Cueva Bonita is one of those gems you can only see from the water, and the best way to reach it is by kayak, setting off from Porís de Candelaria. In this practical guide we tell you everything you need to know before you book: what the outing includes, where the meeting point is, how long it lasts, what to bring and when is the best time to go. If what you're after is an overview of kayaking on the island, start with our guide to kayaking in La Palma.
What the tour is and what's included
Our most popular experience sets off from Porís de Candelaria, a tiny fishing settlement whose houses shelter beneath an enormous volcanic tube open to the sea. From there we paddle south along the Tijarafe coast, between cliffs and small grottoes, until we reach Cueva Bonita, famous for the play of blue light inside it.
The outing includes:
- A highly stable sit-on-top kayak and an ergonomic paddle.
- A certified life jacket.
- A qualified local guide who knows every corner of the coast.
- Public liability insurance.
- A safety and paddling-technique briefing before setting off.
- An explanation of the history, geology and legends of the area.
What you'll see on the route
From the kayak you can observe La Palma's west-coast volcanic landscape: basalt cliffs, rock arches, small sea caves and coves without land access. When the sea is calm, the bottom or a shoal of fish may be visible. Wildlife sightings, including turtles, are possible but occasional and not guaranteed.
The high point is, without doubt, entering Cueva Bonita. When the sea allows, the kayaks slip into the cavity and the sunlight, reflecting off the sandy bottom, turns the water and walls an intense blue that many visitors describe as the most memorable moment of their whole trip to the island.
Meeting point and how to get there
The meeting point is in Porís de Candelaria, Tijarafe. We send the exact point and directions after booking. Allow extra time and follow those directions; final access involves a walk downhill and is not accessible for people with reduced mobility.
Duration, level and who it's for
- Duration: 2.5–3 hours in total for the daytime tour (1.5–2 hours paddling); 2–3 hours for the sunset kayak.
- Level: suitable for beginners; no previous experience required.
- Essential requirement: you must be able to swim.
- Families: it's an ideal outing for children who can swim and meet the minimum age for each activity.
Safety and when you can enter the cave
The group's safety always comes first. Before each outing, the guide assesses the state of the sea, the wind and the swell, and decides on the most suitable route. That's why entry to the interior of Cueva Bonita is not guaranteed: it depends on conditions being safe on that particular day. If the sea doesn't allow a proper outing, we reschedule at no cost or refund the amount. Groups are small so the guide can keep an eye on everyone at all times.
Best time to get inside Cueva Bonita
You can paddle for much of the year, but summer (June–September) offers the calmest sea and, with it, the best chance of getting inside Cueva Bonita. Important: entry to the cave is not guaranteed, as it depends on the state of the sea on the day. The group's safety always comes first, which is why the early hours of the morning and sunset tend to offer the best conditions.
What to bring
- Swimwear and a towel.
- Water-resistant sun protection.
- Water to keep you hydrated.
- Neoprene boots or water shoes, if you have them.
We provide the rest of the equipment (kayak, paddle and life jacket).
How to book and cancellation policy
Groups are small and availability changes by date and departure. You can check the current calendar and book your tour. If the sea doesn't allow a safe departure, we reschedule the outing at no extra cost or refund the full amount. You can find the details in our cancellation policy.
Combine your day on the west coast
The kayak tour pairs wonderfully with other plans on the west coast of La Palma. You can spend the morning on the water and the afternoon exploring Tijarafe or Porís de Candelaria at a leisurely pace, or round off your trip with hiking and a visit to the Tajogaite volcano. Want to read what the experience is really like from the inside? Don't miss our account: discovering Cueva Bonita by kayak.