Héléna likes to get away from it all in La Calera, a charming little neighborhood perched high above Valle Gran Rey. Around 4 p.m., when the afternoon heat begins to ease, she strolls down the picturesque streets to Playa del Inglés, a 20-minute walk from Playa Valle Gran Rey. This is a special moment for her: the warm colors of the brown rocks, bathed in the golden light of dusk, create a unique atmosphere. Sunset at Playa del Inglés is a soothing spectacle, a true invitation to contemplation and relaxation.
Valle Gran Rey, on the west coast of La Gomera, is a popular destination for its breathtaking scenery and black sand beaches, which contrast magnificently with the blue waters of the Atlantic. This guide invites you to discover the beaches that line this picturesque valley, ideal for lovers of nature, relaxation and wild beauty.
The purpose of this blog is not to designate the best beach, because it’s up to you, dear reader, to choose the one that best suits your needs and desires. That’s why I haven’t titled this article ‘The most beautiful beaches in Valle Gran Rey’, but rather ‘The beaches of Valle Gran Rey’, to let you discover and enjoy each beach in your own way.
1. Playa Valle Gran Rey: The beating heart of the valley
Playa Valle Gran Rey is the valley’s main beach, a long stretch of black sand that attracts locals and visitors alike. Its idyllic setting, with majestic cliffs as a backdrop, makes it a must-see. The beach is perfect for those wishing to relax in the sun or swim in calm waters.
The seafront is surrounded by restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy local dishes while admiring the ocean view. At the end of the day, the sunsets are spectacular, illuminating the sky in golden and rosy hues. Please note that there are no umbrellas on Valle Gran Rey’s beaches, with the exception of Playa del Charco del Conde, where you’ll find a few already planted in the sand. We recommend that you bring an umbrella, despite the wind, if you plan to go to the beach in the middle of the day to avoid sunburn.
2. Playa De Vueltas: A family-friendly beach
Playa De Vueltas, located in a semi-urban area of Valle Gran Rey, southwest of La Gomera, is a place where marine charm and tranquility meet. Bordered by the port of Vueltas, this beach is distinguished by its calm waters, protected by a seawall, making it an ideal place to swim in total serenity and enjoy a soothing dip.
The setting of Playa De Vueltas is marked by a typical maritime atmosphere, with fishing boats anchored along the shore, adding a picturesque touch. The beach is also a convenient starting point for exploring local shops, breathing in the sea breeze, or savoring culinary specialties in the surrounding restaurants, offering a variety of dishes typical of Canarian gastronomy.
A haven of peace for families Playa De Vueltas is particularly suitable for families, thanks to its safe environment with no strong currents. The beach offers easy access, with parking nearby, showers for rinsing off after a swim, and comfortable facilities for a pleasant day out. The black sand and gentle waters are ideal for children, who can play safely in a soothing natural setting.
Visitors can also enjoy picturesque walks along the beach, explore the small stores nearby, or simply relax while admiring the seascape. The friendly atmosphere and beauty of the beach make Playa De Vueltas a singular destination well worth discovering. The beach is 100 m long, with moderate waves.
Playa De Vueltas offers a coastal experience balanced between relaxation and exploration, making every visit a pleasant and memorable one.
3. Charco de la Condesa: Authentic charm
Charco de la Condesa is a small, intimate beach located along the Avenida Marítima. Its black sandy coves surrounded by rocks offer a more private setting, ideal for those looking to get away from the crowds. Here, the sound of the waves and the sea air create a soothing atmosphere conducive to relaxation.
This beach is particularly pleasant early in the morning, when the sun rises over the horizon, offering a peaceful and magnificent spectacle. The shallow water provides an ideal setting for the elderly and children, as it resembles a large natural pool, perfect for safe swimming. There are also parasols planted in the sand.
4. La Puntilla: The charm of nature
La Puntilla is a must-see beach for nature lovers. Surrounded by imposing cliffs, it offers an exceptional natural setting. The black sand and clear water attract not only sun worshippers, but also those who like to explore underwater life by snorkeling.
The beach is easily accessible, and its rugged beauty makes it an ideal place for those seeking to reconnect with nature. The richly biodiverse seabed adds a fascinating dimension to your visit.
