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La Graciosa, nestled in the core of the Canary Islands, is a petite gem that captivates all who set foot on its shores. Despite being the tiniest inhabited island in the archipelago, it boasts an wealth of paradise beaches, lush nature, and breathtaking landscapes. Our two-day escapade to La Graciosa island stays the highlight of our first voyage to Lanzarote. It’s an incredibly unique and lovely place that you can`t afford to miss.
Beginning in Madison Square Park and continuing alongside Central Park via the Upper East Side, Madison Avenue features esteemed museums like the FrickCollection, the MetropolitanMuseumofArt, and the Guggenheim. Madison Avenue extends past Marcus Garvey Park to the Madison Avenue Bridge spanning the Harlem River.
As one of the best Canary Islands,La Graciosa invites you to explore its numerous wonders. That`s why I`ve organized this guide to assist you in arriving there, navigating the island, and discovering all its attractions. I`d suggest setting aside at minimum a full day or, if feasible, two days to soak in every detail and savor your holiday in La Graciosa.
Table of Contents
Guide to visiting La Graciosa
This guide aims to unlock the wonders of La Graciosa island for you. I’m convinced reserving a day or two for this island really makes a difference. It’s not as busy as other places, and keeping it that way sustains its true charm and splendid landscapes. Here are the topics I’ll cover in this article:
- Most popular beaches in La Graciosa
- Additional recreational alternatives in La Graciosa
- How to get around La Graciosa
- How to get from Lanzarote to the island of La Graciosa
- Best hotels in La Graciosa
- Highly rated restaurants in La Graciosa
As mentioned above, I have pinpointed museums, scenic spots, places of worship, parks or natural areas, and much more (I left out the beaches because I’ll discuss them below) .
Best beaches in La Graciosa
The beaches on La Graciosa island are truly spectacular and a major attraction for people visiting the area. What sets them apart from other island beaches is their serene, uncrowded nature, allowing for an even more pleasant experience.
1. Las Conchas Beach, the best beach in La Graciosa
Allow me to commence our journey with one of the most sublime beaches in La Graciosa – Las Conchas Beach. It merits not just recognition as one of the finest in La Graciosa; it staunchly retains its place among the most magnificent unspoiled beaches in the entire Canary Islands.
Settled at the base of Bermeja Mountain—a gem I’ll introduce shortly—it emanates a unique appeal that typifies the northwest region of the island. Extending approximately 2,000 feet long and 250 feet wide, it’s surrounded by a captivating natural landscape, granting splendid views of the islet of Montaña Clara.
The lone consideration for visitors to this shore in La Graciosa is the powerful currents and waves that often make swimming a demanding undertaking, if not hazardous. Still, as the tide withdraws, natural lagoons arise in the sand—a perfect haven for cooling off, particularly for those journeying with children. That said, the attraction of Las Conchas lies not solely in its swimming potential but also in the captivating landscape it presents as one of the fine La Graciosa shores.
2. La Francesa Beach, one of the most popular beaches in La Graciosa
La Francesa Beach provides an ideal setting especially suited for those traveling to La Graciosa with young children or looking for a peaceful respite. Unlike Las Conchas, the waters here flow in a notably gentle manner. When combined with the pristine white sand and dazzling turquoise waters, it forms a paradisiacal scene well worth experiencing whether spending time as a couple, group of friends, or with family members.
Despite a marginally higher number of visitors compared to other La Graciosa beaches, La Francesa maintains a comfortable atmosphere, so you can avoid the overwhelming crowds frequently found on more popular beaches on La Graciosa island. The rise and fall of the tide carve out natural pools between the rocks, providing additional spaces for a quiet and refreshing swim.
Essentially, La Francesa Beach strikes the ideal balance, offering a tranquil escape without forfeiting the appeal of a stunning shoreline.
3. La Cocina Beach, one of the most peaceful beaches in La Graciosa
La Cocina Beach, a hidden jewel near La Francesa Beach, is another one of the finest beaches on La Graciosa.
