Tinajo Beaches

Overview

Welcome to Tinajo, a destination that redefines the Canary Islands beach experience. If you are seeking a coastline that is wild, rugged, and powerfully authentic, you have found the right place. The shores here are not lined with resorts and sunbeds; instead, they offer a dramatic volcanic landscape prized by surfers, hikers, and travelers looking to escape the crowds. Tinajo's appeal lies in its untouched natural beauty, offering a glimpse into a more untamed side of Lanzarote.

The coastline offers a variety of unique experiences. While not in Tinajo itself, the magnificent cliffs of Famara beach are a short drive away and represent the area's world-class surfing scene. For a truly unique volcanic landscape, the secluded black sands of Playa de las Malvas are a must-see. Closer to the main village, Playa de la Santa provides a convenient spot to soak in the local, sporty atmosphere. For those craving a classic white sand experience, the famous coves of Playa De Papagayo in the south are a popular and straightforward day trip.

The vibe in Tinajo is energetic and connected to the ocean, with the village of La Santa serving as a global hub for athletes. The focus is less on leisurely sunbathing and more on active pursuits and exploration. Discovering the perfect, secluded cove is part of the adventure. For a complete look at all the hidden gems and well-known breaks, be sure to explore our full guide to the beaches of Tinajo.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Tinajo a good destination for a traditional beach holiday?

Tinajo is not a typical beach holiday destination if you're looking for golden sand, sunbeds, and calm waters. The coastline is rugged, volcanic, and wild, prized for its natural, untouched beauty. It's a fantastic choice for travelers who love nature, surfing, hiking, and exploring a more authentic side of Lanzarote, away from the main tourist resorts.

What are the beaches in Tinajo actually like? Are they sandy?

The beaches in the Tinajo municipality are characterized by their wild, natural state. You'll find a mix of black volcanic sand, pebbles, and rocky coves. Beaches like Playa de la Santa are small and located near the village, while others like Playa de Las Malvas are secluded coves of black sand reached via dirt tracks. They generally lack amenities like cafes or sunbed rentals, offering a more rugged experience.

Playa de las Malvas

Can you safely swim at the beaches in Tinajo?

Swimming on Tinajo's open coast can be dangerous due to strong Atlantic waves and currents, especially at surf spots. It is generally not recommended for casual swimmers. However, the village of La Santa has a man-made lagoon with calm waters that is safe for swimming. For safer ocean swimming, it's better to seek out protected natural pools (charcos) when the tide is low and conditions are calm.

Is Tinajo a good place for families with young children?

While Tinajo offers a peaceful, authentic experience, it may be challenging for families with young children seeking easy beach days. The ocean is often too rough for kids, and the beaches lack facilities. However, families staying at resorts like Club La Santa will find family-friendly pools and a protected lagoon. For traditional sandy beach fun, families often drive to the calmer beaches in the south of the island.

Where is the best area to stay in Tinajo for beach access?

For direct access to a swimming-friendly 'beach', staying in or near Club La Santa is your best bet due to its protected lagoon. For surfers, staying in La Santa or Caleta de Caballo provides quick access to famous breaks. If your goal is to explore the wild, natural coves, staying in the main town of Tinajo or a rural rental ('finca') provides a central base from which you can drive to different coastal spots.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

How do Tinajo's beaches compare to Famara beach?

Both Tinajo's coastline and nearby Famara Beach (in Teguise municipality) are famous for surfing and their wild, windswept beauty. Famara is a vast, long sandy beach backed by dramatic cliffs, making it visually spectacular and very popular with all levels of surfers and kitesurfers. Tinajo's coast is more about smaller, scattered coves and rocky reef breaks, often feeling more secluded and rugged. Both are exposed to Atlantic swells and are not ideal for calm swimming.

Famara

Is Tinajo a good place for beginner surfers?

The powerful reef breaks directly at La Santa, like 'El Quemao', are for experts only. However, the wider area and nearby beaches like Famara are excellent for beginners. There are several surf schools based in Tinajo and La Santa that take beginners to safer, more suitable spots with gentler waves to learn.

Famara

Are there any natural swimming pools (charcos) near Tinajo?

Yes, the rocky volcanic coastline of western Lanzarote, including the area around Tinajo, is home to natural pools or 'charcos'. These are rock formations that fill with seawater, creating sheltered places to swim, especially at low tide. Exploring the coast near villages like Tenesar or Caleta de Caballo can reveal these spots, but always be extremely cautious of the tides and wave conditions.

People Also Ask

Do you need a car to get to the beaches in Tinajo?

Yes, renting a car is highly recommended. While the village of La Santa is accessible by bus, many of Tinajo's most interesting beaches and coastal spots, like Playa de Las Malvas or Tenesar, are down dirt tracks or away from public transport routes. A car gives you the freedom to explore the rugged coastline and the rest of the island at your own pace.

Playa de las Malvas

What is the vibe at La Santa and its beach?

The vibe in La Santa is overwhelmingly sporty and active, centered around the world-famous Club La Santa sports resort. You'll see athletes running, cycling, and heading out to surf. The atmosphere is energetic and healthy, not a party scene. The village itself is a quiet fishing village with some excellent seafood restaurants, offering a relaxed contrast to the active resort.

Are there any hidden or secret beaches in the Tinajo area?

The coastline around Tinajo is full of small, secluded coves that feel like hidden gems. The small fishing hamlet of Tenesar, sometimes called Lanzarote's 'lost village', has a quiet black sand and pebble beach. Following the dirt tracks along the coast north of La Santa can also lead you to isolated spots. The adventure lies in the exploration, but always prioritize safety.

How far is Tinajo from the famous sandy beaches like Papagayo?

Tinajo is on the opposite side of the island from the famous golden sand beaches. A drive from Tinajo to the Papagayo beaches in the south near Playa Blanca would take approximately 40-45 minutes by car. This makes it a feasible day trip if you're staying in Tinajo but want to experience a classic beach day.

Playa De Papagayo