Playa Del Ingles La Gomera (Ingles Beach)

Playa del Ingles La Gomera lies at the northern end of Valle Gran Rey. It is a beautiful beach, sandy, and quieter than the others in the town. However, strong currents make the water unsafe for swimming.

Basic Information Playa Del Ingles La Gomera

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.

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 Del Ingles La Gomera

Playa del Ingles lies at the northern end of Valle Gran Rey, just outside the town. Although it is a popular beach, it is generally quieter than those within the town. The access to the beach, through sand dunes, also makes it feel more isolated.

Playa del Ingles is generally sandy with some rock. It is an excellent beach to relax on and enjoy the stunning views of the rocs, volcanic cliffs and waves. It is also one of the best places in town to watch the sunset.

For decades this beach has been known as a destination for hippies and nudists. Nudists aren’t uncommon in La Gomera, but the other naturist beaches are more remote. Playa del Ingles is the only one close to amenities. Although, as far as we can tell, it isn’t officially a nudist beach.

You shouldn’t attempt to swim at Playa del Ingles. I have seen at least one website that describes the waters here as calm and safe for swimming, but this is definitely not the case.

There are strong undercurrents even when the sea appears calm. At the beach, there is a sign that states that 27 people have died swimming here in the past 10 years.

Prepare For Your Visit To Playa Del Ingles 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.
2. Winds, Waves and Tides – It is worth repeating that all beaches on La Gomera can be dangerous, but Playa del Ingles is known for its strong currents and isn’t suitable for swimming.

Access To Playa Del Ingles La Gomera

Playa de Ingles can be easily accessed by car via Carretera Playa del Ingles. This road leads to the beach and has a free car park at the end. From the car park, it is a short walk through sand dunes to get to the beach.

Amenities At Playa Del Ingles La Gomera

Playa del Ingles is separated from the main town of Valle Gran Rey, and there aren’t any amenities here. However, if you walk a few hundred metres south of the beach, there is an area of restaurants, cafes and shops.

Pros And Cons Of Playa Del Ingles

Conclusion: The Allure and Caution of Playa del Ingles, La Gomera

Playa del Ingles in La Gomera is a beach that offers a blend of tranquillity and natural beauty. Located at the northern end of Valle Gran Rey, it’s a quieter alternative to the bustling beaches in town. The beach is framed by dramatic cliffs and offers stunning views, making it an ideal spot for sunset watching. However, it’s crucial to note that the beach is not suitable for swimming due to strong undercurrents.

Why Visit Playa del Ingles?

If you’re looking for a serene setting to unwind and soak up the sun, Playa del Ingles is your go-to spot. The beach is easily accessible by car, and a short walk through sand dunes will lead you to this peaceful haven. While there are no direct amenities at the beach, a short stroll will take you to an area filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Safety First

Before you pack your bags, remember that the waters here are not for swimming. The beach has a grim history of swimming-related fatalities, so it’s best to enjoy the view from the shore. Always heed local advice and signage when it comes to water safety.

Plan Your Visit

Before heading to Playa del Ingles, make sure to prepare for the strong sun and coastal winds. Sunburn is a common issue, so pack your sunscreen and stay hydrated.

So, are you ready to experience the quiet allure of Playa del Ingles while staying safe and informed?