Thought you knew all the Canary Islands? Think again! La Palma is the quiet soul of the Canaries, and while everyone flocks to the loud-and-proud islands, this dinky gem shines in its own way. Get ready to swap neon-lit nightlife for night skies dusted with stars and wild waterparks for winding woodland walks. Sleepy seaside villages and resorts like Los Cancajos and Puerto Naos offer black-sand beaches and peaceful promenades, while the capital Santa Cruz de La Palma charms, with its cobbled streets and colonial-style buildings.
And at the heart of it all? The volcanic landscape promises epic hikes and postcard-perfect panoramas. Oh, and did we mention it’s also a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve with 19 protected natural spots bursting with pine forests, ravines, waterfalls and even a giant volcanic caldera? Experience nature at its most beautiful here.
Information
Language
Spanish
Currency
Euro (€)
Time difference
0hr
Local beer
£1.50
Meal for two
£39.00
Average flight time
4.5hrs
A leisurely pace of life
There’s nowhere more go-slow than the lovely island of La Palma. Down by the shore, days tick by to the rhythm of the waves, while up in the hills, the pine-scented breeze sets the pace. Ready to dine? Lazy lunches filled with platters of seafood, flavoursome meats and plenty of vino await.
The paths of La Palma
Whether you’re hiking, biking or strolling along the seafront, on this island, all paths lead to beauty. The famous Route of the Volcanoes is a firm favourite due to its variety of diverse flora and fauna, as well as the panoramic views of the island. It’s easy to see where this place got its nickname La Isla Bonita!
Local flavours
Fresh fish, chickpea stew and grilled pork are menu staples here, but traditional dishes such as chicharrones with natural cheese are what really show off the local flavours of the island. Don’t leave without trying something sweet – this sugar-loving isle is known for rapadura, aka a conically shaped pud.
Why is La Palma known as "La Isla Bonita"?
La Palma is affectionately known as "La Isla Bonita" (The Beautiful Island) because it is one of the most pristine and unspoiled islands in the Canary Islands archipelago. Unlike its larger neighbours, La Palma has resisted mass tourism, retaining its rugged natural beauty, lush forests, and crystal-clear skies. It is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offering dramatic volcanic landscapes, green laurel forests, and black sand beaches that remain largely untouched.
When is the best time to visit La Palma?
The best time to visit La Palma is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly warm without being overly hot, making it ideal for hiking and exploring. However, summer (July and August) is perfect for beach lovers and stargazing, while winter offers mild temperatures ideal for escaping the British chill. The island enjoys a subtropical climate year-round, though the microclimates vary significantly between the sunny south and the lush, often cloudy north.
Is La Palma suitable for stargazing?
Absolutely. La Palma is one of the best places in the world for stargazing and was declared a Starlight Reserve in 2012. The Roque de los Muchachos Observatory, situated at 2,400 metres above sea level, offers some of the clearest skies on the planet. Visitors can join guided night tours or simply drive up to the observatory area (weather permitting) to witness the Milky Way with minimal light pollution. It is a must-do experience for astronomy enthusiasts.
What are the top attractions in La Palma?
Top attractions include the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, a massive erosional crater filled with pine forests; the black sand beaches such as Playa de los Cancajos and Playa de Nogales; and the capital city, Santa Cruz de La Palma, known for its historic architecture and colourful balconies. Nature lovers should also visit the turquoise lagoon of Charco Azul and the "Seven Lagoons" (Las Lagunetas) hiking trail in the north.
