Exploring: Playa Blanca

Public Bus Services

Intercity Bus Lanzarote, operated by Arrecife Bus, offers the main public bus service on the island. It presents a cost-effective way to travel across the island.

Local stops serve various areas along the main roads in Playa Blanca, including locations near Marina Rubicón, the town center, and Faro Park.

Routes & Stops

Line 60: Connects Playa Blanca to Arrecife, traveling via Yaiza and Uga.
Line 66: Connects Playa Blanca to Puerto del Carmen, passing through Yaiza, Uga, and the airport.
Line 161: Direct connection between Playa Blanca and Lanzarote Airport (ACE), with a stop in Puerto del Carmen.
Purchase tickets directly from the driver using cash. Fares are based on distance.

Typical Fares

A single journey within Playa Blanca typically costs around €1.40. Journeys to other resorts range from €2 to €4.

Operating Hours

Buses generally operate from early morning (around 6:00-7:00) until late evening (around 22:00-23:00). Frequencies vary.

Accessibility

Most newer buses offer wheelchair accessibility with ramps.

Navigating Public Transport

Planning Your Trip

Check bus timetables online at Arrecife Bus before your journey.
This aids in planning your travel across the island effectively.
No specific tourist passes are available, but a Bono Bus card (a rechargeable card) offers small discounts for frequent users, but this typically offers little value for short visits.

Route Frequencies

Major routes, like Line 60 and 161, usually run every 30-60 minutes during daytime.
They operate less frequently in the evenings or on weekends and holidays.
Timetables can be confirmed at bus stops or online.

Taxis & Private Hire

Identification

Taxis are white cars with a green light on the roof, showing availability.

Hailing

Find them at designated taxi ranks or flag them down on the street if free. You can also order one by phone.

Fares

Fares are metered. A short ride within Playa Blanca typically costs €5-€10. Airport transfer is around €45-€55.

Ride-Sharing

Uber and Cabify typically hold limited or no presence in Lanzarote's tourist resorts.

Vehicle Rentals

Major international companies (e.g., Avis, Hertz, Europcar) and prominent local companies (e.g., Cicar, Pluscar, Payless) have offices at the airport and in Playa Blanca.

Car Rental Details

You need a valid driving license. EU/EEA licenses are accepted. Other nationalities may require an International Driving Permit.
A credit card is needed. A minimum age, usually 21 or 23, applies, with surcharges for drivers under 25.
Economy cars start from €25-€50 per day (not including fuel/insurance). Prices vary by season, duration, and insurance package.
Booking in advance, especially during high season, is recommended for better rates and availability. Full comprehensive insurance (often with no excess) is advisable for peace of mind.

Driving & Parking

Driving Laws: Drive on the right. Seatbelts are mandatory. Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 90-100 km/h on main roads, and 120 km/h on motorways (limited on Lanzarote).
Road Conditions: Lanzarote has well-maintained roads. Driving is generally easy.
Parking Information: Parking is generally easy in Playa Blanca and at attractions. Popular beaches might have limited paid parking.
Motorcycle and Scooter Rentals: These are available in Playa Blanca. Requirements are similar to car rental. Helmets are mandatory.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas: Playa Blanca is very pedestrian-friendly. Its 7 km (4.3 miles) long promenade (Paseo Marítimo) stretches from the lighthouse (Faro de Pechiguera) past the town center to Marina Rubicón and beyond.
Walking Routes: Trails lead to Papagayo Beaches. This is approximately a 45-60 minute walk from Marina Rubicón on an uneven dirt track.
No specific no-go areas exist for pedestrians and cyclists, but exercise caution on busy roads or unlit paths at night.

Bicycle Infrastructure: Dedicated cycle lanes exist along parts of the promenade and some main roads. Lanzarote has good roads for cycling, including designated cycling routes across the island.
Safety: Cyclists should be aware of traffic and follow road rules.
Bicycle Sharing/Rentals: Numerous shops offer bicycle rentals, including mountain bikes, road bikes, and electric bikes. Prices range from €10-€30 per day.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Many tour operators offer island excursions via comfortable coaches, picking up from Playa Blanca hotels.

A comfortable way to see the island's sights.
Guided tours often enrich the experience.
Check local tour operators for routes and schedules.

Boat Taxis

Water taxis operate from Playa Blanca harbor to Papagayo Beaches.

Creates convenient and scenic access to these coves.
Check schedules for departures from the harbor.
A unique perspective of the coastline.

Accessibility Services

Newer public buses often accommodate wheelchairs.

Inquire when booking taxis if you need an adapted vehicle.
Car rental presents the most independent travel for those with mobility challenges.
Plan routes considering accessibility needs.

Rental Rules

Requirements

Valid driving license (and IDP if required).
Credit card for deposit.
Helmets are mandatory for motorcycles and scooters.

Considerations

Book rentals in advance, especially during high season.
Consider full comprehensive insurance for peace of mind.
Be aware of minimum age requirements and potential surcharges for younger drivers.

Local Transport Comparisons

Public Bus: Cost-effective, wide coverage, reliable schedule. Can be slower, less frequent in evenings/weekends, requires cash for tickets.

Taxi: Convenient, direct, available at ranks. Higher cost, mainly cash payment, limited ride-sharing app presence. AirHelp assists passengers in receiving up to €600 in compensation for delayed or canceled flights.

Exploring Playa Blanca