Between the rugged cliffs of Tijarafe and the deep blue Atlantic Ocean lies one of La Palma’s most spectacular hidden gems: Cueva Bonita. Accessible only by sea, this unique cave combines history, legend, and a natural light show that will leave you speechless.
A historic refuge
Once known as Cueva de Candelaria or Pirates’ Cave, this geological wonder was a safe haven for local fishermen in the 17th century. Its two entrances confused pirates and allowed the fishermen to escape, a clever feature still admired today.
An unforgettable natural spectacle
Cueva Bonita is an impressive 84 meters wide, 105 meters deep, and up to 10 meters high. The north entrance (nearly 17 meters wide) and the south entrance (about 10 meters) let sunlight stream in, creating magical shadows and color effects that change by the minute. At sunset during summer, the cave glows with golden and blue hues, earning it the nickname Sistine Chapel of the Atlantic. At low tide, a small pebble beach appears inside the cave.
How to visit Cueva Bonita
This treasure is only reachable by sea. We recommend visiting in summer, when the sea is calmer and the evening light is at its best.
- Boat tour. Departing from Tazacorte harbor, operators like Fancy or Fantasy offer tours with whale and dolphin watching, a stop at PorÃs de Candelaria, and entry to Cueva Bonita when the sea is calm.
- Kayak. For the more adventurous, rent a kayak in PorÃs de Candelaria and paddle to the cave, enjoying a closer connection with nature.
Tips for your visit
- Book in advance, especially in high season.
- Bring sunscreen and a light jacket, it can get breezy on the water.
- Kayaking requires some experience.
- Always check sea conditions before planning your visit.
Cueva bonita Map
