Playa Quemada: A Hidden Gem In Lanzarote
The volcanic island of Lanzarote certainly doesn’t lack attention from tourists. Some visitors aim to explore as many of the island’s beaches as possible, while others enjoy the pleasures of surfing and various other water sports. Still, there are those who long to fully immerse themselves in Lanzarote’s authentic side, and some who seek unique, tranquil places untouched by mass tourism. Playa Quemada is precisely such a village—a true discovery and a peaceful oasis. It is a hidden gem on the island of Lanzarote that seems almost untouched by time. I was captivated by its entirely natural beauty and serene atmosphere. It offers the perfect escape from the crowds and heavily visited tourist spots.
Playa Quemada Lanzarote
This traditional fishing village has preserved its authenticity. Nestled by the Atlantic Ocean and surrounded by volcanic hills, it exudes a special sense of simplicity and tranquility. Here, you won’t find large hotels or shopping centers. Instead, scattered white houses with green doors and shutters, along with fishing boats, create a peaceful and picturesque setting.
Why Quemada
Place names often reflect history, surroundings, legends, or other influences, and Playa Quemada is no exception. The village’s name has a meaningful origin — it was inspired by the color of its beaches. In Spanish, the word Quemada means “burnt,” which perfectly describes the landscape of this fishing village. No, Playa Quemada hasn’t been scorched by fire, but its beaches are blanketed with pebbles as black as charcoal.
What To See In Playa Quemada
Do you know what impressed me the most during my visit to Playa Quemada? Walking through this fishing village, I felt as though I was stepping back in time by several decades. It has remained almost untouched: locals sit outside their whitewashed houses, fishing boats are scattered here and there, and everything is wrapped in a peaceful silence.
Here, you can take a leisurely stroll through the village or head to the beach. As I’ve already mentioned, the village is incredibly charming, with its picturesque white houses adorned with green doors and shutters.
While visiting this village, be sure to stop by Playa la Arena—one of the best beaches in Playa Quemada. It’s easy to reach from the village, just a short walk of a few minutes. If you’re seeking more privacy and wish to enjoy idyllic tranquility, explore the coastline. You’ll discover tiny, secluded cove-like beaches where you’ll likely be the only visitor. Settle down on the black sand and immerse yourself in the harmony of the sun, gentle breeze, and the soft rhythm of the ocean waves.
If you visit in the morning, the idyllic atmosphere will be further enhanced by fishermen calmly pulling their boats into the water and heading out for the day’s catch.
Where To Eat In The Village
Playa Quemada is a small village, so it’s natural for travelers planning a visit to wonder where to eat. I faced the same question myself, but during my visit, I discovered a few restaurants where you can enjoy truly delicious meals. Fresh fish dishes are the highlight here, complemented by a selection of traditional Lanzarote specialties.
I highly recommend visiting Salmarina Playa Quemada, where you can savor Lanzarote’s cuisine while admiring breathtaking views of the beach and ocean. One of the most popular choices is freshly caught fish, along with seafood prepared in traditional ways. You can also try grilled meats, rice dishes, and other local delicacies.
Another excellent option is El Pescador, which offers incredible views of the ocean from its terrace. As you might expect, the highlight of this restaurant’s menu is also fresh local fish.
Discover: Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour.
How To Get To Playa Quemada
Strategically, the village is conveniently located between two highly popular resorts: Puerto del Carmen and Playa Blanca. The drive from Puerto del Carmen to Playa Quemada takes about 15–20 minutes, while from Playa Blanca, it’s slightly longer, around 20–25 minutes. From the island’s capital, Arrecife, Playa Quemada is approximately 20 kilometers away, which translates to a 20–30 minute drive. The roads are in good condition, and once you arrive in the village, you can easily access the beach.
Although public transport on the island of Lanzarote is well-developed, there are no direct bus routes to the village from other towns. However, you can travel to nearby towns and take a taxi to Playa Quemada from there.
What To See Close Playa Quemada
If you’re interested in exploring beyond Playa Quemada, consider visiting Puerto del Carmen. This lively town offers plenty of beautiful beaches, shops, cafes, bars, restaurants, and even a casino. Puerto del Carmen is located about 12 kilometers from Playa Quemada.
Another must-see is La Geria, a valley about 10 kilometers from Playa Quemada. This region boasts rich vineyards and unique winemaking traditions. The volcanic landscape adds an exotic touch. Local grape growers use ingenuity and innovative viticulture methods to cultivate grapes in these challenging conditions, planting them deeper than usual in volcanic soil to reach moisture. In La Geria, you can enjoy wine tastings, vineyard tours, and breathtaking hiking routes.
Also worth visiting is Puerto Calero, located approximately 6 kilometers away. This marina is home to luxury yachts, boutique-style shops, and excellent restaurants.
From Playa Quemada, you can also easily reach one of the most famous natural landmarks in the area—Los Ajaches. This impressive volcanic massif offers hiking trails, access to stunning beaches, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
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FAQS About Playa Quemada
What makes Playa Quemada special?
Playa Quemada is a hidden gem, known for its untouched charm, black sand beaches, and a peaceful atmosphere far from tourist crowds. It’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy fresh seafood, and experience authentic Lanzarote.
Can I swim at the beaches in Playa Quemada?
While Playa Quemada’s beaches are stunning, the strong Atlantic currents make them less ideal for swimming. Instead, enjoy a quiet walk along the shore or explore nearby coves for more secluded spots to relax.
Is Playa Quemada family-friendly?
Absolutely! The village’s calm environment and safe surroundings make it a great spot for families. Kids will enjoy exploring the beach and watching fishing boats come and go, while parents can savor the tranquility and fresh seafood.
How much time should I spend in Playa Quemada?
A few hours are perfect to explore the village, have a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants, and enjoy the serene views. If you have more time, combine your visit with nearby attractions like Los Ajaches or Puerto Calero.
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Have you visited Playa Quemada? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments!
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Evelina
Hi, I’m Evelina, a travel enthusiast who loves nature, peace, and authentic places. I cherish the freedom to explore and learn with each adventure, whether it’s hiking trails, stunning beaches, natural parks, unique architecture, or rich cultural heritage. I hope my experiences inspire you to embark on your own journeys!
