Puerto Naos is the largest and most popular beach resort on the island of La Palma, located on its sunny western coast. Known for its black volcanic sand, palm-lined promenade, and spectacular sunsets, Puerto Naos offers the perfect mix of relaxation, water sports, and island charm. It’s the ideal destination for travelers seeking sunshine, comfort, and the authentic atmosphere of the “Isla Bonita.”
Overview
- Location: West coast of La Palma, near Los Llanos de Aridane.
- Main attractions: Puerto Naos Beach, diving, paragliding, and seafront restaurants.
- Beach type: Long, wide beach with fine black sand and calm waters.
- Ideal for: Families, couples, and anyone who loves swimming, sunsets, and a relaxed island vibe.
About Puerto Naos Beach
Playa de Puerto Naos is one of La Palma’s most famous beaches, stretching for almost 500 meters along the coast. Its fine black volcanic sand, created by past eruptions, glistens beautifully under the sun. The beach is awarded the Blue Flag for its cleanliness, water quality, and excellent facilities.
The calm ocean conditions make it perfect for swimming and snorkeling, while the gentle slope into the sea makes it safe for families with children. Lifeguards are present during the main season, and the promenade behind the beach offers showers, toilets, and easy access for all visitors.
Things to do in Puerto Naos
1. Relax on the beach
Spread your towel, rent a sunbed, or relax under a palm tree. The combination of warm sunshine and soothing ocean waves creates the perfect setting for unwinding. The beach promenade offers cafés and ice cream shops just steps from the sea.
2. Try paragliding
Puerto Naos is one of the best paragliding spots in the Canary Islands. Thanks to its favorable winds and open coastal views, adventurers can soar above banana plantations and cliffs for breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Tandem flights are available year-round for beginners.
3. Go diving or snorkeling
The clear waters around Puerto Naos are full of marine life and volcanic rock formations. Local diving schools offer guided dives and beginner courses. Snorkeling close to the beach is easy and rewarding — expect to see colorful fish, sea stars, and lava caves.
4. Walk along the promenade
The Paseo Marítimo of Puerto Naos runs parallel to the beach, lined with palm trees, bars, and restaurants. It’s a perfect place for a morning jog, a sunset stroll, or a romantic evening dinner with an ocean view. Street musicians and small markets often appear, adding to the local charm.
5. Watch the sunset
Few places on La Palma offer sunsets as stunning as Puerto Naos. As the sun sinks into the Atlantic, the sky fills with vibrant colors — pink, orange, and deep purple. Many visitors gather at the promenade or beach bars to enjoy a drink and watch nature’s daily show.
Nearby attractions
- Los Llanos de Aridane: A charming town just 10 minutes away, known for its plazas, shops, and cafes.
- Charco Verde: A small, scenic cove south of Puerto Naos — great for swimming and picnicking.
- Volcano Route (Ruta de los Volcanes): A popular hiking trail that offers panoramic views of the island’s volcanic ridge.
- Banana plantations: The region around Puerto Naos is covered with banana farms. Some local tours explain the cultivation process of this important Canarian crop.
Where to eat and drink
Puerto Naos offers a variety of beachfront restaurants and bars serving fresh seafood, tapas, and Canarian specialties. Try grilled fish, octopus, or papas arrugadas with mojo sauce, all best enjoyed with a local wine or a cold beer while overlooking the ocean. For a quick snack, there are plenty of cafés serving coffee, pastries, and ice cream along the promenade.
Accommodation in Puerto Naos
The resort offers a range of accommodation options — from modern hotels and apartments to small family-run guesthouses. Many properties offer sea-view balconies and are within walking distance of the beach. Staying overnight allows visitors to experience the peaceful atmosphere and the sound of waves under the stars.
Getting to Puerto Naos
- By car: Puerto Naos is about 35 minutes from Santa Cruz de La Palma and 15 minutes from Los Llanos. The road passes through scenic banana plantations.
- By bus: Regular buses run between Los Llanos and Puerto Naos. Check the Transportes Insular La Palma schedule for times.
- By taxi or tour: Taxis and organized excursions are available from other parts of the island.
Climate and best time to visit
Puerto Naos enjoys some of the sunniest weather on La Palma, thanks to its location on the drier western side. Average temperatures range from 20°C in winter to 27°C in summer, with mild evenings all year. The calm sea and warm breeze make it an ideal beach destination any season of the year.
Travel tips
- Wear sunscreen — the black sand intensifies the sunlight.
- Bring beach shoes if the sand gets too hot during midday.
- Arrive early to find parking during summer months.
- Stay for sunset — it’s one of La Palma’s most beautiful sights.
- Support local businesses and eco-friendly tours to help preserve the coast.
Fun facts
- Puerto Naos used to be a small fishing village before becoming a beach resort.
- The black sand is rich in minerals formed from cooled lava.
- It’s one of the best paragliding take-off points in the Canary Islands.
- During clear nights, Puerto Naos offers excellent stargazing — part of La Palma’s Starlight Reserve.
Conclusion
Puerto Naos perfectly represents the beauty of La Palma’s western coast — volcanic, sunny, and full of life. With its long black-sand beach, palm trees, oceanfront promenade, and relaxed vibe, it’s a place where visitors can truly unwind and feel the island’s unique spirit. Whether you come for the sea, the sunsets, or the adventure, Puerto Naos promises unforgettable moments under the Canarian sun.