La Gomera: a Canary Island haven of peace

Sometimes, you just want to escape the frantic pace of daily life for a moment and take the first ferry to the nearest deserted island. Replace the noise of cars with the songs of tropical birds and the gray skies with a shimmering sun.

And fortunately, there is a place closer than you think to catch your breath and reconnect with nature. Shall we end the mystery right now? Welcome to the island of La Gomera! Part of the Canary Islands archipelago, this natural island is the perfect spot to find a bit of serenity.

In this article, we will reveal how to get to La Gomera, surprising anecdotes, and what to do once on the island. So? Ready to reconnect with nature?

Article Overview:

• La Gomera: one of the greenest islands in the Canaries
• What to do in La Gomera?
• The most beautiful beaches of La Gomera
• How to get to La Gomera?
• Day trip to La Gomera from Tenerife
• Organize your trip to La Gomera

La Gomera: one of the greenest islands in the Canaries

From the heights of the island, you can see the Garajonay National Park, the island’s green reserve, and in the distance, Tenerife and the peak of Teide. Source: Pixabay.

Let’s set the scene a bit: the Canaries are the Spanish archipelago located off the coast of Morocco. Fully integrated into the European Union, the Canary Islands offer landscapes that you wouldn’t find on the continent! Pristine forests, volcanic sand beaches, jagged cliffs… Each of the islands is a true treasure to discover, with its own characteristics in terms of culture and nature.

But the islands furthest west in the archipelago remain the greenest and least touristy! Yes, La Palma (not to be confused with Las Palmas, the capital of Gran Canaria), El Hierro, and La Gomera are more isolated and have a wetter climate, giving them a spectacular plant landscape worthy of the Caribbean!

A less touristy island than Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, or Tenerife

Although it has a very small airport, you cannot fly to La Gomera from France, nor from any European capital, not even Madrid! The air service from this small island only allows travel to the other islands of the archipelago, and often only for emergencies. The most common, cheapest, and most pleasant way to get to La Gomera is by ferry!

And as you can imagine, the islands with less air traffic (or even none) are also those with the least tourist activity. When you want to reconnect with nature… That’s still an important point! While Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, or Fuerteventura are accessible from other countries and are often overrun by tourists, La Gomera remains calm and preserved.

Landscapes and Environment

Valle Gran Rey, the lush setting of the west of the island, representative of the charms of La Gomera. Source: Pixabay.

Swinging between extraordinary cliffs, endless beaches, pristine forests, and mountains, La Gomera is the dream place for spectacular hikes to observe the local flora and fauna. Car traffic is often restricted on the island to preserve its natural environment like nowhere else.

The Garajonay National Park, also known as “The Jungle of La Gomera,” represents 10% of the island’s surface and invites you to discover an ecosystem that has never been touched by human hands: “Lo que es del monte se queda en el monte”: what belongs to Garajonay must stay there.

But La Gomera also has beaches with volcanic sand, cliff sides resembling the surface of the Moon, and natural pools where the sun seems to dip as the day comes to an end.

What to do in La Gomera?

In La Gomera, people come to recharge their batteries, reconnect with nature, and discover landscapes straight out of Jurassic Park… Without the dinosaurs, we promise! Jokes aside, yes, La Gomera is the ideal place to disconnect and put your phone on silent mode.

Guided hike in Garajonay National Park

Cross the jungle and follow the hiking path to the highest point of the island, Alto de Garajonay. You might even find yourself above the clouds… Source: iStock.

As mentioned earlier, what belongs to Garajonay must stay there. Therefore, you will not be able to bring back any physical souvenirs from the jungle of La Gomera. But just because you can’t pick up stones or flowers doesn’t mean you won’t take home a magnificent memory!

Why not take a little hike with a guide deep in the heart of the rainforest? Your guide will help you recognize the unique wildlife of the area, tell you the history of the island, and answer any questions you may have about this magical place.

Learn to speak “silbo,” a whistled language native to the island

In the past, the island’s inhabitants used “silbo” to communicate from cliff to cliff. A true language still spoken and taught, silbo is inscribed in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage. On the island, several associations offer to teach its basics and can even continue online after your visit! If you want to learn more about silbo and you speak a bit of Spanish, feel free to check the official website of the YoSilbo foundation.

