Arrecife hotels

One of the best hotels in Arrecife if you want to stay in the town centre, right in front of El Reducto Beach, the Arrecife Gran Hotel & Spa is just a few minutes' drive from Arrecife Airport. The convenience of this hotel being in the middle of everything is why it’s one of my top picks, but since it’s been recently renovated, everything feels brand new.

The hotel’s guestrooms and suites feature a simple, clean look, so as not to take away from the views of the glittering Arrecife coastline or the whitewashed city. But regardless of view type, the large, floor-to-ceiling windows mean your room will be luminous and bright. Many of the suites have corner windows, where I enjoy admiring the vistas from all angles.

Besides having an indoor pool and outdoor sun deck, you can also relax at the spa, which has a special hydrotherapy circuit.

Tucked away in Arrecife’s winding streets, El Charco Suites retains its roots as a 19th-century fisherman’s home while offering all the modern comforts I look for in a hotel. One of the best hotels in Arrecife for a more local experience, the adults-only, all-suite property brings in its surroundings with basalt rock features (the stone is sourced from the island’s volcanic landscape), cactus plants and an all-white design.

Suites are large with sea-inspired tones and mixed textiles, including indoor rock features. I like that they also feature kitchens or kitchenettes. The island is known for its delicious cheeses, wine and produce, so I love picking up my own groceries to cook and eat.

While some suites have outdoor hot tubs, my favourite hangout spot is the sunbathing area, where you can bask beneath the island’s warm sunshine amid palm trees in a beautiful courtyard.

If you want to be just steps away from the golden sands of El Reducto Beach, Hotel Lancelot is one of the best hotels in Arrecife. I always go for a sea-view room, where I can admire the ocean from the comfort of my balcony.

Even better, the suites feature separate sleeping and living areas with large balconies that overlook the crashing waves, complete with lounge chairs and a shaded dining area.

Even if you don’t book a suite or sea-view room, you can still enjoy the iconic vistas, as Hotel Lancelot has a large pool and solarium area that overlooks the beach. It’s just a short drive from the island’s airport and close to nearby shops, restaurants and attractions.

The Radisson Blu Resort in Lanzarote is an adults-only property on the Costa Teguise near Arrecife. One of the best hotels in Arrecife for cyclists, it offers bicycle storage and bike rentals, ideal for both beginners and advanced bikers who want to explore the island’s volcanic territory on two wheels.

The hotel’s location is great for walkers too, as you can simply stroll down to the nearest stretch of pebbly sands at Playa Bastian for a dip in the sea.

I love the peaceful tranquillity the resort inspires. But the best hangout spot if you’re in relaxation mode isn’t the main pool, it’s the chill-out pool, where the in-water loungers offer the ultimate serenity. The hotel only has suites and junior suites, which all feature balconies with views—some are swim-up and some are oceanfront.

Those travelling with children should book into the H10 Suites Lanzarote Gardens, one of the best family hotels in Arrecife. Located along the Costa Teguise, the hotel’s design brings in its local surroundings: I appreciate its whitewashed exterior, volcanic stone landscaping features and cactus displays.

My son gasped out loud when he saw the pool, home to a pirate ship replica with water slides and splash features. He also loved the Daisy Club, which has separate sections for toddlers and older children, and even a babysitting service and playground for babies.

Rooms are family friendly too, with kitchenettes and living rooms. Some have bunk beds for kids, additional bedrooms and extra bathrooms. The hotel also has breakfast-only, half-board and all-inclusive rates, so families can choose a package that best fits their vacation style and needs.

Decked out in Lanzarote’s traditional white speckled with volcanic rock, the Paradisus Salinas Lanzarote design is inspired by its seafront surroundings. Set right upon the sea along the Costa Teguise, it’s one of the best hotels in Arrecife for adults, as it only allows travellers aged 16 and up.

It’s also one of the best hotels in Arrecife for all-inclusive travellers, as it features a Middle Eastern eatery and seafood restaurant in addition to its buffet.

I always opt for a sea-view room: feeling the sea breeze waft into the room from the balcony is more than worth it. And while the seawater lagoon pool is the ideal place to chill, don’t miss wandering through the hotel’s indoor atrium, which has received a National Architecture award for its unique geometric design, complete with skylights and local flora.

Just steps from the wild sands and snorkel-friendly waters of Playa del Jablillo, Oasis Lanz Beach Mate has numerous water spots for the whole family to enjoy. You’ll find two pools open to everyone, as well as two pools specifically for children. It’s a nice touch that the pools are heated year-round. I like dipping in, even in the cooler winter months. Tennis buffs, meanwhile, can enjoy a game on the hotel’s courts.

All rooms feature balconies, and some have kitchenettes and separate living areas. It’s the perfect hotel for requesting connecting rooms, especially ideal if you’re travelling with a larger group or several families.

Oasis also offers bike rentals so you can explore the area on two wheels, as well as car rentals if you prefer to drive.

Barceló Teguise Beach is an adults-only property and one of the best hotels in Arrecife for a grown-up stay. That’s thanks to amenities like hot tubs on the balconies in several of the 300+ rooms and a seafront infinity pool.

It’s one of the few hotels that’s convinced me to squeeze in a workout on vacation, as I love its airy indoor/outdoor fitness centre. There are also stretching and yoga classes on the beach. I greatly enjoyed the hydrotherapy circuit, which has various pools and hot tubs, saunas and bi-thermal showers.

The hotel offers all-inclusive packages, which include top-shelf liquors. The best place to sip that curated cocktail is al fresco at the Breeze Gastro Pool Bar. And, like many Lanzarote hotels, the Barceló Teguise Beach prioritizes its cyclist guests and is home to a bike storage and workshop area.

I head to Hotel Lava Beach when I need a restorative stay, as it’s one of the best hotels in Arrecife for relaxation. Located a short drive south of both Arrecife and the island’s airport, this hotel features inviting guestrooms inspired by sea tones, all white with touches of blues and greens.

All have private balconies and some of these have hanging egg chairs. Here, you can kick back and admire the crashing waves and the golden sands of Playa Matagorda below.

The hotel’s Lava Spa has a hydrotherapy circuit (trust me when I say you don’t want to skip the energizing ice fountain), as well as private treatment rooms. Clear your mind with a game of mini golf at the on-site course, a yoga or Pilates class, a tennis or paddleball match or a ride on one of the hotel’s rental bikes.

If it’s sea views you’re after, Hotel Fariones is your spot, as every single room offers vistas of the ocean and a private terrace. It’s also one of the best hotels in Arrecife for beach lovers, as you have direct access to three beaches in the Puerto del Carmen area just south of Arrecife.

I love when a hotel has a backstory, and this particular resort claims to be the first hotel on the island, built in 1966. From live piano sessions and yoga classes to a large family-friendly pool and spa, there’s plenty to do at Hotel Fariones.

For a unique Lanzarote experience, head to Room 214, the hotel’s concept shop, wine and cheese bar, and kids’ area, where the whole family can hang out, drink, eat, play or shop for souvenirs and gifts.