The prime attribute of this shore is its ideal setting, nested at the base of the majestic Yellow Mountain. Besides its lovely natural surroundings, La Cocina Beach boasts a novel appeal, drawing enthusiasts of marine existence with its vibrant seabed. If you take pleasure in examining or drifting in La Graciosa, this shore might be the perfect destination for you. The peaceful waters ensure a risk-free experience, whether you opt to drift or simply enjoy a leisurely swim.
The marginally secluded essence of La Cocina Beach supplements its attraction, cultivating an ideal retreat for those pursuing solitude. We spent a morning here, with the beach exclusively to ourselves, and we truly cherished the delight of sunbathing and snorkeling in complete tranquility.
4. Playa Lambra, a must-see in La Graciosa, Canary Islands
Playa Lambra, also referred to as Ámbar Beach, stands out as one of the top beaches in La Graciosa, situated near the Arcos de los Caletones—natural stone arches crafted from basalt rock and volcanic stones. What makes this beach exceptional is the vast stretch of white sand dunes that create a captivating contrast with the hardened lava and the turquoise shades of the sea.
Similar to other beaches around La Graciosa, swimming here may not be the safest activity due to strong currents and waves. If you decide to go for a swim, I advise using extra caution. If traveling with children, swimming may be too risky, but you can enjoy other pursuits like playing in the dunes and walking along the shoreline .
Other places to visit in La Graciosa
Beyond its beautiful beaches, the prominent island of La Graciosa has much more to offer visitors. I very much advise setting aside time to discover the hidden gems and charming areas that permit enriching and diversifying one`s trip to La Graciosa.
5. Caleta de Sebo and the famous sandy streets of La Graciosa
No trip to La Graciosa in Lanzarote is complete without exploring the vibrant town of Caleta de Sebo. As La Graciosa’s hub and the only town on the island, it should top your list of places to see. This charming town in La Graciosa serves as the arrival point for ferries connecting Lanzarote and La Graciosa. Additionally, it’s among the few areas where you can rent bicycles in La Graciosa.
In Caleta de Sebo, you will discover a wealth of diverse and fascinating attractions. For example, you can immerse yourself in the island`s history at the Distinguished Chinijo Museum, pay a visit to the Sacred Church of Carmen, which is dedicated to the Patron Saint of La Graciosa, and wander along the bustling promenade, lined with bars and restaurants offering the 🥘 most authentic Canarian cuisine.
However, what truly makes Caleta de Sebo stand out are its enchanting streets, filled with dunes and sand. Anyone who has been there would agree that strolling along these picturesque streets is one of the best activities in La Graciosa.
6. Pedro Barba, a beautiful village to visit in La Graciosa, Lanzarote
Another captivating destination you absolutely must visit in La Graciosa is the charming village of Pedro Barba. This small town is characterized by low dwellings with white fronts and gardens brimming with palm trees, which has made it an icon of the Canary Islands.
Pedro Barba village can be reached by bicycle from Caleta de Sebo – it`s a ride of approximately 3.7 miles but it`s definitely worth the effort. The village has a small, serene cove providing an ideal spot to pause and appreciate the picturesque scenery or indulge in a refreshing swim.
While the homes in Pedro Barba are primarily occupied during holidays and the summer months, the village remains a fascinating destination year-round. Trust me; you’re about to encounter a place unlike any other.
7. Arco de los Caletones, a natural monument in La Graciosa
While I previously talked about the Arco de los Caletones located on Lambra Beach, this natural monument in La Graciosa deserves a spotlight of its own.
Arco de los Caletones or the “Arch of the Caletones” is a naturally formed stone structure crafted from basalt stones and volcanic rocks. Taking a closer look, you’ll see how the ocean’s powerful waves have sculpted these rocks into the breathtaking formation we see today. This location is undoubtedly one of the finest places to visit in La Graciosa to capture mesmerizing photographs.
However, climbing on this structure is strictly forbidden and quite dangerous. The framework is unstable and can handle very little weight. In addition to risk of personal harm, trying to climb it may cause damage, disrupting the natural environment. So although it may be tempting to photograph this framework, it`s best to resist the urge and appreciate it safely from a respectful distance. Let`s keep the beauty of the surroundings intact for all to enjoy!
