When visiting an island like Lanzarote, many people tend to look for different ways to enjoy the sea, but without having to deal with the sand every time they feel like going for a swim. A good alternative to conventional beaches are natural pools.
These are rock formations on the coast where, pushed by the waves, seawater enters and leaves a pool of salt water as a result. There are numerous pools of this style on the island, distributed mainly in the south and northwest of Lanzarote.
Whatever natural pool you go to, it is always recommended to wear special shoes to avoid stepping on the dreaded hedgehogs, which often live in these locations. You have to be especially careful when getting out of the water, because if there are waves, it can be difficult to see where to place your feet and hands.
1. Las Rosas Pools in Punta Mujeres
In the small town of Punta Mujeres, distinguished by its white houses in front of the sea and its turquoise waters, there are some natural pools known as Las Rosas.
Imperfect circles of rock containing the water of the Atlantic Ocean, where the human hand has only intervened to place some access stairs.
The main pool is located in the middle of town and tends to be the one with the highest number of visitors. However, many are unaware that there are several more pools, spread over about two kilometers on the coast of Punta Mujeres.
2. Los Charcones
Los Charcones have been gaining popularity in recent years among locals and tourists who visit the south of the island.
Located in Yaiza, just two kilometers from the Pechiguera lighthouse in Playa Blanca, this set of natural pools is made up of dozens, if not hundreds of small natural pools.
The most complicated part is to get to them, since access is through an unpaved road full of stones, so many cars will not even be able to take you to the drop-off area. Many people choose instead to leave the car at the begining of the track and walk towards the coast.
The easiest way to arrive is to reach Playa Blanca and then go around Montaña Roja. To the left of the road towards the sea, you will see a hotel structure. At that point, the key is to go slowly, so you don't miss the small dirt road that leads you there.
Once on the coast of the hotel structure, it's time to descend. When going down the cliffs you have to be very careful, since there is no marked path, and you will have to lean on the rocks.
It is a good place to relax thanks to its calm waters, with pools of different sizes, shapes and depths, but it is important to mention that on days with high waves or wind they can become an unsafe space for swimming, as the waves hit the coastline with force. In any case, the best advice is to stay in the interior puddles, to avoid the force of the waves, and take all precautions.
3. El Charco del Palo
For those who are looking for a natural pool where they can leave their bikini aside, the Charco del Palo located in the small town of Mala is a good option.
This nudist pool is made up of a total of three rocky circles with crystal clear waters and light sand full of pebbles and dark-colored stones.
To get there, you have to take the road towards the north of the island and take the exit towards Guatiza, near the gas station. After passing this town, you will have to turn right as soon as you see the “Mala” sign, then you just need to follow the path that takes you to the coast.
El Charco del Palo is usually not crowded, visited by people in search of a place where they can feel “free”.
4. The Water Cave (La Cueva del Agua)
Finally, in Los Cocoteros, in the town of Guatiza, there is a hidden cave called Cueva del Agua. It is an uncovered rock cave where seawater is filtered.
To get there you simply follow the path of Charco del Palo, but before entering fully into the town of Guatiza turn right instead on Faya street so you can reach the Cocoteros area.
You can leave your car at Los Cocoteros complex and continue on foot,the cave is just a hundred meters away. This is one of the few natural pools where you can dive a little, since it is very deep.
