The best natural pools in Lanzarote
A long time ago, the encounter between wind, sea and lava gave rise to a unique creation that contained all the power of volcanoes within it. Over the centuries, this masterpiece, born out of the Atlantic Ocean's assault on magma turned to stone, was perfected. Today, Lanzarote's natural pools are an icon of the island and attract people from all over the world who want to soak up its wild majesty. If you too are visiting Lanzarote soon and don't want to miss this volcanic wonder, take note of the following recommendations.
Natural pools of Los Charcones
The natural pools of Los Charcones are located less than five minutes by car from Playa Blanca, next to the municipality of Yaiza. It is one of those hidden places where the wisdom of nature gives free rein to its know-how. The rock formations that make up the area are made up of numerous virgin pools of all kinds; some larger and deeper (perfect for swimming and even for diving in headfirst) and others the size of a bathtub. Their colours, ranging from turquoise to deep blue, also vary. Exploring them is like immersing yourself in the purest Canarian experience.
Very close to the natural pools of Playa Blanca and on the seafront, the Iberostar Selection Lanzarote Park hotel will teleport you to another planet: the lunar landscapes that surround it will connect you with the overflowing energy of Lanzarote. In 2022, it was named the best five-star All-Inclusive hotel in Spain by Tripadvisor users. Its three souks, circular constructions inspired by the island's traditional aesthetics, open up to the horizon, in dialogue with the surrounding rocks. This peculiar design, supervised by the Canarian artist César Manrique (author of the Taro de Tahíche, his own house and headquarters of the foundation that bears his name, or the iconic Cactus Garden), is conceived so that you too can feel part of the landscape. The accommodation has two restaurants and five bars with the best of international and Canarian cuisine, as well as an Aquafun and Starcamp area for the enjoyment of the little ones and exclusive Star Prestige rooms and areas.
How to get to the natural pools of Los Charcones
As we have already told you, the Los Charcones pools are located in Playa Blanca, very close to the Timanfaya National Park. They can be reached on foot from the Pechiguera lighthouse, barely two kilometres away. Another way to reach this enclave is to drive along a zigzagging path. Once there, you will have to go down a small cliff, so we recommend you wear comfortable, closed shoes.
The natural pools of Los Charcones with children
Due to the characteristics of the access, younger children should be carried in their arms if they are walking to avoid possible trips, especially on the last stretch of the route (the one that corresponds to the cliff). On the other hand, the safest way to enjoy Los Charcones with your family is to swim in the pools without getting too close to the coastline, as the waves break strongly on it, allowing the water to enter the pools.
Natural pools of Punta Mujeres
When visiting the natural pools of Lanzarote, you should also take the tides into account. In the village of Punta Mujeres there are more than two kilometres of lagoons, with two of the pools completely protected from the sea, so you will be able to swim in peace and quiet during any phase of the lunar cycle. You might even see some amazing sea creatures coming ashore to say hi. These pools also have steps and comfortable sunbathing areas. All around, a small fishing village of whitewashed houses envelops them with its welcoming character.
How to get to the natural pools of Punta Mujeres
By car and by road, you can easily reach the north coast of Lanzarote, where Punta Mujeres (which belongs to the municipality of Haría) is located. An alternative sustainable tourism option is to cycle or walk from Arrieta, another nearby village. The walk will be well worth it. From Arrecife you also have the option of taking bus number 9, which will drop you off at the Punta Mujeres stop.
Punta Mujeres, a family day trip
Located in the bay of the village, with easy access and parking, these pools are particularly suitable for children of all ages - many consider them to be a natural water park! After the dip, a good plan is to discover the nearby Cueva de los Verdes and Jameos del Agua together and then enjoy a typical dinner overlooking the sea in one of the restaurants and terraces in the area.
Charco del Palo
Another of those natural pools in Lanzarote that will leave you speechless are the ones grouped under the name of Charco del Palo. In the early 1970s, they were part of a nudist settlement founded by the businessman Gregor Kaiser (naturism is still practised here nowadays). There are three different pools, with calm, shallow waters, with a section of beach and sand. Its surroundings, with viewpoints, cactus fields and volcanic cones, will remind you time and again that you are in Lanzarote, the island where the force of the Earth manifests itself in the most beautiful ways.
How to get to Charco del Palo
Charco del Palo is located in Haría, between Mala and Guatiza, three kilometres away from each village. The lagoons are located at the end of a secluded road that can be crossed by car or bicycle. Their location makes them an intimate and calm place, ideal for relaxing while reading a book by the ocean or sipping a cocktail in one of the nearby beach bars where, by the way, nudism is also welcome. If you decide to get there by public transport, bus lines 7 and 9 will take you there.
Is it possible to go to Charco del Palo with children?
The three small and sheltered coves of Charco del Palo are perfect to go with children of all ages (including babies), as it is a public and urbanised space, surrounded by residential areas and landscapes that can also be enjoyed on foot.
Cueva del agua (or "La Olla")
Cueva del Agua, also known as "La Olla", is a natural pool ten metres in diameter that opens up to the sky in the middle of a rock. The arid environment of which it is part, with scarce vegetation, turns the experience of swimming in it into a ritual of disconnection, especially at sunset. It is actually a volcanic jameo, a tube created by hot lava during an eruption. You can lay your towel on the stone and, when the tide is high, jump into the water. Pay attention to the currents when swimming.
How to get to Cueva del Agua
To get to Cueva del Agua you have to walk down the steep and slippery pit. This section will delight the most adventurous. It is close to the town of Guatiza, from where you can go by car or bicycle; ten minutes drive from the Cactus Garden and twenty from Charco del Palo. Half a kilometre to the north is the urbanised area of Los Cocoteros, with more natural pools. To give you an idea, "La Olla" is about a hundred metres from the last house in this urbanisation, although the difficulty lies in the descent.
What age is a visit to Cueva del Agua recommended for?
Lanzarote is an island for the whole family, although "La Olla" is more suitable for adults and older children, the latter always accompanied and under supervision. In this island oasis and also in the rest of the Canary Islands (especially Fuerteventura and Tenerife), as well as spending an unforgettable holiday with the little ones, you can also enjoy yourself as a couple or with friends at any time of the year: romance and good weather will accompany you wherever you go, whether in the natural pools of Lanzarote or on the best beaches of Fuerteventura, filling your getaways with life.
