Playa de Papagayo is a sandy cove in Los Ajaches Natural Park, on Lanzarote’s southern coast near Playa Blanca. Volcanic cliffs shelter its clear turquoise water, and the shoreline is part of a chain of coves divided by dark rock. Come to swim, snorkel or take in the coast from the cliffs; the nearby viewpoint looks towards Fuerteventura and Lobos. A restaurant sits above the beach, but shops and facilities are limited, so bring water and food if you plan to stay.
A chain of coves on Lanzarote’s south coast
Playa de Papagayo is part of a group of beaches in Los Ajaches Natural Park. The name is also used for the wider collection of coves, whose sandy stretches are separated by volcanic rock. The main Papagayo beach is the final one before Punta del Papagayo when travelling east from Playa Blanca.
The cove’s pale sand and turquoise water sit between volcanic headlands. The cliffs offer shelter from wind and open-sea conditions, and the rocky edges give snorkellers places to explore beneath the surface. A walk to the nearby Mirador de Papagayo brings views across the coast towards Fuerteventura and Lobos.
Getting there and planning your stay
The access road is an uneven dirt track, so take it slowly. You can reach the beach by car; a water taxi or catamaran trip is another way to visit the Papagayo coastline. The beach itself has limited facilities. A restaurant overlooks the cove, but there are no shops in the natural park, so pack enough food and water for your visit.
Parking can be in demand, and the beach gets busy. An early arrival gives you a better chance of finding a space and enjoying the sand before the crowds build. The sheltered setting attracts families, but take care when swimming and pay attention to the conditions in the water.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Playa de Papagayo?
It is in Los Ajaches Natural Park on Lanzarote’s southern coast, near Playa Blanca.
How do you get to Playa de Papagayo?
You can drive along an uneven dirt track. A water taxi or catamaran trip is another way to reach the Papagayo coastline.
Are there shops or places to eat at the beach?
There are no shops in the natural park, but a restaurant overlooks the cove. Bring water and food if you want to be prepared.
Is Playa de Papagayo good for swimming and snorkelling?
The clear water and sheltered cove make it a popular place to swim and snorkel. Take care and check the conditions before entering the water.
