When we talk about things to do in Lanzarote, the first thing that comes to mind are its beaches, its volcanic landscapes, its traditional white houses that are part of the island’s visual identity, or César Manrique’s works. But there’s a place that surprises visitors, especially families and curious travelers: the Lanzarote Aquarium, in Costa Teguise. Visiting the aquarium for the first time is an ideal activity for those looking for something different during their holidays in the island.
More than 11,500 reviews in Google and a 4.5-star rating make it one of the top attractions in Lanzarote, not only for its visual appeal but also for its educational offer and commitment to marine conservation. A key fact in Lanzarote’s history is its volcanic origin, which has deeply marked the landscape and local culture, even influencing the marine life that can be seen in the aquarium.
This is not just any aquarium. It’s the only one in the island and one of the biggest in the Canary Islands, with over 1 million liters of water and 33 tanks that reproduce Atlantic, Caribbean and tropical coral reefs.
Introduction to Lanzarote: A unique destination in the Canaries
Lanzarote is a fascinating island in the Canary Islands archipelago, known for its incredible landscapes and special atmosphere.
This is the perfect destination for those looking for more than sun and beaches: here, volcanic nature meets golden beaches and outdoor activities that won’t leave anyone indifferent. The Timanfaya National Park is one of the island’s greatest treasures, a protected area where lava fields and volcanic cones create a landscape from another planet.
Lanzarote invites you to discover its history and culture through its monuments, museums and traditions, making each visit a complete and enriching experience. Whether you travel with family, as a couple or solo, the island will surprise you with its authenticity and ability to always offer something new.
WHY THIS VISIT MUST BE ON YOUR Lanzarote TO-DO LIST
A must-see for all the family
The Lanzarote Aquarium is one of those experiences that everyone loves. The little ones enjoy seeing sharks, clownfish or starfish in the touch tanks, while adults relax watching the beauty and movement of marine life.
It’s a quiet, educational and different activity, perfect for a beach day or a rainy day.
Ideal location and easy access
It’s located in Costa Teguise, a major tourist area of the island and one of the most visited, with easy access from Arrecife or any point south. You can get there by car, bus or taxi and there’s parking nearby. This makes it perfect to combine with other things to do in Lanzarote like a stroll along the promenade or a meal by the sea.
A different experience: nature under the seaWhat makes the Lanzarote Aquarium special is the ability to take you, without moving from the island, to the bottom of the ocean. The shark tunnel is one of the most photographed spots, along with the local and tropical species tanks.
It also has an interactive area where you can touch marine animals and learn about their environment. It’s not just a tourist attraction: it’s an opportunity to connect with the marine nature of the Canaries and understand why it’s so important to protect it.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE LANZAROTE AQUARIUM
Over 1 million liters of water and 33 marine tanks
This aquarium has over 33 tanks with an impressive variety of species. From tropical fish and mullets to sea horses, turtles and sharks. Each area is designed to replicate the Atlantic and tropical ocean ecosystems. The diversity of species here is a result of the natural wealth of Lanzarote’s marine ecosystems.
Shark tunnel, local species and touch tank
One of the main attractions is the shark tunnel, where visitors walk while sharks and rays swim above their heads.
There are also areas dedicated to local species, such as sargos, viejas or doradas, which are part of the island’s native marine fauna.
And for the curious, the touch tank allows you to touch starfish or sea cucumbers, always under the supervision of the aquarium staff. The aquarium guides also provide information about the species and the marine environment, enriching the visitor’s experience.
Educational values and marine conservationBeyond the fun, the Lanzarote Aquarium has an educational vocation.
It organises activities for schools, collaborates with conservation campaigns and actively participates in turtle marine conservation.
This makes it one of the things to do in Lanzarote that’s complete: fun, educational and meaningful.
HOW TO GET THE MOST OUT OF THIS ACTIVITY IN LANZAROTE
Best time and duration
The aquarium is open every day, usually from 10:00 to 18:00 and the visit takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. If you get there early, you’ll avoid the peak hours and can go at your own pace.
Many visitors enjoy it so much they come back several times.
Family visit: what to plan
It’s a great activity for families with kids. Besides seeing animals, they can learn about marine ecosystems and get to know the importance of protecting the ocean.
The visit is wheelchair and mobility impaired accessible.
Practical tips
- Bring your camera or phone charged: the views inside the tunnel and tanks are amazing.
- Visit Costa Teguise afterwards, it’s full of shops, cafes and restaurants.
- Buy your ticket online to save time in the queue, especially in high season.
- If you’re travelling with kids, check the interactive activities or animal feedings times, they’re usually the most popular.
OTHER ACTIVITIES AND VISITS IN LANZAROTE YOU CAN COMBINE
Explore Costa Teguise and surroundings
After visiting the aquarium, you can walk along the Costa Teguise avenues or head to Playa de las Cucharas, perfect for relaxing or surfing.You can also visit the Teguise Market, the oldest on the island, if your trip coincides with the weekend.
