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7 Budget Friendly Things to Do in Playa Blanca
07 May 2019
By Ryan Burton
There are not many places that does a summer getaway better than Lanzarote. The darling of the Canaries is not only packed full of stunning beaches but flaunts a wealth of activities for holidaymakers to enjoy. With so much to see and plenty to do, it’s little wonder why it welcomes its fair share of repeat visitors year after year.
Playa Blanca is one of the island’s newer resorts, which makes its rise to prominence all the more impressive. Serving as a holiday hotspot for both fun-loving families and sun-seeking couples, there’s no shortage of attractions in this vibrant coastal town.
If you’re heading here on a budget or simply can’t resist a bargain abroad – take a look at our handy guide of affordable crowd-pleasers. You never know, the money you save might be enough for a little treat from duty-free!
1. Savour balmy days at the beach
Three is the magic number when it comes to beaches at this resort, with a fine trio of gorgeous shores all vying for your attention. And with so much Canarian sunshine to soak up, there’s nothing stopping you from paying a visit to each one and discovering their unique traits.
Two of them are Blue Flag winners, and showcase plenty of variety. There’s the main stretch flaunting white sands and a promenade brimming with bars and restaurants, while Playa Dorada provides the action with its watersports options. But if you’re seeking laid-back days by the water then Playa Flamingo is an attractive proposition – exuding peace and tranquility across its golden shoreline.
Cost: All beaches are in walking distance, so it won’t cost you a thing to get there.
And if you’re looking to keep the price of your beach days down, buy your food and drink at the supermarket beforehand – a sandwich, snack and big bottle of water should cost around €7, leaving you with enough change for an ice cream!
Did you know? Playa Blanca translates to ‘white beach’.
So it’s little wonder Lanzarote’s southernmost resort town is renowned for its sand-dusted coastline.
2. Hunt for a bargain at Marina Rubicon Market
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Held every Wednesday and Saturday at the resort’s marina, Playa Blanca plays host to one of the island’s more traditional markets. Marina Rubicon doesn’t claim to be the biggest, or even the best – but its laid-back aura and yacht-lined backdrop is not without its charm.
Open from 9am until 2pm, there’s a variety of colourful stalls on hand to help you find that perfect holiday souvenir for your loved ones. With everything from handcrafted jewellery and local artworks to stylish clothing on show, there’s something to suit all tastes.
And whilst you wander around the quayside amongst locals and holidaymakers, you’ll find yourself bopping along to the sounds of Canarian beats played by local musicians. Even if you don’t intend to buy anything, this vibrant marketplace is still worth checking out.
Cost: Of course, you don’t have to pay to get in the market. But if you’re staying in the resort centre, you’ll have to hop in a taxi to reach the marina. A return trip should only set you back €10.
3. Unearth a natural gem at Los Charcones
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Set away from the bustling crowds of the resort centre, we have one of Lanzarote’s hidden treasures – Los Charcones. With its blend of turquoise waters and volcanic rocks, this set of natural pools are a great place to marvel in nature’s true majesty. You can get here in less than 10 minutes by car, so there’s no reason why you shouldn’t put this place at the top of your to-do list (especially during the summer months!)
Whether it’s a deep dive, relaxing dip or spot of snorkelling that takes your fancy, there’s a variety of depths and sizes to suit your preference. And with panoramic sea views to match the unspoilt surroundings, there’s nowhere on the island quite like this.
Cost: Situated about a 15-minute drive away, a taxi here should cost around €12-15 each way. And the nearest drop off point is situated a 20-minute walk away so make sure you book your return trip in advance!
Top tip: With Puerto del Carmen, Costa de Papagayo and the island capital of Arrecife all in comfortable driving distance – hiring a car for a couple of days will not only broaden your holiday horizons but it won’t break the bank.
While you’re here, take a look at our 10 Top Tips for Driving in Spain.
4. Feel on top of the world at Los Hervideros
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From one spine tingling sight to another, Los Hervideros is another natural phenomenon you can experience first-hand on a Playa Blanca escape. At this point, we must make it clear that words struggle to do this magnificent spectacle justice, but we’ll do our best.
Set north of the resort, this rugged coastline was formed by solidified lava and today hosts an amazing display of waves plowing into a maze of underwater caves for its visitors. The high force of the crashing waves leads to an enchanting parade of frothy waters that makes it look like the sea is boiling over!
And with a thundering noise that can be heard for miles, scenes don’t get more dramatic. If you’re here during high tide, don’t be surprised if sprays of seawater slap your skin from your cliffside vantage point!
Cost: Due to its secluded location, there are no public transport links nearby. So you’re looking at paying approximately €30 for a return trip from Playa Blanca resort centre.
5. Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience in Atlantico Museum
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As Europe’s only underwater sculpture museum, this distinct attraction is a must visit for divers. The brain child of renowned nautical artist Jason deCaires Taylor, this large-scale artificial reef serves a reminder of our responsibility to protect our oceans and encourage social change.
Covering 2,500 square metres on the ocean floor and at a depth of between 12-15 metres, this thought invoking exhibition consists of 10 sculptures – each depicting a valuable message. With everything from the refugee crisis to our reliance on modern technology, a number of issues are covered and brought to life in a unique way.
To make the most of this wonderful site, you’ll want to get up close and personal with the life-like statues – which requires a diving certificate of up to 16 metres.
Cost: Priced at just €12 per person, you’ll struggle to find another excursion that offers better value for money.
Top tip: Not a certified diver? Not a problem, Dive Lanzarote provide a special snorkelling option for only €8 per person. While you may be limited to the statute’s silhouettes from the water’s surface, it’s still a remarkable sight and won’t cost you an arm and a leg either!