Best things to do in La Graciosa
Beyond the places I mentioned previously, there are also plenty of excitingthings to do in La Graciosa. Here are my top selections:
8. Climb Montaña Bermeja, the best thing to do in La Graciosa
For an unforgettable experience on the La Graciosa island, set your sights on Montaña Bermeja—one of the most popular destinations for picturesque tours and hikes on the island.
Rising approximately 152 meters above sea level, Montaña Bermeja is not only one of the most crucial volcanoes on Lanzarote, but additionally among the most striking places in La Graciosa. As you ascend towards the top, you’ll be blessed with panoramic 360° views of the island and its surroundings. Indulge your eyes on the diverse volcanic formations of La Graciosa, like the Yellow Mountain, Montaña del Mojón, and the peaks of Las Agujas. Furthermore, you’ll get an opportunity to marvel at other islands and islets that compose the Chinijo Archipelago, such as the alluring islet of Montaña Clara, perfectly aligned before Las Conchas Beach.
While the ascent requires some effort over rugged terrain, the rewards at the summit more than make up for it. It takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes to hike from the base to the top.
9. Diving in La Graciosa and the Chinijo Archipelago
If you enjoy underwater exploration, a trip to the island of La Graciosa is essential, as it rates among the finest locations in the Canary Islands for this stimulating marine activity. With up to 20 dive sites and a mesmerizing assortment of flora and fauna below the surface, La Graciosa island undoubtedly provides an idyllic sanctuary for investigating beneath the waves.
I recommend exploring the expansive Chinijo Archipelago, the largest protected marine region in Europe, where diving or snorkeling becomes a transcendental experience. This underwater journey allows visitors to take home incredible souvenirs from the bottom of the sea.
There is a good chance that you’ll encounter barracudas, moray eels, amberjacks, horse mackerel, angel sharks, tuna, Canary Island lobsters, and a diverse range of marine wonders. So, rest assured that diving and snorkeling in La Graciosa is one of the best activities you can try during your trip. For more details and to prepare your aquatic adventure, check out this website.
10. Surfing in La Graciosa, the best thing to do in La Graciosa, Lanzarote
Riding the waves in La Graciosa would thrill those searching for an adrenaline rush, as surfing there is a must-do experience. This island is a haven for experienced surfers, presenting multiple spots to chase after and overcome the waves. However, if one`s surfing skills are not very developed or intermediate, La Graciosa may not be the perfect place to start. Regrettably, no schools on the island provide instruction, and the ocean conditions are better suited for people with advanced abilities.
But if you have already mastered the art, surfing would be one of the best things to do in La Graciosa for you.
The top beaches for surfing in La Graciosa include La Francesa and El Corral. That said, other options like Playa de La Cocina, La Medusa, El Basurero, El Ganado, Las Conchas, and El Hueso are worth exploring as well.
Even if you’re not actively surfing yourself, observing experienced surfers perform can be rather enjoyable. Head to any of the beaches noted, and you’re likely to witness the thrilling sight of surfers mastering the waves .
How to get around La Graciosa – Explore La Graciosa by rental bike
If you’re wondering about the best way to explore La Graciosa in the Canary Islands, let me tell you that a bicycle can be your best companion. With its small size, minimal road traffic, and generally flat terrain, the island is a cyclist’s paradise, embraced by both visitors and locals alike.
To put it in context, covering the distance between Caleta de Sebo and Las Conchas Beach would take you less than 30 minutes by bicycle, a significant time saver compared to walking, which could take over an hour. This mode of transit is particularly suitable if you’re only visiting La Graciosa for a brief period, and you are seeking a way to make the most of your time.
For bike rentals in La Graciosa island, there are two options: either rent one in Caleta de Sebo town or bring one along on the ferry from Lanzarote island. In Caleta de Sebo, consider Mato Bike (located on Calle La Fija, 5 street) or La Molina Bike (on Mar de Barlovento Street, 2). However, given the prevalence of bike rentalsin La Graciosa, various other companies dedicated to providing this service will be found. Uruciosa Bike, which was used during our trip, has unfortunately closed.