Costa Teguise is known for having some of the best beaches in Lanzarote, so it’s a must-visit destination for those who want to enjoy the island’s beaches.
Beaches and relaxation after the visit
If you prefer to chill out, you can reach some of the island’s most comfortable and family-friendly beaches in less than 10 minutes. Combining the Lanzarote Aquarium with a sunset swim is a perfect plan. Plus, Playa Blanca is one of the best places to relax after the aquarium visit.
Cultural and volcanic tourism
For those who want a full day, you can combine with other things to do in Lanzarote like the Jameos del Agua, the Cactus Garden (in this case, it’s a perfect example of landscape and art integration), the Mirador del Río or some of the island’s main art and culture centres, such as the César Manrique Foundation, all within an hour’s drive.
You can also include the visit to the Cuervo volcano and the Corona volcano, two iconic volcanoes that are part of highly recommended volcanic routes. Don’t miss the Natural Park of the Ajaches and the Charco de los Clicos, both natural interest areas. El Golfo is perfect for trying local cuisine and unique volcanic landscapes, while the Monument to the Peasant honours the island’s traditional culture and countryside. Haría, with its rural and bucolic surroundings, is another must-visit to get to know the essence of the island.If you’re looking for something different, some routes include the island of La Graciosa, famous for its natural beauty, and the cove of Sebo, a quiet beach perfect for families. Puerto del Carmen is another tourist destination, great for those who want to combine leisure, beaches and water sports.
Monuments and museums of Lanzarote: history and art to discover
Lanzarote is an island where history and art meet in every corner. Among the must-visit places are the Castle of San José, which now houses the Contemporary Art Museum, and the Castle of Santa Bárbara, from where you can enjoy stunning views and the Piracy Museum. But what defines Lanzarote is the César Manrique’s mark, whose artistic vision turned the island into a work of art. Spaces like the Jameos del Agua and the Cactus Garden are examples of how art and nature can coexist in perfect harmony, integrating the volcanic landscape into unique creations. These monuments and museums not only tell the island’s history but also invite you to live and feel it in a different way.
The Geria and Lanzarote wines:
an enological and scenic experienceIn the heart of Lanzarote is La Geria, a unique region where the vineyards grow on volcanic soil, creating a landscape that looks like another world. This is famous for its wines, especially the Volcanic Malvasía, which surprises with its taste and character. A trip to La Geria is an opportunity to see how tradition and innovation come together in the island’s viticulture. The wineries open their doors to visitors, offering tastings and the chance to see the wine-making process up close. Plus, walking through the La Geria fields is a visual treat, where the contrasts of colours and shapes make every walk a sensory pleasure. Definitely one of those places you can’t miss on your trip to Lanzarote.
Lanzarote map and places to visit
Lanzarote is an island to be explored, with a list of places and activities for all tastes. Among the must-visit are the Cueva de los Verdes, an impressive volcanic tube that takes you into the heart of the earth, and the Timanfaya National Park, where the lava landscapes and natural geysers will make you feel like you’re on another planet. The Jameos del Agua, one of César Manrique’s masterpieces, combine art and nature in a magical setting. For sea lovers, the Famara beach is perfect for surfing or simply relaxing in the sun, while the Blanca beach and the Caletones beach offer calm waters and postcard views. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relax or culture, Lanzarote has something for every visitor.
Lanzarote FAQs
Why is Lanzarote a unique destination in the Canaries?
Lanzarote stands out for its combination of volcanic landscapes, stunning beaches and unbeatable cultural and artistic offer. Timanfaya National Park, Cueva de los Verdes and Jameos del Agua are just a few of the places that make the island a different destination in the Canaries.
Must-see places in Lanzarote?Among the places you can’t miss are Timanfaya National Park, Cueva de los Verdes, Jameo Chico, Jameos del Agua, Famara beach and César Manrique’s creations like the Cactus Garden and the Río Mirador.
What to do in Lanzarote?The island offers a wide range of activities: from snorkelling and diving in its crystal-clear waters to volcanic landscapes, bike routes, hiking and cultural visits to museums and monuments.
What makes César Manrique’s work special?César Manrique’s work is unique because it combines art, architecture and nature. His creations, like the Jameos del Agua or the Cactus Garden, are true works of art integrated into the volcanic landscape, becoming symbols of Lanzarote and part of any guide to visit the island.
CONCLUSION: ONE OF THE BEST VISITS IN LANZAROTE
If you’re planning your trip and wondering what to do in Lanzarote, the Lanzarote Aquarium should be on your list. Not only is it a different experience, but also one of the best rated by visitors. Over 11,500 reviews and 4.5 stars on Google endorse its quality, service and ability to surprise big and small.In short, one of the best visits in Lanzarote: educational, fun and part of the island’s natural essence. You’ll feel at home in Lanzarote when you visit the aquarium, thanks to its cozy atmosphere and connection with the island’s architecture and traditional houses. A must-see for those looking for more than sun and beach.
