Things To Do
in La Gomera
La Gomera is a compact volcanic island in the Canary archipelago famed for its ancient laurel forests and dramatic cliffs. It remains peaceful and less developed than its bigger neighbors, offering a slow-paced, authentic Canarian experience. The island’s culture is deeply rooted in tradition, including the Silbo Gomero whistled language that echoes through villages.
From misty forests to rugged coastline, the island rewards walkers, hikers, and curious travelers with dramatic landscapes and charming rural towns.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey in San Sebastián, the capital of La Gomera, where you'll stroll through the historic streets. Visit the Church of Asunción, an iconic landmark that reflects the island's rich history. Enjoy a coffee at a local café while indulging in the view of the harbor.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade to the nearby beach. You can also visit the Torre del Conde, a 15th-century watchtower that offers insights into the island's past. Don't forget to sample some local tapas at a restaurant overlooking the ocean.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot to enjoy the local cuisine, perhaps at a restaurant featuring fresh seafood. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the town, with locals and visitors mingling in the streets. Conclude your day with a stroll down to the beach to catch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.
Begin your day with a hike in Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with lush laurel forests and diverse wildlife. The morning air is fresh as you navigate the trails, taking in breathtaking views from various lookout points. Remember to pack a picnic to enjoy amidst nature.
In the afternoon, continue exploring the park, visiting the remarkable Roque de Agando rock formation, a natural monument. Take a moment to absorb the serenity of the surroundings and the beauty of the endemic flora. If you're feeling adventurous, try some bird-watching or photography.
After a day of adventure, return to San Sebastián to relax and enjoy a well-deserved dinner. Choose a restaurant that features local dishes such as 'potaje de berros,' a traditional watercress stew. Wind down your evening with a nightcap at a lively bar.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚎Public transport (one-way) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $80-150 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a couple days | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning nature and laurel forests
- Calm, authentic Canarian experience
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Some services concentrated in a few towns; travel between villages can take time
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
Places to Visit in La Gomera
Visit one of these nice places.
Mist-shrouded laurel forest with ancient trees and sweeping valley views.
Dramatic basalt rock formations and striking silhouettes against the sky.
Glass-floored viewpoint offering panoramic views of Agulo and the coastline.
Colorful houses, the port, and the historic Torre del Conde provide charming backdrops.
Food in La Gomera
La Gomera Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A garlicky goat cheese paste blended with peppers, traditionally spread on bread or crackers.
Must-Try!
Bean-based stew with shredded meat or vegetables, a comforting Canarian staple.
Wrinkled potatoes served with green mojo (herb/garlic) and red mojo (rosemary/peppers) sauces.
Salt cod stew with potatoes and vegetables, a beloved island dish.
A sweet almond-and-egg dessert often served with ice cream or pastry.
A warm paste made from toasted flour, often served as a side or used in stews.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market in the town center offering fresh produce, cheeses, gofio, and local snacks.
Small market with island produce, honey, and artesanal products on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple hola or buenos días is appreciated; handshake in business contexts.
Respect the whistled language; avoid mimicking or interrupting when locals use it.
People may be reserved and value a relaxed pace; avoid loud behavior in residential areas.
Casual but tidy attire for most venues; modest clothing in sacred sites.
Safety
Tipping in La Gomera
Ensure a smooth experience
A 5-10% tip is customary in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up in cafes or taxis is common.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy in smaller villages; some rural shops may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming laurel forests; occasional showers; ideal for hiking and photography.
Warm days tempered by cooling trade winds; great for outdoor activities and beach days; sea can be rough on exposed shores.
Pleasant temperatures with more consistent rainfall; markets revive with harvest produce.
Milder evenings and cooler days; north parts can be wetter; crowds are typically lighter.
La Gomera at Night
Hiking in La Gomera
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trail through laurel trees featuring mossy streams and a rewarding plateau view.
Trail network within Garajonay National Park offering panoramic views and biodiversity.
Scenic hike along the north coast with sea views and terraced agriculture.
Airports
How to reach La Gomera by plane.
Small regional airfield serving limited domestic flights; often used for quick connections to Tenerife.
Larger airport on Tenerife with inter-island connections; from here you can catch a ferry or flight to La Gomera.
Major hub on Tenerife with international connections; used for access to La Gomera via ferry or island-hopper flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Canarian families with agriculture and tourism as main livelihoods.
Tourists visiting in spring and autumn contribute to the island’s economy.
Foreign residents seeking a quieter Canarian lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local teams and informal games are common.
The island’s terrain attracts hikers to Garajonay and coastal trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Gomera.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy papas arrugadas, gofio, vegetables with mojo, and cheese-based dishes; ask for no fish or meat in stews.