5 beaches perfect for meditation on La Palma island
La Palma, one of the Canary Islands off the coast of North Africa, is a natural paradise waiting to be discovered. With dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush forests and quiet beaches, the island offers the perfect setting for a meditative getaway. You’ll find serenity and solitude on the shores of these 5 beaches perfect for meditation.
The top perfect beaches for meditation in La Palma
Charco Azul and Charco Verde
These secluded coves are located within Charco Azul Nature Reserve on the northern tip of La Palma. They feature scenic natural pools formed by volcanic rock formations and black sand beaches surrounded by palm groves. The beaches are only accessible by hiking trails, so they remain largely unvisited. Some pools are popular spots for snorkeling, but the beaches themselves are ideal for peaceful relaxation and meditation.
The coves of Charco Azul and Charco Verde, located on the northern tip of La Palma, provide an escape from the outside world. As you sink your toes into the black volcanic sand and gaze at the clear turquoise waters, you’ll feel a sense of calm wash over you. The only sounds you’re likely to hear are the gentle lapping of waves on the shore and the distant rustling of palm fronds.
Punta Larga beach
This beach is situated on the western coast below the town of Tijarafe. It is a 1 km stretch of black sand and rocky shoreline backed by banana plantations. Massive rock formations and sea cliffs line the beach, with a walking trail that leads north to even more secluded coves. Strong waves and currents make the water unsafe for swimming, but the scenic beauty and natural sounds make it an excellent spot for contemplation.
Punta Larga beach features a long stretch of dark sand and pebbled shoreline with massive rock formations emerging from the sea. Find your own private corner to sit, close your eyes and focus your awareness on your breath moving in and out. The rhythmic crashing of waves intensifies the relaxing effect.
Puerto Espíndola beach
This long golden sand beach on the east coast looks out on the Atlantic Ocean. It has basic facilities including parking, restrooms and a small picnic area. The beach is popular with locals and visitors, but the expansive length of sand means you can still find relative solitude, especially if you go early or late in the day.
Sunrise over the sea is a stunning sight, making it a perfect time for meditation. As the first rays of dawn illuminate the waters of the Atlantic, find a spot on the beach and meditate on the beauty surrounding you. The gradual brightening of the sky and awakening of the natural world help you achieve a profound inner stillness.
Las Playas beach
On the southeast coast, this black sand beach sits at the base of a dramatic sea cliff with huge rock formations that have been sculpted by wind and waves. Although the surrounding landscape is rugged, palm groves fringe the back of the beach, providing shade. This cove is most easily accessed by boat, as the hiking trail down the cliffs is difficult. The rewarding views and sense of solitude make the effort worthwhile for those seeking a meditative experience in nature.
For breathtaking views, head to Las Playas beach on the southeastern coast. Sit on the black sand with the sea stretching endlessly before you and meditate on the horizon. Jagged sea cliffs wrap around the cove, while palm trees frame the beach, creating a scene of natural solitude and beauty. The ephemeral quality of the waves and passing clouds remind you to remain fully present in each moment.
Why are the beaches of La Palma ideal for meditation?
- The peaceful, natural settings of the beaches make it easy to focus your awareness and achieve a meditative state. The sounds of the ocean, in particular, help calm and center your mind.
- Sunrise and sunset are optimal times for meditation on the beach. The changing light and colors of the sky and sea inspire a sense of tranquility and openness. The dawn and dusk periods also tend to be the less crowded, allowing for more solitude.
- While lying down or walking along the beach, practice mindfulness meditation by focusing your full attention on the sensory details around you—the warmth of the sand, the call of seabirds, the refreshing ocean breeze, the rhythm of your breath. This helps you achieve a state of flow and clarity of mind.
- Seated meditation is also suitable for the beach. Find a comfortable spot in the sand or on a rock overlooking the sea. Close your eyes, ground yourself by focusing on your breath and the sounds surrounding you. Expand your awareness to the light, colors and energy flowing into your body from the natural world.
- The sea cliffs, rock formations and volcanic landscapes provide visual focal points to help quiet your mind. Gaze at the textures, patterns and contours of the natural scenery around you while meditating on the beach.
- The beaches of La Palma have a wild and primitive feel that evokes a sense of inner peace. The natural surroundings emanate a calming, restorative energy that seeps into your psyche as you meditate.
- Don’t be surprised if some local wildlife join you on the beach, from seabirds gliding by to lizards sunbathing on the rocks. Include the animals and plants around you in your meditation by extending feelings of loving-kindness and peace toward them.
- Open your heart to the beauty within and around you. The natural harmony of the island will inspire you to feel at one with yourself, others and the world. This sense of connection and oneness is at the heart of meditation.
The bottom line: La Palma island beaches
La Palma has no shortage of tranquil, pristine beaches for meditation and reflection. Whether you seek the solace of a secluded cove or an expansive shoreline vista, you’ll find the perfect natural setting to reconnect with yourself on this peaceful island oasis. Lose yourself in the simple pleasures of the sea and sand and return home feeling renewed and revitalized.
These 5 beaches perfect for meditation in La Palma offer a range of settings for reflection and meditation amid beautiful natural scenery. Whether you prefer seclusion, scenic vistas or the sounds of the sea, you can find your own personal refuge on these tranquil shores.