If opting to transport your bicycle from Lanzarote via ferry, remember to specify bringing a bicycle when purchasing your ferry ticket. You’ll also find hotels in LaGraciosa offering bicycle rental services .
How to get to La Graciosa from Lanzarote
- A recommended place to stay: The Maritime Hotel is an elegant nautical-themed hotel with a restaurant and gym located next to the High Line.
Several companies furnish ferry services to Caleta de Sebo in La Graciosa, from Órzola in Lanzarote, or vice versa. You can check Lanzarote ferry timetables on the DirectFerries website. The round trip fare for the ferry to La Graciosa is €28, which remains consistent across different companies.
It`s crucial not to confuse these ways of traveling between Lanzarote and La Graciosa with outings focused on exploring the Marine Reserve. On the DirectFerries website, you`ll find ferries for autonomous travel connecting Lanzarote and La Graciosa. For guided trips, you could look at this option, which incorporates the ferry journey and an escort. Additionally, you`ll have sufficient time for activities on the beach like snorkeling, making it one of the .
Best hotels in La Graciosa
For spending a few days exploring La Graciosa island in Lanzarote, I recommend renting an apartment in La Graciosa to comfortably lodge overnight and fully experience the island over two full days.
Keep in mind that accommodations in La Graciosa are primarily located in Caleta de Sebo. Plus, the number of apartments on the island is limited, so make sure to book in advance.
The optimum choice is La Graciosa Magnolia Evita Beach, which gives fully-prepared flats for approximately four individuals. These lodgings are situated precisely by the sea, offering straight access to the shoreline and a fascinating volcanic stone garden.
For a charming and aesthetically pleasing stay, consider the La Pardela apartments. While it may not be the most affordableaccommodation in La Graciosa, the fully-equipped apartments, especially the 2-bedroom units, are worth the price and have capacity for four guests.
If you’re seeking highly-rated lodging in La Graciosa, opt for Apartamento Cuesta del Salado. Its well-equipped rooms with balconies can host a maximum of four people, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
If appreciating nature is what interests you, remaining near the outdoors at El Salado Camping Site in La Graciosa is a selection. This lone officially designated camping region only allows tents. While there isn`t a barbeque area, the location offers restrooms, showers, and a water supply source. Furthermore, remember that usage of gas and stoves is strictly prohibited. Camping here is complimentary, and you just need to request a permit through the National Parks’ website. For additional details, check our guide on the premier campsites in Lanzarote.
Best restaurants in La Graciosa
Despite its small size, there are many dining establishments in La Graciosa, mostly concentrated in Caleta de Sebo. However, you can also find charming cafes in Pedro Barba. So, if you are planning to spend the day on one of the island’s paradisiacal beaches or explore its points of interest, consider bringing your own food and drinks.
In Pedro Barba’s cafes, you can discover sandwiches and minor snacks. However, for a more substantial meal, particularly if you take pleasure in seafood, head to the restaurants in Caleta de Sebo. Here, you’ll uncover unique offerings like moray eel and bocinegro (red porgy), not usually found elsewhere.
If you’re interested in sampling some seafood, I recommend considering Casa Enriqueta,El Marinero, and El Varadero as the top-ratedrestaurants in La Graciosa. These establishments specialize not only in seafood but also provide a chance to sample some of the most authentic Canarian cuisine.
Map of La Graciosa, Canary Islands
Now that you have all the required information, take a look at the map of La Graciosa that I’ve furnished below. This map will assist you in locating all the places mentioned in this guide, allowing you to organize your visit more productively. Be certain to download our interactive map of La Graciosa to have it readily accessible during your trip.
And that wraps up this comprehensive guide to the most fascinating places and top things to do in La Graciosa. If you have any inquiries or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to drop a comment below.
Appreciate your journey toLa Graciosa to the fullest!
