Aiming at the sea
Wild coastline and biodiversity-rich seabed
Wherever you look, you will see the sea
If you live on an island, the sea is the protagonist, looking at the sea is the way in which we take the pulse of each day, if bad weather comes, if "the sea is rough", if we see clearly the islands of our province and the Teide becomes large on the horizon ... it also serves to orient us, and the spring sunrises are a privilege in the East, and the summer sunsets are like a fable in the West.... it also serves to orient us, and the spring sunrises are a privilege in the East zone, and the summer sunsets are like a fable in the West zone.
The sea is also the provider of a rich gastronomy, thanks to the artisanal work of fishing that is kept alive on both sides of the island. Eat fresh fish in bars and restaurants in the coastal areas and ask for the fish of the day, let them advise you on the best cooking that goes with each one.
If you want to enjoy the sea as a leisure space, you can practice different water sports, among them, kitesurfing, paddle surfing, canoeing or kayaking, snorkeling... etc.
Keep in mind that not all of them can be done in the whole coast, there are companies that will help you with the material and the necessary instruction in case it is your first time, or if you do not have much experience.
Not everything is beach, and in fact there are not so many. Visit beaches with services such as Los Cancajos, Puerto Naos, Charco Verde, Santa Cruz, Bajamar, Tazacorte... but don't forget to enjoy the capricious forms in which nature has scattered pools, small fishing grounds and virgin beaches all over the island. Always consult to bathe, since you must have maximum caution.
The Fajana de Barlovento and the Charco azul, are spaces halfway between the natural and the human hand, enjoy them with all the security they have, but feel the current that sneaks in to give you a glimpse of the strength of the open sea.
La Palma, step into the blue
Some four million years ago, the depths of the Atlantic Ocean witnessed the origin of our island, with a rock formation of volcanic origin that rises like a huge edifice.
Here, the depths of the Atlantic are very close, descending rapidly from the mainland, especially on the west side. The absence of a continental shelf creates a unique environment that attracts cetaceans, whales and dolphins of various species, who make these subtropical waters their home, either permanently or temporarily.
In addition, an immensity of life flourishes and hides beneath this vast blue.
Whale watching and generally enjoying the coastal scenery and marine life is a must on your visit. Sailing in La Palma is possible thanks to specialized companies, with different types of boats, and with more sustainable options such as sailboats.
The Marine Reserve What is it?
A marine reserve is a protected area at sea that is designated to conserve and sustainably manage marine resources and ecosystems. These reserves play a crucial role in the protection of marine biodiversity and the recovery of endangered species. They have an integral reserve zone where human practices are more restricted.
How much does it take up and where is it?
The length of our marine reserve is approximately 13 km, extending along the southwest coast of the island of La Palma, between the southern part of Charco Verde Beach and Las Celdas (Fuencaliente) and extending to a depth of 1000 m. as the outer limit.
The integral reserve is located in the center of the marine reserve starting in the south of Lajita de El Remo (Los Llanos de Aridane) and ending at Punta del Hombre (Fuencaliente) reaching 500 m. deep externally.
What are the characteristics of our Marine Reserve?
It is characterized by a scarce marine platform and abrupt bottoms of enormous scenic and biological value, with numerous crevices, caves and tunnels of great interest. The diversity of marine flora and fauna is very high. The reserve is home to protected communities of algae of the species Cystoseira abies-marina and invertebrates such as the Canary lobster. In the fauna of the area we find old, salema, amberjack, cabrillas, etc.. Marine mammals and turtles, such as the bottlenose dolphin and loggerhead turtle, are frequently observed, since the reserve shares space with the Special Conservation Area of the Fuencaliente Marine Strip, which protects these two species.
What activities can be carried out in the Marine Reserve?
What we can do is sail, with a maximum speed of 10 knots, but we can not anchor in any case. Enjoy wildlife watching and sailing in non-motorized boats and then you will have the memory of your life.
In the integral reserve you can't do anything else. We must respect this area, it is the cradle of regenerative biodiversity, it is a space also dedicated to research, and it is also an area that is very guarded.
In the rest of the marine reserve, professional fishing can be practiced, but only authorized vessels; and recreational fishing, but with very specific limits. Scuba diving can be practiced, after requesting authorization from the Information Center of the Marine Reserve.