Los Cancajos Beaches

Overview

Los Cancajos, nestled in the Canary Islands, welcomes visitors to a unique coastal experience defined by its striking black volcanic sand. Its beaches are typically calm, sheltered coves, offering wonderfully clear waters ideal for swimming. This makes Los Cancajos a favored destination for families and those seeking a relaxed beach holiday.

Key among the area's offerings is Playa de los Cancajos, the town's easily accessible main beach, perfect for leisurely days. For breathtaking natural scenery, Playa de Nogales provides a wilder, dramatic black sand experience. The expansive and well-known Puerto Naos Beach is another island highlight, though access can sometimes be variable. To experience a spot favored by locals, consider a visit to Playa de Bajamar.

Beyond sunbathing on the distinctive dark sand, the clear waters of Los Cancajos are renowned for excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The main beach area itself is a series of interconnected coves, each with its own subtle charm worth exploring. For more inspiration and to discover other coastal spots, be sure to browse our longer list of beaches in the guide.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Are the beaches in Los Cancajos sandy or rocky? What's the sand like?

The beaches in Los Cancajos are known for their distinctive black volcanic sand. They are generally sandy coves, some with small pebbles mixed in, but the primary feature is the fine, dark sand.

Is it safe to swim at Los Cancajos beaches? What are the water conditions like?

Yes, swimming at Los Cancajos beaches is generally very safe. The beaches are a series of coves protected by man-made and natural volcanic rock breakwaters, which keep the waters calm and sheltered, making them ideal for swimming. The water is also known for its clarity.

Is Los Cancajos a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Los Cancajos is widely considered an excellent destination for a family beach holiday. The calm, protected waters of its coves are safe for children, and the area typically offers good amenities and a family-friendly atmosphere.

What kind of holiday experience can I expect in Los Cancajos? Is it lively or quiet?

Los Cancajos offers a relatively quiet and relaxed holiday experience. It's more suited for unwinding, enjoying the beaches, snorkeling, diving, and exploring the natural beauty of La Palma, rather than for vibrant nightlife, though there are some restaurants and a few nightclubs.

Are there hotels in Los Cancajos with direct beach access or sea views?

Yes, several hotels and apartment complexes in Los Cancajos are situated very close to the beaches, with many offering direct sea views from rooms or terraces. Some properties are described as being 'on the beach' or just steps away.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

What facilities are available at the beaches in Los Cancajos (e.g., sunbeds, showers, toilets)?

Los Cancajos beaches are well-equipped with facilities. You can typically find sunbed and parasol rentals, freshwater showers, toilets, and often accessible ramps. Several of the beaches have Blue Flag status, indicating high standards for cleanliness and amenities.

When is the best time to visit Los Cancajos for a beach holiday, considering weather and water temperature?

Los Cancajos enjoys a mild climate year-round. For the warmest sea temperatures (around 23-24°C) and most consistent sunshine ideal for a beach holiday, the summer months from June to September are popular. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) also offer pleasant weather, warm enough for sunbathing and swimming, with potentially fewer crowds.

How warm is the sea in Los Cancajos for swimming throughout the year?

Sea temperatures in Los Cancajos typically range from around 19°C (66°F) in the cooler months (February-April) to about 24°C (75°F) in late summer/early autumn (September). While swimmable year-round for some, the water is most comfortably warm from June to November.

People Also Ask

Are Los Cancajos beaches good for snorkeling or diving?

Yes, Los Cancajos is renowned as an excellent spot for both snorkeling and diving. The clear, calm waters within the protected coves offer good visibility, and there's a rich marine life to observe. Several dive centers are based in the area offering courses and excursions.

Playa de los Cancajos

How easy is it to access the beaches from hotels in Los Cancajos?

Accessing the beaches from most hotels in Los Cancajos is very easy. The resort is relatively compact, and many accommodations are located within a short walking distance of the main beach areas. Some hotels offer direct sea views or are situated just steps away from the coves.

What's it like to sunbathe on black sand beaches? Does it get very hot?

Sunbathing on the black volcanic sand beaches of Los Cancajos is a unique experience. The dark sand can absorb more heat from the sun compared to lighter sand, so it can get quite hot underfoot, especially during peak sunshine hours. It's advisable to wear sandals or flip-flops and use a towel or sunbed.

Are there lifeguards on duty at Los Cancajos beaches?

Yes, the main beaches in Los Cancajos typically have lifeguard services, especially during the busier seasons and hours. The presence of Blue Flags on some beaches also indicates adherence to safety standards, including lifeguard provision.

Los Cancajos has several coves - are they all similar or do they offer different experiences?

Los Cancajos beach is actually a series of interconnected coves, often linked by boardwalks. While all feature black volcanic sand and are protected by breakwaters, some coves might be smaller and feel more intimate, while others might be wider or closer to specific amenities or restaurants. Exploring the different sections is part of the charm. The cove closest to town tends to be more kitted out, while those further out can be quieter.

Playa de los Cancajos

What's the general atmosphere like at Los Cancajos beaches? Is it very touristy or more local?

The atmosphere at Los Cancajos beaches is generally relaxed and family-friendly. While it is a popular tourist resort, it tends to maintain a more laid-back vibe compared to some larger, more intensely commercialized beach destinations. You'll find a mix of tourists and some locals, especially on weekends.

Are there any quieter, more natural beach spots or natural pools easily reachable from Los Cancajos?

While Los Cancajos itself offers well-maintained and protected coves, La Palma is known for its rugged coastline and natural swimming spots called 'charcos' (natural pools). Exploring nearby coastal areas by car or local bus might reveal smaller, more secluded coves or natural volcanic pools, though these will typically have fewer or no facilities. For instance, Charco Azul or La Fajana are well-known natural pools on the island, but require a trip from Los Cancajos. Playa de Echentive is another example of a natural beach formed by volcanic eruption.

Playa de Echentive

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