DeirdreLa Graciosa is the eighth and smallest island of the Canary Islands Archipelago. Located just 2km north of Lanzarote, it is home to a population of 700 residents and is approximately 29km2. With beautiful, secluded turquois beaches and a unique terrain, it’s no surprise this island it is becoming increasingly popular with mainland locals and tourists around the world. One of the best beaches on the island is Playa de Las Conchas. Hiking (or renting a bike) to this beach is a fun way to spend the day exploring the small island.
Playa de Las Conchas Trail Information
- Distance: 14.7km return
- Elevation Gain: 273m
- Time: 4 hours
- Trail Type: Out and Back
- Difficulty: Easy/Moderate (due to heat)
- Washroom Facilities: None on route
Best Time to Hike around to Playa de Las Conchas
Both La Graciosa and Lanzarote are year round destinations. Each island is blessed with little to no rain and warm temperatures throughout. There is never a bad time to visit.
The windy months are July and August (especially in the north region), which could potentially make the ferry crossing to La Graciosa a bit bumpy.
How to get to La Graciosa
The only way to get to La Graciosa is by ferry. The 25 minute ride departs from the north port town of Órzola on Lanzarote and disembarks at the community of Caleta del Sebo, on La Graciosa.
Driving Route: Heading from the capital Arrecife, drive north east on the LZ-1 for approximately 36km. Once in town, turn right onto C. la Quemadita and follow the signs to the ferry port.
Bus Route: From Arrecife Line #9
Órzola Port Address: C. los Roques, 35541 Orzola, Las Palmas, Spain
There are two ferry providers that sail to La Graciosa: Biosfera Express and Lineas Romero. Each ferry operator has their own parking lot for customers and an employee will be there assisting those to their designated spots.
Each ferry operator has 9 daily trips to and from La Graciosa. The ferries fill up quickly, so it’s best to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to secure a seat. Luggage is free of charge and there is also Wi-fi available on board. Tickets can be purchased at the dock, but I would recommend buying them online in advance.
Ferry Time Tables:
Price for Non-Residents:
- Adult- 14.00€/way (28.00€ return)
- Child- 7.50€/way (15.00€ return)
Price for Residents:
- Adult- 3.75€/way (7.00€ return)
- Child- 1.75€/way (3.50€ return)
Transport on the Island
Since La Graciosa is a protected nature reserve, there are no paved roads on the island. The only vehicles allowed to drive around are those owned by residents and local tour operators. There are currently three options of getting around the island:
- Tour Operator 4×4 Jeep (~20-60€/tour)
- Bike (~10€/day)
- Foot (free)
The vast majority of visitors only stay on La Graciosa for a day, so renting a bike or 4×4 Taxi is a popular option, especially if visiting far off beaches like Playa de Las Conchas.
Route: Caleta del Sebo to Playa de Las Conchas
- By 4X4 Taxi: 10 minutes/way
- By Bike: 45 minutes/way
- By Foot: ~2hrs/way
- Distance: 14.7km return
- Elevation Gain: 273m (with optional Montana Bermeja climb)
That being said, I will always opt for the hiking options wherever I go and would suggest exploring the island by foot.
The Hike to Playa de Las Conchas
Head north on Calle La Popa towards the backside of the community where there are two roads leading out of town. To the left is a well worn road used primarily by vehicles providing transport between the town and beaches and the other to the right is used mainly by bikers and hikers.
Travelling the road on the right will take you through a flat empty area with minor sand dunes and small bushes. There is absolutely no shade or coverage from the sun in this area so protection is a must. The road is half covered in sand but very straightforward and easy to trek.
The road will veer inland, through the hot desert. You will find the scenery and landscape differs on this island, compared to Lanzarote. The volcanic rock is replaced with soft, beige sand and the heat is intensified.
At the time, construction was going on, so a detour was created. The current trail approaches the hill straight on a veers to the left. After about 30 minutes or so, the sand path meets up with the second road which the transport vehicles use.
This road is very narrow and the vehicle traffic is fairly consistent. It’s a good idea to be aware of your surroundings as you may need to step off the road to make room for bikers and cars alike.
After about an hour, the trail meets up with the coast again, and provides a refreshing breeze and some relief from the relentless heat of the desert. Playa Baja del Ganada is the first beach you will come across. The beach itself is partially obstructed by the rocky hills leading up to it, but it is easily spotted by the colourful bike racks located at its entrance.
Continuing another 20 minutes down the road will bring you to Playa de Las Conchas. Once again the path to the beach is very clearly spotted thanks to the large number of bike racks located just off the main road.
Before heading to the beach there is an optional 20 minute hill climb to Montana Bermaja. The entrance to the hill is located on the right side of the bike racks. The climb is fairly steep, and finding your footing can be difficult due to the large amount of loose gravel that the path is comprised of. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with panoramic views of the island and beaches.
Playa de Las Conchas is over 600m, with plenty of quiet spaces to enjoy on your own. Strong winds can create massive waves and rip tides, so it’s advised to follow the flag warnings and do not swim.
There are no facilities or life guard present, as this is a wild beach. Remember to remove all trash and leave no trace.
When its time to head back simply backtrack and use the same path you took to get there. By the time you make it back to town you will be fully dry and most likely sunburnt.
After the amount of time spent in the sun, treat yourself to an ice cream or cold drink while you wait for the ferry. I recommend grabbing something sweet or savory from Panaderia Pasteleria Quela. The bakery offers donuts and delicious sandwiches.
Additional Transport Options
Bike Rentals
- Mato Bike
- Address: C. la Fija, 5, 35540 Caleta del Sebo, Las Palmas, Spain
- Rent A Bike-A.J Bike
- Address: Av. Virgen del Mar, 77, 35540 Caleta del Sebo, Las Palmas, Spain
4×4 Taxi Rental
- Jeep Safari La Graciosa Andres
- Av. Virgen del Mar, 125, 35540 Caleta del Sebo, Las Palmas, Spain
- Safari-Taxi La Graciosa, FABIO
- Av. Virgen del Mar, 124, 35540 Caleta del Sebo, Las Palmas, Spain
This looks like an incredible place to hike. I only ever get to hike in the woods. I would love to see it for myself one day. Saving this for later. Thanks so much for sharing.
Hikes in the woods are lovely, but it’s nice to change it up every once in a while. I hope you can make it out there one day
Looks gorgeous! $14 for one way ferry is quite steep though.
It is a bit pricey. Everything on the island is expensive as they have no main roads and have to ferry items to the island. Luckily we just wanted to hike around the island, so we managed to save a pretty penny
I’d love to rent a bike and go as I like! It seems like a funny region to explore!
Just remember to pack your sunscreen