Charco del Palo is a unique place on the map of Lanzarote — and of the entire Canary Islands. This small settlement on the island’s eastern coast is one of the last fully naturist communities in Europe. You won’t find a sandy beach here — instead, volcanic rocks form natural pools where residents and guests have been bathing nude for over four decades. It’s a way of life, not a tourist attraction.
Volcanic Rock Pools
The shoreline at Charco del Palo is typical of Lanzarote’s eastern coast — flat, black volcanic rock in which the ocean has carved numerous hollows and pools. In calm conditions these form natural bathing spots of varying depths — from shallow paddling pools to basins deep enough for a proper swim. The water is exchanged with every wave, so it stays clean and fresh.
Warning: when the swell is strong (particularly in winter), bathing in the rock pools can be dangerous. Waves can surge over the rocks with considerable force. Check sea conditions before entering the water and never turn your back to the ocean.
The Naturist Community
Charco del Palo was established in the 1970s as a holiday apartment complex that quickly attracted a community of naturists from Germany, the UK and Scandinavia. Today it’s a settled, peaceful community of several dozen permanent residents and a rotating cast of guests renting apartments. Nudity is the norm throughout the settlement — at the pools, around the apartments and on walks along the coast.
The atmosphere is quiet and laid-back. There are no hotels, nightclubs or noise — just a communal area with a small swimming pool, a petanque court and a handful of simple restaurants. If you’re looking for an escape from Lanzarote’s tourist bustle, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better spot.
Who Is This Place For?
Charco del Palo is for people who value privacy, quiet and contact with nature in its most literal sense. You don’t need to be an experienced naturist — just open-minded and respectful of local customs. Apartments are available through the settlement’s dedicated websites and popular booking platforms. Prices are very affordable by Lanzarote standards — it’s one of the cheapest places to stay on the island.
Practical Information
- Getting there: by car from Arrecife via the LZ-1 north, then turn off onto the LZ-404 towards Mala. Charco del Palo is signposted. About 25 minutes’ drive.
- Public transport: no direct service. The nearest bus stop is in Mala (about 3 km).
- Facilities: a few restaurants/bars, a small supermarket, a communal pool. No lifeguards on the coast.
- Shopping: the nearest larger shop is in Arrieta (5 min) or Haría (15 min).
- Etiquette: the entire settlement is a naturist zone. Clothed visitors are not asked to undress, but nudity is the prevailing norm here.
Nearby Beaches
- Playa de la Garita (Arrieta) — 5 minutes north by car, a calm family beach with a natural pool.
- Caletón Blanco — 15 minutes north, white sand amid black lava rocks.
- Jameos del Agua — not a beach, but an underground volcanic lake designed by César Manrique, 10 minutes by car.