El Golfo | Lanzarote

Information

Landmark: El Golfo
City: Lanzarote
Country: Canary Islands
Continent: Europe

El Golfo, Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Europe

El Golfo is a half-submerged volcanic crater located on the southwestern coast of Lanzarote, within the Canary Islands archipelago.

Visual Characteristics

The site features a distinctive green lagoon, known as Charco de los Clicos, contrasting with a black volcanic sand beach. Surrounding the lagoon are eroded volcanic cliffs displaying shades of red, orange, and black. The crater rim is partially submerged, with the remaining crescent-shaped landform rising from the Atlantic Ocean.

Location & Access Logistics

Access to El Golfo is via the LZ-703 road. It is approximately 30 kilometers southwest of Arrecife, the island's capital, and 5 kilometers west of the village of Yaiza. A designated parking area is available near the viewpoint, requiring a short walk to the observation platform. Public transport options are limited; most visitors arrive by private vehicle or organized tour bus.

Historical & Ecological Origin

El Golfo is a volcanic crater formed by an eruption that occurred several thousand years ago. The western side of the crater collapsed into the sea, leaving a crescent-shaped caldera. The green color of the lagoon is attributed to a high concentration of phytoplankton, specifically Ruppia maritima algae, thriving in the hypersaline water.

Key Highlights & Activities

The primary activity is observation from the designated viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the green lagoon, black beach, and volcanic cliffs. Photography of the contrasting colors is a popular pursuit. Walking on the black sand beach adjacent to the viewpoint is permitted, though direct access to the lagoon itself is restricted to protect the ecosystem.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restroom facilities are available in the nearby village of El Golfo, approximately 500 meters from the viewpoint. Shade at the observation platform is minimal. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable. Several restaurants serving fresh seafood are located in the village of El Golfo.

Best Time to Visit

The late afternoon is optimal for photography, as the sun illuminates the volcanic cliffs, enhancing their red and orange hues. El Golfo can be visited year-round due to Lanzarote's consistent climate, with fewer crowds typically observed outside of the peak tourist months of July, August, December, and January.

Facts & Legends

The Charco de los Clicos lagoon is separated from the Atlantic Ocean by a porous black sand barrier. Its water level is maintained by underground filtration from the sea. Local folklore sometimes associates the lagoon's emerald color with a lost jewel or a mythical creature.