Los Charcones Lanzarote — one of the most photographed places in Lanzarote
Natural turquoise pools over black lava, on one of the wildest coasts in the south of Lanzarote. The volcanic postcard that has gone around Instagram.
Safety notice
Lanzarote's coasts are dangerous. Los Charcones is considered a "death trap" due to unexpected waves and strong currents, especially in cordoned-off areas. Despite its beauty, access is difficult, the area is not patrolled, and there have been disappearances and serious rescues of tourists swept away by the sea. Always respect the signs, do not approach the water in heavy swell, and never swim alone.
Southwest of Lanzarote, between Playa Blanca and Janubio (Yaiza). Access via a dirt track from the LZ-703.
Low tide and calm sea. Avoid days with heavy swell or southerly winds: waves crash forcefully into the pools.
Sunrise and sunset are magical. From the air, the lava-turquoise contrast is one of the island's most iconic images.
What are Los Charcones in Lanzarote
Los Charcones is a series of natural pools carved into the volcanic rock of the southwest coast of Lanzarote, in the municipality of Yaiza. They formed where lava met the Atlantic Ocean: the basalt rock creates pools of different sizes and depths that fill with crystal-clear water with every tide.
The result is one of the most photographed landscapes in the Canary Islands: transparent turquoise water over black lava, with Fuerteventura outlined on the horizon. There is no development or services around — just wild coast, trade winds, and the sound of the sea crashing against the rocks.
Because of its beauty and untouched character, Los Charcones has become one of the favorite spots for photographers, content creators, and travellers looking for the most natural face of Lanzarote.
How to visit without spoiling the experience
- Go early. Early in the morning there are fewer people, the light is better and the wind hasn't picked up yet. It's also the best time for photography and aerial video.
- Check the tide and swell. With high tide and heavy swell, waves break into the pools and swimming is no longer safe. Check the forecast before going.
- Rock footwear. Access is over sharp lava. Neoprene booties or technical sandals prevent cuts and slips.
- Take everything back with you. There are no bins or facilities. If rubbish ends up in the water, the next tide carries it to the ocean. Respect the place.
Los Charcones in pictures
Three postcards from the most viral spot on Lanzarote's south coast.
Interested in more adventure on Lanzarote's coast?
After a swim at Los Charcones, take the experience to the next level with the water sports curated by Benty. Book directly here.
Surfing in Famara
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Freediving & snorkelling
Courses and freediving trips to the Museo Atlántico.
eSurf at Marina Rubicón
Latest-generation electric board, 10 min from Los Charcones.
Sport sailing
Head out sailing along Lanzarote's south coast.
Windsurf
Beginner and intermediate sessions with the trade winds.
Wing Foil
Learn to fly over the water in 3 days.
Frequently asked questions
- Where exactly is Los Charcones?
- Los Charcones is located in the southwest of Lanzarote, between Playa Blanca and Janubio, in the municipality of Yaiza. It's a series of natural pools formed where lava met the ocean, on a wild and barely developed coastline.
- How do you get to Los Charcones?
- From Playa Blanca, take the LZ-703 toward Janubio. Near the Montaña Roja industrial estate, a dirt track branches off toward the sea (marked on some maps as 'Los Charcones'). You can drive (ideally in an SUV) to a small improvised parking area, then walk 5–10 minutes down to the pools.
- Is it safe to swim at Los Charcones?
- It depends on the sea. At low tide and with calm water the pools are paradise. At high tide or with heavy swell (especially with south or southwest winds), waves break over the rocks and crash hard into the pools: it's dangerous. Always check the tide and swell forecast before going.
- What is the best time to visit?
- Early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light, or at sunset for photography. To swim, ideally aim for low tide and calm sea. Bring water, rock footwear and sun protection: there is no shade and no facilities.
- Why is it one of the most photographed spots in Lanzarote?
- Because of the striking contrast between the black volcanic lava and the transparent turquoise water of the pools, with views of Fuerteventura in the background. It's one of Lanzarote's most viral scenes on Instagram and travel reels, and appears in most of the island's premium guides.
- Can it be combined with other nearby plans?
- Yes. You're 10 minutes from Playa Blanca and Marina Rubicón (restaurants, eSurf, sailing), 15 minutes from the Mirador de Femés, and very close to Playa de Janubio and the salt flats. A morning at Los Charcones + lunch at Marina Rubicón + sunset at Janubio is one of the best plans in the south.