Puerto Naos is set to transform into a cutting-edge tourist hub aimed at bolstering the economy and promoting sustainable tourism on La Palma. Matilde Fleitas, the director of the Insular Recovery and Economic Development of La Palma, emphasizes that this initiative is not a reaction to recent volcanic activity but a planned effort originating from a request by the Los Llanos de Aridane Town Hall in 2019.
Overview of the Project
The planning process for Puerto Naos has faced significant delays, with numerous administrative hurdles. The Cabildo Insular of La Palma began reviewing the request in 2019, but the project will not move forward until 2025 due to these complications. Notably, on April 29, 2026, the environmental agency accepted the application for further evaluation.
Key Facts and Objectives
- The initiative covers an area of approximately 27 hectares.
- It aims to address the stagnation of tourist development in Puerto Naos and Los Cancajos.
- The project’s design includes green spaces, public pedestrian zones, and facilities to integrate tourism with local life.
Environmental Considerations
The project addresses environmental concerns with over 80 accompanying documents, including a comprehensive 340-page environmental report. This report focuses on:
- Water reuse and purification
- Water supply and conservation
- Integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power
Fleitas insists that while the proposal emphasizes a modern approach to tourism, the term “sustainability” will not be explicitly used.
Tourist Accommodation and Infrastructure
The resort will offer limited and responsible tourism growth, with a maximum density of 90 beds per hectare. This could yield approximately 2,109 beds, with a potential increase to around 2,600, depending on the project’s final development. The initiative includes six designated parcels for hotel development, as part of the Puerto Naos singular tourism planning instrument.
Current Tourism Landscape
La Palma currently provides 4,219 hotel beds and 13,540 non-hotel beds. The project aims to enhance this offering to attract higher-quality tourists.
Next Steps and Community Involvement
Once the environmental assessment is complete, the planning documents will be available for public review, allowing stakeholders, particularly landowners, to voice their concerns. The final approval for the coastal layout will rest with the Cabildo Insular of La Palma.
As Puerto Naos embarks on this ambitious development journey, the local government hopes to avoid past mistakes and create a thriving, sustainable tourist destination that respects the island’s natural heritage.
