Lanzarote with Kids: Family Activities and Things to See

Lanzarote as a family – yes, and hassle-free.
Everything is close by, the weather’s lovely all year round and there’s plenty to keep every kind of kid busy.
Some love to watch and listen, others need action. So we’ve covered both.

You’ll find ideas for seeing dolphins in Lanzarote, a truly family-friendly buggy tour, a catamaran trip to Papagayo with swimming, snorkelling or a try-dive, plus short visits that always go down well, like Jameos del Agua, Cueva de los Verdes and the Cactus Garden.

The aim: great memories, not headaches.

Activities at a glance by age:

Little ones 0–4 → dolphin catamaran, Isla de Lobos, Papagayo by catamaran or a private catamaran for big families.
5–9 → family buggy tour in 2-, 4- or 6-seater buggies, tandem paragliding, surfing.
10 and over → try-dive, jet ski with an adult

And further down, you'll find ideas for family-friendly sights and beaches.

Activities for all ages

Seeing dolphins in Lanzarote as a family

The aim here is simple: a real encounter at sea, with no chasing the animals and no feeding, in complete respect of the wildlife. A dolphin trip in Lanzarote works really well for families if you match the length and pace to the kids and set expectations from the start: we sail to look for them, and nature decides.

Ages and conditions

Recommended ages: all ages.
Babies and pushchairs: a compact pushchair is possible on board, but a baby carrier is strongly recommended because of the boat’s movement.
Price: free for under-5s.

Length and pace

2h30 late in the day: ideal if your kids are fidgety or it’s their first time at sea.
4h in the morning: perfect for patient, curious families. For most kids it’s fine; for others it can feel a bit long.
Important: we’re only sailing to try to spot dolphins. No trip can guarantee an encounter, so don’t keep telling the kids they’re going to see dolphins – that way they won’t be disappointed if they don’t show up.

Seasickness, timing and comfort

Look at the horizon, avoid an empty or overly full stomach, bring a windbreaker and a cap.
If needed, anti-nausea medication after checking with a doctor.

Respecting the wildlife

No aggressive approach towards the animals.
No feeding, no getting in the water with them.
Kids understand these rules really well if you explain them before boarding.

Access and logistics

No shuttle for this activity. The easiest option is to come by hire car – this article may help: Renting a car in the Canary Islands.

Catamaran to Papagayo with kids

The idea here is simple: a great time at sea and at anchor, with swimming almost guaranteed. No waiting around for dolphins, so no frustration.

Ages and conditions

All ages.
Compact pushchair possible on board; baby carrier recommended.
Price: free for under-2s. From age 2: €75 per passenger. No child rate.

Length and pace

4h in the morning or afternoon.
Usually: 1h sailing, 2h at anchor at Papagayo, 1h back.
The return can be a bit livelier depending on the wind.
During the stop: swimming, kayak, paddleboard, drinks for the grown-ups, soft drinks for the kids, maybe a nap, then another swim.

Comfort and seasickness

Look at the horizon, avoid an empty or overly full stomach, bring a windbreaker and a cap.
Comfortable boat and short crossings – nausea is rare.
Mornings are often calmer.

Access and logistics

Shuttle possible depending on availability.
Otherwise, come by hire car.

Isla de Lobos from Lanzarote with kids

A simple, easy day out for families. You enjoy a lovely boat ride and sometimes spot dolphins on the way. That’s a bonus, never guaranteed.

Journey and pace

Boat crossing there and back: 2 × 1h15.
Time on the island: about 2h30 to enjoy the shallow lagoons and a very easy walking loop.
The return can be a bit choppier depending on the wind. Nothing to worry about: it’s very manageable if you follow the anti-seasickness tips.
Prices: free for under-3s, then a child rate.

Snacks and equipment

Snack provided: a sandwich + crisps. Simple, but it does the job.
Water included.
Bring: a cap, sunscreen, and ideally sunglasses and a UV T-shirt for the kids.

Anti-seasickness tips

Look at the horizon, avoid an empty or overly full stomach, stay hydrated.
Access and logistics
- Shuttle possible depending on availability.
- Otherwise, come by hire car.

