Famara beach: A wild paradise in northern Lanzarote
Located on the northwest coast of Lanzarote, Famara Beach spans over six kilometres of pale golden sand, nestled at the base of the imposing Famara Cliffs . Part of the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park, this destination blends raw geological splendour with a laid-back island lifestyle. From world-class surfing breaks to family-friendly low-tide lagoons, Famara Beach caters to both adrenaline seekers and serenity seekers.
Where is Famara beach and how to get there?
Before planning your itinerary, it’s essential to understand Famara’s geography and transport options. This section outlines how to locate and reach the beach efficiently.
Famara beach on the Lanzarote map
Use your mapping tool to locate the distinctive arc of sand that curves below the volcanic cliffs. This coast lies within Teguise municipality, approximately 30 kilometres northwest of Lanzarote Airport. You can easily find Famara Beach Lanzarote map online for detailed directions.
Getting from Lanzarote Airport to Famara
By car: The most flexible option. The main car rental companies in Lanzarote offer airport pickup. Follow the LZ-1 highway toward Arrecife, then the LZ-10 north to Caleta de Famara. This is the best way to get from Lanzarote Airport to Famara.
Public Transport: A regional bus links Arrecife and Caleta de Famara (Famara Bus), though schedules are limited. Confirm times in advance to avoid long waits.
What to do at Famara beach
Famara offers a diverse range of activities, from high-energy water sports to tranquil coastal explorations. Discover the best ways to make the most of your visit to Famara Beach
Surfing and water sports at Famara
Famara Beach is a global hub for surfing, offering consistent Atlantic swell and reliable cross-onshore winds. You can visit our surf guide for Famara, covering waves, tips, winds, and more. Key surf Famara Beach breaks include:
- Main Beach Break: Gentle, rolling waves ideal for beginners and surf lessons Famara. Surf schools (e.g., Famara Surf Camp) provide accredited instruction and equipment rental.
- “The Track”: A more powerful break toward the northern end, suited to intermediate and advanced surfers. This is a popular surf spot Famara.
Visitors can also engage in:
- Kite Surfing and Windsurfing, with certified instructors onsite.
- Wing Foiling, leveraging the constant wind and stable ocean drift at low tide.
- Bodyboarding, in shallow lagoons formed during ebb tide.
- Scuba diving, or exploring Lanzarote’s seabed, is an invitation to immerse yourself in a world of petrified lava.
Enjoying the Sunset, Sand Dunes & Cliffs
As the sun dips below the horizon, Famara transforms with a palette of colours. This segment highlights the best vantage points and times for immersive sunset experiences. The Famara Beach sunset is truly breathtaking.
At low tide, expansive tidal flats reflect the sky and cliffs, creating unparalleled photo opportunities. Stroll along the dirt track behind the beach to discover hidden coves and sand dunes.
Safety Tip: Be mindful of rip currents beyond the main swimming zones and adhere to red-flag warnings. Always swim in lifeguarded areas near the main entrance.
Live View: Famara Beach Webcam & Surf Forecast
Staying updated on conditions is crucial for surf planning. Here, we explain how to access and interpret live feed and forecasts. Real-time data is available via dedicated webcams and surf forecast platforms.
Use these tools to time your session perfectly and gauge crowd levels.
Is Famara beach dangerous?
Playa de Famara is a paradise for surfing and water sports, but it is not suitable for free swimming without precaution. Its strong swell, strong currents and choppy waves can drag even experienced swimmers out into the open sea.
Most days it flies a red flag, and although it is ideal for surfers of all levels, especially near the village, where there are surf schools offering surfing courses, professional supervision is always recommended. So, if your aim is to swim or just enjoy the water, it’s best to find out the conditions before you take a dip.
It has a permanent presence of lifeguards throughout the year, managed by the Town Hall of Teguise. The lifeguards operate daily from 10:00 to 18:00, with reinforcements in summer, including jet skis and support from the Civil Protection. In the high season, there are at least three to four lifeguards on the beach, who have carried out multiple rescues – 12 in 22 days in a recent month of July alone – and performed numerous health assistances. Today there is an active and supervised service throughout the summer, with frequent rescues and constant vigilance.
