They say life’s a beach – a maxim that could have been coined especially for Lanzarote, as this small island is home to over 90 beautiful beaches, amongst which are some of the most breathtaking in Europe, writes Nick Ball.

And despite the volcanic eruptions for which the island is famous the vast majority are made up of golden grains – not black sand. Find out more about the most stunning beaches the gorgeous Canary island of Lanzarote has to offer.

Beaches in Lanzarote: Famara Beach

During the Spring and Summer months – when there’s little wind and the weather conditions are just right – there are few stretches of sand that can compete with the raw allure of Famara.

This horseshoe shaped bay – on the island’s wilder north-west coast – boasts the truly dramatic backdrop of the Risco de Famara range of cliffs, which tower sentinel-like over one end of the beach. Out to sea sit the small neighbouring islands of La Graciosa, Alegranza, Montana Clara and Roque del Oeste.

The beach itself is enormous – and depending on the tides measures up to 8km from end to end, providing ample space for both sun worshippers and surfers alike.

Like most of the beaches, outside the main resorts there are no facilities – but visitors can stock up on food and water or enjoy a meal in the adjoining village of Caleta de Famara.

Beaches in Lanzarote: Papagayo Beaches

The six beaches and coves that collectively comprise Papagayo – just outside Playa Blanca in the south of the island – closely rival Famara for sheer natural beauty.

The beaches offer great views across to Fuerteventura and Los Lobos and a micro climate that delivers better temperatures – especially in the winter months.

Reached via a dirt track road or a good walk from the resort, these picturesque playas also afford more variety as visitors can hop from one stretch of sand to another, with each beach enjoying its own unique atmosphere and identity.

There are also a few restaurants and refreshment stands here, but as they are catering to a captive audience standards tend to be as low and the prices are high.

Beaches in Lanzarote: Arrieta Beach

Arrieta’s Playa de la Garita beach is a great choice for families looking to get off the beaten track as it combines a natural and unspoilt stretch of sand with good facilities, including toilets, showers and two restaurants that are slap bang on the beach – one of which even has a small selection of children’s play equipment.

The sea here also tends to be very calm and the sand shelves gently into the water – making it an ideal spot for safe swimming and paddling.

The beach can get a little crowded at weekends though as it is both popular with locals and very tidal.

Beaches in Lanzarote: Caleton Blanco Beaches

Just beyond the Jameos del Agua on route to the village of Orzola lies a stunning succession of white sand beaches which are known collectively as the Caleton Blanco.

The contrast between the bright white sands, dark volcanic rock and turquoise sea is simply stunning.

And the fact that you can enjoy a paddle in tepid bath temperature waters in the natural lagoon located by the last beach before you hit the village is also a major bonus, as the Atlantic that surrounds Lanzarote can often feel chilly outside of the main summer months.

For more information on Lanzarote visit www.lanzaroteguidebook.com