Private catamaran for families

If you’d like some time just to yourselves, or you’re a big family, chartering a private catamaran is a great option.

Journey and pace

Charters by the hour, 3h minimum.
You choose the plan: more sailing or anchoring in a cove for a swim.
The skipper adapts to what you want and to the weather.

Prices

€135/h, 3h minimum.

Snacks and equipment

To keep the price low and avoid waste, no food or drinks are provided.
Cool boxes and chilled storage on board: bring your own snacks and drinks.
Available: masks, snorkels, paddleboard, Bluetooth speaker.

What to bring

A cap, sunscreen, sunglasses and a UV T-shirt for the kids.

Anti-seasickness tips

Look at the horizon, avoid an empty or overly full stomach, stay well hydrated.

Access and logistics

No shuttle. If you’re not staying in Playa Blanca, the easiest option is to come by hire car.

From age 5

Buggy tours in Lanzarote for families

A fun, accessible adventure. No racing or drifting here: you cruise along, enjoy the views and take your time.

Route and pace

Guided routes on authorised tracks, small groups of max 5 buggies.
Choose between 2h or 3h.
Panoramic views, lunar landscapes and photo stops. The 3h version adds a few more technical sections and a detour past the old cochineal fields.

Prices

2-seater buggy: 2h = €130 · 3h = €180.
4-seater buggy: 2h = €180 · 3h = €250.
6-seater buggy: 2h = €250 · 3h = €350.

Equipment and clothing

Dust goggles provided. Jackets available if needed.
No snack included: bring water and a small snack if needed.
Bring: closed shoes and clothes that can get dirty.

Age and driving requirements

Driver: licence held for at least 2 years.
Passengers: children ≥ 1.35 m in a 2-seater, or ≥ 3 years old (5+ recommended) in a 4- or 6-seater.
Not recommended during pregnancy or with serious back problems.

Comfort tips

Bring a scarf (optional) to protect yourself from the dust – they’re also on sale at the agency for €5 each if needed.

Access and logistics

Shuttle possible depending on availability: €5 per person.
Otherwise, come by hire car.

Tandem paragliding for kids and teens

A gentle, supervised experience. You get kitted out, listen to the briefing in English, Spanish or French, sit back in the harness and enjoy the volcanic scenery in silence.

Schedule and pace
Safety briefing, then a tandem flight.
Flight of about 25 min depending on conditions.
Allow 1h to 1h30 in total on site.

Prices
Discovery flight ≈ 25 min: €120.
Adrenaline flight ≈ 25 min: €170.
Photos and videos: €30 extra on Discovery, included on Adrenaline.

Equipment and clothing
Helmet and harness provided.
No snack included: bring water and a small snack if needed.
Bring: comfortable clothes and sunscreen.
For kids: a UV T-shirt is recommended.

Age and flight requirements
Open to youngsters as soon as they’re comfortable moving about on their own, with parental consent.
Max weight 100 kg.
The activity is weather-dependent: times and location are confirmed 2–3 days before.

Vertigo is rare when paragliding – you’re not standing at the edge of a drop.

Access and logistics
Meeting point sent after booking, depending on the wind.
The easiest option is to come by hire car.

Surfing in Lanzarote for families

A fun activity where you progress step by step. You learn to stand up, turn, and understand the sea and currents, in a laid-back atmosphere with a friendly owner who adapts to everyone’s level. Private or group lessons available.

Schedule and pace

The school picks the best spot of the day for your level and the conditions.
From age 6.
A lesson lasts about 2h30. With getting set up and travelling to the spot, allow half a day – typically 9am → 1pm.

Prices

2h30 lesson: 1 day = €70 · 2 days = €130 · 3 days = €180.
Main meeting point: Costa Teguise.

Equipment and clothing

Equipment provided. Remember a bottle of water and sunscreen.
For kids: a UV T-shirt is recommended.

Comfort tips

Avoid a big meal just before, stay hydrated, bring a towel and beachwear.
Sessions are in small groups so everyone can progress at ease.

