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Last Updated on 3 January 2024 by Vanessa

Greetings from idyllic island of La Gomera.

There are not that many cats in the Canary Islands archipelago, but there are some special places where you can find lots of them. One of these rare spots is Playa de la Caleta near Hermigua, in the north-western region of La Gomera. This hidden beach is currently home to severeal families of cats and kittens. A true delight!

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The “cat beach” Playa de la Caleta in La Gomera

This is a guest post by Claudia Mannes.

A short introduction to La Gomera

Most tourists visit the island of La Gomera as a day trip from Tenerife, which is only 29 kilometers (18 miles) away. The island can be reached by ferry or by taking a domestic flight to La Gomera Airport (Aeropuerto de La Gomera). The ferry ride from Los Cristianos or Santa Cruz de Tenerife to La Gomera takes about 40 tot 60 minutes, and the flight from Tenerife South Airport to La Gomera takes approximately 20 minutes.

La Gomera is particularly known for its stunning natural landscapes. The island boasts lush forests, dramatic cliffs, deep valleys, and picturesque beaches. Its diverse terrain offers excellent opportunities for hiking, exploring nature reserves, and enjoying breathtaking views.

Not many people know, however, that the island is also home to “a cat beach.”

“Cat beach” Playa de la Caleta

Playa de la Caleta stands as a tranquil oasis, cradled by the striking landscapes of La Gomera. This hidden gem, accessible by foot or car from the village of Hermigua, allures visitors seeking solace amidst nature’s embrace. I

t offers a mix of black sand and pebbles, while the surrounding cliffs and green landscape add to its charm. The beach may not have extensive tourist facilities or a wide range of activities, but it’s a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of the island of La Gomera.

Several feline families with young cats have made this secluded beach their sanctuary. These cats and kittens have adapted to their coastal habitat, weaving seamlessly into the fabric of this serene haven. They gracefully navigate the sandy stretches and rocky outcrops, displaying an instinctual connection with their surroundings.

While encountering these beautiful creatures in their stunning natural habitat is a delight, it’s important to remember that they are stray cats in need of care and attention.

How to interact with the stray cats of Playa de la Caleta?

If you find yourself drawn to these cats and wish to contribute to their well-being, here are some tips on how to care for them responsibly:

Provide food and water

Stray cats often struggle to find regular meals. If you feel inclined to help, consider bringing along some cat food to offer nourishment to the cats during your visit. Ensure you provide fresh water in a safe and accessible location as well.

Avoid feeding from your hand

Stray cats may have different temperaments and may not be accustomed to being hand-fed. To avoid any potential aggression or misunderstandings, it’s best to place food and water in designated areas rather than feeding directly from your hand.

Also stray cats often carry various diseases, including bacterial and viral infections, parasites, and zoonotic diseases that can be transmitted to humans. Feeding them directly from your hands increases the risk of coming into contact with their saliva, feces, or other bodily fluids, which can harbor pathogens.

Respect their space

While the cats may be curious and approachable, always remember to respect their boundaries. Allow them to approach you if they feel comfortable but avoid chasing or crowding them. Stay calm and gentle to build trust gradually.

Do not litter

Keep the beach clean and free from litter. Dispose of any waste, including food wrappers or containers, properly. Litter can be harmful to both the cats and the environment.

Consider supporting local animal welfare organizations

If you are passionate about animal welfare, consider supporting local animal shelters or organizations that work towards providing care and finding homes for stray cats. They can provide guidance on responsible feeding programs, trap-neuter-return initiatives, and adoption opportunities.

Spread awareness

Share your experiences with friends, family, or fellow travelers, encouraging them to treat stray cats with kindness and respect. Raising awareness about the importance of responsible care for stray animals can help foster a more compassionate community.

Remember, while the presence of these stray cats at Playa de la Caleta adds a special charm, their well-being and long-term care should be a priority. By following these tips, you can contribute to their welfare and make a positive impact on their lives during your visit to this secluded beach.

How to get to Playa de la Caleta in Hermigua?

Playa de la Caleta is usually not included in guided tours of La Gomera. If visiting the beach and meeting its cats is your top priority, it is recommended to explore the island by car.

You can easily rent a vehicle from the main towns of San Sebastián or Playa Santiago. Hermigua is located on the north coast of the island, and you can reach it by driving along the main roads (GM-1 and GM-2) that connect different parts of La Gomera.

