La Palma
Known as the beautiful island, La Palma is green and steep, made for hikers and for some of the clearest stargazing skies in the world.
Known across Spain as La Isla Bonita, the beautiful island, La Palma is the green, steep north-western corner of the Canaries. It is far less developed than the big resort islands, built instead for walkers, with a giant volcanic crater at its heart, lush forests and black-sand beaches. The skies here are famously dark and clear, making it one of the best stargazing spots on earth. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, La Palma suits anyone who loves nature over nightlife.
What La Palma is known for
La Palma is the Canary Island for nature lovers. Greener and steeper than its neighbours, it is built around the Caldera de Taburiente, a vast volcanic crater ringed by peaks over 2,000 metres high and laced with hiking trails, waterfalls and pine forest. Its national park is one of the island's great draws. The island is just as famous for its skies. With strict rules to limit light pollution, La Palma was named the world's first Starlight Reserve, and the Roque de los Muchachos at its highest point holds one of the largest observatories on the planet. On a clear night the stars are extraordinary. Down at the coast you will find black-sand beaches, natural sea pools and small towns with a quiet, local feel. Volcanoes have shaped the south, and the island's wine, almonds and forests all grow from that rich volcanic soil. La Palma rewards anyone happy to walk, look up and slow down.
Things to do in La Palma
For hikers, the Caldera de Taburiente National Park is the highlight, a huge volcanic crater with trails, waterfalls and pine forest. If you love the night sky, head up to the Roque de los Muchachos for some of the clearest stargazing in the world, ideally on a guided astro tour. The Ruta de los Volcanes is a famous walk across the volcanic ridges of the south. Down at the coast, relax on black-sand beaches and natural sea pools, or explore the pretty capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma. Whichever way you want to play, La Palma has it.
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Where to stay in La Palma
Where you base yourself depends on your plans. The capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma, is a handsome coastal town and a good central base. Los Llanos de Aridane on the western side is the other main town, close to beaches and walking. For nature and stargazing, rural houses inland put you near the trails and dark skies.
Food and drink in La Palma
La Palma's food comes straight from its rich volcanic land and the sea. Try fresh fish with papas arrugadas and mojo, and local goat cheese. The island is known for its almonds, used in sweet treats like almendrados, and for its wines grown on volcanic slopes. Simple, home-style cooking is the norm here, often in small family restaurants.
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Best time to visit La Palma
La Palma is a year-round destination, mild even in winter, though it is greener and a little wetter than the eastern Canaries. Spring and autumn are excellent for hiking, with comfortable temperatures. Summer is warm and the best time for the coast. For stargazing, clear nights are common all year, but check that your visit avoids a bright full moon if dark skies are the goal.
Getting to La Palma and around
La Palma Airport (SPC) is on the east coast near the capital and takes some direct flights from mainland Spain and Europe, with many visitors connecting through Tenerife. Ferries also link La Palma with Tenerife and the other western islands. On the island, hiring a car is really the only practical way to reach the national park, the observatory and the scattered villages, as the terrain is steep and public transport is limited.
Nearest Airport in La Palma
Travel tips for visiting La Palma
Hire a car, as La Palma's steep terrain and spread-out sights are hard to manage by bus. For stargazing, book an astro tour and avoid nights with a full moon. Bring warm layers and sturdy shoes for the Caldera and the high Roque de los Muchachos. Check the weather for the crater before hiking, as it can change quickly at altitude. Try the island's almond sweets and volcanic wines. Fill up on fuel before heading into the mountains, where stations are scarce.
Events happening in La Palma
What's on in La Palma during your travel dates - annual festivals events.
FAQs about visiting La Palma
Helpful answers for planning your visit to La Palma.
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