Boat trip along the Northwest Coast of La Palma - Visiting the Caves: La Cueva Bonita and La Cueva Colorada

Boat trip along the Northwest Coast of La Palma

Discover La Palma’s stunning northwest coast on a 2-hour boat trip featuring caves, marine wildlife, natural beaches, and optional sea sunset views for an unforgettable experience.

Explore La Palma’s Northwest Coast from the Water

This boat trip along the northwest coast of La Palma offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, marine wildlife, and volcanic history. Priced at $70.16 per person and lasting approximately 2 hours, the tour departs from Restaurante El Muelle in Tarajal. It is ideal for those seeking a scenic, marine-focused adventure with opportunities to see dolphins, whales, turtles, and a variety of seabirds. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 12 participants, and features a mobile ticket for convenience.

What makes this experience truly special is the combination of coastal exploration and open-sea encounters. Visitors get to contemplate two million years of volcanic activity while enjoying visits to spectacular caves and beaches, followed by the chance to see marine animals in their natural environment. Some days, the tour ends with a peaceful sea sunset, adding a magical touch to the adventure. The tour is well-reviewed, with a 4.5-star rating from 34 reviews, and a high recommendation rate of 91%. It is best suited for those interested in nature, geology, and marine life.

Key Points

  • 2-hour boat trip along La Palma’s northwest coast, including caves, beaches, and marine sightings
  • Price of $70.16 per person, with most bookings made 18 days in advance
  • Visits to La Cueva Bonita, La Cueva Colorada, Porís de Candelaria, and Playa de la Veta
  • Underwater vision technology allows viewing hidden underwater features
  • Tour includes possible sightings of dolphins, whales, turtles, and seabirds
  • Optional sea sunset viewing depending on weather and timing

The Departure Point and Booking Details

Boat trip along the Northwest Coast of La Palma - The Departure Point and Booking Details

The tour begins at Restaurante El Muelle in Tarajal, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, with a start time at 11:00 am. The experience features a mobile ticket, making check-in quick and easy. Since most bookings are made about 18 days in advance, it’s advisable to reserve early to secure a spot, especially during busy periods. The activity has a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Unique Features of the Boat and Underwater Viewing

Boat trip along the Northwest Coast of La Palma - Unique Features of the Boat and Underwater Viewing

The boat used for this adventure is a fantasy hydrofoil, equipped with underwater vision technology. This feature allows guests to see into the water and explore marine life and underwater caves without getting wet. It’s a standout aspect of this tour, offering a different perspective on the coast’s geological and biological features. The boat’s design ensures smooth travel along the coast, making for a comfortable journey.

Visiting the Caves: La Cueva Bonita and La Cueva Colorada

Boat trip along the Northwest Coast of La Palma - Visiting the Caves: La Cueva Bonita and La Cueva Colorada

Two of the highlights include visits to the Cueva Bonita and Cueva Colorada. The Cueva Bonita is famed for its striking appearance and is a popular photo spot, with the guide providing insights into its volcanic origins. The Cueva Colorada offers a glimpse into hidden geological formations, with attempts made to approach and view the interior when possible. These caves provide a tangible connection to La Palma’s volcanic activity, and their visits are a major draw.

Exploring the Porís de Candelaria and Porís de Puntagorda

Along the route, the tour passes through Porís de Candelaria and Porís de Puntagorda, two notable coastal formations. These natural sea caves and coves are characterized by their rugged beauty and serve as excellent locations for photos and marine observation. The guide shares stories about their formation and significance, adding context to the scenic views.

Playa de la Veta: A Relaxing Beach Stop

Boat trip along the Northwest Coast of La Palma - Playa de la Veta: A Relaxing Beach Stop

Playa de la Veta is the only designated stopping point where guests can swim and relax. This natural beach is appreciated for its volcanic sands and clear waters. During the stop, guests can take a refreshing dip, enjoy some local tapas, and drink whatever suits the mood. This break offers a welcome chance to unwind and soak in the scenery before heading back along the coast.

The Lava Delta and Marine Animal Sightings

After reaching the most northwestern point of La Palma, the boat ventures toward the lava delta formed by recent volcanic activity. Returning farther from the coast, the tour often offers sightings of dolphins, whales, and turtles, especially during the right season and weather conditions. The crew may stop for marine animal observation, enhancing the experience with close encounters in the wild.

Flexibility and Changing Daily Adventures

Boat trip along the Northwest Coast of La Palma - Flexibility and Changing Daily Adventures

Every day on this tour brings new surprises, with the itinerary influenced by weather and marine activity. Some days, the tour emphasizes whale and dolphin watching, while others focus more on caves and natural beaches. The guide’s expertise ensures each trip adapts to conditions, maximizing the chances for memorable wildlife sightings and scenic views.

Practicalities and What’s Included

This tour includes all necessary equipment, including the underwater vision system, and access to natural caves and beaches. The cost covers the boat trip, guide services, and the included tapas and drinks during the beach stop. The meeting point is near public transportation, simplifying access for most visitors.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

Travelers with an interest in marine wildlife, geological formations, and coastal scenery will find this trip particularly rewarding. The opportunity to see dolphins, whales, and turtles is a standout feature, and the small group size ensures a more intimate experience. The tour is accessible to most, including children, making it suitable for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

The Sum Up: A Scenic and Wildlife-Rich Sea Adventure

The Boat trip along La Palma’s northwest coast combines geological wonders, marine life encounters, and stunning coastal views in a 2-hour journey that feels both relaxing and adventurous. The underwater vision technology and visits to iconic caves like La Cueva Bonita and La Cueva Colorada add unique elements to the experience, setting it apart from standard boat tours.

While the tour’s success depends on weather and marine activity, the flexible approach and knowledgeable guides help ensure a rewarding outing. It’s especially recommended for those who enjoy nature, marine animals, and scenic landscapes, and who want to explore La Palma from the sea with a small, attentive group.

Ready to Book?

Boat trip along the Northwest Coast of La Palma



4.5

(34)

82% 5-star

“La entrada en la Cueva Bonita”

— JESSALBERTO G, Sep 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including children, given its accessible nature and family-friendly stops.

What is included in the price?
The $70.16 fee covers the boat trip, guide services, underwater vision technology, and tapas and drinks during the beach stop.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 11:00 am from Restaurante El Muelle.

Can I see marine animals like dolphins and whales?
Yes, dolphins, whales, and turtles are commonly seen, with sightings depending on the season and weather conditions.

What are the main stops during the tour?
Stops include La Cueva Bonita, La Cueva Colorada, Porís de Candelaria, Porís de Puntagorda, and Playa de la Veta.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Some parts of the experience, especially marine sightings and sunset views, depend on weather conditions, which can influence the itinerary.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accepts up to 12 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring sun protection, swimwear, and a towel for the beach stop, as well as any personal items for comfort during the trip.