience a real slice of island life.

If you want a holiday away from Lanzarote’s resorts, there’s a lot to be said for making this your base. Arrecife has an excellent beach, rich history and unbeatable transport links.

Finally, if you’ve found this article helpful, check out my other Lanzarote destination guides:

• Lanzarote Solo Travel: The Ultimate Guide
• 18 Best Places to Visit in Lanzarote in One Week (+ Maps & Photos)
• How to Explore Lanzarote by Bus: Essential Tips, Popular Routes and Fares
• 5 Reasons to Visit Famara, Lanzarote: The Hawaii of Europe
• How to Visit the Cactus Garden, Lanzarote (Jardín de Cactus)

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

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Home » Travel Guides » Spain » 15 Best Things to Do in Arrecife (Spain)

15 Best Things to Do in Arrecife (Spain)

Arrecife is a resort on the south coast of Lanzarote, with easy access to beaches and Lanzarote’s incredible volcanic landscapes.

You can’t talk abouta Arrecife and Lanzarote without mentioning César Manrique, the architect and artist who designed most of the top attractions on the island in the 70s and 80s.

Each one has its own logo or motif, like the fire devil at Timanfaya or the cactus at the Jardín de Cactus.

Manrique also fought to keep tower blocks away from the island, so is partly to thank for Lanzarote’s famous understated tourist architecture.

Lets explore the best things to do in Arrecife :

1. Playa del Reducto

The very presentable Playa del Reducto has two arcs of golden sand interrupted by a small rocky spur.

The waters are smooth on most days, and great for bathing, though you may need to keep an eye out rocks on the seabed.

On the beach the sand is kept perfectly clean, you can hire sun-loungers and parasols, and there’s a refreshing absence of the kind of hawkers that you get at other tourist destinations.

There’s also a promenade that continues around Punta del Cantito on the beach’s western end where it enters a small park with benches next to the seawall.

2. Castillo de San José

The 18th-century eruptions at Timanfaya devastated Lanzarote, and the decades that followed brought famine and poverty to the island.

This fortress, built in the 1770s under the orders if Carlos III, was constructed partly to protect Arrecife from pirates but also as a public works project to bring work to Lanzarote.

The castle is on a rise with a commanding far-reaching views of the harbour and ocean.

In the ’70s the interior was renovated by Manrique, who set up a modern art exhibition, with pieces by 20th-century luminaries like Antoni Tàpies and Joan Miró.

3. Museo Aeronáutico

This museum in Lanzarote’s Airport is housed in what was actually the terminal building up to 1970. It’s a lovely art-deco structure but you can see how it might have been a bit small for mass tourism.

If you’re inspired by aviation you’ll love the exhibits, covering the earliest days of manned flight when Lanzarote was a stop-over for the first transatlantic pioneers.

Room eight contains vintage machinery and log books from the years when tourism arrived in earnest, while room nine was the airport’s original control tower with a 180° view of the old runway.

4. Charco de San Ginés

Another project by the tireless César Manrique was to breathe new life into this lagoon near the centre of Arrecife.

He turned what was a rusting old fishing district into a pedestrian quarter, with a footbridge spanning the water and lots of places to sit down and watch the boats come in while you enjoy a cold beer.

The restaurants are cheaper and perhaps more authentically Canarian than at places like Puerto del Carmen, and all around you’ll have the lovely sight of old fishing vessels in the water and blue and white fisherman’s next to the promenade.

If you stop by on Saturdays you can browse the stalls at the craft market.

5. César Manrique Foundation

A couple of kilometres past Arrecife’s northern outskirts is the former home and studio of César Manrique, which opened to visitors after he died in 1992. This was built on a lava flow and what’s cool is the way it adapts to the volcanic rock, using the bubble as a swimming pool and relaxation area.

The museum is just the place to visit to find out more about Manrique’s grand designs for Lanzarote, and there are also works by Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró collected by the designer.

6. Timanfaya National Park

Lanzarote has a desert climate, so this National Park has a landscape that looks pretty much exactly as it did when it was levelled by a massive volcanic event in the 1730s.

More than 100 volcanoes erupted here and lava was still flowing until the 1820s.

If you hadn’t already guessed, the visitor centre was also designed by Manrique and has a restaurant that cooks meat with geothermal heat.

It gets seriously hot just a few metres beneath the ground, where temperatures are as hot as 600°C. So it’s not surprising that you can’t go where you please at the park, but the coach tour shows you around the main sights and has informative commentary.

7. Rancho Texas

This is an all-day attraction that pairs a water park with a zoo , and putting on some fabulous animal demonstrations.

One of the crowd-pleasers is when the birds of prey are given their daily exercise, and condors, hawks, eagles and vultures whoosh just centimetres above the audience’s heads.

