Los Llanos, Canary Islands
Playa de Las Monjas
Playa de Las Monjas is a clothing-optional beach on the remote west coast of La Palma, the greenest and least-developed of Spain's Canary Islands.
About this place
Playa de Las Monjas is a clothing-optional beach on the remote west coast of La Palma, the greenest and least-developed of Spain's Canary Islands. Officially recognized by the Federación Española de Naturismo, this volcanic-sand cove sits in the municipality of Los Llanos de Aridane, facing open Atlantic waters. La Palma's naturist scene is far quieter than Fuerteventura or Gran Canaria — you won't find organized resorts or beach clubs here, just a handful of accepted spots known mostly to locals and repeat visitors. The beach sees mixed use: textile sunbathers are common in high summer, especially on weekends, but shoulder-season mornings tend to draw a more committed naturist crowd who appreciate the relative solitude. Spain's broad legal and cultural acceptance of nudity at recognized beaches means you won't face fines or harassment, though the vibe shifts with tourist traffic. The Canaries' year-round warmth makes La Palma's coastline appealing even in winter, though the northwest can see strong Atlantic swells. Access is typically on foot from a nearby parking area or via coastal trail — this isn't a drive-up beach with facilities. If you're exploring La Palma's volcanic landscapes and stargazing sites, Playa de Las Monjas offers a low-key naturist option away from the crowds that pack Tenerife and Lanzarote.
Visitor notes
Contributed by ClothingOptional.org Editorial Team
Who visits
Visitor mix not well-documented — typically draws regional naturist regulars and the occasional northern European visitor exploring La Palma's quieter side. Expect a low-key, unpretentious crowd rather than a defined demographic. Weekend summer traffic skews more textile.
How to find it
Located on La Palma's west coast near Los Llanos de Aridane, accessible via coastal footpath from the nearest parking area. Coordinates place it south of Puerto de Tazacorte. La Palma has one airport (SPC) with connections via Tenerife or Madrid; the island is small but mountainous, so allow extra driving time.
Things to watch out for
Atlantic swells can make swimming rough, especially in winter months. Limited to no facilities — bring water, sun protection, and pack out trash. Summer weekends draw more textile beachgoers, shifting the naturist ratio. Volcanic sand retains heat; sandals helpful.
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Etiquette & ground rules
On clothing-optional beaches in Europe, full nudity is welcome but not expected — many visitors mix nudity, swimwear, and topless dress freely. Cameras and phone photography are off-limits without explicit consent. Pack out everything you bring. Stay aware of where the naturist section ends if signage shifts — adjacent stretches are sometimes textile-only.
From the field
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