La Palma, known for its volcanic landscapes, offers dramatic coastal views best explored by boat. We recommend taking a boat tour along the cliffs, where you might spot dolphins and whales. The calm waters are also great for paddleboarding and snorkeling. La Palma is a peaceful escape with stunning natural beauty.
Best things to do in La Palma
Visit the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory for breathtaking views and stargazing, or explore the lush forests of La Caldera de Taburiente National Park. The volcanic landscapes of the Cumbre Vieja are perfect for hiking, while the charming town of Santa Cruz de La Palma offers colonial architecture and cobbled streets. Don’t miss the black sand beaches like Playa de Nogales for a relaxing day by the sea.
Getting around in La Palma
La Palma is best explored by car, allowing you to visit the island’s remote beaches, volcanic landscapes, and charming towns at your own pace. Public buses are available but limited, so a car provides more flexibility for exploring the island’s natural beauty.
The best Watersports & boat tours in La Palma
La Palma’s clear waters and volcanic coastline make it ideal for snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. Boat tours around the island offer opportunities to explore hidden coves and sea caves, while dolphin-watching cruises are a popular activity. Paddleboarding and sailing are also available, offering a peaceful way to explore the island’s stunning coastline.
Playa de Nogales is a striking black-sand beach, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of a hike to reach a more secluded spot. If you’re looking for something more lively, Puerto Naos Beach is a popular choice, with beach bars, restaurants, and crystal-clear waters. For a quieter day, Playa de Echentive is a beautiful volcanic beach near the Fuencaliente salt flats, offering a peaceful and scenic retreat.
Where and what to eat in La Palma
La Palma’s cuisine is focused on fresh, local ingredients. Visit Casa Goyo in Santa Cruz for traditional Canarian dishes like grilled fish and goat stew, or try Restaurante El Jardín de la Sal in Fuencaliente, where you can enjoy a meal with views of the island’s famous salt pans. Don’t forget to try the local dessert bienmesabe, a sweet almond and honey treat.
Did you know that La Palma is also called “La Isla Bonita”, the beautiful island or “La Isla Verde”, the green island? Well, it’s easy to discover why…
In the island’s capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma, quaint guesthouses and small hotels provide a charming base for exploring the island’s colonial architecture. If you’re looking for a rural escape, consider staying in eco-lodges or country houses in the lush Los Tilos or the Caldera de Taburiente areas, where you’ll be surrounded by nature and have easy access to hiking trails. For beach lovers, the black sand beaches of Puerto Naos offer small, cozy apartments with ocean views.
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