Arrecife - Capital of Lanzarote

What to see and do in Arrecife!

Arrecife is the capital of the island of Lanzarote and therefore is the center of all administrative and commercial operations with the other external municipalities as well as insular or national. Furthermore, its character as a seafaring town facilitates these relations through the port of the marina, and also the proximity to the airport (just 10 minutes by car) and all the tourist areas of Lanzarote such as Costa Teguise, Puerto del Carmen or Playa Blanca.

 

For many people, Arrecife is one of the big unknowns of Lanzarote, but it is also one of the most interesting cities to see in the island, besides being the capital. The fact is, it is one of the most peaceful places 'where to stay in your stay in Lanzarote, from there start many excursions and activities that are done in Lanzarote, as well as some of the sites of interest of Lanzarote. 

 

Everything you need to know about Arrecife

One of the most curious facts about Arrecife is that it is the smallest municipality in Lanzarote, although it is the city with the highest density. On the other hand, if you are wondering what you can do in Arrecife, here are a couple of recommendations for places of interest:

 

ARRECIFE -  Road Map of the capital of Lanzarote - Author: LCT Europe*.

*Author - LCT Europe (*Any reproduction in whole or in part of the map on paper or in any other medium or format is prohibited without the prior permission of the author (LCT Europe).

 

Mapa de Arrecife - LCT Europe

 

Charco de San Ginés

The image that appears in all the postcards of Arrecife, being the emblem of the capital, the puddle of Arrecife has been turning with the years into a reference of the tourism in Arrecife. It is not that it is one of the essential ones of Arrecife, it is that it is practically impossible that you go to the capital and you do not cross. Walking along the promenade or having a coffee while contemplating these views can be one of the best plans in Arrecife: tranquillity guaranteed.

Arrecife

Arrecife

Arrecife

 

San Gabriel Castle and Las Bolas Bridge

It happens to be another outstanding place in Arrecife, which also has been declared a Site of Cultural Interest. Take a walk over Las Bolas bridge to finally get to San Gabriel’s Castle and its Lanzarote Historical Museum, which are places full of history that make passing through all worth it.

 

You can only get to San Gabriel’s Castle through Las Bolas bridge, built over a small part of the island. Its impressive appearance is more than enough to give an idea of the huge defense the old residents had against the multiple pirate attacks that this island suffered.

 

This castle was built as a wood fortress a long time ago, only to be set on fire by pirates years later. However, the residents of the island didn’t give up and finally, the San Gabriel’s Castle you can see currently was created, completely built with stone around when the 16th Century was finishing.

 

In the museum that is now inside this old fortress, there are more than 3000 pieces in its collection, each one of them carrying all the history of Lanzarote inside them.

 

Reducto Beach

On the other hand, we have Reducto Beach, considered the best beach in the capital with the most popular promenade on the island, so it's not surprising that there is an extensive offer of accommodation in the area.

This beach stretches for more than half a kilometre and has striking golden sand. As it is one of the calmest beaches on the island due to the low wind and tidal currents, it is highly recommended for families with children. There are showers, changing rooms, toilets, and several restaurant options around the promenade apart from the beach bars that you'll find in the sand.


And don't worry about transport, as there are bus and taxi stops nearby, and if you plan to go on your own by bike, there are also bike lanes in the area.