If you ask me which Canary Island is the most underrated, my answer is La Graciosa. There are more visitors now than before, but it is still a real paradise: no paved roads, streets made of sand and white-sand beaches all over the island.
Quick answer: take the ferry from Órzola in the north of Lanzarote to Caleta de Sebo, the main village. Rent a bike or book a 4×4 taxi to reach the beaches, especially Playa de las Conchas and Playa Francesa. Bring water and sun cream, and check the time of the last ferry back.
La Graciosa at a glance
| Where | Just off the north coast of Lanzarote |
| How to get there | Ferry from Órzola to Caleta de Sebo, a short crossing |
| Roads | No paved roads, only sand tracks |
| Getting around | On foot, by bike or by 4×4 taxi |
| Best for | Beaches, peace and quiet, nature |
How to get to La Graciosa
Ferries leave from the small port of Órzola, at the northern tip of Lanzarote, and arrive at Caleta de Sebo. The crossing is short, and there are several departures a day. You cannot take a car, and you do not need one.
Local tip: on the way to Órzola, stop at the Mirador del Río for the best view of La Graciosa from above. See my guide to the best things to do in Lanzarote.
Caleta de Sebo
The main village is a handful of white houses, sand streets and a harbour full of fishing boats. Walk barefoot, have a fresh fish lunch at places like Casa Enriqueta or El Varadero and enjoy how slow life is here.
The best beaches
- Playa de las Conchas: the most spectacular beach on the island, wide and pale, with a volcano behind it and the islet of Montaña Clara in front. It is beautiful, but the sea is often strong, so be very careful swimming.
- Playa Francesa: a calm, sheltered bay with turquoise water, an easy bike ride from Caleta de Sebo. The best choice for a relaxed swim.
- Playa de la Cocina: a small, quiet beach at the foot of Montaña Amarilla, a colourful volcanic hill.
- Playa del Salado: right next to Caleta de Sebo, good for a quick swim before the ferry.
How to get around
- By bike: the classic option. Rent one in Caleta de Sebo; the sand tracks are bumpy, so take it easy.
- By 4×4 taxi: the easiest way to reach the far beaches. Agree on a time to be picked up.
- On foot: Playa Francesa and Playa del Salado are walkable. Playa de las Conchas is a long, hot walk.
Tips for your visit
- Bring water, food and shade: outside the village there are no shops or bars on the beaches.
- Sun cream is a must: there is almost no shade on the island.
- Take your rubbish with you: the island and its sea are part of a protected marine reserve. Leave the beaches as clean as you found them.
- Stay a night if you can: once the day visitors leave, the island is magical.
Frequently asked questions
Is La Graciosa worth visiting?
Absolutely. For me it is the most underrated island in the Canaries, with some of the most beautiful beaches in the archipelago.
Can you do La Graciosa as a day trip?
Yes. Take a morning ferry from Órzola and an afternoon one back. You will have time for one or two beaches and lunch in Caleta de Sebo.
Are there cars on La Graciosa?
Only a few authorised 4×4 vehicles. There are no paved roads, and visitors cannot bring cars.
Ferry timetables and access rules change. Check official information before you go.
Leave a Reply