Sitting off the coast of West Africa, the Canary Islands are a world-class vacation destination beloved for their turquoise waters and beautiful lounge-ready beaches. Lanzarote is the most northern and eastern of the Canaries, known for its spectacular lava flows. Pay a visit to Timanfaya National Park to experience the otherworldly volcanic landscape firsthand, then spend the rest of your trip exploring the Spanish island’s 132 miles of vibrant coastline. From swimming the crystal waters of Playa Blanca in the southwest to windsurfing at Costa Teguise and snorkeling the green lagoon of a volcanic cone at El Golfo, there’s no shortage of water attractions to keep you busy. For a pinch of history, the former capital of Teguise is worth a visit for its 16th-century architecture and imposing castle erected to protect the island from pirates.

Thanks to the northeasterly trade winds and Canary current, Lanzarote experiences a pleasant year-round tropical climate. Spring is a glorious time to visit, when the wildflowers are blooming and the beaches aren’t too packed. The island’s rich cultural calendar offers exciting ways to experience the island throughout the year. Carnival, which falls in February or March, is huge here, and features a parade of floats, costumes, live music, and dancing. In June, the San Juan celebration marks the beginning of summer, with bonfires lit around the island, folk music, and roasted corn on the cob. The Visual Music Festival of Lanzarote takes place in October, offering a unique combination of contemporary and avant-garde music with the island’s natural landscapes.

Timanfaya National Park

Created by a series of volcanic eruptions in the 18th and 19th centuries, Timanfaya National Park is an otherworldly landscape that shouldn’t be missed. Two standout hikes — Termesana Route Trail and Coastal Route Trail — allow you to traverse the jagged coastline and desolate lava fields on foot. The park also runs a bus tour that can shuttle you around to the main sites, such as Islote de Hilario volcano.

Arrecife

Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote, is a once-rusting fishing district that’s since transformed into a buzzing pedestrian quarter featuring a footbridge spanning the waters. Wander the streets lined with bright-white fishermen’s cottages and stop for a snack at one of the nearby restaurants offering papas arrugadas (baked small potatoes served with chili sauce) and other Canarian dishes with views of the boats bobbing on the waters.

Jameos del Agua

Jameos del Agua is a unique volcanic tunnel and cavern with a spectacular combination of nature and art. The cave, which features a seawater pond, is adorned with palm trees, cacti, and lush ferns, offering striking contrast against the dark volcanic rock. The area is illuminated with colorful lights and is home to an underground concert venue and restaurant.