Note (as of 2026): In 2021 the Cumbre Vieja volcano erupted on La Palma. Parts of the west coast – around Puerto Naos, for example – were closed off at times. Please check the current situation before travelling; some of the places mentioned here have changed.
La Palma is the greenest and most varied of the Canary Islands – a paradise for anyone who loves being outdoors. Here are my highlights from many trips: beaches, hikes, diving and biking.
Beaches on La Palma
La Palma has a small but fine selection of beaches, mainly on the west and east coasts. They all have black sand that gets seriously hot in summer. Watch the flags – if it’s red, it’s better to stay out of the water.
- Playa del Charco Verde (west) – my favourite beach in a small bay, great for snorkelling, with loungers and a nice kiosk.
- Playa de Puerto Naos (west) – the largest and best-known beach with good facilities.
- Playa de Tazacorte (west) – a long, fine beach with the harbour wall as a breakwater.
- Charco Azul & La Fajana (north-east) – natural seawater pools, ideal for children too.
- Playa de los Cancajos (east) – well protected, family-friendly, plenty of facilities.
Hiking on La Palma
La Palma is a hiking paradise with routes for every level. Before bigger tours it’s worth checking the tourist office or a knowledgeable local guide.
Caldera de Taburiente. My highlight – I’ve done the loop ten times. From the Barranco de las Angustias car park, take the shuttle to Los Brecitos, then downhill through fragrant pine forests to the riverbed and a multi-hour descent. Don’t miss the detour to the multicoloured waterfall Cascada de los Colores. Bring enough water and provisions!
Mirador de la Cumbrecita. A shorter alternative with a spectacular view into the caldera – about an hour. Advance registration at the visitor centre is required.
Ruta de los Volcanes. The volcano route starts at El Pilar, about two hours up to nearly 2,000 metres, then the long descent to Los Canarios. There’s no food along the way.
Diving on La Palma
I started diving here over 15 years ago. The big advantage: unlike in overcrowded areas, you’re almost always in the water with just your own group. My recommendation is Tauchpartner La Palma in Puerto Naos – good equipment, good organisation, house-reef diving included.
Biking on La Palma
The island has become a popular mountain-bike destination, with plenty of rentals and tour operators. For info and guiding, the Atlantic Cycling Team or the bike station in Puerto Naos are good points of contact.
