Puerto Del Carmen Holiday
A long, narrow resort, Puerto del Carmen stretches for four kilometres along the main coastal road lined with dozens of shops, restaurants and bars; and only about 5 kilometres from Lanzarote's capital, Arrecife. The volcanic backdrop to the south and views out towards Fuerteventura are easy on the eye. The harbour in the old town is home to some great fish restaurants in a nice, relaxing environment, although between July and August some vibrant local fiestas take place with a fairground atmosphere.
Puerto del Carmen is arguably the most diverse of Lanzarote's main resorts encapsulating beach fun with old world charm. On the one hand it boasts long stretches of sandy beaches, a lively main strip which brims with bars, discos, restaurants and shops and on the other it is home to the old harbour with great fish restaurants and tapas bars. The resort is also the focal point of many of the island's colourful fiestas with the popular carnival celebration taking place in February when locals parade through the streets in dazzling custom-made costumes. Puerto del Carmen is perfectly positioned for sightseeing across the island. With its relatively central location, the resort makes for the ideal base from which to explore. Why not head out to one of the bodegas in the La Geria wine-growing valley? Here you can indulge in a spot of wine tasting and see the strange horse-shoe shaped stone constructions called Los Zocos in which vines grow in the seemingly barren soil. One of the island's most intriguing sights is a lagoon whose waters seem to glow emerald green. Known as El Golfo, it lies on the western coast of Lanzarote and is well-worth a look.
Beaches
Puerto del Carmen has an excellent sweep of sand that shelves gently into the generally calm sea, making it ideal for families. The long, soft, sandy beaches are at their busiest in July and August.
Shopping
A good selection of shops can be found along the main coastal road.
Nightlife
Should it be a nice romantic meal overlooking the ocean, a karaoke bar, a venue that provides dinner and entertainment or a disco that stays open into the early hours, then Puerto del Carmen has something for everybody.
Local Specialities
There are many bars and restaurants to keep all age ranges happy. The tapas bars around the old fishing port offer traditional fare, while international cuisine and fast food can be found in the centre of the resort. Try some of the popular goats cheese which is great grilled, with honey or 'al natural', the locals eat 'Potaje' which is lentil stew or try the local rabbit in garlic sauce, delicious.