Islas Canarias Spain, Canary Islands
Piscina Natural Coloseo
Charco del Palo is a long-established naturist village on the northeast coast of Lanzarote, one of Spain's Canary Islands.
- Hiking Area
About this place
Charco del Palo is a long-established naturist village on the northeast coast of Lanzarote, one of Spain's Canary Islands. Unlike a single-property resort, it's an entire purpose-built clothing-optional settlement — homes, villas, a small shop, and communal areas all oriented toward naturist living. The village sits on dramatic volcanic coastline with natural lava-rock pools (the "charcos" that give it its name) where you can swim nude in sheltered Atlantic water. Accommodations are mostly rental villas and apartments owned privately or through agencies; there's no single reception desk. The setting is sparse and windswept — typical Lanzarote black rock, minimal greenery, endless ocean views. It's quietly popular with Northern European naturists, especially Germans and Brits, who appreciate the year-round warmth and the rare chance to live fully clothes-free in a community setting. There's a restaurant-bar, tennis courts, and coastal hiking trails. The vibe is low-key and residential rather than resort-luxe. You're here for the freedom, the volcanic landscape, and the relaxed rhythm of an off-grid naturist enclave. Charco del Palo has been operating since the 1970s and remains one of Europe's most distinctive clothing-optional destinations — less a resort, more a lifestyle.
Visitor notes
Contributed by ClothingOptional.org Editorial Team
Who visits
Primarily Northern European naturists — Germans, Brits, Dutch — many in the 50+ age bracket. Couples dominate, with some solo travelers and a scattering of families. The atmosphere is quiet, community-minded, and socially relaxed. Younger crowds are less common. Expect a mix of long-term winter residents and week-long holidaymakers.
How to find it
Charco del Palo is on Lanzarote's northeast coast, about 30 km from Arrecife airport. Drive north via LZ-1 toward Arrieta, then follow signs. The village is small and clearly marked. Parking is informal, near your rental villa. GPS coordinates place you at the heart of the settlement. No public transport serves the village directly.
Things to watch out for
Wind is constant — Lanzarote's trade winds blow year-round, so bring sun protection and layers for evenings. The coastline is volcanic rock; no sandy beach. Swimming in the lava pools depends on tide and swell. Book accommodation well ahead in winter high season (November–March). The village shop and restaurant have limited hours off-season.
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Etiquette & ground rules
Nudity is welcomed in pool, lounge, and grounds areas; some indoor or restaurant spaces may ask for cover-ups depending on the property. Photo and video are not allowed without prior consent. Verify the property's policies around age, single visitors, and short-stay day passes.
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