Puerto Naos Holidays

A few years ago, Puerto Naos, was a little-known fishing village on La Palma’s west coast – now it’s a favourite with holidaymakers. Part of the appeal is the relaxed, low-key vibe, with just enough shops, bars and restaurants to go round. Then there’s the fact that it comes with one of the best – and sunniest – beaches on this particular Canary Island. The sunsets are quite something, too.

Puerto Naos prides itself on its Blue Flag beach, a 500-metre streak of the island’s dark volcanic sand. Palm trees dotted along the way provide shade, while the warm, clear water is perfect for snorkelling and scuba diving. And there are lots more lovely little beaches on this side of the coast – within 15 minutes you could be windsurfing at Playa Tazacorte or getting an all-over tan at the naturist’s favourite, Playa de las Monjas.

It’s worth a trip to Puerto Tazacorte, about 15 minutes’ drive up the coast, where boat trips from the harbour take in the Cueva Bonita – the Beautiful Cave, so-called because of the way the sunset illuminates its interior. Or for a slice of authentic Canarian architecture, visit Llanos de Aridane, about 20 minutes’ away, to see houses fronted by beautiful wooden balconies and the colonial-style church of Nuestra Señora de Los Remedios.