This distinctive island in the Atlantic, off the coast of Morocco, looks like it’s been plucked straight from another time and place. Cast your gaze on Lanzarote’s dramatic volcanic coves, sweeping coastline and inky lava fields and you’ll soon see why.

Its otherworldly good looks and epic beaches have made it a holiday hit. And while it’s easy to devote your whole getaway to lying on the sands, Lanzarote’s attractions span everything from family-friendly waterparks to culture-packed museums.

Thinking of heading to this Canary Island on holiday or already booked a break? Here are the best things to do in Lanzarote...

1. Playa de Papagayo

Seek out this sickle-shaped bay in Los Ajaches Nature Park on the south tip of the island – it’s a total knockout. Twinkling turquoise waters fringe Playa de Papagayo, so bring your swimming stuff and embark on an aquatic adventure! Once you’ve explored the ocean, head back to the white sands of the shore to dry off in the sunshine.

2. Cueva de los Verdes

Descend beneath Lanzarote’s surface with a trip to Cueva de los Verdes. This ancient lava tube was formed nearly 4,000 years ago when Montaña La Corona erupted. It stretches for more than 6km, culminating at the Atlantic. Go for an underground exploration and amble from chamber to chamber, keeping your eyes turned skywards to marvel at the stalactites embellishing the ceiling.

3. Montana Roja

Translating as the ‘Red Mountain’, Montana Roja is a dormant volcano perched close to Playa Blanca. Hiking fans flock here to take on the steep walking route that snakes through the rouge-tinted hinterland all the way up to the summit. The views across the crater and out to sea are mesmerising, so don’t forget to bring your camera along for the trip!

4. Fundacion Cesar Manrique

Lanzarote’s most famous artist left his mark on the island and his legacy is celebrated at Fundacion Cesar Manrique. Built around lava bubbles and surrounded by tropical flora, this whitewashed bougainvillea-draped building is home to a gallery filled with modern paintings. The artist used to live in the complex, before it was transformed into a museum, giving you an insight into Manrique’s personal style.

5. Mirador del Rio

Designed by Cesar Manrique, this epic viewpoint wraps around a clifftop and provides sweeping vistas of the neighbouring island of La Graciosa. It’s been carefully engineered to camouflage with the surrounding rocks, curving gently through the landscape. Hike up to Mirador del Rio, which is nestled 474 metres above sea level and drink in the panoramas.

6. Playa Dorada

Put this fine white sand beach at the top of your must-see list! Sweeping around a bay on the south side of the island, Playa Dorada is a lovely spot along Lanzarote’s coast for a day of sun, sea and sand. The calm waters lapping the shore are crystal-clear, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. There’s also a bustling seafront promenade which is the perfect place to retreat to when you’re in need of some midday refreshments.

7. Los Hervideros

The natural beauty keeps on coming! And this time it’s at Los Hervideros on Lanzarote’s west coast. Erosion over the years has created a series of blowholes and caves along this volcanic shoreline. Mighty Atlantic waves roll in and crash against them, producing epic swells and sprays of seawater. Paths run in tandem along Los Hervideros, giving you the ultimate place to stop and admire the power of the ocean.

8. Parque Nacional de Timanfaya

Every guidebook about the best things to do in Lanzarote will send you in the direction of Parque Nacional de Timanfaya, where the island’s dramatic wild beauty reaches a crescendo. Dormant volcanoes speckle the area, creating an eerie lunar-like landscape in ochre, black and red hues. On the eastern edge of the park, you’ll find La Geria – Lanzarote’s main wine region. Green vines sprout up from the volcanic ash and are harvested to produce a unique flavour. So, why not take a tour and pamper your palate with the island’s sweet whites and bold reds?

9. Castillo de Santa Bárbara

Teguise is where you can find this hilltop fortress that dates all the way back to the 16^th century, built to protect Lanzarote from pirates and invaders. While it served as a watchtower for several hundred years, today it’s a historical landmark devoted to telling the stories of pirates past. Learn about Castillo de Santa Bárbara’s heritage from the series of exhibits hung throughout the complex, before heading up to the battlements for sweeping views of the terracotta-tinged landscape surrounding it.

10. Marina Rubicon

Get swept up in the atmosphere of the island at Marina Rubicon, Playa Blanca’s glitzy marina. Yachts bob in the water and tourists leisurely amble around the harbourside. Bustling bars and restaurants fringe the marina, along with a number of chic boutiques. Come here during the evening for dinner with a sunset view and a spot of souvenir shopping.