Sports & nature
Diving
Puerto del Carmen is the perfect spot to experience diving for the first time or to perfect your technique in open waters. As well as boasting the ideal technical and weather conditions, its underwater views are considered an ecological treasure. The area is located within the mild ranges of the Tropic of Cancer and is also protected by its own special weather conditions, brought about by the clash between the scorching Saharan currents and the influence of the Gulf of Mexico, one of the world’s major underwater currents. The temperature of the water on Lanzarote’s coasts ranges between 17 and 24 ºC on the surface, making for a very pleasant diving experience. Just off the coast of Puerto del Carmen is an underwater cliff that plummets three kilometres down: a giant vertical wall that has the advantage of being within easy reach from land. Some of the most noteworthy diving areas include La Catedral, a cathedral-like cave that delves into the ocean wall forming a volcanic dome of majestic dimensions; the Orange Coral the area is teeming with; the tunnel of volcanic lava known as the Blue Hole, which hides a number of caves and is draped with vegetation; not to mention the sunken remains of old shipwrecks.
Cycling
Puerto del Carmen is an ideal ‘base camp’ for tourism by bicycle. From this point you can access any corner of the island on a half-day or full-day trip. For those who prefer a leisurely bike ride, there is a cycle lane nearly 20 km long with no significant slopes, which joins Puerto del Carmen and Costa Teguise.
Hiking
The best way to discover the more than 300 volcanic craters, lava fields and caves that adorn the local countryside is on foot. You’ll find plenty of variety on over 20 footpaths of low to medium difficulty that meander through the diverse vegetation of the Famara mountain range (670 m – 2200 ft high) or the solitary slopes of the Ajache mountains. It is wonderful to see how plants, animals and people have managed to adapt and breathe life into an area marked by such harsh conditions. From Puerto del Carmen and Tías you can reach the area of La Geria, where signalled footpaths will guide you through a land of vineyards. From here, you can take a trip to discover the lunar landscape of Los Volcanes National Park and the origins of the volcanic eruptions in the 18th century.
Golf
The island’s golf course is just five minutes away from most of the hotels and beaches and only a ten-minute drive from the airport. This 18-hole, par-72 course was designed by the American Ron Kirby. Its surface was adapted to the rugged terrain in order to preserve the traditional idyllic charm of Lanzarote’s landscape. The resort offers golf lessons and has a driving range, a putting green and both bunker and approach practice areas in which to perfect your swing.
Sporting Events
Throughout the year, Puerto del Carmen sets the stage for several sporting events that attract many renowned international athletes. Particularly noteworthy are the Ocean Lava Triathlon, the Music Marathon Festival and the Ironman Triathlon, the latter being the most popular in terms of participation and also the most challenging.
Ironman Lanzarote is among the world’s most spectacular sporting events. More than 1800 athletes aged 18 to 75 from over 40 different nationalities set off on a race to test their strength and endurance. For contestants, the day begins in the bay of Puerto del Carmen, where they swim 3.8 km, followed by a 180 km bicycle trek, only to finish off with a 42 km marathon along the promenade under the scorching sun of Lanzarote.
Kayaking
Take out one of these small boats to explore the nooks and crannies of Lanzarote’s coastline. These polythene canoes are a great way to sail calm waters, practice rowing and take a swim in hidden coves.
Water bikes and water skiing
Some sea activities can turn a day at the beach into a fun-packed, adrenaline-pumping experience. “Bananas” are inflatable boats to seat twelve people. Riding on one of these, you’ll soon find that the waves become a group challenge. Jet skiing is as safe as it is fun, and water bikes will be sure to provide your holiday with a touch of thrill.
Parasailing
If you are undeterred by heights and a confident swimmer, don’t think twice about trying this activity. A breathtaking journey full of adrenaline, hanging from a balloon at a height of 650 feet and being swept along by a speedboat, all in the safety of a harness, of course. Try it alone or in twos – the choice is yours! Perfect for adventurers with a thirst for excitement.