Playa Blanca, Lanzarote at new year

[juneau]

We've just booked a week at a hotel on the Playa Blanca for new year. We are me, DH and two boys (who will be 8 & 4). It will be our first time in Lanzarote (or anywhere in the Canaries), so I have a few questions if there is anyone who knows the island well.

Our boys love the beach and/or pool, but I don't know how warm its going to be. I know it COULD be beach/pool weather, but if its not do you have any suggestions of things to do?
Should we hire a car for a few days?
Are the volcanic parks worth visiting?
Can we do these on our own easily or is better with a guide?
Can you pick up a guide there, or do you need to go on an organised tour?
Is Arrecife (or any other towns) worth visiting for a wander? We like Spanish towns and cities, tapas, sangria, local colour and atmosphere, shops, museums, parks and gardens.
Are there any attractions that you would recommend for DC the age of ours?

Gracias!

we've been in feb and pool lovely but needs to be heated. weather has been good, but we've been lucky - cold at night. volcanic park good. you can book a coach from the tourist office in the centre of playa blanca, by the taxi rank. don't need a guide.

There is loads to see and do in Lanzarote:
Timanfaya National Park
Guinate Tropical Park
The aquarium
Jameos del Agua and the volcanic museum
The cave of Los Verdes
Fundacion Cesar Manrique

You can't drive around Timanfaya yourself as it is a sight biosphere reserve and access to the park by the public is strictly regulated to protect the delicate flora and fauna. But you can book a coach trip which is well worth it.

It will be warm rather than hot at that time of year and evenings can be chilly.

Thank you! I'm getting excited about going now. It looks like hiring will be best as I can't face doing coach tours all over the island and I can see there is plenty to see and do.