Puntallana, on the island of La Palma, offers a distinctive coastal experience for visitors seeking nature and tranquillity. Its shoreline is predominantly rugged and wild, featuring dramatic cliffs and striking black volcanic sand, a contrast to the golden sand beaches found elsewhere. While home to the stunning Playa de Nogales, known for its wild, natural beauty and impressive cliffs, Puntallana is generally best suited for those wishing to combine invigorating hikes and nature exploration with memorable moments by the sea, rather than a holiday solely focused on conventional beach lounging.
The island of La Palma presents a variety of beaches, and our editor's picks reflect this diversity. Beyond Puntallana's own gem, you'll find the conveniently located Playa de Santa Cruz de La Palma, an urban beach in the island's capital offering dark volcanic sand. For those seeking calmer waters, Playa de los Cancajos is a popular choice, particularly with families. Further afield, Playa de Echentive provides a unique experience with its black sands formed by volcanic activity and nearby natural saltwater pools.
The beaches within Puntallana itself, exemplified by Playa de Nogales, are typically characterized by their unique black sand and the dramatic natural scenery of the coastline. The powerful Atlantic waters mean that swimming can sometimes be challenging. The rugged coast also hides smaller, more secluded coves for those looking to explore. For a comprehensive guide to these and other coastal spots in and around the area, be sure to browse our longer list of beaches.