Where to stay: Accommodation in Famara
Apartments with ocean views
Self-catered apartments dominate the landscape, many featuring sea-facing terraces. Ideal for extended stays, they offer privacy and kitchen facilities. Search “apartment Famara Lanzarote” or “Famara apartments” on booking platforms for great Famara accommodation options
Hotels, hostels & surf houses
Hostels and surf houses provide budget-friendly, communal lodging, while boutique hotels cater to guests seeking more amenities. Learn which option aligns with your travel style.
- Surf Houses & Hostels: Budget-friendly, community-oriented lodgings like Surfhouse Hostel Famara foster a vibrant surf culture. If you’re looking for a surf hostel Famara or a surf house Famara, these are excellent choices.
- Boutique Hotels: Emerging properties blend comfort with local design elements, catering to travellers seeking service amenities. While not many, you might find a Famara hotel that suits your style.
Best Accommodation Options in Famara
For those seeking the ideal base in Caleta de Famara, the accommodation Famara landscape offers diverse choices tailored to various preferences. Apartments are a prevalent and excellent option, providing self-catering flexibility and often boasting stunning ocean views, perfect for longer stays or independent travelers. You’ll find many Famara Beach accommodation options here.
While not as numerous, boutique hotels deliver a blend of comfort and curated experiences for guests desiring more traditional amenities and service. Additionally, surf houses and hostels cater to the vibrant surf community, fostering a communal atmosphere and often including packages with lessons and equipment, making them ideal for budget-conscious surfers and social travelers. Consider searching for “bungalows Playa Famara” or “Famara Beach bungalows” for unique stays.
Eat and relax in Famara beach
From seaside fine dining to casual tapas bars, Caleta de Famara village offers culinary experiences that reflect its maritime heritage and island traditions.
Culinary Delights: Fresh Fish & Tapas
La Caleta de Famara is renowned for its seafood gastronomy. Highlights:
- Restaurante El Risco: Overlooking the beach, Restaurante El Risco Famara offers creative Canarian plates and fresh catch of the day.
- Local Tapas Bars: Sample papas arrugadas, mojo sauces, and grilled fish in casual settings. You’ll find many excellent Famara restaurants.
Supermarkets and small shops support self-catering visitors.
Activities beyond surfing
Famara’s natural setting invites a range of experiences beyond the water. Explore walking routes, eco-tours, and wellness activities to round out your trip to Famara Beach.
Relaxing walks & photography Long beach walks at sunset yield mirror-like reflections on wet sand. The interplay of light and volcanic backdrops creates iconic vistas. Chinijo Archipelago exploration As part of a protected natural park, visitors can engage in birdwatching and ecological tours. Remember to follow sustainability guidelines:
- Never leave waste, including cigarette butts.
- Respect flora and fauna; refrain from picking plants or disturbing wildlife.
- Use ocean-friendly suncreams and avoid soaps in beach showers.
Air sports & wellnessParasailing and Hang Gliding launch from the Famara cliffs Lanzarote, offering aerial perspectives. Yoga sessions on Famara Beach leverage the serene environment for wellness retreats.
Important Tips for Your Visit
This final section compiles essential advice to ensure safety, comfort, and environmental respect during your Famara adventure.
- Parking & Accessibility: Designated parking along the access road. Arrive early in high season to secure a spot when visiting Famara Beach.
- Safety: Heed lifeguard instructions and flag warnings. Currents can be unpredictable on Famara Beach.
- Sustainability: Help preserve the park by practicing responsible tourism.
Final Thoughts
Famara Beach transcends a typical coastal destination by combining geological marvels, adventure sports, and ecological stewardship. Whether you chase the perfect wave or seek immersive nature, Famara stands unmatched in Lanzarote’s coastal tapestry. Pack wisely, respect the environment, and let Famara’s wild spirit redefine your notion of island paradise.
About the author
Maike Famara
Director of Surf Famara. A free surfer from the 1970s, renowned in the Canary Islands, he has surfed on five continents (the entire South African coast, Western Australia, Indonesia, Peru, Chile, Puerto Rico, Panama, France, Portugal, Senegal, Morocco...) and has dedicated himself to teaching and developing new surfers since 1996! You can find him in San Juan or La Santa, where he remains connected to the ocean like the first day.
