Playa De La Guancha La Gomera 2023 (Guancha Beach)

Playa de la Guancha is a beautiful isolated beach just a few kilometres south of San Sebastian. The only access to the beach is via boat or a hiking trail, so you won’t have to share the beach with many (if any) other people.

Basic Information Playa De La Guancha La Gomera

Playa De La Guancha La Gomera Canary Islands Spain Information Table
Playa De La Guancha La Gomera

If you are looking for a beach in the San Sebastian area with a few more amenities, then we suggest you check out either Playa de San Sebastian or Playa de la Cueva.

An Introduction To La Gomera Beaches

La Gomera’s mild climate means its stunning beaches can be enjoyed year-round. However, if you are searching for long white beaches with endless lines of sun loungers, La Gomera may not be the place for you.

A typical La Gomera beach is small with black volcanic sand or shingle. Picture quiet (almost deserted) bays with crystal clear turquoise waters nestled between dramatic craggy cliffs.

Some beaches within the towns are busier with amenities nearby, while others can only be reached via boat or on foot. However, if you are prepared to walk, you are often rewarded with an entire beach to yourself.

Playa De La Guancha La Gomera Near San Sebastian Also Known As Guancha Beach Canary Islands Spain Pebble Volcanic Beach With Blue Sea Blue Sky And Dramatic Cliffs
Playa De La Guancha La Gomera

However, a word of caution is that swimming in the sea on La Gomera can be dangerous, especially during the winter. The island can be windy with large waves and powerful currents, especially during high tide.

Some beaches aren’t suitable for swimming (especially for children) at any time of year, while others are more sheltered and generally safe. Before swimming on any La Gomera beach, we recommend you take the advice of a local tourist office.

An Overview Of Playa De La Guancha La Gomera

Playa de la Guancho La Gomera is a beautiful, isolated beach just a few km south of San Sebastian. There isn’t road access to this beach, so you will have most (possibly all!) of the beach to yourself. When we visited Playa de la Guancha beach, there were just five other hikers on the entire beach.

Prepare For Your Visit To Playa De La Guancha La Gomera

Playa De La Guancha La Gomera Near San Sebastian Also Known As Guancha Beach Canary Islands Spain Waves Crashing On Black Rocks Beneath Blue Sky
Crashing Waves Playa De La Guancha La Gomera

There are a few things it is worth noting before visiting this beach:

  1. Sunburn – The coastal winds on La Gomera mean that sunburn is common. The sun here is powerful, and the cooling breeze can fool you into thinking you are not at risk. Also, wind is now believed to reduce the skin’s natural protection against UV rays.
  2. Stones – the beach is mainly rock and stone (with a little sand) and very difficult to walk on with bare feet, so take suitable shoes for the water if you plan on going in the sea.
  3. Winds, Waves and Tides – It is worth repeating that all beaches on La Gomera can be dangerous, so make sure you are fully aware of the conditions before swimming.

Access To Playa De La Guancha La Gomera

Playa De La Guancha La Gomera To San Sebastian Hiking Trail Along Cliff Top With View Of Mount Teide In Background Canary Islands Spain With Blue Sky And Blue Sea
Hiking Back To San Sebastian From Playa De La Guancha La Gomera

There isn’t a road down to Playa De La Guancha; the only way to get to the beach is via boat or a hiking trail. The quickest hiking route is along the cliff tops from the south end of San Sebastian. The route is around a 9km round trip of moderate difficulty, and it will take approximately 1.5 hours each way.

If you have the time (and energy!), the hike is well worth it. The trail itself is beautiful, with continuous and uninterrupted views of the sea. You will also be rewarded with stunning views of San Sebastian and Playa de la Guancha from the cliff tops.

You also have the option to extend your hike down the coast to Playa del Cabrito, another beach that can’t be accessed via road. You will need to hike another 2-3 km to get to Playa del Cabrito.

Amenities At Playa De La Guancha La Gomera

There are no amenities at all at Playa de la Guancha, which means there are no toilets, showers, or cafes/restaurants. There literally isn’t anything at the beach apart from a tiny house which appears to be unoccupied.

Pros And Cons Of Playa De La Guancha La Gomera

Crystal Clear Blue Waters At Playa De La Guancha La Gomera Near San Sebastian Also Known As Guancha Beach Canary Islands Spain
Crystal Clear Waters At Playa De La Guancha La Gomera

Pros Of Playa De La Guancha

  • Stunning location
  • Deserted idyllic beach
  • Crystal clear waters
  • Beautiful cliff-top hike to the beach

Cons Of Playa De La Guancha

  • No road access
  • Rocky beach
  • No amenities
  • Possible strong tides

Conclusion: Your Next Adventure Awaits at Playa de la Guancha

So, are you ready to lace up your hiking boots and embark on an unforgettable journey to Playa de la Guancha? This 8km round-trip hike from San Sebastian offers you a unique blend of awe-inspiring sea views, challenging terrains, and a secluded beach that promises serenity. Remember, this isn’t just a walk in the park; you’ll need to prepare adequately. Sturdy footwear, ample food and drink, and sun protection are non-negotiables.

The trail is well-marked but comes with its set of challenges, including steep climbs and rocky paths. But don’t let that deter you. The reward is a stunning beach where you might be the only visitor, surrounded by the vast ocean and views of Mount Teide volcano in the distance. It’s a hike that encapsulates the very essence of La Gomera’s diverse landscapes and climates, making it a must-do for any adventure seeker or nature lover.

So, what are you waiting for? Isn’t it time you experienced the beauty of Playa de la Guancha for yourself?

Questions to Ponder:

  1. What Makes Playa de la Guancha Special? – Is it the isolation, the views, or the challenging hike that draws you in?
  2. Are You Prepared? – Have you considered all the essentials you’ll need for this hike?
  3. What’s Next on Your La Gomera Adventure? – Will you extend your hike to Playa del Cabrito or explore other trails on the island?

Leave a comment

en_GBEnglish