From age 10

Scuba diving in Lanzarote for young teens

A gentle, supervised introduction. You start with a try-dive to get used to breathing underwater and see fish in calm water, then move on to courses if they catch the bug.

Schedule and pace

Try-dive: simple briefing, kitting up, then entering the water from the beach. Time underwater adapted to youngsters and complete beginners.
Courses: progress over several sessions, basic skills, then a first guided exploration.

Prices

Try-dive to get started: €75
Beginner course, first level: €485

Equipment and clothing

Full equipment provided.
Bring: swimsuit and towel.

Age and health requirements

Try-dive: open to keen youngsters, minimum age 10.
Courses: from age 10.
Medical questionnaire; not recommended for people with ear, nose and throat problems or asthma.

Access and logistics

Shuttle possible depending on availability. Otherwise, come by hire car.

Jet skiing in Lanzarote with a parent, or solo from age 16

A lively, supervised activity. You follow a coastal route with a guide, as a parent-child pair or solo from age 16 with parental consent.

Route and pace

Guided rides along the coast, but far enough out to be safe.
Choose from 40 min, 60 min or 120 min.
Safety briefing, then a gradual start before the faster part.

Prices

Depending on length: 40 min = €100, 60 min = €145, 120 min = €250.
Details sent on confirmation.

Equipment and clothing

Life jackets provided. Wetsuits depending on the season.
Bring: swimsuit, towel, sunscreen and sunglasses with a strap if possible.
Only take your phone out on the water if you have a suitable waterproof pouch.

Age and driving requirements

Solo: from age 16 with parental consent.
Parent-child pair: children from age 5 (8+ recommended) ride as passengers with a parent.

Comfort tips

Follow the guide’s instructions and keep a safe distance.
Drink plenty before the session and avoid a big meal just beforehand.

Access and logistics

Exact location sent after booking, depending on conditions.
A shuttle service is available.

Short visits that curious little ones love

Jameos del Agua

Short and guaranteed to wow. You head down into a volcanic cave that’s home to a tiny, very fragile blind albino crab. Remind the kids not to throw coins into the pool. To beat the crowds: arrive at opening time or late in the day. To beat boredom: a “who spots the first crab” game.

More details in this article and this one.

Cactus Garden

Easy route, smooth paths, lots of shapes and colours to photograph. Perfect for an ice-cream break at the café. To beat boredom: a little photo challenge – “the funniest cactus”.

I also talk about it in this article and this one.

Timanfaya with the family

A volcanic show that amazes the whole family: steam vents, scorching ground, a geothermal oven. Drive up to the Islote de Hilario, then take the official coach tour along the Route of the Volcanoes. Allow 45 to 90 min on site depending on crowds. Bring a cap and water. To beat the crowds: arrive before 9am or after 2:30pm. To beat boredom: a “count the volcanoes” mission from the coach.

I also talk about it in this article and this one.

Mirador del Río

A stunning view over La Graciosa. Allow 20 to 40 min. The glassed-in interior has a café, handy when it’s windy.
To keep kids entertained: binoculars and a “spot the boats and islets” game.
To beat the crowds: early morning or late afternoon.
Practical info: car park, paid entry → bring a windbreaker, cap and water.
Photo tip: the outdoor terrace when the wind drops.

I also talk about it in this article.

Haría and Teguise markets with the family

Haría market

Saturday 10am to 2:30pm, on Plaza León y Castillo. A village feel, craftspeople and local produce – perfect for a short stroll and a snack with kids. To beat the crowds: arrive at opening time. Practical: hat, water and a little cash for a souvenir.

Teguise market

Sunday 9am to 2pm, all over the historic centre. Huge and lively, with street music and lots of crafts. With kids: go early, pick 2 or 3 favourite stalls, then a churros break. Parking is easier on the outskirts.

I go into more detail in this article.

Easy beaches for families

Papagayo

Calm, clear water and sheltered coves. Little shade and few facilities, so come prepared with water, snacks and a folding sunshade. Ideal to combine with your Papagayo catamaran trip.