When spoken correctly, silbo can be heard up to 4 km away! Quite handy if you get lost in the middle of the national park without battery on your phone…

Try a day of surfing La Gomera style

The Canaries, a true paradise for surf lovers. Here, we see a surfer braving the waves of Tenerife with La Gomera in the background. Source: iStock.

The Canary Islands are a true paradise for surfers, and La Gomera is no exception! Like the other islands in the archipelago, the northernmost beaches are more exposed to the Atlantic wind and offer ideal waves to defy the laws of gravity, standing (we hope) on your surfboard.

If you are a fan of this water sport, don’t hesitate for a second. There are a few surf schools on the island, but if you are already an experienced surfer, you can bring your own board or rent one on-site. The advantage of La Gomera is that, being less touristy, you have the beach to yourself, and if you lose your footing and fall into the water, no one will be there to laugh, except for your friends on the shore.

Most popular beaches among surf fans in La Gomera:

• Playa de La Cueva: this beach offers excellent conditions for surfing all year round, suitable for both beginner and intermediate surfers.
• Playa de Santiago: although located in the south of the island, it also offers a very good experience, especially for beginner surfers.
• Playa de Valle Gran Rey: this is one of the most popular beaches in La Gomera. It is known for its large waves ideal for experienced surfers!

Follow the path to the natural spring Chorros de Epina

The Chorros de Epina spring is said to have mystical powers capable of granting love or misery. Source: iStock.

The northwestern region of the island is one of the most well-known for a day of walking among forests, buildings from another time, and breathtaking views of the ocean. With trails suitable for all types of hikers, Chorros de Epina invites you to discover the past of La Gomera and to clear your mind while progressing along a natural spring that winds through the woods and cliffs.

A strange legend surrounds this spring… According to rumors, its water will bring you love if its surface is smooth. However, if you drink it on a day when its surface is murky, you risk several years of misery. Our advice? Bring your own bottle for this hike!

Are you going to swim in the natural pools?

The natural pools are a popular swimming spot for locals in La Gomera. The most well-known is Pescante de Hermigua. Source: Pexels.

Another 100% nature activity possible in La Gomera: a little swim in the natural pools of Pescante de Hermigua or Charco del Conde. In addition to having a magnificent view of the ocean and the rocky cliffs in the background, you can swim in one of the most beautiful natural pools in the Canary Islands. The water is naturally renewed and, although it remains cool in winter, you can attempt a little dive all year round.

Discover the strange site of Los Órganos

Los Órganos, a mysterious site with an astonishing rock formation, accessible only by excursion boat. Source: Pexels.

The origin of many legends, the rock formation of Los Órganos at the extreme northern tip of the island is a true must-see in La Gomera. Like the complex and wonderful blower of an organ, thousands of rocks rise towards the sky. It’s hard to believe that this fantastic spectacle was crafted by nature itself, yet it was!

Somewhat reminiscent of the Giant’s Causeway in Ireland, this site is accessible by excursion boat in good weather. Many companies offer to take you there from Valle Gran Rey. Be sure to book at least two days in advance!

The most beautiful beaches of La Gomera

The beaches of La Gomera blend nature, volcanic sand, spectacular waves, and historic sea fronts. Source: iStock.

One of the great pleasures of the Canary Islands is that you can enjoy the beaches (and what’s more, absolutely beautiful ones) from January to December. The diversity of coves and the richness of the landscape offer a unique range for beach lovers. On the island of La Gomera, it is the wild and secluded beaches that take precedence. Each has that little something that sets it apart from the others!

Playa de Ávalo

The black pebbles of Playa de Ávalo are a true delight for the eyes. This small cove will enchant you with its charms. Source: iStock.

Not far from the capital and the main port of the island, San Sebastián de La Gomera, this dark pebbly beach is appreciated for its secluded character and its magnificent view of the island of Tenerife, recognizable by the peak of Teide, the highest mountain in Spain.

The beach is easily accessible via a dirt path. Surrounded by palm trees, it lies between two rocky cliffs. It’s the perfect spot for swimming and taking a big breath of fresh air away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Don’t forget to bring beach shoes to walk on the pebbles with ease!

