Is Nazaret village itself on the coast or does it have its own beach?
Nazaret is a charming traditional village located inland in the heart of Lanzarote, about a 10-15 minute drive from the nearest coastlines. It does not have its own beach.
What are the closest beaches to Nazaret village and how long does it take to get there?
The closest main beach resort is Costa Teguise, which is about a 10-15 minute drive (approx. 8-10 km) from Nazaret. Beaches there include Playa de las Cucharas, Playa Bastián, and Playa del Jablillo. Famara Beach, known for surfing, is also relatively close, around a 15-20 minute drive to the west.
Is Nazaret a good base for a beach-focused holiday in Lanzarote?
Nazaret can be a good base if you prefer a quieter, more traditional village atmosphere and don't mind a short drive to the beaches. It offers a central location for exploring the whole island. However, if your priority is to be directly on the beach or within walking distance, a coastal resort like Costa Teguise, Playa Blanca, or Puerto del Carmen would be more suitable.
What kind of holiday is Nazaret village best for?
Nazaret is ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in an authentic Canarian village, away from the main tourist bustle. It's great for those interested in culture (like visiting the LagOmar Museum), enjoying local life, and using it as a central point to explore Lanzarote's diverse landscapes, including volcanoes and different coastlines, by car.
I've seen 'Nazaret Beach Apartments' or 'Nazaret Apartments' advertised. Are these located in Nazaret village?
This is a common point of confusion. 'Nazaret Beach Apartments' and similarly named 'Nazaret Apartments' are often brand names for tourist accommodations located in coastal resorts like Costa Teguise or Playa Honda, not in the actual village of Nazaret. Always check the specific address of the accommodation.
Do I need to rent a car if I'm staying in Nazaret and want to visit beaches regularly?
Yes, renting a car is highly recommended if you stay in Nazaret and plan to visit beaches frequently or explore the island. While some bus routes pass through or near Nazaret, a car offers much more flexibility and convenience for reaching various coastal areas and attractions.
How easy is it to get to Famara beach from Nazaret?
Famara beach is quite accessible from Nazaret by car, typically a 15-20 minute drive (around 12-15 km). There are also bus connections, though these might be less direct or frequent than driving.
Can you swim at the beaches closest to Nazaret (like in Costa Teguise)? What is the water like?
Yes, the beaches in Costa Teguise, such as Playa Bastián, Playa de las Cucharas, and Playa del Jablillo, are generally good for swimming. Playa del Jablillo is particularly calm and sheltered, making it great for families and snorkeling. Water is typically clear, and temperatures are pleasant for swimming most of the year, though it can be cooler in winter. Some beaches can be windy, which Costa Teguise is known for.
Are there family-friendly beaches easily accessible from Nazaret?
Yes, several family-friendly beaches are a short drive away. Playa del Jablillo and parts of Playa Bastián in Costa Teguise are good options due to their calmer waters. Playa Reducto in Arrecife (approx. 15-20 min drive) is also a large, sheltered bay with calm waters. Further afield, Playa Flamingo and Playa Dorada in Playa Blanca are excellent for families.
Which beaches near Nazaret are best for surfing or watersports?
For surfing, Famara Beach is the most renowned spot near Nazaret and is famous across Lanzarote for its consistent waves, suitable for various levels. For windsurfing and other watersports, Playa de las Cucharas in Costa Teguise is a well-known hub with rental facilities and schools.
When is the best time of year to visit Nazaret if I want to enjoy the beaches in Lanzarote?
Lanzarote enjoys a mild, sunny climate year-round. For the warmest sea temperatures and most reliable sunshine for beach days, the period from May to October is ideal. However, you can comfortably visit beaches throughout the year, though the water will be cooler and there might be more wind, especially during winter months.
How does staying in Nazaret for beach access compare to staying directly in a resort like Costa Teguise?
Staying in Nazaret means you'll have a quieter, more authentic village experience but will need to drive 10-20 minutes to reach the main beaches. In Costa Teguise, you'd be within walking distance of several beaches, shops, and restaurants, offering more convenience for a purely beach-focused holiday but with a more tourist-oriented atmosphere.
Are there any 'hidden gem' or quieter beaches I can reach from Nazaret?
While Lanzarote's popular beaches can get busy, from Nazaret you can explore less-frequented spots. Consider exploring smaller coves along the northern coast (e.g., near Órzola like Caleta del Mojón Blanco) or the more rugged coastline near Famara beyond the main surfing area. Playa de la Garita in Arrieta offers a more local feel. These will require a car and some exploration.
What's the parking situation usually like at popular Lanzarote beaches accessible from Nazaret?
Parking at popular beaches like those in Costa Teguise, Famara, or Papagayo can be challenging, especially during peak season (summer, holidays) and peak times of the day. Arrive early for a better chance of finding a spot. Some beaches have dedicated car parks (sometimes paid, like Papagayo), while others rely on street parking.
Is public transport a realistic option for getting from Nazaret to various beaches around Lanzarote?
Public buses (guaguas) do operate in Lanzarote and connect Nazaret to some main towns like Teguise and Arrecife, from where you can get onward buses to beach resorts. For example, there are routes to Costa Teguise and Famara. However, services might not be very frequent or direct to all beaches, and a car is generally more efficient for beach hopping from Nazaret.