Visiting La Graciosa: ferries, bikes & trails

Officially recognised in 2018 as the eighth inhabited island of the Canaries, La Graciosa is an oasis of untamed serenity where not a single metre of paved asphalt exists. Spanning barely 29 square kilometres with around 700 permanent residents, this jewel of the Chinijo Archipelago Natural Park lies at the heart of Europe's largest marine reserve, preserving the timeless spirit of old-world island life.

Crossing the narrow marine strait known as El Río by ferry from Órzola harbour (northern Lanzarote) brings travellers to sandy streets, whitewashed fishermen's houses with bright blue doorways, and dirt tracks snaking towards wild turquoise beaches.

Ferries from Órzola: timetables and crossing

The sea route is served by two long-standing local ferry operators: Líneas Romero and Biosfera Express. Modern passenger catamarans depart every 30 to 60 minutes between 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM (depending on the season).

The crossing skirts the massive 500-metre cliffs of the Famara Massif before docking at Caleta de Sebo. Spacious monitored car parks are located right by Órzola harbour; private rental cars cannot be transported to La Graciosa.

Bicycles vs. 4x4 taxis: getting around

• Mountain bike hire: The most popular and independent way to explore. Numerous rental shops in Caleta de Sebo hire mountain bikes and e-bikes for €10–15 per day. Keep in mind that loose sand dunes often require pushing your bike by hand.
• Licensed 4x4 Safari Taxis: Heavy-duty Land Rovers driven by local residents that run shuttle transfers to remote beaches with pre-arranged return pick-up times. Perfect for families or scorching summer days.
• Hiking on foot: Excellent for exploring southern beaches (Playa de la Francesa is an easy 40-minute walk from the harbour following the shoreline).

Best beaches on La Graciosa

1. Playa de las Conchas (North-West) 5.5 km from harbour · Epic wild scenery

   A staggering expanse of golden sand beneath the crimson volcanic cone of Montaña Bermeja, with direct views of uninhabited islets Montaña Clara and Alegranza. Danger: treacherous undercurrents make swimming hazardous.

2. Playa de la Francesa (South) 3 km from harbour · Calm turquoise waters

   A protected sandy bay facing the Famara cliffs. Sheltered waters are calm as a natural pool, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding and snorkeling.

3. Playa de la Cocina & Montaña Amarilla 4 km from harbour · Vivid geological contrast

   A secluded cove nestled at the base of the ochre-yellow tuff cone of Montaña Amarilla. The contrast of yellow rock against turquoise sea is iconic.

Boat tours around La Graciosa

La Graciosa catamaran without hotel transfer

The I Love La Graciosa trip (5 hours, paella and open bar) at the no-pickup fare — you make your…

5 hours From €66

Private Day at Sea (3 hours)

3 hours private charter from Playa Blanca (max 10). €600 for the boat.

3 hours From €600

Essential sustainability advice

• Pack abundant drinking water: Outside Caleta de Sebo there are zero shops, taps or shaded structures on the island. Carry at least 2 litres of water per person.
• High-factor sun protection: Intense glare from pale sand combined with constant sea breezes accelerates sunburn. Hats, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen are essential.
• Zero waste policy: There are no rubbish bins on beaches to prevent wind from blowing litter into the marine reserve. Pack out every scrap of rubbish in your backpack.
• Book ferry tickets early: During bank holidays and peak summer months, ferry crossings fill up rapidly.