In summer, it’s also a great spot for snorkeling and observing marine life.

The essentials:

• Nearby town: San Sebastián de la Gomera (southeast – near the port)
• Public: all audiences
• Highlight: magnificent view of Teide and Tenerife, snorkeling

Playa del Inglés

Playa del Inglés is one of the most beautiful beaches in La Gomera, but be cautious when swimming! Source: iStock.

It is one of the most iconic beaches in La Gomera. Known for its fine ebony black sand, Playa del Inglés is located on the west side of the island. Easily accessible by car and with parking available, it will offer you a stunning view of the ocean. A perfect beach for taking photos and strolling, but perhaps less suitable for swimming.

Caution is advised if you want to dip your toes: the currents are very strong and it’s easy to get swept away by one of them! Sometimes, nature is best appreciated from a distance.

The essentials:

• Nearby town: Valle Gran Rey (southwest)
• Public: all audiences, but caution during swimming
• Highlight: black and fine volcanic sand beach

Playa de la Cueva

Playa de la Cueva is known for its promontory and Olympic torch, a stop for the flame of the Mexico Games in 1968. Source: Flickr, taken by Wener B.

Not just a simple beach for surfing, Playa de la Cueva is also an excellent spot to admire the Teide and take a little dip. Playa de la Cueva is also famous for its Antorcha memorial, a torch that received the Olympic flame on its way to its next destination for the Mexico Games in 1968.

The beach is fully equipped with showers, toilets, and ramps for people with reduced mobility. A must-stop to immerse yourself in the island’s history, observe Tenerife from the shore, and let yourself be lulled by the gentle breeze.

The essentials:

• Nearby town: San Sebastián de La Gomera (southeast – near the port)
• Public: all audiences
• Highlight: Olympic Games memorial of ’68

Playa de Vueltas

Located to the west of La Gomera, Playa de Vueltas is one of the favorites in our selection of the most beautiful beaches in La Gomera.

Protected from the wind and perfect for swimming, the beach of Vueltas near the town of Valle Gran Rey is a favorite for tourists with a moderate taste for adventure. With a large cove of fine sand and calm waters, you can swim there peacefully before heading back to the village for a little coffee.

The beach is very close to a charming little port, typical of the Canaries. A wonderful place to spend a quiet day with family and take beautiful photos! The beach is also accessible to people with reduced mobility.

The essentials:

• Nearby town: Valle Gran Rey (southwest)
• Public: perfect for families
• Highlight: characterful port

Playa la Negra

Black sand beaches dot the coasts of La Gomera, giving it a unique and wild identity. Source: iStock.

Looking for a bit more privacy? Playa la Negra is a small beach of black sand and rocks nestled between two cliffs. It is not very easy to get to this secluded beach, but that’s what makes it charming and has allowed it to remain untouched. At La Negra, there are no cafes, no toilets, and no sun loungers: just the ocean and nature lovers and adventurers.

Located to the west, it’s the perfect spot to see a sunset. Don’t wait too long after seeing the last rays disappear on the horizon: retracing your steps in the dark could prove a bit difficult.

The essentials:

• Nearby town: La Dama (southwest)
• Public: mainly for hiking lovers
• Highlight: secluded beach with a splendid panorama

How to get to La Gomera?

A Fred. Olsen ferry docked at the quay, ready to set sail for La Gomera, early in the morning. Source: iStock.

As explained above, La Gomera is not directly accessible from France, nor even from the capital of Spain, Madrid. You will first need to stop at one of the other Canary Islands, and for La Gomera, we recommend flying to Gran Canaria, Tenerife, or La Palma.Then, you can take a ferry from one of these islands! The boat is the most common way to get around the Canary Islands. There, locals take the ferry as one would take the bus! And if you rent a car at the airport of your arrival island, you can easily board with it to head to La Gomera!

Our recommended routes to La Gomera

⛴️ From Tenerife

This is our most recommended route to the island of La Gomera. The crossing between the two islands takes only an hour, and departures are very frequent. The trips between Tenerife and La Gomera even allow you to make a simple day trip to La Gomera if you decide to spend most of your trip in Tenerife. Moreover, you can see La Gomera from almost the entire western region of Tenerife!

