Inter-Island Connections — Getting from La Palma to the Other Islands

La Palma is situated at the western edge of the Canary archipelago. This means connections to the more easterly islands take a little longer than between Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Even so, the Isla Bonita is superbly connected: flights and ferries link La Palma to the neighboring islands several times a day. Those planning island-hopping in the Canaries will find excellent options.

Innerkanarische Flugverbindungen — Inter-Island Flight Connections

Inter-Island Flight Connections

The fastest way between the islands is by plane. The Canarian airlines Binter Canarias and Canaryfly serve La Palma Airport (SPC) daily.

Tenerife North (TFN): Binter flies this route almost every hour, with Canaryfly adding extra capacity. Flight time: approximately 30 minutes.
Gran Canaria (LPA): Multiple daily direct flights with Binter. Flight time: approximately 50 minutes. Good onward connections from there to Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, and the other islands.

Important: Resident vs. Non-Resident Fare

When booking, make sure you select the right fare type.

Residents of the Canary Islands receive a government discount of 75% on flights and ferries.
Tourists should always select the non-resident fare.
Anyone who accidentally books a resident fare will be asked to pay the difference at check-in — or may not be allowed to board.

Ferries Between the Islands

The ferry companies Fred. Olsen Express and Naviera Armas connect the port of Santa Cruz de La Palma daily with Los Cristianos on Tenerife.

Fred. Olsen Express

modern fast ferries (trimarans)
crossing time approximately 2.5 hours
Wi-Fi, cafeteria, and comfortable lounges on board

Naviera Armas

fast ferries and classic car ferries
crossing time approximately 2.5 to 3 hours
particularly suitable for travellers with a vehicle

Connections to the Other Islands

La Gomera: Many ferries make a stop at San Sebastián de La Gomera on the way to Tenerife.
El Hierro: There is no direct daily connection. The journey goes via Tenerife — either by ferry or plane.
Spanish mainland (Cádiz): Naviera Armas connects La Palma with Cádiz once a week. With several stops at other Canary Islands along the way, the crossing takes around 55 to 56 hours.

Taking a Rental Car on the Ferry

Anyone wanting to take a rental car to another island should check with the rental company in advance.

Local providers such as Cicar or Cabrera Medina usually allow island crossings with prior notification.
International rental companies (e.g. Hertz, Avis, or Europcar) frequently prohibit leaving the island. In that case, insurance cover may be voided.

In many cases, it’s simpler to return the rental car on La Palma and pick up a new vehicle on the next island.

Inter-Island Connections at a Glance

Destination	Connection	Travel Time	Notes
✈️ Tenerife North	Binter Canarias · Canaryfly	approx. 30 min.	Several times daily
✈️ Gran Canaria	Binter Canarias	approx. 50 min.	Several times daily
🚢 Tenerife South (Los Cristianos)	Fred. Olsen Express · Naviera Armas	2.5–3 hrs	Multiple departures daily
🚢 La Gomera	Ferry via Tenerife (often a stop-off)	approx. 2–4 hrs	Depends on connection
🚢 El Hierro	Via Tenerife	depends on connection	No direct daily connection
🚢 Cádiz	Naviera Armas	approx. 55–56 hrs	Once a week

Booking Platforms and Prices

The easiest way to book Binter Canarias is directly through bintercanarias.com. Canaryfly through canaryfly.es. Both sites also have English versions. Prices for inter-island flights (non-resident) are usually between €50 and €120 return — depending on booking date and availability. Flexible travellers will regularly find special offers (Ofertas) on Binter.

Flight or Ferry — Which Is Worth It?

A flight is the best choice if you want to reach another island as quickly as possible or are only planning a short stop. The ferry is better suited to travellers with lots of luggage or their own vehicle, and for those who want to enjoy the crossing as part of the holiday experience.

Conclusion:

La Palma is superbly connected to the other Canary Islands despite its westerly location. For short distances, the plane is the quickest option, while ferries offer a relaxed alternative for travel with a vehicle or large amount of luggage. When booking flights, always select the non-resident fare and check the rental company’s terms before taking a ferry with a rental car.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest way to get from La Palma to Tenerife?

The fastest option is a flight with Binter Canarias or Canaryfly to Tenerife Norte (TFN). The flight takes around 30 minutes. Those heading directly to the south of Tenerife often prefer the ferry to Los Cristianos, as this avoids an additional transfer across the island.

Can you buy a resident ticket if you own a holiday home on La Palma?

No. The resident discount applies exclusively to people with their official primary residence registered in the Canary Islands. Owning a holiday home or making regular visits does not qualify.

Can you take a rental car to another island?

This depends on the rental company. Local providers such as Cicar often permit inter-island transfers with prior notice. Many international rental companies exclude this in their terms and conditions.

Do you need to book inter-island flights and ferries in advance?

During off-peak periods, last-minute bookings are usually straightforward. For school holidays, public holidays, or Christmas travel, it is advisable to book flights and ferries several weeks ahead — especially if you want to take a rental car on the ferry.

Can you do a day trip to another Canary Island?

Yes. Tenerife in particular is ideal for a day trip thanks to the frequent flights and ferry connections. Destinations such as Teide National Park or Santa Cruz de Tenerife can be comfortably reached in a day. For more distant islands like Lanzarote or Fuerteventura, at least one overnight stay is recommended.

This article is based on the on-the-ground knowledge of the Gequo editorial team – publishers of the Reisezeit hiking guides and operators of Sunhikes.com. Last updated: May 2026

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