La Palma

Written by Celine Fournier, David Garcia, Javier Garcia
31/08/2025
Stunning coastal view with waves crashing on rocky shores in La Palma, Spain.
- landsmann -, Pexels

La Palma, known as "La Isla Bonita," offers a captivating escape for nature enthusiasts and active explorers, boasting diverse landscapes from ancient laurel forests and volcanic craters to pristine dark skies perfect for stargazing. It provides a serene setting for those seeking tranquility amidst stunning natural beauty.

Social interactions on the island are typically organic and relaxed, often occurring in the charming capital, Santa Cruz de La Palma, with its historic areas, cafes, and restaurants. The emphasis is less on bustling nightlife and more on shared experiences during outdoor activities or in the welcoming atmosphere of its towns.

Top 7 Things to do in La Palma

The island offers a range of outdoor experiences, from exploring ancient forests and volcanic landscapes to enjoying natural swimming pools and stargazing under pristine skies.

1. Hike in Caldera de Taburiente National Park

This immense erosion crater, one of the largest in the world, is a must-visit for hikers. Within the park, you can discover pine forests, natural pools, and waterfalls like Cascada de los Colores. Consider starting at Mirador de los Brecitos for a full-day experience, or opt for shorter trails around viewpoints such as La Cumbrecita. The landscape here is truly grand, showcasing the island's raw volcanic and hydrological forces.

Cost: Free entry to the park. A permit may be required for vehicle access to some viewpoints like La Cumbrecita, and taxis can be hired to drop off at trailheads, such as Mirador de los Brecitos, for approximately €50-60 from Los Llanos de Aridane for a shared taxi.

Transport: Reaching the park's interior often requires a 4x4 vehicle or a pre-booked taxi to trailheads like Mirador de los Brecitos. Alternatively, public buses operate to areas near the park's periphery. Renting a car (around €17-€29 per day) provides the most flexibility for exploring various access points. A taxi from Fuencaliente to Santa Cruz de La Palma, which is closer to the park, can cost €95-€120.

2. Stargazing at Roque de los Muchachos

As one of the world's premier astronomical sites, Roque de los Muchachos offers exceptionally clear night skies due to minimal light pollution. It is also the highest point on the island, providing breathtaking panoramic views during the day, extending across the Caldera de Taburiente. Witnessing the sunset from here, followed by the emergence of countless stars, is an unforgettable experience.

Cost: Free to visit the viewpoint. Guided stargazing tours are available, with prices around €50-€55.

Transport: Driving is the most common way to reach Roque de los Muchachos. The road is accessible by car. Taxi services can also be arranged, though costs will vary depending on the starting point. Public transport to this high-altitude location is limited, making car rental highly recommended.

3. Explore Los Tilos Forest

Step into a prehistoric world within Los Tilos, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that preserves one of the last remaining laurel forests from the Tertiary period. The forest is characterized by lush, dense vegetation, giant ferns, and a serene, moss-laden atmosphere. Easy self-guided walks are available, including a short trail to a beautiful waterfall. More adventurous hikers can undertake the Marcos y Cordero springs route, which involves walking through tunnels and can take several hours.

Cost: Entry to Los Tilos Forest and its waterfall is free.

Transport: Los Tilos is located in the northeast, about 24 kilometers from Santa Cruz de La Palma. The road leads directly to the visitor's center, which has parking. Public bus line 4 serves the Los Sauces-Puerto Espíndola area, which is within walking distance (1.5 km) of Charco Azul, which is in the same region.

4. Swim in Charco Azul Natural Pools

Located on the northeast coast, Charco Azul offers a series of natural volcanic swimming pools, perfectly adapted for public enjoyment. These saltwater pools, formed by lava and the sea, provide a safe and unique spot for swimming and relaxation, protected from the open ocean waves. There's a main pool with turquoise water, a children's pool, and the 'Charco de las Damas' bay, all surrounded by amenities.

Cost: Entry to Charco Azul is completely free. Showers are available for €0.50.

Transport: Charco Azul is in San Andrés y Sauces, about 30 minutes by car from Santa Cruz de La Palma. There is a spacious and free parking area. Public bus line 4 also serves this area.

5. Discover Cueva de Las Palomas Lava Tube

Embark on a guided speleology tour through the Cueva de Las Palomas lava tube, a fascinating underground world created by the 1949 San Juan volcanic eruption. This 500-meter-long natural tunnel allows you to witness unique solidified lava formations and learn about the geological history and biodiversity of the area. It’s an easy and educational adventure, suitable for families.

Cost: A guided tour typically costs around €32-€38 per person. This usually includes the guided route, safety helmet, and insurance. Discounts may apply for Canary Island residents, large families, and groups.

Transport: The lava tube is located near the 'Caños de Fuego' Interpretation Center in the Las Manchas area. It is best reached by car or taxi, with visitor parking available at the interpretation center.

6. Stroll Through Santa Cruz de La Palma

Explore the charming capital of La Palma, Santa Cruz de La Palma, with its well-preserved historic center. Wander along cobbled streets, admire the colorful colonial mansions with their traditional wooden balconies along Avenida Maritima, and visit significant sites like Plaza de España, home to the impressive Church of El Salvador and the historic town hall. The city offers a relaxed atmosphere with cafes and local shops.

Cost: Exploring the city is free. Entry to some museums, like the Naval Museum (housed in a replica of a 16th-century ship), may have a fee, though specific costs for recent years were not detailed.

Transport: Santa Cruz de La Palma is the main port and capital, well-connected by public buses (Line 500 from the airport costs €3 ) from various parts of the island. Taxis are also readily available, with an average ride within Santa Cruz costing around €5. Car rental in Santa Cruz is available from approximately €19 per day.

7. Relax at Puerto Naos Beach

Puerto Naos is the largest and one of the most popular beaches on La Palma, known for its fine black volcanic sand, clear waters, and palm-lined promenade. It's an excellent spot for relaxation, sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying stunning sunsets over the Atlantic. The beach offers various amenities, including sunbeds, showers, and numerous beachfront bars and restaurants. For the more active, options like snorkeling, diving, paragliding, and cycling are also available.

Cost: Access to the beach is free. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for hire (specific costs not detailed). Water sports activities would incur separate costs.

Transport: Located on the sunny west coast, Puerto Naos is easily accessible by car, with public parking available (though it can fill up quickly on weekends and high season). A taxi from La Palma Airport to Puerto Naos can cost around €75 and take 55 minutes. Public buses also serve this popular tourist area.

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