Playa de Puerto Muelas

Introduction

Welcome to a corner of Lanzarote that has us completely captivated: Playa de Puerto Muelas. Located in the stunning Los Ajaches Natural Monument, in the municipality of Yaiza, this cove is one of those gems that remind us why the beaches of Lanzarote are so special. Far from the hustle and bustle of the more touristy areas, Puerto Muelas offers us a sanctuary of peace, where nature is displayed in its purest and most seductive state. It is one of the famous Papagayo beaches, but it often receives less attention, which is precisely part of its charm.

When we think of a perfect beach getaway, we often imagine a place where time seems to stand still, where the sound of the waves is the only soundtrack, and where the view gets lost in the blue horizon. That is exactly what we find at Playa de Puerto Muelas. Its fine golden sand, its turquoise and crystal-clear waters, and the impressive volcanic landscape that surrounds it, make it an essential destination for those seeking to connect with the wild essence and tranquility that only the island of Lanzarote can offer. Prepare your towels, your cameras, and your adventurous spirit, because we are about to immerse ourselves in the magic of this paradise.

How to Get to Playa de Puerto Muelas

Getting to Playa de Puerto Muelas is part of the adventure and prepares us for the experience of tranquility that awaits. This beach is part of the set of Papagayo coves, located south of Playa Blanca. To get there, we generally take the LZ-703 road, which leads us from Playa Blanca towards the east. After a paved section, we turn off onto a dirt track. It's important to know that access to this area, being a Protected Natural Space, has a small toll per vehicle, which contributes to the maintenance of the park and its roads. To us, it seems like a minimal investment to preserve so much beauty.

Once inside the park, the dirt track will guide us through a semi-desert and volcanic landscape, offering us the first spectacular views. There are signs for the different beaches, and Puerto Muelas is one of the first we find, often before reaching the busier Playa de Papagayo. The road can be somewhat uneven, so we recommend driving with caution. There is a designated parking area at the top, from where we will have to descend on foot along a not very long path, but with a certain slope. The walk is short and rewards us with panoramic views that will take our breath away before we even set foot on the sand. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes for the descent and ascent, every step is worth it!

The Sand and the Water

Playa de Puerto Muelas welcomes us with fine, golden sand, incredibly soft under our feet. It's the kind of sand that invites you to take off your shoes immediately, to walk without haste, and to feel the warmth of the sun accumulated in its grains. This sand, of volcanic and marine origin, contrasts beautifully with the intense blue of the ocean, creating a color palette that seems straight out of a postcard. It's not an excessively large beach, which contributes to its intimate and secluded atmosphere, but it is spacious enough to find our own relaxation spot.

The waters of Puerto Muelas are simply spectacular. Of a crystal-clear turquoise color, they invite us to dive in without hesitation. The calmness of these waters is one of its main characteristics, as the cove is well protected from waves and stronger currents. This makes it an ideal place for a placid swim, for floating without worries, and for enjoying the transparency that allows us to see the seabed with astonishing clarity. The water temperature, mild and pleasant for most of the year, makes bathing always a delight. It is a true pleasure to be able to enjoy such a serene and pure sea, where every dip feels like a hug from nature.

Services and Facilities

If we are looking for a beach with a wide range of services and amenities, perhaps Playa de Puerto Muelas is not our first choice. And it is precisely that absence of infrastructure that makes it so special and authentic. Being part of a Protected Natural Monument, the philosophy is to preserve its pristine and wild state. Therefore, we will not find showers, toilets, lifeguards, or rental of umbrellas and sunbeds directly on the sand. This is something we greatly appreciate, as it allows us to enjoy the beach in its purest form, without distractions or artifices.

As mentioned when talking about how to get there, we do have a parking area at the top of the cliff, from where we descend to the cove. This parking is a dirt clearing, unpaved, but it serves its purpose of allowing us to leave the car safely. As for dining, there are no beach bars or restaurants on Puerto Muelas beach itself. However, in the Papagayo beaches area, a little further ahead or in the adjacent coves, we can find some establishments to have a drink or eat. Our recommendation is to go well prepared: bring our own food, drink, sunscreen, towels, and everything needed to spend the day. This way we can fully enjoy the disconnection experience offered by this natural paradise, without having to worry about anything other than relaxing and enjoying the surroundings.

Best Time to Visit

Lanzarote enjoys enviable weather all year round, making any time good to visit the island. However, to fully enjoy Playa de Puerto Muelas, we have our preferred seasons. The main advantage of this beach is its tranquil and pristine character, so we look for the