Local guide to what to do in La Palma: kayaking to the Cueva Bonita, hiking, stargazing and the best activities on the island
La Palma, the greenest and most westerly of the Canary Islands, is a small paradise for anyone seeking authentic nature away from mass tourism. Its must-dos: paddling by kayak to the Cueva Bonita, a natural cathedral open to the sea and only reachable by water, walking through the colossal Caldera de Taburiente, and gazing at one of the cleanest starry skies on the planet from the Roque de los Muchachos. In this guide, as locals who live here, we tell you what is genuinely worth it and how to make the most of every day of your trip to La Palma.
And if you could only do one thing, we are clear about it: kayaking from Porís de Candelaria to the Cueva Bonita. It is the most unique experience in La Palma and the one guests most ask to repeat.
Most unique
Paddle from Porís de Candelaria to a sea cave where the light turns the water turquoise. Only reachable by sea. No previous experience required. Participants must be able to swim, be at least 5 years old and have reasonable fitness. Trip with a local guide subject to conditions and the guide’s decision.
The same route to the Cueva Bonita, but with the sun sinking into the Atlantic and the coast turning orange. Canarian snack on the way back.
Every Saturday
Every Saturday, a different destination chosen by a local guide. The Los Tilos forest, northern viewpoints, trails almost no one walks. Let yourself be surprised.
When choosing a kayak experience in La Palma, compare the departure point, route, included equipment, group size and requirements for each activity. Our excursion leaves from Porís de Candelaria and follows the Tijarafe coast towards Cueva Bonita with a local guide and equipment included; the final route depends on sea conditions.
If you want to experience the sea and mountains with a local team, check what each activity includes and its requirements before choosing. Booking directly on the website lets you deal with the team without an intermediary and see current availability.
Local guides, routes and tips to make the most of your trip. See the full blog →
| Activity | Duration | Level | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kayak to Cueva Bonita | 2.5–3 h total (1.5–2 h paddling) | All | Couples, families, beginners |
| Sunset kayak | 2-3 h | All | Couples, photography, special moments |
| Surprise route (hiking) | Half day | Medium | Adventurers, returning visitors |
| Stargazing / Caldera | Varies | Easy, medium | Nature and astronomy |
We are not a big agency: we are locals from La Palma who show our island the way we would like it to be shown to us. Our guide Gianluca and the local team know every corner of the coast and the trails, and they put care and good vibes first. Before booking, you can read the reviews published by customers on Google.
"One of the most special moments of our trip to La Palma. Gianluca and Mario put so much heart into it; you can feel their passion for their island. A 100% must."
Born and raised here. They truly know the island.
Before each departure, the sea state is assessed and the route is adapted to the conditions.
Read the opinions published by customers before booking.
One way to explore the west coast is to kayak from Porís de Candelaria towards Cueva Bonita, a natural sea cathedral open to the ocean and reachable by water. The activity includes a local guide and the route is adapted to sea conditions. You can also combine it with hiking in the Caldera de Taburiente and stargazing at Roque de los Muchachos.
With 3 days you see the essentials (west coast and kayaking, Caldera de Taburiente and the green north). With 5 to 7 days you enjoy it without rushing. We have 3-day and 7-day itineraries.
All year round, thanks to its mild climate. For kayaking from May to October, wind and swell can still change; the trip depends on the day’s conditions and the guide’s decision. The sky for stargazing is excellent on almost any clear night.
Yes. The kayak trip to the Cueva Bonita is suitable from age 5, provided they can swim, and requires no previous experience: we give a briefing and full equipment. Many hiking routes have easy sections for families.
It is in the municipality of Tijarafe, on the west coast. Access is via a narrow, winding road; if you prefer not to drive, we work with a trusted local taxi driver. We explain everything when you book.
Book the island's flagship experience: kayaking to the Cueva Bonita with local guides.
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