La Puntilla is La Gomera’s largest beach, stretching 1,400 meters long and around 30 meters wide. Divided in two by a small rocky barrier, it is renowned for its black sand and calm, transparent waters. Its spectacularly beautiful seabed is perfect for snorkeling and diving, making it a prime destination for enthusiasts of these sports.
5. Playa del Inglés : The wild beach
Playa del Inglés is one of Valle Gran Rey’s most emblematic beaches. Located away from urban areas, this beach is renowned for its wild, unspoilt character. Black sand stretches along the coast, bordered by sheer cliffs, creating a landscape both dramatic and serene.
This beach is popular with surfers for its sometimes powerful waves. It’s also an excellent spot for a leisurely stroll at the end of the day, when the light of dusk bathes the beach in a golden glow.
At the end of the day, Playa del Inglés becomes busier, attracting those who come to admire the sunset. It’s also worth noting that this beach is often frequented by nudists, adding to its relaxed, natural ambience.
Practical tips for enjoying the beaches of Valle Gran Rey
Valle Gran Rey’s beaches are perfect for relaxing, swimming or exploring the surrounding nature. However, a few tips can help you make the most of your stay.
Watch out for the sun:
A higher UV index In La Gomera, the sun can be particularly intense, due to its proximity to the equator and winds that reduce the sensation of heat. This combination can make UV rays more dangerous, which is why it’s so important to protect yourself.
Advice :
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- Use a high factor sunscreen (at least SPF 30) and reapply regularly, especially after swimming.
- Wear a hat, sunglasses and light clothing to protect your skin.
- Avoid direct exposure to the sun between 12pm and 4pm, when UV rays are strongest.
- Seek shade under an umbrella or sit in a shady area to avoid sunburn.
The best times to visit
To take full advantage of the natural beauty of these beaches, we recommend visiting them in the early morning or late afternoon. Not only do these times of day offer soft, pleasant light, they also allow you to avoid busy periods.
Respecting the environment
Valle Gran Rey’s beaches are of exceptional natural beauty, and it’s important to preserve them. Remember to pick up your litter and respect the local fauna to help protect this fragile ecosystem.
Visitors to Valle Gran Rey are generally very respectful of nature and the beaches, contributing to the cleanliness of these magnificent places. There is very little litter, with the exception of microplastics washed up by the sea, reminding us of the importance of preserving this natural paradise.
Accessibility
Valle Gran Rey, with its magnificent beaches, is an ideal destination for lovers of nature and tranquillity. All the beaches mentioned in this blog, namely Playa de La Calera, La Puntilla, Charco del Conde, Playa de Vueltas and Playa del Inglés, are easily accessible by car. A great advantage here is the availability of free parking spaces. Despite the beauty and popularity of these beaches, you’ll rarely have trouble finding a parking space, even in high season.
In addition to easy access, the area around these beaches is full of restaurants and bistros, perfect for enjoying the local cuisine after a day in the sun. However, it’s important to note that opening times may vary. Spanish restaurants, for example, generally only open from 1pm for lunch. Life on La Gomera follows a leisurely pace, and this is reflected in the service. So don’t always expect fast, optimal service; here, relaxation and patience are the order of the day.
To make your vacation a success, it’s a good idea to plan ahead. Prepare a supply of water and snacks, especially if you plan to spend long hours on the beach. Although buses (for timetables on line 1, click here ) and cabs operate well (Valle Gran Rey cab phone number 922 805 058), their timetables can be irregular. So it’s best to check the bus timetable in advance and make sure a cab is available if you plan to be out late at night. Cabs are usually available at the stations during the day, but it’s always a good idea to check with the drivers to make sure they’ll be available at the time you require.
With these few tips, you’ll be well prepared to take full advantage of all that Valle Gran Rey has to offer. Whether you choose to travel by car or take advantage of local transport, La Gomera’s natural beauty will make every moment of your vacation memorable.
Conclusion
Valle Gran Rey is one of La Gomera’s jewels, offering a diversity of beaches that will appeal to every visitor. Whether you’re looking for tranquility, adventure or simply a place to watch the sun set, the beaches of this valley have it all.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well prepared to take full advantage of this enchanting setting, while protecting yourself from the sun and respecting the surrounding nature. La Gomera awaits you, ready to reveal its hidden treasures and breathtaking landscapes.
