La GraciosaCanary Islands · Spain

All About La Graciosa

Around 2 km north of Lanzarote, La Graciosa is often lumped together with the seven main Canary Islands. This tiny slice of paradise stands out from its Canary brethren. With no asphalt or tarmac, La Graciosa remains one of Europe’s last remote landscapes. Part of the Chinijo Archipelago, La Graciosa is the place to escape reality and connect with Mother Nature. The island is part of the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park and enchants visitors with its geologic wonders, golden-sand beaches, and marine life.

Beachgoers will find the purest shores in Spain and an island to melt their troubles away. The volcanic rock entices adrenaline junkies with wild outdoor adventures. Time stands still on this idyllic island, and it’s a place where tourists can escape the mass crowds of the larger Canary Islands. Once you book those ferry tickets to La Graciosa, you’re one step closer to unplugging from modern civilization. Ferryscanner helps you find ferry tickets to this coastal oasis for an unforgettable vacation.
 

Routes and Ferries to La Graciosa

When you book ferry tickets to La Graciosa, it’s an escape from your typical world. The roads here are sandy streets, and biking is the primary means of getting around. The lack of pollution and infrastructure has done wonders to preserve La Graciosa’s unspoiled landscape. The aquamarine waters contrast with red and yellow mountains to create otherworldly images. Once you disembark from the ferry, the pace instantly slows from the more cosmopolitan Canary Islands.

Using the Ferryscanner website, you can find the only route that lets you sail to the La Graciosa port. When booking your ferry tickets to La Graciosa, keep in mind that there are limited options. La Graciosa sits just north of Lanzarote and the only ferries to La Graciosa depart from the Port of Órzola. There are over a dozen crossings for the 25-minute ferry ride that spans the Strait of El Río. Líneas Romero and Biosfera Express are the ferry companies that operate the route from Órzola (Lanzarote) to Caleta del Sebo (La Graciosa).
 

Port of La Graciosa

Caleta del Sebo is the primary settlement of La Graciosa and it is where ferries arrive on the island. The area’s population of under 800 relies on fishing and tourism to support the laid-back community. Despite Caleta del Sebo’s small size, its inhabitants have all the necessities for their day-to-day lives.

The town includes supermarkets, a pharmacy, a school, an ATM, restaurants, and bike rental businesses. With its white-washed buildings, the Caleta del Sebo port makes a picturesque first sight of La Graciosa.
 

Best Beaches

The moment you step foot on La Graciosa, you’ll mistake its soft sands and turquoise waters for the Caribbean. Spend lazy days sinking your feet into golden sands or dive beneath the surface to discover the mysteries of the sea. The lack of amenities and infrastructure means the beaches of La Graciosa are among the best in Europe. If you’ve ever dreamed of your seaside paradise, you’ll find it by booking ferry tickets to La Graciosa.

Playa de las Conchas

With golden sand, turquoise waters, and a volcanic backdrop, Playa de las Conchas is heaven on Earth for beachgoers. It takes a fierce journey over rough roads to arrive at this secluded beach, but it’s worth the effort. The water glistens with several shades of blue, and the virgin shores appear untouched by humanity. The spectacular views of Isla de Montana Clara will blow you away when standing atop Montana Bermeja. If you’re in tip-top shape, you can bike ride across the rocky path to the idyllic beach. However, if you doubt your physical abilities, you can also hire a jeep to get there.

Playa Francesa

Crystal-clear waters and colorful fish make Playa Francesa a snorkeling paradise. High tide turns the pristine beach into a majestic world of underwater species to view beneath the surface. The soft white sands appeal to sun-worshippers while watching sailboats and catamarans at sea. Playa Francesa’s southerly location provides stunning vistas of the Famara Cliffs. Just make sure to pack a lunch, lots of water, and anything else you need since the beach has zero amenities.

Playa del Salado

The tranquil waters and scenic backdrop of Playa del Salado create an otherworldly swimming hole. Lounge on golden sands while you admire the volcanic features that adorn the surrounding landscape. Stroll the beach to find shells buried in the sand or stare at the amazing views of Lanzarote on the horizon. If you want to spend the night, Playa del Salado has the only campsite on the island. Watch a surreal sunset, then fall asleep beneath the stars with the soothing sounds of lapping waves.

Playa de la Cocina

Situated at the base of Montana Amarilla, Playa de la Cocina is a serene place to unwind the entire afternoon. The sheltered cove protects you from rough waves, and its transparent waters help you spot marine life. Between rough stones and the yellow mountain, the sandy strip invites beachgoers searching for seclusion. It will require some effort on foot to reach the dreamy setting against the sea. While a bike or jeep can make the journey easier, walking is the only way to access the beach.
 

Things to Do

Despite its minuscule size of about 29 km², La Graciosa packs a punch with its exciting activities. The lack of human development makes La Graciosa a wild island, and that draws intrepid adventurers. From epic dives into crystal-clear waters to exploring volcanic landscapes, La Graciosa’s untamed nature attracts explorers.

Scuba Diving

The Chinijo Archipelago preserves Europe’s largest marine reserve and has the best scuba diving in the Canary Islands. With over 700 marine species living in its warm waters, scuba divers will witness an exotic world beneath the surface. Divers who explore the marine reserve will discover rare creatures that are hard to find elsewhere. The Angel Shark, black moray eels, stingrays, hogfish, and mackerel are only a few of the species living in these waters. This small island boasts over 20 dive sites for scuba divers of all skill levels.

Hiking

La Graciosa doesn’t contain many hiking trails, but the beautiful paths crossing the volcanic landscape attract avid trekkers. With its four main routes, hiking in La Graciosa lets you wander pristine beaches, climb rocky mountains, and capture breathtaking coastal vistas. The hike to Montana Amarilla follows the coastline and enchants trekkers with turquoise waters. Montana Bermeja includes a steep climb with amazing views atop the summit, while Montana Pedro Barba challenges you with two peaks.

Mountain Biking

La Graciosa has become a premier biking destination in the Canaries due to its largely flat terrain. Bikers of all levels can tackle the routes stretching across the island to discover the volcanic landscapes. Rentals are available at Caleta de Sebo and provide repair kits if you get a flat tire on the route. While the bike paths lack steep climbs, prepare yourself for sandy patches and rocky roads.
 

Transportation Around La Graciosa

La Graciosa is an island of peace and tranquility that lacks infrastructure and asphalt roads. Spend your time wisely by renting a bike to explore the beaches, turquoise waters, and volcanic mountains. Bike rentals cost around 10 euros per day and will help you see more of the island during your stay.

Other than roaming around the island on foot, your only other option is to ride a 4×4 taxi to your desired destination. Jeeps operate as taxis and depart from Caleta de Sebo to transport tourists around the island. If you’re visiting during high season, you should book a 4×4 taxi in advance.