Charco Azul La Palma

Charco Azul, the most awarded natural pool in the north of the island

The Charco Azul La Palma is one of the most well-known and valued natural pool complexes in the Canary Islands. Carved into the volcanic rock of the northern coast of La Palma, in the municipality of San Andrés y Sauces, it offers turquoise waters that are replenished directly from the Atlantic and a stunning natural environment surrounded by laurisilva. Thanks to our live camera of Charco Azul La Palma, you can see in real-time the condition of the pools and the sea before planning your visit.

Our live camera of Charco Azul shows the natural pool and the sea in real-time, allowing you to see the waves, the color of the water, and the atmosphere before leaving home. It's the most direct way to know if conditions are good for swimming, especially on windy or rough sea days.

What is Charco Azul in La Palma

The Charco Azul (La Palma) is a set of natural pools carved into the volcanic rock of the pedestrian walkway of El Melonar, which connects the village of San Andrés with Puerto Espíndola, in the northeast of the island.

Its waters are directly fed by the Atlantic Ocean and remain calm within the pools, despite the strong waves surrounding the area. Therefore, it is one of the few places in the north of La Palma where swimming is safe and accessible almost all year round.

The complex received in 2013 an international award for the quality of its services, following a complete renovation that transformed the pools into a reference space. In addition to the water, the environment has an exceptional added value: the intense green of the nearby laurisilva contrasts with the black of the lava and the blue of the sea, creating a landscape that changes color according to the light of the day.

The pools of Charco Azul: what they are like and what they offer

The complex features three distinct areas. The main pool is large, with side platforms for jumping into the water and sufficient depth for comfortable swimming. Next to it, the children's pool has a smooth bottom and calmer waters, designed for the little ones. Finally, the so-called Charco de las Damas is a small volcanic rock pool, more intimate and secluded, with a small waterfall that adds charm to the complex.

Regarding services, Charco Azul is very well equipped: free changing rooms and showers, cane umbrellas, a sunbathing area, lifeguarding, parking at the top, and a kiosk with sea views. However, it is important to note that access to some areas may be challenging for people with reduced mobility due to the stairs between the pools.

When to visit Charco Azul and how to get there

The best time to visit the Charco Azul in La Palma It is summer when the waves are gentler and temperatures are higher. However, thanks to its protected design, it can be used year-round in normal conditions. It is recommended to visit in the morning, as in the afternoon the area is partially shaded. Before heading out, check our live camera of Charco Azul to see the actual state of the sea and decide if the day is favorable.

To get there by car from Santa Cruz de La Palma, take the LP-1 road north towards San Andrés and Sauces, with clear signs towards the complex. The journey takes about twenty minutes. If you travel by guagua, lines 100, 210, and 300 connect the capital with San Andrés and Sauces, although the frequency is low, and it is advisable to check the schedules in advance.

What to see near Charco Azul in San Andrés and Sauces

After swimming, it is worth walking around the village of San Andrés, one of the prettiest on La Palma, with its quiet square and fresh fish bars. Just a few minutes away, Puerto Espíndola is another authentic spot where you can eat limpets and tuna at Mesón del Mar, or visit the Aldea rum distillery, with over eighty years of history. On the other hand, the laurel forest of Los Tilos, designated as a Biosphere Reserve, is less than ten minutes by car and is a must-visit for nature lovers. If you want to keep exploring the island, also discover the live cameras of La Palma in CanariasLife.

Common questions

What can be seen on the live camera of Charco Azul in CanariasLife?
The camera shows in real time the natural pool and the sea, allowing you to see the state of the waves, the color of the water, and the atmosphere before leaving home. It is especially useful on windy days or when the sea is choppy to know if conditions are good for swimming.

What is Charco Azul in La Palma?
It is a set of natural pools carved into the volcanic rock on the northern coast of La Palma, in the municipality of San Andrés y Sauces. Its waters are fed directly from the Atlantic and it received an international award in 2013 for the quality of its facilities.

How many pools does Charco Azul have?
The complex has three areas: a large main pool with diving platforms, a shallow children's pool, and the Charco de las Damas, a small volcanic puddle with a waterfall, more intimate and secluded.

Is Charco Azul suitable for children?
Yes, it is one of the best places in La Palma to go with children. The children's pool has a smooth bottom and very calm waters. Additionally, the complex has free showers, changing rooms, umbrellas, and supervision.

When is the best time to visit the Charco Azul?
The best time is summer, when the waves are gentler. It is recommended to go in the morning, as in the afternoon the area is partially in shade. Check the live camera before leaving to see the current conditions.

How to get to Charco Azul from Santa Cruz de La Palma?
By car, take the LP-1 heading north to San Andrés y Sauces, following signs to the complex. The journey takes about twenty minutes. By bus, lines 100, 210, and 300 connect the capital with San Andrés y Sauces, although with reduced frequency.