The “It Rained for 5 Minutes” Lanzarote Plan (what to do in Lanzarote when it rains)

Lanzarote is usually that effortlessly perfect friend: blue sky, volcano colors, and the kind of weather that makes you forget umbrellas exist. So when it rains, it’s almost funny — not because it’s dramatic, but because it’s so rare and so short.

Five minutes later the island acts like nothing happened… except everything looks freshly washed, the air smells better, and suddenly Lanzarote has this little green glow like it’s showing off a limited-edition version of itself.

The only rule you need

If you’re here right now Googling what to do in Lanzarote when it rains, don’t build a whole new itinerary. Just switch one hour of your day. That tiny switch is basically the entire secret to Lanzarote rainy day activities.

If you want cozy (and slightly romantic)

This is when I lean into the vibe: warm drink, slow pace, and something that feels “holiday” even without beach weather. For me, that usually means La Geria — because yes, there are tasting spots with indoor seating too, so you can stay warm and dry while the island does its little refresh outside.

Local wine, tapas, cheese… and that fresh after-rain air? It’s weirdly romantic for no reason. Like Lanzarote is flirting and you’re just like: “Okay. Fine. I accept.”

If you’re with kids (especially 10-year-olds)

If I’ve got kids with me, I don’t rush to spend money just because the sky had a moment. If you’re searching things to do in Lanzarote with kids when it rains, give them a mission and the day runs itself:

plane spotting Lanzarote (yes, it’s weirdly entertaining)
a photo challenge (greenest plant, coolest lava texture, weirdest cloud)
a quick football game the second it clears

Kids want a goal. Adults want peace. Everybody wins.

And because this island has a ridiculous number of beautiful places — beaches, viewpoints, little hidden corners — I keep my favorites saved in VidodoGuide so I don’t waste time debating where to go next.

When hunger shows up (it always does)

If we’re in Puerto del Carmen, I choose lunch by mood, not logic.
If I’m feeling social and snacky, I go tapas-style — perfect for tapas in Puerto del Carmen and the classic “okay… one more.” If I want treat-yourself energy by the sea, I pick something slower on Avenida de las Playas and let lunch take its time.

The best part (when the rain stops)

Then the rain stops, and Lanzarote goes back to being Lanzarote like nothing happened. That’s when I do the easiest ending: a promenade walk, ice cream, and elite-level people-watching. Sitting by the ocean after a quick shower is honestly one of the simplest things to do in Puerto del Carmen today… and it still feels like a proper holiday moment even if you do absolutely nothing productive.

Evening “kids run, adults breathe”

If it’s later and you need the ultimate parent cheat code: pick a promenade with a playground by the sea. Kids burn energy, adults get quiet, and everyone goes home happier than they arrived

In Lanzarote