Things To Do
in La Palma
La Palma is the westernmost of the Canary Islands, celebrated for its lush laurel forests, volcanic landscapes, and pristine Atlantic beaches. The island balances dramatic highland ridges with quiet coastal towns, inviting both outdoor adventures and relaxed waterfront strolls. Its starry skies earned it a reputation as a premier observatory destination, attracting night-sky enthusiasts from around the world.
Rich local culture, friendly communities, and a slow-paced rhythm make La Palma feel like a natural refuge amid rugged beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at La Palma Airport and settle into your accommodations. Take a leisurely stroll to explore the nearby town of Santa Cruz, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere and stunning architecture. Enjoy a traditional Spanish breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee.
Head to the beach at Playa de Santa Cruz for a relaxing afternoon under the sun. Engage in some water sports or simply lounge on the warm sands, enjoying the views of the Atlantic Ocean. Grab a bite to eat at a beachside restaurant, sampling local seafood dishes.
As the sun sets, take a scenic drive up to the Mirador de la Cumbrecita for breathtaking panoramic views of the island. Return to Santa Cruz for a dinner of authentic Canarian cuisine, perhaps trying dishes like 'wrinkled potatoes' and 'mojo sauce'. End the night by observing the stars, as La Palma is renowned for its dark skies.
After breakfast, embark on a hike in the Caldera de Taburiente National Park, one of the island's natural gems. The rugged trails will lead you through lush forests and stunning landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers. Make sure to pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the breathtaking views.
Continue exploring the park, discovering its diverse flora and fauna. As you hike, take breaks at scenic spots to soak in the peaceful ambiance. Return to your accommodations to freshen up after a rewarding day outdoors.
Dine at a local eatery in Los Llanos, where you can taste more of La Palma's rich culinary offerings. Choose a terrace seat to enjoy the evening air and watch the town come to life with locals and visitors alike. After dinner, take an evening stroll along the charming streets of Los Llanos.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🛒Basic groceries (weekly) | $40-70 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $4-7 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and mild climate
- Low-key nightlife and friendly locals
- Excellent stargazing and outdoor activities
- Compact size makes a multisport itinerary feasible
- Limited large-scale nightlife and upscale dining
- Can be windy and variable weather in highlands
- Some areas require a car to reach key sights
- Tourist infrastructure concentrated in a few towns
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in La Palma
Visit one of these nice places.
High-altitude ridges and sweeping coastal views; ideal for sunrise and night sky photography.
Overlooks into the dramatic caldera with pine forests and rugged walls.
Colorful wooden balconies, winding streets, and the harborfront for architectural shots.
Panoramic lookout of the northern coastline with dramatic sea cliffs.
Food in La Palma
La Palma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small potatoes boiled in very salty water and served with a pair of mojos (red and green).
Must-Try!
Salt cod stew with potatoes, often accompanied by gofio or a light salad.
Watercress soup with potatoes and vegetables, a warming island staple.
Toasted flour mixed into a warm porridge or soup; a versatile base for many meals.
Local goat cheese, frequently served with honey, almonds, or bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market offering fresh produce, cheeses, spices, and ready-to-eat bites.
Casual stalls and bars serving small plates, perfect for grazing and trying varied flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' in shops and when meeting people; a friendly tone is valued.
Lunch often around 1-2 pm and dinner after 8 pm; meals are social and unhurried.
Be courteous in religious sites; modest dress may be appreciated in churches.
Safety
Tipping in La Palma
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip is generally modest and optional; around 5-10% in restaurants if service is good. Cash is handy, but most places accept cards and contactless payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming laurel forests; great for hiking and nature photography.
Warm and dry; beaches and coastal towns are bustling, but plan for sun protection and water breaks.
Pleasant weather and fewer crowds; excellent for outdoor exploring and stargazing as skies often clear after rain.
Mild but cooler in the highlands; some wetter days in the north but many sunny days remain ideal for hiking.
La Palma at Night
Hiking in La Palma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A classic cross-island hike spanning volcanic terrains and varied ecosystems.
Rim-to-rim routes offering dramatic canyon views and pine forests.
Scenic gorge near El Paso with waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints.
Ridgeline routes with expansive island vistas and forested slopes.
Airports
How to reach La Palma by plane.
Main regional airport with inter-island and limited international connections; taxi and bus links to Santa Cruz and Los Llanos.
Alternative gateway with more international connections; reachable by short flight or ferry combo.
Other Canary Islands hubs offering broader connections via inter-island flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-standing Canarian communities with deep ties to maritime and agricultural traditions.
Tourists and part-time residents drawn to hiking, beaches, and starry skies.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Extensive island trails through pine forests, volcanic landscapes, and dramatic ridges.
Clear coastal waters with volcanic formations and marine life around the western and southern shores.
Rural roads and coastal routes with varying elevations for road and mountain biking.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Palma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Seek gofio-based dishes, vegetables, and cheese; check mojo ingredients for vegetarian compatibility.
Many seafood and vegetable dishes are naturally gluten-free; confirm with staff and avoid cross-contamination.