Are you searching for an unspoilt corner of Lanzarote? If so, look no further than the beach town of Famara.
Famara is located on Lanzarote’s northwest coast. It is split into two areas: Playa de Famara, its showstopping beach, and Caleta de Famara, built around a traditional fishing village.
Although it is known as an international surfing mecca, it’s well worth a visit even if you are not riding the waves. It is also one of my favourite places to visit in Lanzarote.
Whether you are visiting on a day trip or chilling out for a few days, here is your guide to Famara, Lanzarote
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Why You Should Visit Famara, Lanzarote
1. The magnificent Famara beach
Famara Beach (Playa de Famara) is jaw-droppingly gorgeous.
Stretching from Caleta de Famara to the base of the soaring cliffs of El Risco, this 6 km sandy beach is one of the best in Lanzarote.
From Famara Beach, there are prime views of the Chinijo Archipelago, comprising La Graciosa, Alegranza, Montaña Clara, Roque del Este and Roque del Oeste. This national park is a protected conservation area and is one of the most extensive marine reserves in Europe.
2. To try your hand at surfing
If you are looking for that Point Break moment, you’ve come to the right place. Famara is an internationally renowned surfing beach and hosts a world surfing event every October.
Although there is plenty of surf throughout the year, the best waves can be found in the winter. You can also learn how to kitesurf and windsurf here, especially during the summer when the trade winds are most consistent.
There are several surfing shops and schools in town, which hire equipment and offer courses. When I visited, the beach was dotted with several small groups being put through their paces.
Many of the surf schools also offer yoga classes.
3. For photo opportunities galore
However, those brisk winds that account for Playa de Famara’s world-class surfing mean that this is not the ideal beach on which to sunbathe. What it does offer are long strolls and photo opportunities galore.
It’s a shutterbug’s dream destination.
4. For the laidback vibe of Caleta de Famara
Caleta de Famara is a world away from the beach resorts of Lanzarote. And it is all the better for it.
Don’t come here expecting swanky all-inclusive hotels and two-for-one happy hours. Instead, this is that rarest of things: a traditional Canarian fishing village that has resisted the march of tourism.
Its unpaved sandy streets offer a window into what Lanzarote was like before the charter flights arrived. In addition to the surf schools, there are just a small number of bars and restaurants and a few mini-markets.
5. To soak up spectacular sunset views
Thanks to its westerly location, visitors to Famara are treated to some of the best sunsets in Lanzarote. They are well worth staying the night for.
How to Get to Famara
By car
It is easy to drive to the Famara. It is off the LZ30 that runs from Teguise to Uga.
There is ample parking near the beach.
Buses to Famara
It’s straightforward to get to Famara by bus if you are exploring Lanzarote on public transport.
Buses 31 and 33 run several times a day between Costa Teguise and Caleta de Famara via Teguise. From Lanzarote’s capital Arrecife, take bus 20.
You can check the timetables here.
getting to Famara from the airport
If you don’t have your own set of wheels, the easiest way to get to Famara from Arrecife airport is by taxi. Reckon on paying around €40.
This journey is doable by public bus. Take bus 22 or 23 to the Central Bus Station (Estación de Guaguas) and change to bus 20.
Where to Stay in Famara
Accommodation in Famara is low-key and mostly apartment rentals. Here are a few that I would consider if I was booking a place to stay for myself.
Famara House 12
This well-equipped beachfront house has garnered excellent reviews.
>>> CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS & PRICES
Famara rooftop 2
This top-rated apartment has a wonderful rooftop terrace offering magnificent views.
>>> CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS & PRICES
Apartamento El Coral
This beachfront apartment has sun loungers on the terrace. Perfect for watching those Famara sunsets.
>>> CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS & PRICES
I hope that this tempts you to visit Famara. There is something for everyone and it is one of Lanzarote’s jewels.
But I’ll let César Manrique, Lanzarote’s favourite son, have the final word:
My greatest happiness is to recall a happy childhood, five month summer vacations in the Caleta and the Famara beach with its eight kilometers of clean and fine sand framed by cliffs of more than four hundred meters high that reflected on the beach like in a mirror. That image has been engraved in my soul as something of extraordinary beauty that I will never forget in all of my life.
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
- How to Visit the Cactus Garden, Lanzarote (Jardín de Cactus)
- 10 Fabulous Things to Do in Arrecife, Lanzarote
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 hello@theflashpacker.net or follow her on social media.