Best Time to Visit La Palma: The Right Season for Every Type of Holiday

La Palma is a year-round destination. That’s not a tourist cliché – it’s a meteorological fact: on the west coast below 400 metres, there is hardly a month when the sun doesn’t dominate. The question isn’t whether you can go, but when is best for what. Hikers choose different months from those who want to sunbathe; those after almond blossom come in January or February; stargazers pick clear new-moon nights.

Trade wind clouds over La Palma – weather depends on which side and how high you go

Winter (November – March): Winter Sunshine and Almond Blossom

December to March is the peak season on La Palma – not for scorching heat, but for reliable winter sunshine. While much of northern Europe is cold and grey, visitors to the west coast can expect a pleasant 18 to 22°C. Nights cool to around 14 to 17°C. The sea sits at 19 to 21°C – fresh, but swimmable for many. A special natural highlight is the almond blossom in January and February around Puntagorda and the northwest of the island.

From January to February, the almond trees around Puntagorda in La Palma's northwest are in full bloom. — From January to February, the almond trees around Puntagorda in La Palma’s northwest are in full bloom.

Spring (April – June): The Best Hiking Weather

From April to June, La Palma is at its greenest. Coastal temperatures typically sit between 20 and 25°C, nature is in full bloom, and from mid-May to mid-June the Tajinaste flowers around Roque de los Muchachos. Hiking conditions are near-perfect: pleasantly warm, low risk of Calima, and far fewer visitors than in winter.

Spring greenery on the cliffs of La Palma.

Summer (July – September): Swimming and Warmth

In summer the sea reaches its highest temperatures at 22 to 24°C and the beaches are in full swing. On the sunny west coast, temperatures often climb above 30°C. Those who prefer it cooler will find a natural air conditioner in the northeast – around Barlovento and Garafía – where trade wind clouds, laurel forests and altitude keep things 5 to 7 degrees cooler than the west coast.

Occasionally the Calima brings hot Saharan air with temperatures above 35°C and fine desert dust. These spells usually last just a few days.

Warm water, warm air – summer is perfect for a dip along La Palma's shores. — Warm water, warm air – summer is perfect for a dip along La Palma’s shores.

Autumn (October – November): The Quiet Season

October and November are, for many in the know, the finest time to visit. The sea is still a pleasant 22 to 23°C after summer, temperatures are ideal for hiking and the island is far quieter than at peak season. Accommodation is often cheaper and easier to find. The warm autumn light also makes these months especially rewarding for photographers.

From December, the main season for winter sun-seekers begins again.

Quiet trails, soft light – autumn belongs to the hikers

Holiday Type	Best Time to Visit	Highlight
Hiking	April – June / September – November	Spring flowers, Tajinaste blooms and pleasant temperatures
Swimming	July – October	Warmest sea temperatures (22–24°C)
Winter Sunshine	December – March	Sunny west coast below 400m
Nature Highlights	January – February / May – June	Almond blossom and Tajinaste in bloom
Those after peace and quiet	October – November	Fewer visitors, mild climate and great-value prices

Conclusion:

La Palma has something for every month – the trick is knowing which side of the island and which altitude to choose. For sunshine: west coast below 400m. For hiking: April–June. For peace and quiet: October–November.

Frequently Asked Questions

When Is the Best Time to Visit La Palma for Hiking?

April to June for spring flowers and Tajinaste blooms. September to November for pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists. October is the quiet insider tip.

When Is La Palma at Its Busiest?

December to March (winter sunshine season) and around Easter. Book early, especially for fincas and hotels right on the coast.

Can You Swim in La Palma in Winter?

On the west coast below 400m: sunshine is almost guaranteed every day. The water sits at 19–21°C – fresh, but perfectly doable. Locals and hardy northern Europeans swim all year round.

Does La Palma Get Bad Weather?

Rarely on the west coast. The east side sees more cloud and drizzle from the trade winds. In high summer, a Calima (Saharan dust storm) can bring heat and dust for two to four days.

Is La Palma Too Hot in Summer?

Not at all. The west coast typically sees 26 to 30°C in summer, though a Calima can push temperatures above 35°C for a day or two. Anyone wanting to avoid the heat will find it much cooler in the northeast around Barlovento and Garafía, thanks to trade wind clouds and higher altitude. The upper reaches of the Caldera and Roque de los Muchachos also offer a welcome cool-down even in summer.

Which Season Is Best for a First Visit to La Palma?

April to June and October to November are the top picks for first-timers. The weather is generally stable, temperatures are ideal for both hiking and swimming, nature is at its finest and the island is far quieter than during the winter high season. These months offer the best mix of sunshine, scenery and a relaxed pace.

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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