How to Get to La Palma, Canary Islands: 2025 Guide
Trying to figure out the best option for how to get to La Palma, Canary Islands?
Planning your journey to the enchanting La Palma, Canary Islands, might seem daunting, but fear not!
Whether you’re pondering the ferry ride or the quick flight option, we’ve detailed all the information for both for you.
Our month-long Canary Island adventure in 2023 included a memorable journey to La Palma, opting for the ferry to not just soak in the majestic ocean views but also keep our rental car!
With insights from our personal experience, we’ll guide you through booking your travel, what to expect, and tips to make your arrival as smooth as the island’s famous wines.
This guide is crafted for travelers of all stripes, aiming to demystify the journey to La Palma. Let’s dive into making your trip to this island paradise a breeze!
How to Get to La Palma, Canary Islands Overview
When planning our trip to La Palma in the Canary Islands, we found it relatively difficult to figure out the best way to get there. So we gathered ALL the information during our trip so that it will be easy for you!
We’ve gone into detail on the options for how to get the La Palma below. Since La Palma, Spain is an island, there are only 2 options: by ferry or plane.
The complexity comes from where you are traveling from. The answer for how to get to La Palma changes based on whether you are traveling from a different Canary Island or elsewhere.
In general, we recommend checking both the ferry and flight options to make the best decision based on when you’ll be there. We have all the details on how to do this and what to expect on the ferry/flight!
Where is La Palma?
La Palma is an island in the Atlantic Ocean, just off the northwestern coast of Africa. The island is one of the 7 main Canary Islands, which are part of Spain.
It is a relatively small island – the only Canary Islands that are smaller are La Gomera and El Hierro.
How far is La Palma from mainland Spain?
La Palma is about 954 miles (1535 km) from mainland Spain.
The Canary Islands, including La Palma, are much closer to Africa, with the closest island lying just around 100 kilometers (about 62 miles) west of the southern border of Morocco and Western Sahara.
What is the nearest island to La Palma?
The nearest island to La Palma in the Canary Islands is La Gomera.
These two islands are relatively close neighbors in the archipelago, with La Gomera located to the southeast of La Palma. The two islands are separated by approximately 58 kilometers (about 36 miles) of the Atlantic Ocean.
The next closest are El Hierro and Tenerife, and the furthest island away is Lanzarote.
How to Get to La Palma by Ferry
If you are traveling to La Palma from within the Canary Islands, traveling by ferry will likely be your best option.
The 2 main ferry operators in the Canary Islands are Fred Olsen and Naviera Armas. Both operators only offer direct ferries from Los Cristianos Port on Tenerife to the Port of Santa Cruz de La Palma.
The travel time varies from 2 and a half hours to 3 and a half hours depending on the company and the type of ferry you book.
In general, we would recommend booking with Fred Olsen. Their website is a bit easier to use, has better ferry times, and tends to be a bit cheaper.
Another big benefit of taking the ferry is that you can transport a car on the ferry. If you are island hopping like we did, this makes it much easier than having to get a new car on each island!
La Palma Ports
The main port on La Palma is the Port of Santa Cruz de La Palma. It is situated in the capital city, Santa Cruz de La Palma, on the eastern coast of the island.
The port is well-equipped with passenger amenities including waiting areas and car rental services.
There is one other port on La Palma, Puerto Tazacorte, which is located on the western side of La Palma. It is primarily a fishing and leisure port, known for its charming marina, beautiful beach area, and dolphin and whale watching tours.
La Palma Ferry Timetable
Both companies make 1 to 2 trips between La Palma and Tenerife every day: one in the morning and one in the afternoon/night.
At the time of writing this, the La Palma Ferry Timetable is:
- Fred Olsen:
- 8:30 Tenerife to La Palma (150 minutes)
- 19:00 Tenerife to La Palma (150 minutes)
- 6:30 La Palma to Tenerife (150 minutes)
- 17:00 La Palma to Tenerife (150 minutes)
- Naviera Armas:
- 19:30 Tenerife to La Palma (195 minutes)
- 5:30 La Palma to Tenerife (195 minutes)
You can check the current times on their websites.
La Palma Ferry Cost
The ferries will charge you per person, as well as if you are bringing a car.
Naviera Armas’s ferry between La Palma and Tenerife typically costs €60 to €65 per person and then another €15-20 for a car.
On the other hand, Fred Olsen’s ferry between La Palma and Tenerife typically costs €50 to €55 per person and then another €15-20 for a car.
Both ferries have the option to buy “premium” or “VIP” tickets, but a basic economy ticket is just fine! There are seats in sections saved for the premium tickets, but there are plenty of good seating options for the economy tickets.
We recommend booking your ferries online in advance! They book up, especially in the summer.
What to Expect on Your La Palma Ferry Ride
You will either walk onto the ferry from the port or drive on if you are bringing your car.
