Playa de Los Cancajos is La Palma’s main tourist beach — and probably the only one on the island that offers full beach facilities on a par with the bigger Canary Islands. Just 5 kilometres south of the capital Santa Cruz de La Palma, on the east coast, Los Cancajos draws visitors with its black volcanic sand, natural rock pools, superb snorkelling and a regularly awarded Blue Flag.
Black sand and natural pools
Los Cancajos is actually a series of interconnected coves with dark sand, separated by volcanic rock formations. These natural barriers create pools and lagoons of calm water, even when the ocean is rough. The largest cove stretches about 200 metres and is well equipped — sun loungers, parasols, showers, lifeguards.
The sand is typical of La Palma — dark grey, almost black, fine and pleasant. The water is crystal clear with a sandy-rocky bottom. Water temperatures range from 19 to 23 degrees Celsius depending on the season — always warm enough for a comfortable swim.
Snorkelling — the best on La Palma
Los Cancajos is widely regarded as one of the best snorkelling spots on all of La Palma. Underwater rock formations provide habitats for colourful fish, octopuses, moray eels and sea urchins. The water is exceptionally clear — visibility often reaches 15 to 20 metres. The best spots for snorkelling are at the edges of the coves, where the rocks meet the sea.
Snorkelling gear (mask and snorkel) can be hired from the shops near the beach. There are also dive centres on site offering courses and trips to deeper sites in the area.
Tourist facilities
Los Cancajos is the only true tourist resort on La Palma — though compared with Playa del Inglés or Costa Adeje, it remains a wonderfully low-key place. Hotels and apartment blocks line the beachfront (H10 Taburiente Playa, Sol La Palma), alongside restaurants, bars and souvenir shops. A coastal promenade leads to smaller coves and viewpoints further along.
Practical information
- Getting there: by car from Santa Cruz de La Palma about 5 minutes south on the LP-1. From the airport about 10 minutes.
- Public transport: buses from Santa Cruz (line 500, frequent services).
- Facilities: showers, toilets, sun loungers, parasols, lifeguards in season, wheelchair ramps. Blue Flag.
- Snorkelling: gear hire available on the beach. Best conditions in the morning with a calm sea.
- Accommodation: hotels and apartments right on the beach — the main tourist base on La Palma’s east coast.
Nearby beaches
- Playa de Bajamar — a small cove south of Los Cancajos, popular with locals.
- Playa de Santa Cruz de La Palma — the city beach in the capital, 5 minutes by car to the north.
- Charco Azul — natural volcanic pools in San Andrés y Sauces, about 25 minutes north.
Weather at Playa de Los Cancajos
Los Cancajos is La Palma’s most popular tourist beach, with black volcanic sand sheltered by natural rock barriers. La Palma is the greenest of the Canary Islands – rain occurs more often here than on Tenerife or Gran Canaria. Check the current weather in Santa Cruz de La Palma.