Stacked basalt, roaring surf – Los Arcos de los Caletones
Los Arcos de los Caletones is one of the most spectacular geological formations on La GraciosaOn the island’s north coast, over thousands of years the sea has exposed hard layers of basalt and eroded softer rock – the result: stacked arches of black basalt through which the Atlantic surf breaks.
Geological formation
Surf erosionthe sea tends to erode soft rock first. Where layers of differing hardness lie on top of one another, natural arches are formed – the more resistant layers remain standing, whilst the softer ones are washed away. This process takes thousands of years and never stops.
What to experience there
The arches in high surf
When the waves are strong, the water shoots through the arches and explodes into white spray. The sound is a spectacular sight, but observe it from a safe distance.
The arches in calm weather
When there’s no wind, a different scene unfolds: the turquoise water glistening through the arches, the perfect symmetry of the rock formations, and the crabs scuttling across the wet stones. Exceptionally photogenic.
How to get there
Los Arcos or Los Caletones is situated on the north coast – accessible via the hiking trail through the north of the island (approx. 2.5–3.5 hours from Caleta del Sebo) or by jeep taxi to the vicinity.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| On foot | Approx. 2.5–3.5 hours from Caleta del Sebo – North Coast Route |
| Jeep taxi | To within a short distance – final stretch on foot |
| Combination | Jeep taxi there, walk back via Playa de las Conchas |
⚠️ Important information
Slippery basalt when the sea is rough: DO NOT climb onto the arches
Keep a safe distance when the surf is strong
No kiosk – bring everything with you
Nature conservation
- Wild camping prohibited
- Campfires prohibited
- Off-road driving prohibited, including for bicycles
- Archipiélago Chinijo Nature Park · Lanzarote UNESCO Biosphere Reserve · Reserva Marina del Archipiélago Chinijo (70,000 ha)
No – strong surf and currents. For snorkelling: Playa de la Cocina is the better choice.
Conclusion
- Los Arcos de los Caletones: the geological spectacle of the north coast.
- Most impressive when there are waves – but always keep a safe distance.
- Combine this with a walk along the north coast and a visit to Playa de las Conchas: the perfect day in the north.
This article is based on on-site research carried out by the go-la-graciosa.com editorial team. Last updated: April 2026