After you have boarded, you’ll be free to find a seat. The arrangements vary by boat. We recommend getting a seat that faces forward and/or going to the outside deck if the boat has one.
In general, we are not prone to seasickness, but we got a bit woozy on the ferry rides in the Canary Islands.
On the ferries that did not have an outside we could get fresh air on, we kept the seasickness at bay by chewing on ginger candies, wearing pressure-point armbands, and trying to take a nap (nature’s cure to motion sickness).
The ferries have food, drinks, and bathrooms available. There was also wifi, but we did not find it reliable.
In general, we still recommend the ferries since they are relatively fast and efficient, and you can see some cool views! We just recommend properly preparing for your sea journey.
How to Get to La Palma by Plane
Flying to La Palma can be a good option for how to get to La Palma, especially for those who would like to avoid any potential motion sickness caused by the ferry.
Let’s dive into the details of La Palma’s airport and the other airports that fly directly to La Palma.
La Palma Airport
La Palma is home to 1 airport: La Palma Airport (IATA code: SPC).
It is located on the eastern coast of La Palma, near the town of Villa de Mazo, approximately 8 kilometers south of the island’s capital, Santa Cruz de La Palma.
It’s a relatively small airport, which makes navigation through terminals and check-in processes generally quick and convenient. Despite its size, it has all the amenities you’d expect: car rental services, shops, cafés, and a duty-free store.
La Palma Direct Flights
The most direct flights to La Palma come from Tenerife and Gran Canaria. These flights are operated by Binter Canarias and Canaryfly, two flight operators in the Canary Islands.
The inter-Canary Island flights are on smaller planes and have strict luggage requirements, so be sure to take this into account when considering this option for how to get to La Palma.
Luckily, there are also many international options as well! You can fly to La Palma from mainland Spain via Madrid daily. There are also some great options from German cities like Hamburg and Frankfurt.
During the summer, other cities like Zürich and Valencia also fly to La Palma directly.
Here is a list of the typical direct flights options:
| Airport | Frequency of Direct Flights | Airline(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Tenerife Los Rodeos (TFN) | Daily | Binter Canarias Canaryfly |
| Gran Canaria Las Palmas (LPA) | Daily | Binter Canarias Canaryfly |
| Tenerife Reina Sofia (TFS) | Daily | Binter Canarias |
| Madrid (MAD) | Daily | Iberia |
| Hamburg (HAM) | A Few Times a Week | Condor Eurowings |
| Frankfurt (FRA) | A Few Times a Week | Condor Eurowings |
| Fuerteventura (FUE) | A Few Times a Week | Binter Canarias |
| Lanzarote Arrecife (ACE) | A Few Times a Week | Binter Canarias |
| Berlin (BER) | A Few Times a Week | easyJet |
| Düsseldorf (DUS) | Weekly | Condor Eurowings |
| Amsterdam (AMS) | Weekly | Transavia |
| Barcelona (BCN) | Weekly | Vueling |
| Munich (MUC) | Weekly | Condor Norwegian |
| Stuttgart (STR) | Weekly | Eurowings |
| Bilbao (BIO) | Seasonally | Iberia |
| Luxembourg City (LUX) | Seasonally | Luxair |
| Valencia (VLC) | Seasonally | Iberia |
| Zürich (ZRH) | Seasonally | Edelweiss Air |
Plane routes are added all the time as the popularity of the Canary Islands grow, so be sure to check for the best plane route from your local airport!
Flight to La Palma Cost
The price for your flight to La Palma will greatly depend on where you are flying from. Flights from Madrid, for instance, range from $99 to $350 (roundtrip) with the average being closer to $180.
To fly from Tenerife or Gran Canaria using the local airlines, Binter Canarias and Canaryfly, flights range from $55 to $125 (roundtrip). The flight price is a bit more per person than taking the ferry, but the flight duration will be under an hour.
We would recommend flying as the best way to get to La Palma for those who are flying directly from mainland Europe or those who prefer to avoid the potential seasickness associated with the ferry.
How to Get to La Palma from Tenerife
There are 3 options for how to get to La Palma from Tenerife: Ferry, Plane, or a Day Trip.
The ferry will depart from the Port of Los Cristianos in the Southwest corner of Tenerife. They are operated by Naviera Armas and Fred Olsen.
Fred Olsen’s ferry costs around €50 to €55 per person (ferrying your car costs €15-20) and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Naviera Armas’s ferry between La Palma and Tenerife costs around €60 to €65 per person (ferrying your car costs €15-20) and takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes.
Alternatively, you can fly from either of Tenerife’s airports, North (TFN) or South (TFS) with Binter Canarias or Canaryfly. Flights prices are typically $55 to $125 roundtrip and take 30 to 40 minutes.
