El Puerto
Spain — Excellent water quality
Port Tazacorte Beach sits at the mouth of Las Angustias ravine and has been a gateway to the outside world since Adelantado Alonso Fernández de Lugo landed in 1492. The port served as the site where the conqueror captured Tanausú (also called Atanausú), the last…
Quick Overview
Plan Your Visit to El Puerto
The key facts before you go
About the Beach
What is El Puerto?
Port Tazacorte Beach sits at the mouth of Las Angustias ravine and has been a gateway to the outside world since Adelantado Alonso Fernández de Lugo landed in 1492. The port served as the site where the conqueror captured Tanausú (also called Atanausú), the last native king and chief of the canton of Aceró in Caldera de Taburiente. The warrior was ambushed and taken prisoner but chose to starve rather than become enslaved by the Castilians.
Beyond its fishing industry, the port was a major trading hub for sugar, wine, tobacco, cochineal, and bananas. It also played a crucial defensive role in protecting La Palma from pirate raids and attacks by English troops seeking to conquer the island. Juan Graje's Fortress and San Miguel's Castle were key military installations during this period, though both have since disappeared.
It is part of a wider group of Blue Flag certified beaches across Spain that meet FEE's annual standards for water quality, safety, and environmental management.
Sunrise, Sunset & Beach Direction
El Puerto faces W toward Atlantic Ocean. The best light for photography and swimming is typically in April, May, June. The beach's orientation determines when it catches direct sun — plan your visit around this to make the most of your time there.
Planning
When to Go — Month by Month
| Month | Air Temp | Water Temp | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 18°C | 15°C | Med |
| Feb | 18°C | 15°C | Med |
| Mar | 18°C | 15°C | Med |
| Apr | 19°C | 16°C | High |
| May | 21°C | 18°C | High |
| Jun | 23°C | 20°C | High |
| Jul | 25°C | 22°C | High |
| Aug | 26°C | 23°C | High |
| Sep | 25°C | 22°C | High |
| Oct | 23°C | 20°C | Med |
| Nov | 21°C | 18°C | Med |
| Dec | 19°C | 16°C | Med |
The best time to visit El Puerto is April, May, June. Air temperatures peak around 25.2°C in summer. Peak water temperature reaches 22.2°C in July.
How crowded does El Puerto get?Like most Blue Flag beaches in Spain, El Puerto sees its highest visitor numbers in July and August. The beach maintains a pleasant atmosphere even in peak season.
Is El Puerto open year-round?The beach itself is accessible year-round, though staffed facilities including lifeguards typically operate only during the official season (01-01 – 31-12). The Blue Flag is displayed during the certification period only.
The Water
Swimming and Beach Life at El Puerto
Is El Puerto safe to swim?El Puerto is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict bathing water standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is rated <span class="inline-stat">Excellent</span>. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season.
What is the water temperature at El Puerto?Peak water temperature at El Puerto reaches around <span class="inline-stat">22.2°C</span> in July, making it comfortable for swimming during the summer months. In winter (January), air temperatures average 18°C.
What is the beach like at El Puerto?El Puerto is a sandy beach of Spain. Beyond its fishing industry, the port was a major trading hub for sugar, wine, tobacco, cochineal, and bananas. It also played a crucial defensive role in protecting La Palma from pirate raids and attacks by English troops seeking to conquer the island. Juan Graje's Fortress and San Miguel's Castle were key military installations during this period, though both have since disappeared.
Does El Puerto have good facilities?As a Blue Flag certified beach, El Puerto meets the Foundation for Environmental Education's standards for facilities and services. Trained lifeguards are on duty during the season.
El Puerto sits on the Atlantic Ocean — explore all Blue Flag beaches on the Atlantic.
Planning a trip to Spain? Blue Flag Beaches Spain 2026 — our editorial guide to certified beaches across the country.
Transport
Getting to El Puerto
How do I get to El Puerto by car?El Puerto is located in Spain. Follow local road signs to the beach. Check Google Maps or a local map for the most current directions.
What is the nearest airport to El Puerto?The nearest airport is La Palma Airport (SPC) (SPC), approximately 19.2 km away.
Can I get to El Puerto by public transport?Public transport options vary by season. Check local transport authority websites for current bus and train schedules connecting to Spain.
Practical Details
Practical Information
| At the Beach | |
| Entry | Free — no charge to access the beach |
|---|---|
| Lifeguards | ✓ On duty during official season |
| Disabled Access | Contact local authority for details |
| Showers | ✗ |
| Toilets | ✗ |
| Official Season | 01-01 – 31-12 |
| Beach Type | Sandy beach |
| Visiting Information | |
| GPS Coordinates | 28.6469°N, 17.9506°W |
| Water Quality | Excellent (EU Bathing Water Directive) |
| Blue Flag Operator | Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) — Spain |
Frequently Asked Questions
El Puerto FAQ
Is El Puerto suitable for children?
El Puerto is a Blue Flag certified beach in Spain. Lifeguards are on duty during the official season, providing an important safety layer for families. The EU Excellent water quality rating means the water is safe and clean for all swimmers, including children. Blue Flag certification itself requires meeting strict environmental and safety standards that benefit all beach users.
Is El Puerto free to access?
Yes, access to El Puerto is free — there are no entry fees or charges to use the beach. Facilities including beach amenities are typically available during the official season at no charge. The beach is managed by local authorities under the Blue Flag programme.
When is the best time to visit El Puerto?
The best time to visit El Puerto is April, May, June. Water temperature peaks at around 22.2°C in July, which is ideal for swimming. Air temperatures reach 25.2°C in summer. If you prefer quieter conditions, visiting in June or September gives you warm weather with fewer crowds than the July–August peak. The Blue Flag is displayed during the certified season, confirming the beach meets all water quality and safety standards.
What is the water quality at El Puerto?
El Puerto is Blue Flag certified, which requires meeting strict annual water quality standards set by the EU Bathing Water Directive. Water quality is currently rated Excellent. Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and requires independent water quality monitoring throughout the season. The results are publicly available from the European Environment Agency.
How do I get to El Puerto?
El Puerto is located in Spain. The nearest airport is La Palma Airport (SPC) (SPC), 19.2 km away. Check local transport authority websites for current public transport schedules. A car is the most flexible option for reaching the beach, particularly outside peak season.
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