Lanzarote’s Best Spots to Watch the Game
While Lanzarote is world-renowned for its volcanic landscapes, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife, it also boasts a surprisingly robust selection of sports bars where you can catch your favorite teams in action. Whether you’re an expat longing for a taste of home, a tourist eager to unwind after a day of exploring, or a local looking for a lively atmosphere, these establishments offer a fantastic way to enjoy live sports with a distinct Canarian twist. Forget sterile, generic venues; Lanzarote’s sports bars often blend the thrill of the game with the relaxed island vibe, offering great food, refreshing drinks, and a welcoming crowd. Here, I’ll guide you through some of the best places to catch a match, from the bustling resorts to the more laid-back coastal towns.
Playa Blanca: Southern Comfort and Sporting Action
In the popular southern resort town of Playa Blanca, you’ll find a cluster of bars catering to sports enthusiasts. These spots are particularly popular with British and Irish visitors, so you can expect a lively atmosphere during major football matches, rugby games, and other popular sporting events.
The Irish Anvil (Playa Blanca)
A long-standing favorite, The Irish Anvil is a quintessential Irish pub that doesn’t disappoint when it comes to sports. They have multiple screens showing a variety of games, from Premier League football to Six Nations rugby. The atmosphere here is always buzzing, especially on match days. Expect hearty pub grub, a wide selection of beers on tap, and friendly service. It’s a reliable choice for catching any major sporting event, and the staff are usually very accommodating if you have a specific game you want to find.
The Arena Sports Bar (Playa Blanca)
As its name suggests, The Arena is dedicated to sports. Located conveniently in Playa Blanca, this bar is known for its extensive range of live sports coverage. They often have different games on different screens, so you’re likely to find what you’re looking for. The Arena offers a good selection of drinks and casual dining options, making it a comfortable place to spend a few hours cheering on your team. It’s a popular spot for expats and tourists alike, creating a diverse and energetic crowd.
Costa Teguise: Family-Friendly and Sports-Mad
Costa Teguise, another popular resort area, also offers excellent options for sports fans, often with a more family-friendly appeal.
The Shamrock Bar (Costa Teguise)
The Shamrock is a well-known Irish pub in Costa Teguise that consistently delivers on sports. It’s a fantastic place to watch football, rugby, and other major events. With numerous screens and a dedicated sports bar feel, it’s easy to get immersed in the game. They offer a full menu of traditional pub food and a great range of drinks. The staff are friendly and efficient, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the action. It’s a great place to meet fellow fans and enjoy the communal excitement.
Cheers Sports Bar (Costa Teguise)
Cheers is another solid option in Costa Teguise, offering a relaxed environment to watch sports. It’s a straightforward, no-frills sports bar where the focus is firmly on the games. They show a wide variety of sports and have a good selection of drinks and snacks. It’s a popular haunt for those looking for a casual and unpretentious place to catch up on their favorite teams. The welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to strike up a conversation with other patrons.
Puerto del Carmen: Lively Atmosphere and Sea Views
Puerto del Carmen, with its long stretch of beach promenade, offers a mix of lively bars, many of which show live sports.
Hooligans Bar (Puerto del Carmen)
Hooligans is a prominent sports bar located in the heart of Puerto del Carmen. It’s known for its energetic vibe and extensive sports coverage, particularly football. With plenty of screens, it’s an ideal spot for catching any major match. They serve classic pub fare and a wide array of beverages. The location is great for a pre or post-game stroll along the promenade. It’s a popular spot for groups and those looking for a lively night out combined with their sporting fix.
The Dubliner (Puerto del Carmen)
Similar to its namesake in other locations, The Dubliner in Puerto del Carmen is an Irish pub that serves up a healthy dose of live sports alongside its lively atmosphere. Expect to find major football, rugby, and other sporting events being shown on their screens. They offer a good selection of beers, spirits, and food, making it a comfortable place to settle in for the duration of a game. The staff are generally very good at catering to different sporting preferences.
Insider Tips for Sports Fans in Lanzarote
Booking is Recommended for Big Games
For major events like Champions League finals, El Clásico, or significant international rugby matches, it’s highly advisable to arrive early or even call ahead to reserve a table, especially at the more popular venues like The Irish Anvil or Hooligans. These places can get packed, and you don’t want to miss the kick-off!
Check Schedules in Advance
While most bars will try to show a variety of sports, not every game is broadcast everywhere. If you have a specific, perhaps less mainstream, game you want to watch, it’s worth popping into your preferred bar a day or two beforehand to confirm they’ll be showing it. Staff are usually happy to help or can point you in the right direction.
Embrace the Local Vibe
Even in bars that cater heavily to international visitors, there’s always a unique Canarian spirit. Don’t be afraid to chat with the locals and expats; you’ll often find passionate sports fans who can add to the experience. Enjoy the blend of international sports enthusiasm with the relaxed island lifestyle.
Beyond Football and Rugby
While football and rugby often dominate the screens, Lanzarote’s sports bars also cater to other interests. You might find Formula 1 races, tennis grand slams, or even major cycling events being shown. Keep an eye on schedules, and don’t hesitate to ask if a particular sport is being featured.
Don’t Forget the Local Flavors
While you’re there to watch the game, take the opportunity to try some local Canarian beers or wines. Many sports bars will offer a good selection of Spanish and local beverages alongside the international favorites. Pairing a local brew with some tapas is a fantastic way to enhance your sports-watching experience. You can explore more about local craft beers and their availability through resources like dropt.beer, which offers insights into the beer scene.
Post-Game Celebrations (or Commiserations)
Lanzarote’s sports bars are perfect for extending your evening. After the final whistle, you can often continue the atmosphere with music, further drinks, and good company. Many of these bars are situated in areas with plenty of other entertainment options, so the night doesn’t have to end when the game does.
Exploring Beer Culture on the Island
For those who appreciate a good pint, Lanzarote’s craft beer scene is slowly but surely growing. While traditional sports bars will have your usual suspects, if you’re interested in exploring unique craft beers, especially local ones, checking out specialized vendors or information hubs like dropt.beer can be very informative. You might even discover a new favorite brew to enjoy while watching the game or exploring the island. Their shop, dropt.beer/shop/, could be a great place to find interesting brews, and their insights section, dropt.beer/insights-news-blog/, often features interesting articles that might pique your interest as a beer enthusiast.
Conclusion
Lanzarote might be an island paradise, but it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on your sporting passions. The sports bars across the island, particularly in the main tourist hubs of Playa Blanca, Costa Teguise, and Puerto del Carmen, offer fantastic opportunities to catch live action in a friendly and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking the camaraderie of an Irish pub or a dedicated sports venue, you’re sure to find a spot that suits your needs. So, grab a cold drink, settle in, and enjoy the game with the warmth of Canarian hospitality. ¡Salud!