La Palma Day Trip from Tenerife
We absolutely loved La Palma and would recommend spending at least 3 days on the island. But if you only have 1 day, we recommend this La Palma Day Trip from Tenerife.
The tour company takes care of all the ferry logistics as well as getting around La Palma. You’ll explore Caldera de Taburiente National Park, Tazacorte Beach, Mirador de la Concepción, and the Cumbre Vieja volcano.
The itinerary is well done, hitting most of the major La Palma highlights. It is a good overview of La Palma.
How to Get to La Palma from the Other Islands
Depending on the island, you will have the option to travel via ferry or flight for how to get to La Palma.
That being said, almost every island will make a stop in Tenerife for both flights and ferries.
Here is a breakdown:
| How to Get to La Palma from… | Ferry ⛴ | Flight ✈️ | Our Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tenerife | 2.5-hour direct ferry from Los Cristianos Port | 30 min direct flight from either North or South Airport | Either! |
| La Gomera | 50-minute ferry from La Gomera to Tenerife and then a 2.5-hour ferry to La Palma | 30-minute flight to Tenerife North and then a 30-minute flight to La Palma | Either! |
| El Hierro | 2.5-hour ferry from La Gomera (only operated by Naviera Armas) to Tenerife and then a 2.5-hour ferry to La Palma | 40-minute flight to Tenerife North and then a 30-minute flight to La Palma | Flight ✈️ |
| Gran Canaria | 80-minute ferry from Agaete to Tenerife North, transfer by car to Tenerife South, then a 2.5-hour ferry to La Palma | 50-minute direct flight | Flight ✈️ |
| Fuerteventura | 2-hour ferry to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, transfer to Gran Canaria Agaete by car, 80-minute ferry from Agaete to Tenerife North, transfer by car to Tenerife South, then a 2.5-hour ferry to La Palma | 50-minute flight to Tenerife North and then a 30-minute flight to La Palma | Flight ✈️ |
| Lanzarote | 25-minute ferry from Lanzarote to Fuerteventura, 2-hour ferry to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, transfer to Gran Canaria Agaete by car, 80-minute ferry from Agaete to Tenerife North, transfer by car to Tenerife South, then a 2.5-hour ferry to La Palma | 50-minute flight to Tenerife North and then a 30-minute flight to La Palma | Flight ✈️ |
How to Get to La Palma from Mainland Spain
The best option for how to get to La Palma from mainland Spain is flying! There are direct flights daily from Madrid as well as options from Barcelona and Valencia.
The flight from Madrid is typically about $150 roundtrip and takes 3 hours.
There is, however, a ferry option as well from mainland Spain. Ferries leave from Huelva, Spain (1 hour west of Seville) and take almost 40 hours to arrive in Tenerife North (Santa Cruz de Tenerife).
From there, you would transfer via car to Tenerife’s southern port, Los Cristianos, to take the 2.5-hour ferry to La Palma.
Due to the 40-hour duration, we do not recommend the ferry option unless you are already in southwest Spain
How to Get to La Palma from the UK
Your best option is to fly directly to Tenerife, Gran Canaria, or Madrid, and then fly to La Palma.
How to Get to La Palma from the USA
The best option for how to get to La Palma from the United States is to fly to Madrid, likely from Boston or New York, and then to La Palma.
What to Do in La Palma
Exploring La Palma offers a blend of nature, science, and culture, which is why it is one of our favorite places we have explored!
At the Salinas Marinas de Fuencaliente, you can explore ancient salt pans.
The Bosque de Los Tilos immerses you in lush laurel forests, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
For a refreshing dip, Piscinas Naturales del Charco Azul is an enchanting natural pool experience.
Stargazing is unparalleled in La Palma, and visits to the Gran Telescopio Canarias and the William Herschel Telescope offer a glimpse into the cosmos.
The Volcan de San Antonio provides a walk around a serene volcanic crater.
Dolphin and whale watching from Tazacorte is a must-do!
Lastly, Bodegas Teneguía Winery introduces you to the island’s exquisite wines, rooted in volcanic soil.
For a deeper dive into these wonders, be sure to check out our full article on La Palma’s top sites, and let La Palma inspire your next adventure!
Where to Stay in La Palma
There are a lot of great places to stay in La Palma. Here are our favorite places to stay in each corner of the island:
⬆️ North: Lighthouse on La Palma Island
- Barlovento, on the Northeastern La Palma coast
- Highlights: Enjoy stunning sea views, an infinity pool, and air conditioning in the rooms with kitchenettes. Plus, wake up to delicious breakfasts every morning.
⬇️ South: La Palma Princess
- In Fuencaliente, a 5-minute drive from La Zamora Beach
- Highlights: Enjoy 7 outdoor swimming pools, including 2 heated options, a children’s pool, multiple restaurants, tennis courts, and a wellness center and spa – all located beachfront.
