Natural swimming pools Los Charcones of Playa Blanca in Lanzarote

Los Charcones is one of those places that reconcile you with the volcanic coast: natural pools of turquoise water among black lava and few people. They are next to the Pechiguera lighthouse, on a coastline with no signs or lifeguards. Before reading the whole article, first of all,take these tips from a neighbour (that’s me) who usually goes there to disconnect xD:

• Go at low tide and, if possible, with little wind.
• Final access by dirt track; drive slowly and park before the big potholes.
• Unattended and unsupervised: bring water, sturdy shoes and marine sunscreen.
• If the Atlantic roars, don’t swim: better to look from above.
• Best light for photos: dusk (and without moving stones).
• If it blows, forget the drone and stick to the rock-level photos: they come out better than you think.

Los Charcones natural pools: what are they and where are they located?

On the southwest coast of Lanzarote, in the municipality of Yaiza, you will find a string of unspoilt natural pools formed by the Atlantic Ocean over volcanic rock. They are just a few minutes’ drive from Playa Blanca and very close to the Pechiguera lighthouse.

How to get to and park at Los Charcones natural pools

The final access is by dirt track, without signposting. If it’s your first time and you don’t know the area, park before the big potholes and walk for a few minutes. Here, rushing breaks crankcases; go slowly and don’t be afraid.

Parking at Charcones natural swimming pools: potholes, distance and tips

There is no car park as such. The usual thing to do is to leave your car before the worst potholes and walk a little way. Avoid blocking steps and don’t go down to the coast with your car.

With rental car: free height and patience

Any car can get there if you drive slowly; an SUV helps, but it’ s not essential. I do the last stretch in first gear and that’s it.

Av. Faro Pechiguera 35570 Yaiza (Las Palmas): GPS reference (indicative)

Many people search for “piscinas naturales charcones av faro pechiguera 35570 yaiza las palmas” to locate the area. Use this as a broad reference only; the exact point varies along the coast.

Charcones Lanzarote: best tide and sea conditions

To enjoy the pools safely, low tide is the best time to visit the pools of Janubio, another name for the pools. At low tide the pools are more protected and the entrance/exit is more comfortable.

Low tide: how to read the tide table

Before you go, check the tide table and plan 1-2 h around the lowest tide. If there is a swell, even at low tide, it is best not to swim.

Trade wind and groundswell: when NOT to go down

With strong trade winds or a series of waves, it is wise not to go down or swim in the pools, some pools are very exposed to the open sea and when it hits hard it is very dangerous. A “silly” wave can overflow the pool even at low tide: if the Atlantic is roaring, that’s the day to look out. As an alternative to a windy day you can visit some of Lanzarote’s windless beaches to avoid wasting the day.

Security and accessibility (unattended)

Los Charcones has no lifeguards and no authorised access. This is not an urban swimming pool, it is an open coast.

Tides and waves: real risks

Even if the pool appears calm, a series of pools may surprise you. Avoid exposed edges and don’t go down into churning pools even if they are empty.

Accessibility: volcanic rocks, slipping and reduced mobility

If you have reduced mobility or are travelling with children, it is better not to go down into dangerous puddles. Basalt is slippery when wet. Use common sense.

Quick comparison with other areas to decide where to go

Best charcones and what to expect

There are natural pools to suit all tastes: deep (when they are calm) and “bathtub” type pools to get wet and stand in at all times, these are quite safe and tend to be more crowded.

The first southbound waterhole: the most accessible one

My advice is that if you are coming for the first time, start at the first waterhole to the south: it is usually more sheltered, it helps you get a feel for the area and you can move in that direction.

Deep pools vs. “bathtub”: when is it suitable for snorkelling?

Snorkel only when the pool is closed to the swell and the sea is calm. If you hear rough seas and pounding waves, get out immediately.

Surrounding area: Charcones de Janubio (local variation)

In the same coastal arc, the area of Janubio offers pools and photogenic landscapes, equally unspoilt and exposed to the Atlantic. In the same area in Yaiza you can visit Los Hervideros Lanzarote if you like natural places. If you want some culture, the house of Omar Sharif in the municipality of Teguise may be an option, although it’s a 40 minute drive.

Think about what to bring first (there are no services).

My short list: shoes with grippy soles, plenty of water, sea-friendly sunscreen and a hat. If you’re staying, bring an umbrella– the sun is strong here.

Express checklist

• 🥾 Non-slip footwear (volcanic rock slips).
• 1-2 l of water per person + snack.
• 🧴 Marine protector + cap/light shade.
• 📱 Tide table consulted (target: low tide).
• 🎒 Lightweight backpack; no litter (bring bag).
• 👶 With children: only “bathing” puddles and no groundswell.

Photos in the natural pools of Los Charcones

The area calls for a camera. The best light is usually at dusk. Take all your waste with you, don’t move stones or disturb wildlife. A pristine environment is protected by simple habits.

Some questions you may have if you want to visit the Charcones de Janubio