6. Take a step back in time at Castillo de las Coloradas
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When you hear the word ‘castle’, we know what springs to mind – a fortress made up of thick walls, striking towers and an imposing drawbridge. But not all of these fortifications boasted such an imposing figure, and Castillo de las Coloradas is a typical example of these medieval buildings built on a smaller scale.
Originally built in the 18th century, this hilltop watchtower was used to defend the island from pirate attacks. Today, this structure holds down a role as modest as its size, welcoming a steady stream of tourists to its historic walls. You can learn more about its colourful past from the site’s information boards – and while you can walk up the steps to its door – the castle itself remains closed.
However, a further highlight is provided by the surrounding area, lending itself to sensational views of the Mediterranean and neighbouring Papagayo.
Cost: If you’re staying close to the marina then a visit here doesn’t have to cost you a penny. A pleasant half hour walk is all it takes to reach this historical site. But if you’re based in the resort centre – a return taxi trip will cost around €15.
7. Make a day of it at to Timanfaya National Park
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While it may not be located in Playa Blanca, we couldn’t miss one of Lanzarote’s most visited attractions – Timanfaya National Park. And with it taking less than 20 minutes to get here by car, we’re sure you can forgive us for breaking the rules slightly! Covering almost a quarter of the island, the sheer size of this natural marvel cannot be underestimated.
A world away from sandy beaches and glistening ocean fronts, this iconic site invites you to indulge in something different and wander its extensive parkland. Covered entirely by volcanic soil, a fiery colour palette made up of red, orange and black against a backdrop of eye-catching mountains – get ready to take in some of the world’s most dramatic scenery.
Keep an eye out for Cesar Manrique’s world-famous “El Diablo” statue and watch in amazement at El Diablo restaurant, as chefs cook specialty dishes on a live volcano grill!
Cost: Entry to the park is reasonable, with adults paying €10 and a child’s ticket costing just €5. While hopping in a taxi is an option, we recommend hiring a car for the day, with class C models costing as little as €15!
Did you know? Due to its moon-like terrain, Timanfaya National Park was used as a training base by Nasa their Apollo 17 crew.
In 1984, and more recently in 2014, it’s also been used as a filming location for the long running sci-fi series, Doctor Who.
Eat, drink and unwind: Our top picks
This sun-drenched haven is all about making your money stretch further. Even its luxury hotels boast reasonable rates, you can splash out a little extra on something more upmarket.
Where to stay
- H10 Timanfaya Palace: Flaunting gleaming ocean views, this charming property is all about its eye-catching seafront location. An adult only hotel, this 4 star delight boasts a wealth of super-sleek facilities – which includes a duo of gourmet restaurants, expansive sun terrace and lagoon-style pool.
- Princesa Yaiza Suite Hotel Resort: Sun, sea and sand are served on tap at this luxury 5 star beachfront hotel. Showing off its sparkling Atlantic doorstep and palm tree lined walkways, this refined retreat will make you feel like royalty with boundless top-tier facilities and impeccable service.
- H10 Rubicon Palace: With five pools, six restaurants and a no expense spared spa amongst its facilities, H10 Rubicon Palace certainly knows how to tug on your heartstrings. It’s little wonder why this luxury hotel has a long list of awards to back up its phenomenal reputation.
Whether you’re in a party of two or travelling as a family, there are plenty of options when it comes to dining out in the town. We’ve picked out three of the resort’s best cheap eat joints.
Where to eat
- Chacho Fresh Burger: Rustling up some of the best burgers in Lanzarote, this diner serves plenty of options to suit all tastes. While the decor might not be upmarket, its handcrafted creations are certainly worth their place at the top of the charts.
Address: Calle Corriquia 5, 35580 Playa Blanca, Lanzarote Spain
- Plaice in the Sun: Even when you’re abroad, it can be hard to resist the lure of home comforts. With freshly caught fish, homemade chips and an inviting sun terrace to savour them on, this restaurant does our most-loved delicacy proud!
Address: 67b cc papagayo, 35580 Playa Blanca, Las Palmas, Spain
- Simple & Natural: One of the resort’s newer eateries, it does exactly what it says on the tin – serving up simple and natural dishes. Set on the fringes of the town, it may be a little out of the way, but its delicious menu packed full of variety makes it well worth the trip.
And there’s no better way to round off that day than enjoying a drink at the bar. There’s a mass of pubs and taverns to choose from – but we suggest making a point of visiting these establishments.
Where to drink
- Rosco’s Beer House: With its wide selection of lagers, Rosco’s Beer House is the go-to place for an ice-cold pint in the sun. With everything from local ales to worldwide brews on tap, the enthusiastic staff are on hand to help serve up an old reliable or discover a new favourite tipple.
Address: Calle Limones, 42, 35580 Playa Blanca, Las Palmas, Spain
- Cafe Terraza: Set on the marina and boasting a spacious terrace, this cosy cafe provides the perfect spot for a refreshing drink. While coffee and cake is its speciality, you also have your choice of local beers and exotic cocktails to savour alongside waterfront views.
Address: La Marina, 24b, 35580 Playa Blanca, Las Palmas, Spain
- Barney’s: Doubling up as bistro in the day, Playa Blanca’s premier nightlife is open from 9am – making it a convenient pit stop for afternoon beverages. Head back here in the evening, where you’ll be treated to live music until the early hours!
Address: Av. de Papagayo, 35580 Playa Blanca, Las Palmas, Spain
So now you know how to do Playa Blanca on a budget – why not make one of Lanzarote’s premier resorts your next holiday destination?
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