• Ferry companies: Naviera Armas, Fred. Olsen Express
• Route: Los Cristianos (southwest Tenerife) – San Sebastián (southeast La Gomera)
• Car boarding possible: yes
• Travel time: about 50 minutes
• Price: starting from €44.78
• Same-day round trip possible: yes, but it is more recommended to stay at least one night
• 🎟️ Book ferry ticket Tenerife – La Gomera

⛴️ From Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is also a good choice for getting to La Gomera. First of all, it is the largest island in the Canary Islands, and you will find Las Palmas, the capital of the archipelago, there. If you land in Gran Canaria, be sure not to miss exploring it! The journey between Gran Canaria and La Gomera is longer than from Tenerife. If you are determined to discover La Gomera, consider staying there for several days.

• Ferry companies: Naviera Armas
• Route: Las Palmas (north of Gran Canaria) – San Sebastián (southeast La Gomera)
• Car boarding possible: yes
• Travel time: about 6 hours
• Price: starting from €113.45
• Same-day round trip possible: no, but a Canary stay to discover these two islands is highly recommended!
• 🎟️ Book ferry ticket Gran Canaria – La Gomera

⛴️ From La Palma

If you have landed in La Palma, our first advice is to explore this island considered the greenest and wildest of the archipelago! Its volcanoes, exceptional beaches, and space observatory promise you a sensational stay. Combining the islands of La Palma and La Gomera is also an excellent option if you wish to discover the wildest islands of the Canaries.

• Ferry companies: Naviera Armas, Fred. Olsen Express
• Route: Santa Cruz (southeast La Palma) – San Sebastián (southeast La Gomera)
• Car boarding possible: yes
• Travel time: between 4 and 8 hours depending on the type of ferry
• Price: starting from €31.07
• Same-day round trip possible: One idea could be to start your trip in La Palma, then discover La Gomera before heading to Tenerife. A diverse and amazing itinerant journey!
• 🎟️ Book ferry ticket La Palma – La Gomera

Day trip to La Gomera from Tenerife

Roque del Agando is an excellent observation point for a panoramic view of the island of La Gomera. Source: Unsplash.

You could easily stay on each of the Canary Islands for at least 1 month. But if you only plan to visit La Gomera for the day, here’s a little itinerary mixing nature, history, beach, and hiking to make the most of the island.

1 day in La Gomera on a trip from Tenerife (by car)

1. 9:00 : take the ferry between Tenerife and La Gomera in the morning, not too late.
2. 10:00 : arrive at San Sebastián de La Gomera. Have breakfast at the port or in the main square of the town. Before heading towards Chorros de Epina.
3. 12:00 : embark on a short hike between history and wildlife. Stop at the highest point of the walk for a picnic with a breathtaking view.
4. 15:00 : get back in the car and head towards Roque de Agando, a stunning rock formation for taking extraordinary photos. You will have a 360° view and may even see the island of Tenerife from the heights.
5. 16:30 : get back in the car and descend the mountain to stop at Playa de Ávalo. Perfect for swimming and relaxing after a good hike.
6. 19:00 : head to the port via Playa de la Cueva. There, you can climb the promontory where the commemorative torch of the 1968 Olympic Games is located.
7. 20:00 : take the ferry back to Tenerife

No car?

Don’t have a car? Don’t worry! It is entirely possible to get around La Gomera by taking the bus. You will find all the bus schedules, prices, and stops on the Guaguas website. It is the official bus site on the island, with “Guagua” meaning bus in the Canary Islands! You can adjust your itinerary according to the schedules and routes. A little tip: don’t aim too high for a single day, in case of bus delays.

Organize your trip to La Gomera with Ferryscanner

Whether you are an Apple or PC user, you will have a great stay.

The advantage of islands that are inaccessible by plane is that they remain much more natural and attract far fewer tourists. That’s why La Gomera is an excellent choice for recharging and reconnecting with nature!

To get there, the most common way is still to take the ferry, and that’s great because it’s our specialty! With Ferryscanner, compare departures and book your ferry tickets from our platform or by downloading our mobile app.

Are you looking to discover more than one Canary Island? Check out our itinerary for a road trip through the Canary archipelago! You’ll let us know how it goes… So? How do you say “we weigh anchor” in silbo?