Papagayo Kayak and Snorkelling Tour with Photos Lanzarote

Papagayo Beach and the Los Ajaches natural monument

The Papagayo beaches are a series of golden coves in the far south of Lanzarote, protected within the Los Ajaches natural monument, the oldest part of the island. Here, eroded volcanic hills fall in layered cliffs of ochre and brown to the sea, sheltering small beaches of fine sand and calm, crystal-clear water. Papagayo Beach itself is a perfect shell-shaped cove framed by cliffs, often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands.

Because the area is protected, there are no buildings on the shore, and by land it is reached only by dirt tracks. Arriving by kayak is one of the most rewarding ways to see it: you approach from the water, as the cove is meant to be seen, and land directly on the sand. From the beach you look across the narrow strait to Fuerteventura and the islet of Lobos.

Kayaking along the southern coast

The tour begins with a safety introduction and a lesson in paddling technique, so it is suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness. You then paddle for about an hour along the coast from Playa Blanca towards Papagayo, with stops to rest, take photos and listen to your guide explain the volcanic geology of Los Ajaches and the history of this coast.

This Papagayo kayak tour stays close to the shore, where the cliffs rise above you and the water is often clear enough to see the seabed. The sea in the south of Lanzarote is usually calmer than on the windy north coast, but conditions vary, and the guide adapts the route to the day.

Snorkelling at Papagayo

Once on the beach, you have time to relax with a picnic of snacks, then swim and snorkel in the turquoise water with the equipment provided. The mix of sandy patches and volcanic rocks attracts small fish, and on calm days the visibility is excellent.

Is Papagayo worth visiting? Many travellers consider it the best beach on Lanzarote, and seeing it from a kayak and from below the water gives you the full experience. Remember to wear reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes, which make walking on the rocks easier. Your guide keeps an eye on the group in the water and points out the best spots, and snorkelling is optional: you can simply swim, sunbathe or explore the beach if you prefer.

Playa Blanca and how to get to the kayak base

Playa Blanca is the southernmost resort on Lanzarote, a former fishing village that has grown into a relaxed town with a long seafront promenade, a modern marina and ferries to Fuerteventura. It is the closest town to the Papagayo beaches.

How to get to the start of the tour? The kayak base is at Calle Las Palmas 5 in Playa Blanca; the entrance is at the back of the complex, down the street next to the reception. There is no hotel pickup, but the base is within walking or short taxi distance for most hotels in Playa Blanca, and about 35 to 40 minutes by car from Puerto del Carmen. The best time for this activity is the morning, when the sea is usually calmest.