Playa Dorada

In Playa Blanca, with breakwaters that block the swell, fine sand, and showers and restaurants nearby. Very practical with a pushchair and for toddlers’ naps.

Caletón Blanco

In the north, shallow lagoons of white sand between lava flows. Wonderful for paddling and playing. Very few facilities – bring water and sun protection.

Famara

Huge and spectacular, but exposed to waves and currents. Not suitable for young children to swim. Perfect for a walk, flying a kite or taking photos. For a beginner surf lesson, only in very gentle conditions and with a school.

Punta Mujeres natural pools

Several seawater pools along the village, ideal for kids when the tide is right. The ground can be slippery, so bring water shoes. Check the tide times; goggles are a good idea for spotting fish and crabs.

Check out my article on Lanzarote’s beaches by clicking here.

Family checklist: everything you need to know and pack

Sun and wind

Strong UV all year round: caps, SPF 50 sunscreen, UV T-shirts, sunglasses.
It’s often windy: a light windbreaker for the kids, especially at sea and at viewpoints.

Sea and swimming

Beach flags: green = OK, yellow = take care, red = no swimming.
Strong currents on the west coast and at Famara: not recommended for little ones to swim.
Water shoes are handy for rocks and natural pools.
Seasickness: eat light, look at the horizon, stay hydrated. Ask at a pharmacy if needed.

Hydration and water

Bring reusable water bottles.
Tap water is desalinated, so it doesn’t taste great: lots of families prefer bottled water.

Getting around

The easiest option with kids: a hire car (book a car seat in advance).
Buses and taxis are fine for simple journeys.
Parking: easy.
Papagayo: unpaved track and a small access fee.

Health and documents

European Health Insurance Card for EU citizens (or your country’s equivalent) + travel insurance if possible.
Pharmacies (“Farmacia”) everywhere; the emergency number is 112.
Caps, sunscreen, plasters, and anti-nausea medication if recommended by a health professional.

Kit for kids

A compact pushchair in town; a baby carrier is handy for caves and the Timanfaya coach.
Armbands/swim vests for little ones, a microfibre towel, a quick change of clothes.

Pace of the day

Alternate short visits and active outings.
Plan naps, and always have snacks and water in the bag.
Best times to avoid crowds: early morning or late afternoon.

Money and eating out

Cards are accepted almost everywhere; keep a little cash for markets and car parks.
Spanish mealtimes: lunch can be late; book in the evening in tourist areas.
Kids’ menus vary: sharing tapas works well.

Tides and natural pools

Check the tides for Punta Mujeres and other pools.
The ground can be slippery: water shoes recommended.

Photos and souvenirs

Power banks, waterproof cases for boat trips, bin bags to keep the car clean after the beach.

“Leave no trace” common sense

Don’t take stones or shells, don’t throw coins into the pools at Jameos, and take your rubbish home with you.

Conclusion

Lanzarote is an easy island to enjoy with kids. Mix short visits with active outings and everyone’s happy. If you’re torn between two options, want to adjust things to your kids’ ages or energy levels, or the weather’s making you unsure, I’m here to help.

Lanzarote with Kids: Family Activities and Things to See

Activities at a glance by age:

And further down, you'll find ideas for family-friendly sights and beaches.

Activities for all ages

Seeing dolphins in Lanzarote as a family

Catamaran to Papagayo with kids

Isla de Lobos from Lanzarote with kids

Private catamaran for families

From age 5

Buggy tours in Lanzarote for families

Tandem paragliding for kids and teens

Surfing in Lanzarote for families

From age 10

Scuba diving in Lanzarote for young teens

Jet skiing in Lanzarote with a parent, or solo from age 16

Short visits that curious little ones love

Jameos del Agua

Cactus Garden

Timanfaya with the family

Mirador del Río

Haría and Teguise markets with the family

Haría market

Teguise market

Easy beaches for families

Papagayo

Playa Dorada

Caletón Blanco

Famara

Punta Mujeres natural pools

Family checklist: everything you need to know and pack

Conclusion

REJOIGNEZ L'AVENTURE​

JOIN THE ADVENTURE

REJOIGNEZ L'AVENTURE