Photo: NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information. / Public domain
El Golfo is a small, windswept fishing village on the rugged western coast of Lanzarote, best known for its striking green lagoon, Charco de los Clicos. This otherworldly landscape—formed by a collapsed volcanic crater half-filled with emerald water and ringed by black sand—is one of the island's most photographed sights. Beyond the postcard view, El Golfo offers a genuine taste of local life, with seafood restaurants serving freshly caught fish and a wild coastline perfect for coastal walks.
Highlights & What to See
- Charco de los Clicos (Green Lagoon): The vivid green lake inside a volcanic crater, created by algae and minerals. It's best viewed from the mirador above the village.
- Playa de los Clicos: A dramatic black-sand beach at the foot of the crater, backed by towering cliffs. Strong currents make swimming dangerous, but it's a stunning spot for photos.
- El Golfo's seafront promenade: A pleasant walk with views over the Atlantic, past colourful fishermen's cottages and the small harbour.
- Seafood restaurants: Try caldereta de pescado (fish stew) or grilled vieja (a local parrotfish) at one of the rustic eateries like Casa de la Playa.
- Los Hervideros: A short drive south, where lava tubes and blowholes create dramatic sea spray during rough weather.
Suggested Time to Spend
Half a day is sufficient to explore El Golfo and its immediate surroundings. Arrive early morning to avoid crowds at the lagoon viewpoint, then enjoy a leisurely lunch at a seafront restaurant. Afterward, drive 10 minutes south to Los Hervideros and the Salinas de Janubio salt flats for a complete afternoon along Lanzarote's volcanic west coast.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Yaiza: A picturesque whitewashed village 10 km inland, with a charming church and traditional Canarian architecture.
- Timanfaya National Park: The island's volcanic heartland, with geothermal demonstrations and a bus tour over the lava fields—just 15 minutes east.
- Salinas de Janubio: Historic salt pans still in operation, with a viewing platform and a restaurant serving salt-crusted fish.
- Playa Blanca: A resort town 20 minutes south with beaches, shops, and ferry connections to Fuerteventura.
- Femés: A hilltop village with panoramic views and the Ermita de San Marcial, the island's oldest church.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.