Playa de Tazacorte is one of the most charming and sunniest places on the island of La Palma. Located on the island’s western coast, this beautiful beach combines black volcanic sand, calm waters, and colorful village life. With its fishing harbor, palm-lined promenade, and ocean views framed by steep cliffs, it’s the perfect destination for those seeking relaxation, sunshine, and authentic Canarian atmosphere.
Overview
- Location: West coast of La Palma, near Los Llanos de Aridane.
- Main attractions: The beach, old fishing port, and picturesque town center.
- Beach type: Black sand and pebble beach, protected by breakwaters.
- Ideal for: Families, swimmers, and travelers looking for peaceful coastal scenery.
About Playa de Tazacorte
Playa de Tazacorte is one of La Palma’s most accessible and family-friendly beaches. Its sheltered bay and calm waters make it ideal for swimming and paddling, while the wide sandy area offers plenty of space to relax. The beach is located right next to the small fishing harbor, where colorful boats gently sway in the water, creating a postcard-perfect scene.
The promenade is lively yet peaceful, lined with palm trees, cafés, and seafood restaurants. The area receives more hours of sunshine per year than anywhere else in La Palma, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors all year round.
Things to do in Playa de Tazacorte
1. Enjoy swimming and sunbathing
The calm and clean waters of Playa de Tazacorte make it one of the best places for swimming on the island. The beach has a Blue Flag certification, ensuring excellent water quality and safety. Lifeguards are on duty during the high season, and facilities include showers, toilets, and sunbed rentals.
2. Walk along the seafront promenade
The Paseo Marítimo de Tazacorte runs parallel to the beach and offers beautiful ocean views. Lined with palm trees and colorful houses, it’s perfect for a leisurely walk or evening stroll. The promenade connects the modern beach area with the old fishing quarter, full of local charm and history.
3. Visit the harbor and old town
Just next to the beach lies the Puerto de Tazacorte, a small fishing and leisure port. You can watch fishermen at work or enjoy a meal of freshly caught fish at one of the seaside restaurants. Above the port, the old town of Villa de Tazacorte features narrow streets, traditional Canarian architecture, and a peaceful rural atmosphere.
4. Take a boat trip or dolphin excursion
From the harbor, you can join boat tours to explore the island’s coastline, sea caves, and marine life. Dolphin and whale-watching excursions depart regularly, offering an unforgettable experience on the open Atlantic. Sunset cruises are also popular for couples and photographers.
5. Discover local art and history
Don’t miss the Museum of Banana History (Museo del Plátano) in the nearby town, where you can learn about one of La Palma’s most important crops. Tazacorte is surrounded by banana plantations, and their lush green terraces contrast beautifully with the dark volcanic landscape.
Where to eat and drink
Playa de Tazacorte is known for its excellent seafood restaurants and cozy terraces overlooking the sea. Try specialties such as grilled fish, octopus, prawns, or lapas (limpets) with traditional mojo verde sauce. There are also tapas bars, pizzerias, and ice cream parlors for a casual bite after a swim. Watching the sunset with a cocktail or glass of Canarian wine is a must.
Accommodation in Tazacorte
The area offers a wide variety of places to stay — from seafront apartments and boutique hotels to charming rural houses in the upper part of the village. Many accommodations offer panoramic ocean views or terraces surrounded by banana plantations. Staying overnight allows you to experience the peaceful evenings and starry skies typical of La Palma’s west coast.
Nearby attractions
- Los Llanos de Aridane: The largest town on the western side of the island, full of shops, squares, and restaurants.
- Caldera de Taburiente National Park: Only a 25-minute drive away — a paradise for hiking and nature lovers.
- Puerto Naos: Another beautiful beach resort located just a short drive south.
- Mirador El Time: A viewpoint above Tazacorte offering breathtaking views of the valley and the ocean below.
How to get there
- By car: Playa de Tazacorte is easily accessible by road, about 10 minutes from Los Llanos de Aridane and 40 minutes from Santa Cruz de La Palma.
- By bus: Local bus line 110 connects Tazacorte with Los Llanos and other major points of the island.
- By taxi: Taxis are readily available and convenient for short distances between nearby coastal towns.
Climate and best time to visit
Tazacorte is officially the sunniest place in Spain, enjoying more than 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. Temperatures remain pleasant year-round — typically between 20°C in winter and 28°C in summer. The mild climate makes it a perfect destination for beach lovers at any time of the year.
Travel tips
- Bring sunscreen — the sun here is strong even in winter months.
- Arrive early during weekends or holidays to find parking close to the beach.
- Wear light footwear for walking on the hot volcanic sand.
- Stay for sunset — the views over the Atlantic are simply unforgettable.
- Respect local fishing areas and the natural environment along the coast.
Fun facts
- Tazacorte holds the record for being the sunniest municipality in Spain.
- The town played a key role in La Palma’s banana export trade during the 20th century.
- The beach is protected from strong waves thanks to artificial breakwaters, making it ideal for families.
- In the 1500s, Tazacorte was one of the first areas of the island to be settled by Spanish colonists.
Conclusion
Playa de Tazacorte is a gem on the western coast of La Palma — a place where the sun, sea, and volcanic landscape meet in perfect harmony. Whether you’re swimming in its calm waters, enjoying a fresh seafood meal, or exploring the charming streets of the old town, Tazacorte offers a truly authentic Canarian experience. It’s a destination that captures the island’s warmth, both in its climate and in the hearts of its people.