¡At last, you have a destination for your next vacation! You are certain it will be Lanzarote, one of the most captivating islands in the Canary Islands. But, in which area should you stay? Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen are two regions on the island of Lanzarote famous for their tourist attractions. Which one is better? In this post, we bring you a complete comparison so you can judge for yourself and decide which exact point to set course for.
Where are they located?
Both Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen are among the best places to stay in Lanzarote. Both locations are situated on the south coast of the island, with Playa Blanca a bit further down on the map.
The distance between Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen is approximately 20 kilometers, a distance that can be covered in about 30 or 40 minutes by car. Both towns offer visitors beaches, tourist amenities, and a pleasant climate. So, what significantly sets them apart? You will find the answer to this question throughout the article.
What can you explore in each one?
We will start by highlighting the best things you can do in Lanzarote depending on whether you are in Playa Blanca or Puerto del Carmen.
Playa Blanca
Playa Blanca offers tourists stunning white sandy beaches, a charming promenade, shops, restaurants, and ocean views. Specifically, there is a particular spot in Playa Blanca that arouses special interest: Paseo LASAL, a place that captivates due to its unique geographical location, allowing us to see the sun rise as if emerging from the ocean itself and, at the same time, witness the most beautiful sunsets by the seaside. There, the air carries the scent of the salt flats and Canarian dishes prepared along the Paseo LASAL. Pure Canarian essence!
With the charm of an old fishing village, Playa Blanca is a picturesque and relaxing tourist destination where you can create the most beautiful memories of your vacation. The Castle of Las Coloradas, the Hervideros, Papagayo Beach, Montaña Roja, Costa Rubicón, the Atlantic Underwater Museum… There are so many incredible places to visit in Playa Blanca!
Puerto del Carmen
Puerto del Carmen captivates tourists with its expansive golden beaches. Its lively promenade hosts a diverse range of restaurants, bars, and shops. With a vibrant nightlife in the main area, the Avenida de Las Playas, this destination combines daytime tranquility with the rhythm of the night. Furthermore, it offers other exciting experiences that we will detail later on. Puerto del Carmen stands out as a versatile and charming tourist enclave. Examples of this are Playa Grande, Playa Chica, Rancho Texas, nightlife, and diving activities.
Where are the best beaches located?
Now, let’s compare their beaches. Which has the best beaches, Playa Blanca or Puerto del Carmen? Take a look and choose the one that best fits your expectations!
The best beaches of Playa Blanca
Playa Blanca boasts dreamy beaches such as Playa Dorada, with crystal-clear waters and golden sand, and Playa Flamingo, ideal for families with children due to its calm waves. Additionally, the iconic Playa Papagayo, with secluded coves and spectacular landscapes, is a must-visit.
It’s worth noting that Playa Blanca serves as a training base for world Olympic sailing and hosts nautical events and regattas.
The best beaches of Puerto del Carmen
Puerto del Carmen showcases spectacular beaches, among which Playa Grande stands out with its extensive golden sand and calm waters. Playa Chica, perfect for diving, and the lively Playa de los Pocillos are other charming options that offer entertainment and relaxation.
What tourist attractions does each one have?
Let’s now explore the main tourist attractions of each locality.
Puerto del Carmen
In addition to the lively Avenida de Las Playas, Puerto del Carmen offers other tourist attractions such as Rancho Texas Park, a theme park with animals and shows. On the other hand, boat excursions from the port are exciting leisure activities in Lanzarote. And you might even spot some dolphins!.
Playa Blanca
In Playa Blanca, on the Paseo LASAL, you can enjoy a pleasant stroll by the sea with the possibility of shopping or savoring a good outdoor menu, as it is a completely open space. You can visit the Berrugo salt flats, which are just a step away from LASAL, and learn about the history of salt on the island, which once had 26 salt flats! Highly recommended is a visit to the Atlantic Underwater Museum, where you will see sculptures submerged in the ocean.
The mills of the Berrugo salt flats are also located in Playa Blanca, restored traditional architecture of Lanzarote where various cultural events,educational, and scientific events can be enjoyed.
What can you do in Playa Blanca?
You can enjoy Playa Blanca with leisure activities such as relaxing on Papagayo Beach or Playa Dorada, exploring the promenade at Marina Rubicón, taking a stroll along the Paseo LASAL and enjoy one of the few locations where you can witness both sunrises and sunsets, go on boat excursions to nearby islands, savor local cuisine at seaside restaurants, and visit the Faro de Pechiguera for breathtaking panoramic views.
What can you do in Puerto del Carmen?
Similarly, in Puerto del Carmen, you can do countless fun activities! We suggest you simply relax on Playa Grande, but if you’re into action, you can engage in water sports at Playa Chica. Additionally, you can explore the lively promenade of Avenida de Las Playas, which we’ve already mentioned, visit Rancho Texas Park, especially if you’re with children, and take part in exciting boat excursions from the port.
Typical food of Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca
When it comes to gastronomy, Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca offer very similar dishes. In either of the two destinations, you will find a delicious variety of Canarian cuisine. You shouldn’t miss trying the specialties of native seafood and fish, such as black and orange limpets, grilled, or fish like bocinegro, vieja, cherne, or pampano. And… don’t forget to accompany them with the famous Canarian wrinkled potatoes with mojo, a genuinely Canarian flavor.
Why stay in Playa Blanca or Puerto del Carmen?
Both destinations, Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen, are excellent choices for your vacation. There, you will live very positive experiences thanks to their golden beaches, gastronomic options, and leisure activities. However, Playa Blanca stands out for its quieter atmosphere and beautiful natural landscapes, perfect for relaxing and enjoying coastal serenity.
The choice is yours! Ask yourself what you expect from a tourist destination and which leisure proposals have seemed more interesting to you.
In conclusion, both Playa Blanca and Puerto del Carmen offer unique tourist experiences in Lanzarote. While Playa Blanca attracts with its tranquil charm and serene beaches, Puerto del Carmen captivates with its lively atmosphere, varied activities, and beautiful beaches, providing diversified options to satisfy the preferences of every traveler.
And you, where will you go? Playa Blanca or Puerto del Carmen?