Los Cancajos: Beach, Snorkelling, and Evening Light on the East Coast
Los Cancajos is La Palma’s most developed beach resort on the east coast — and for many visitors, the first beach they encounter on the island. Just minutes from the airport, a fine black volcanic sand beach, crystal-clear water, and a well-kept promenade with restaurants and cafés await. Just offshore, a lava reef makes Los Cancajos one of La Palma’s most popular snorkelling and diving spots.
The resort belongs to the municipality of Breña Baja and has grown into a pleasant holiday destination with hotels, holiday apartments, and good infrastructure, without losing its relaxed character.
The Beach and the Water
The Playa de Los Cancajos lies in a sheltered rocky cove and is well protected from the Atlantic swell by breakwaters. As a result, the water is usually calmer than at many beaches on the west coast and is excellent for swimming.
In late summer, sea temperatures reach about 21–22°C, and in particularly warm years briefly up to 23°C. During winter and spring, water temperatures typically range between 18 and 19°C. Sun loungers and umbrellas can be rented; showers, changing rooms, and toilet facilities are also available.
The shallow natural pool La Charca, at the northern end of the beach, is particularly family-friendly. Thanks to the protective lava reefs, children can usually play safely in the calm water here.
Snorkelling and Diving
The offshore lava reef ranks among the best snorkelling spots on La Palma’s east coast and is easily reached from the beach. Among the rocks you can frequently spot parrotfish (viejas), trumpetfish, ornate wrasse, starfish, and with some luck, octopus. An encounter with a sea turtle is possible, though it remains one of those rare lucky moments.
Several diving schools offer guided snorkelling and diving excursions. For experienced divers, the wreck of a small sports aircraft at a depth of around 30 metres is one of the most well-known underwater destinations off Los Cancajos. The artificial reef has since developed into a species-rich habitat.
Practical Information
Along the beach promenade and in the small shopping centres, you’ll find supermarkets, restaurants, cafés, bars, car rental agencies, and other everyday amenities. The nearest city centre is the island capital Santa Cruz de La Palma, just about 10 minutes north and easily reachable by car or public transportation.
| Location | Approx. 5 minutes from the airport · about 10 minutes from Santa Cruz de La Palma |
|---|---|
| Water | Calm swimming cove · snorkelling and diving at the lava reef |
| Infrastructure | Hotels, holiday apartments, restaurants, supermarkets |
| Bus | TILP line 500 with regular connections to the airport and Santa Cruz |
In the late afternoon, Los Cancajos reveals its most atmospheric side. While the sun doesn’t set into the sea on the east coast, warm evening light bathes the coastline and surrounding hillsides in golden hues. From the promenade, the view stretches to the illuminated island capital Santa Cruz de La Palma — a picturesque end to a day at the beach.
Summary:
Los Cancajos is La Palma’s most relaxed gateway to island life — close to the airport, with a good beach, clear water, and the best snorkelling reef on the east coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Los Cancajos suitable for families?
Can you dive and snorkel in Los Cancajos?
How far is Los Cancajos from the airport?
When is the best time to snorkel in Los Cancajos?
Is there parking at Playa de Los Cancajos?
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