➡️ East: Hotel Emblemático Holiday Time
- Located in Santa Cruz de la Palma
- Highlights: Located just steps away from top Santa Cruz de la Palma attractions as well as the beach, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and a great breakfast.
⬅️ West: Hotel Hacienda de Abajo
- In Tazacorte’s historic center, just 2 km from the beach
- Highlights: The hotel features an outdoor heated pool, along with a spa that offers a Finnish sauna and a hydromassage pool.
FAQs for How to Get to La Palma, Canary Islands
Can tourists still visit La Palma?
Yes, tourists can visit La Palma. The island is open and welcoming visitors, offering breathtaking landscapes, starry skies, and unique nature experiences.
How do you get from Europe to La Palma?
To reach La Palma in the Canary Islands from Europe, you can fly into La Palma Airport (SPC) with connecting flights available from major European cities.
You might also fly into Tenerife or Gran Canaria and catch a short inter-island flight or ferry to La Palma.
How many days do you need in La Palma?
To truly soak in La Palma’s beauty, a 4 to 7-day trip is ideal. This allows you to explore its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and breathtaking starry skies at a relaxed pace.
You could also do it in 3 days, but it would be a very quick trip to see all the highlights.
What is La Palma best known for?
La Palma shines as a stargazer’s paradise with its exceptionally clear skies, earning fame for its stunning astronomical views from the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory. It’s also celebrated for its lush landscapes, volcanic scenery, and beautiful trails, making it a dream for nature lovers and hikers.
In Conclusion: How to Get to La Palma, Canary Islands
Embarking on your journey to La Palma doesn’t have to be a puzzle. With our comprehensive guide detailing ferry and flight options, you’re equipped to make an informed decision that suits your travel style and needs.
Remember, the beauty of La Palma and the warmth of its people await at the end of your journey. Whether by sea or by air, your adventure to this Canary Island gem is just a booking away.
Safe travels, and may your La Palma experience be as enriching and unforgettable as the island itself.
We wish you the best travels, and don’t forget to set your “Out of Office!”
🌟 Loving our content? Support the journey and buy us a coffee! ☕️
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Canary Islands Travel Planning Guide
🚙💨 Is it safe to rent a car in the Canary Islands?
Yes! Renting a car is a necessity in the Canary Islands if traveling between cities! If you want to go on day trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you can use public transportation, but we recommend renting a car. Discover Cars is our go-to choice for car rentals in the Canary Islands.
📲 Will my phone work in the Canary Islands?
Maybe, but it will be expensive! Depending on your provider, plans can charge you $10 per day while in Europe. To use your phone in the Canary Islands and save money, we recommend an eSim with Airalo. Airalo simplifies the steps and provides you with all the necessary data for convenient travel. There is not a lot of free WIFI in the Canary Islands, so you’ll need your phone for navigating.
🌐 Do I need a VPN when on the internet in the Canary Islands?
While abroad, we consistently prioritize our online security by using a VPN to appear as if we’re streaming from the US and protect ourselves from cybercrime. NordVPN serves as an incredibly convenient solution for both mobile phones and laptops, effortlessly ensuring our safety while browsing or streaming.
🏩 What’s the best way to book my the Canary Islands?
Our go-to for Canary Islands hotels is Booking.com. They offer the widest range of choices, and their filtering system simplifies the process of discovering the perfect accommodation for your needs.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy flights to the Canary Islands?
For finding cheap flights to the Canary Islands, we recommend Kayak. Their awesome multi-city flight search and handy price notifications help us save big, allowing us to splurge on other adventures once we arrive. Vueling and Iberia are usually our airlines of choice to get to the Canary Islands. Air Europa and Binter Canarias are the main inter-island airlines.
🚐 Should I book tours in the Canary Islands? Do the guides speak English?
We LOVE taking tours in the Canary Islands. We prefer to book our tours on Viator and GetYourGuide for easy searching, trusted reviews, and transparent pricing. We always filter for the tours that are offered in English. For free walking tours in English, we always book through GuruWalk.
🚑 Should I buy Canary Islands travel insurance?
100% YES! Spain has a publicly funded healthcare system known as the Sistema Nacional de Salud (SNS), which provides universal healthcare coverage to all Spanish citizens and legal residents in the Canary Islands! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. We recommend Safety Wing – they provide general travel coverage as well as medical!
💧Can you drink the water in the Canary Islands?
The water in the Canary Islands is safe to drink. In some rural or remote areas, or in older buildings with outdated plumbing systems, water quality might not be as high. For an extra layer of protection, we recommend always using a LifeStraw Go Series to stay safe and hydrated.
🎫 Do I need a visa for the Canary Islands?
Likely Not! US passport holders don’t need Spanish visas for travel less than 3 months. If you plan to stay for more than 3 months, you will be considered a resident and must have an entrance visa.