From San Sebastián de La Gomera to Hermigua

To travel from San Sebastián de La Gomera to Hermigua by car, you can follow these specific directions:

Start in San Sebastián de La Gomera, which is the main town and capital of the island.
Head north from San Sebastián on the main road, GM-1. You’ll be driving along the eastern coast of the island.
Follow GM-1 for approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) until you reach the junction with GM-2. You’ll see signs indicating the direction to Hermigua.
Take the right turn onto GM-2. Now, you’ll be driving westward towards Hermigua.
Continue along GM-2 for approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles), following the signs for Hermigua. This road will take you through the scenic valley of Hermigua.
As you approach Hermigua, you’ll start descending into the town. Follow the road until you reach the center of Hermigua.
From here, you have to take a narrow winding road toward Playa de la Caleta.

From Playa Santiago to Hermigua

To travel from Playa Santiago to Hermigua on La Gomera by car, you can follow these specific directions:

Start in Playa Santiago, which is a coastal town located on the southern coast of La Gomera.
Head north from Playa Santiago on the main road, GM-2. This road will take you through scenic coastal and mountainous areas.
Follow GM-2 for approximately 23 kilometers (14 miles), passing through towns like Alajeró and Agulo. Continue following the signs for Hermigua.
As you approach Hermigua, you’ll start descending into the town. Follow the road until you reach the center of Hermigua.
Once you reach the port in La Gomera (usually San Sebastián de La Gomera), you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach Hermigua, which is approximately a 20-minute drive away.
You have a couple of options to reach Playa de la Caleta beach from Hermigua. You can choose to walk there, enjoying a scenic stroll, or you can opt for a car ride. Keep in mind that the road leading to the beach is narrow and winding, but the journey is definitely rewarding, especially if you’re interested in observing the adorable young cats that frequent the area.

Ten other things to do on La Gomera

While it may be tempting to spend the entire day basking in the delightful company of the cats and kittens of Playa de la Caleta beach, you may also want to do some of the other ten things to do when visiting the island of La Gomera.

Explore Garajonay National Park

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Garajonay National Park is home to ancient laurel forests, misty cloud forests, and unique flora and fauna. Hike the park’s trails and enjoy stunning views from viewpoints like Mirador de Abrante.

Experience Silbo Gomero

Learn about the island’s fascinating whistling language, Silbo Gomero, which is used to communicate across the valleys. Attend a demonstration or take a workshop to understand this traditional form of communication.

Visit Valle Gran Rey

Explore the picturesque town of Valle Gran Rey, known for its beautiful beaches, charming village atmosphere, and stunning sunsets. Relax on Playa de la Calera or take a leisurely stroll along the promenade.

Whale and dolphin watching

Embark on a boat tour from La Gomera to observe whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. The waters surrounding the island are home to various marine species, providing an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Mirador de Igualero

Mirador de Igualero is a scenic viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the rugged coastline, deep ravines, and the neighboring islands of Tenerife and La Palma. It’s a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts.

Playa de Santiago

Playa de Santiago is a charming coastal town with a lovely beach. Explore its marina, relax on the sandy shore, and savor fresh seafood at local restaurants.

Hermigua Valley

Hermigua Valley, nearby ‘cat beach” Playa de la Caleta, is a lush and green region known for its terraced farming and agricultural heritage. Take a walk through the banana plantations and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Mirador de Vallehermoso

This viewpoint overlooking the town of Vallehermoso and the surrounding valleys is an excellent spot for capturing panoramic photographs.

Agulo

The picturesque village of Agulo, often referred to as “La Joya de La Gomera” (The Jewel of La Gomera) is known for its traditional architecture, charming streets, and panoramic views from Mirador de Abrante.

Enjoy local cuisine

Indulge in the flavors of traditional Canarian cuisine. Sample local dishes such as almogrote (a spread made from cheese and other ingredients), fresh fish, papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes), and delicious desserts like bienmesabe and frangollo.

Conclusion – Is Playa de la Caleta worth a visit?

Playa de la Caleta combines two beloved elements: cats and beaches, making it a winning combination.

If you’re eager to visit this unique spot, consider sharing this post with your friends and on social media. By doing so, you might inspire them to join you on a memorable trip to “cat beach” and La Gomera.

The “cat beach” Playa de la Caleta in La Gomera

A short introduction to La Gomera

“Cat beach” Playa de la Caleta