The idyllic climate, beautiful landscape and island charm of Lanzarote has long made it a popular spot for the British looking for a bit of sand, sea and sun. But thanks to local hero, conservationist and architect César Manrique, the island was saved from much of the over-development that went on in many of Spain’s most picturesque holiday destinations.
That being said, Costa Teguise is not the place to head if you’re looking for picturesque fishing villages with cobbled streets. Built in the 1970s under the watchful eye of Manrique, the resort is modern and comes with the benefits of having the accommodation, facilities and restaurants all centrally located. If cobble stones are your thing then a short trip inland to the beautiful, historic town of Teguise, with its bustling weekly market, should give you your fix.
If, however, what you are coming here to do is relax on one of the island’s most inviting stretches of coast then you are in luck. Costa Teguise has no fewer than five excellent beaches for you to choose from. Get your towel and sun screen ready, because here’s my guide to what to expect from each of them.
Playa Chucharas
This kilometre-long stretch of soft, golden sand located beside the resort is always popular and that’s because it has everything most holidaymakers are looking for. Sun beds and umbrellas are provided for sun-worshippers; a gentle slope into the water is perfect for bathers; and a raft of local cafés, restaurants and bars cater to those who want a little time out of the sun. With nearby facilities on hand this is the perfect place to spend the day.
As the beach is popular with wind-surfers, my advice would be that if you head down here and there are loads of wind-surfers out, it’s probably better to find another beach for the day. While Playa Chucharas is idyllic on a calm day, when it gets windy it offers very little protection to sunbathers who can feel like they’re lying in the face of a blow heater.
Playa Jablillo
This picturesque horse shoe-shaped bay is a great choice if it’s too breezy for Chucharas as its shape offers a natural protection from the wind. It is also the perfect beach for those who like a serious swim as the volcanic rock around the bay has created a natural swimming pool. It is smaller than Chucharas so it can get crowded but there are still plenty of sun beds and umbrellas to go round.
Playa Bastian
This beautiful (if a little rocky) beach is just a short stroll along the promenade from Jablillo and is even more protected from the wind than its neighbour. The beautiful gardens planted along the promenade make this a lovely spot and the excellent facilities (including toilets, showers and disabled access) mean this is an inviting place to spend the day. There’s a good local restaurant practically on the beach, so once you’ve had enough of sunbathing you can relax with a glass of wine and some good local seafood.
Playa Ancla
If you are looking for something a little more secluded then my advice would be to head along the coast towards Arrecife until you reach the beautiful little bay of Playa Ancla. Not many tourists make it this far so it’s likely to be just you and a few locals; there may not be any facilities but what it lacks in amenities it more than makes up for in natural beauty.
Playa Los Charcos
Another great swimming bay, Playa Los Charcos benefits from a natural reef which protects the sand from any large waves. Set almost at Puerto del Carmen, it is worth the walk for the tranquillity of the water and the beach itself. There are some facilities here, including sun loungers and umbrellas, and there’s also a pretty boardwalk and jetty which is perfect for a stroll at the end of the day.
How to Get to Costa Teguise
One of the most appealing things about the resort is how easy it is to get to – just 15 minutes from Lanzarote Airport by transfer. There are plenty of regular flights from the UK to the island with a range of airlines including British Airways and easyJet; flight times are around four hours. The quickest and most convenient way to get from the airport to your accommodation is to book a Shuttle Direct private car transfer online before you leave home. That way a trusted driver will be in the arrivals lounge to meet you and help you to the car with your bags.
Where to Stay
Grand Teguise Playa – The beautifully landscaped Grand Teguise Playa really has to be seen to be believed. Set just back from the beach, it has its own beautiful gardens which include two swimming pools and a sun terrace. Inside, the stunning atrium with botanical gardens offers an impressive yet tranquil space to relax in.
Meliá Salinas – For a touch of five-star elegance on the beachfront it has to be the Meliá Salinas. Elegant contemporary design make this place look like it could be at home in the luxury resorts of the Indian Ocean. It offers a choice of two beaches attached to the hotel. and its own private gardens featuring a lagoon-style swimming pool. There are also four restaurants with a choice of cuisine, two bars and regular evening entertainment.
HD Beach Resort – Located just moments from Cucharas Beach, the stylish HD Beach Resort has its own tennis courts, wellness centre and pool. The contemporary suites are spacious and each have a balcony with sea or mountain views.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct, the leading provider of airport transfers across Europe and northern Africa, offers a range of premium services to suit most travellers. Book an executive or premium service, using Shuttle Direct’s online booking facilities, and a driver will be in the arrivals lounge to meet you and carry your bags before driving you to the door of your hotel.
