Charco del Conde Beach

Nestled into a quiet spot on La Gomera’s west coast, Charco del Conde is a particularly popular beach with families.

As with nearly all of the island’s beaches, it’s characterised by an imposing mountainous backdrop and volcanic black sands. There are lots of rocks as you approach the water too, so it’s a good idea to invest in a pair of water shoes, or take extra care at the very least if you’re taking a paddle.

The waters here are calm and crystal clear - helped massively by the number of rocks which act as a shield for the beach, which partly explains its popularity with families.

As with a number of La Gomera’s beaches, there are no lifeguards on duty or sunbeds to hire, which helps the island to maintain its unspoilt feel. You won’t find facilities like toilets or showers at the beach either, but the palm tree-lined promenade just behind the beach is sprinkled with restaurants, ice-cream kiosks and mini-markets, so you’re far from being cut off here.

Despite its status as a family favourite, the beach rarely gets filled up, so you’ll have plenty of wriggle room and space for family games - just keep an eye out for the rocks that are dotted across the beach.