Mammals at Rancho Texas include cougars, white tigers, seals and American bison.

Rancho Texas also holds themes Wild West nights, with horse and pony rides for kids and Texas-style barbecues serving cowboy fare like grilled chicken, ribs and jacket potatoes.

8. Cueva de los Verdes

This majestic cave is relatively young, at just 3,000 years old.

It’s a lava tube, caused by hot lava flowing beneath a cooled layer and being drained off, leaving an outer crust as the cave’s roof.

The tube goes on for 7.5 kilometres in total, 1.5 of which is under the ocean, and there are regular openings in the ceiling through which shafts of daylight illuminate the cave floor.

A tour will take just shy of an hour, and the guides speak in Spanish and English.

One of the best parts is an underground concert hall, which can seat 500 people , with a season of music performances from April to December.

9. Mirador del Rio

César Manrique also had a hand in the design of this viewpoint towards the far north of Lanzarote.

You’re on the rim of an escarpment here, almost 500 metres above the ocean with the entire island of La Graciosa in front of you.

Look east and west and you can see the walls of the dark cliffs as they curl down towards endlessly towards the water.

Manrique’s space age viewing gallery is almost completely camouflaged by the volcanic rock, and if the wind gets too much outside you can appreciate the view from the timelessly stylish bar.

10. Puerto del Carmen

In less than 15 minutes you can be in Lanzarote’s main tourist centre.

You could make the trip by day to try out some other beaches, like Playa Chica, a cove with volcanic walls on each side, creating lagoon-like waters.

The marina at Puerto del Carmen is your point of embarkation for all kinds of cruises: The Canary Islands are on the migration route for many whale species, while dolphins are in these waters for most of the year.

At night you can paint the town red at the widest selection of bars, restaurants and clubs on the island.

11. Scuba Diving

Another reason to head along to Puerto del Carmen is for the PADI-certified dive centres in the resort, helping you experience the best dive site on Lanzarote.

The conditions for underwater exploration could hardly be better: Water temperatures never sink below 19 °, there’s excellent water clarity and all sorts of wildlife and rock formations to see.

The most spectacular is the dramatic drop-off a short way out from Playa Chica, offering a habitat for grouper, deep sea shrimp and orange coral.

Pocking the cliff wall is a network of caves and there’s a shipwreck at the base.

12. Playa de Famara

On Lazarote’s windward shore the coastline is smashed by powerful Atlantic waves, and the best place to see this raw beauty is at Playa de Famara.

It’s a beach on an epic scale, with a gigantic mountain ridge to the east, and a vast bowl of sand and gravel battered by waves that break a long way out, creating long strips of white-water that drive up to the beach.

This is the perfect arena for experienced surfers and kite-surfers to test themselves.

For the rest of us it’s a magnificent location for photos and bracing walks.

13. Jardín de Cactus

Yet another of Manrique’s projects was to transform this old quarry into a wondrous cactus garden, where the plants are like living sculptures.

There’s a pathway that follows the contours of the quarry’s terraces, running next to beds planted with cactuses of all shapes and sizes, from tall saguaros to stout golden barrels, all thriving in Lanzarote’s desert climate.

You can see Manrique’s cactus design motif everywhere, and the garden includes a bar designed by the architect where your entry ticket grants one free drink.

14. Costa Teguise

The next resort along from Arrecife is just a ten-minute drive.

And there are a few reasons to make the short journey: Costa Teguise has an 18-hole golf course, in case you’ve never played out of black sand traps or at the foot of a volcano.

Las Cucharas on the resort’s oceanfront is also a Blue Flag beach and, like Playa del Jablillio next door, is shielded from strong currents by two breakwaters and the natural curve of the coast.

But that doesn’t stop the consistent winds offshore, which is fine by windsurfers and kite-surfers who consider Las Cucharas to be one of the best water sports locations around.

15. Los Hervideros

You can include this natural monument into your trip to Timanfaya, as it’s a couple of kilometres down the coast.

Los Hervideros is a set of volcanic cliffs with strangely patterned faces, caused by quick solidification of the lava as well as erosion by the water and winds.

This has left them pocked with hundreds of cavities and funnels.

On many days the ocean here  is savage, and the name of these cliffs in English is “the boilers”, which describes exactly how it looks when the waves crash against the cliffs and water pours through the holes.

15 Best Things to Do in Arrecife (Spain):

• Playa del Reducto
• Castillo de San José
• Museo Aeronáutico
• Charco de San Ginés
• César Manrique Foundation
• Timanfaya National Park
• Rancho Texas
• Cueva de los Verdes
• Mirador del Rio
• Puerto del Carmen
• Scuba Diving
• Playa de Famara
• Jardín de Cactus
• Costa Teguise
• Los Hervideros