Whales and Dolphins
Boat Trips on La Palma: Whale Watching and Dolphin Spotting on the Isla Bonita
La Palma, the jewel of the Canary Islands, is not only a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts but also a hotspot for marine lovers. The waters surrounding the island are among the best places in the world to observe whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
Why La Palma is Ideal for Whale Watching
The Canary Islands are home and a migratory route for a third of all whale and dolphin species. Around 28 species either reside permanently in these waters or regularly pass by—ranging from bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales to majestic fin and sperm whales, which can be spotted particularly in spring and summer.
The chances of spotting whales during a boat tour are an impressive 80–90%, while dolphins can be seen in about half of the trips. Encountering these marine mammals in their natural environment, far from human interference, is a truly captivating experience.
Our Tours: Close to Nature, Respectful to the Sea
With La Palma Exquisit, you’ll enjoy an exclusive trip out to the open sea, accompanied by experienced marine biologists. Their knowledge of marine life turns every tour into an educational and sustainable adventure.
What Can You Expect?
- Specialized boats for optimal viewing.
- Expert insights into the flora and fauna of the Canary waters.
- Respectful approach to nature: when sightings occur, the boat’s engine is turned off to avoid disturbing the animals.
When and Where to Spot Whales and Dolphins
- Year-round: Bottlenose dolphins and pilot whales are regular residents near La Palma.
- Spring and summer: Increased chances of spotting sperm whales, fin whales, and various dolphin species.
Why Choose Sustainable Observation?
Our tours adhere to strict ecological standards to protect the animals and their habitat. The focus is on observing the animals from a safe distance without causing them distress.
Sign up for an unforgettable boat trip and experience the majestic marine life around La Palma!
Whales and Dolphins on La Palma
La Palma offers not only breathtaking landscapes on land but also a unique experience on the water: whale and dolphin watching. The island’s waters are home to a variety of whale species, including pilot whales, fin whales, and dolphins. With a bit of luck, you might even spot the majestic blue whales—the largest marine mammals on Earth!
The best chances to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural environment are between May and September. Near Puerto Naos, dolphins and whales are often seen swimming in small pods along the coast. Sei whales are frequent visitors, and occasionally, you might even see mother whales with their calves swimming northward at dawn and returning in the evening.
One particularly extraordinary event was the sighting of a sperm whale off Playa Chica in Puerto Naos, attempting to remove a piece of net from its fluke. Such encounters are rare but show how close one can get to these magnificent animals.
For those who prefer not to go on a boat tour, there are excellent land-based observation opportunities. At La Palma airport, right after check-in, a large window offers a perfect view of the sea, where sei whales are often spotted playing near the shore.
Whale and dolphin watching on La Palma is not just a visual spectacle but also an experience deeply tied to respect for nature and the protection of the marine environment. Our operations follow sustainable practices to ensure that these animals are not disturbed in their natural habitat.
