Rent a Car in Puerto De San Sebastian De La Gomera
Rent a Car in San Sebastián - Gateway to La Gomera's Natural Wonders
San Sebastián de La Gomera is the charming capital and main ferry port of La Gomera island, steeped in Christopher Columbus history and serving as the gateway to one of the Canary Islands' most pristine destinations. Located on the eastern coast, this historic town combines Columbus-era heritage with modern amenities. Renting a car here—whether arriving by ferry from Tenerife or flying to La Gomera Airport—provides essential access to the island's UNESCO Biosphere Reserve landscapes, ancient laurel forests, and traditional mountain villages.
Why Rent a Car in San Sebastián de La Gomera?
As La Gomera's capital and main transport hub, San Sebastián offers the island's best infrastructure while maintaining authentic Canarian charm. The town features historic Columbus sites, the main ferry terminal connecting to Tenerife, government offices, shopping facilities, and the island's largest concentration of services. However, La Gomera's spectacular attractions lie beyond the capital, accessible only via winding mountain roads that public transport rarely serves.
San Sebastián Location Advantages
Ferry Port Gateway - Main connection to Tenerife with 4-6 daily crossings (50-minute journey)
Columbus Heritage - Historic sites from the 1492 voyage including Casa de Colón museum
Capital Amenities - Best services, shopping, dining, and facilities on the island
Beach Access - Playa de San Sebastián offers black volcanic sand and calm waters
Central Location - Strategic base for exploring all regions of La Gomera
Cultural Hub - Museums, festivals, and traditional Canarian atmosphere
Exploring La Gomera from San Sebastián
Nearby Coastal Attractions
Playa de San Sebastián
The capital's main beach features distinctive black volcanic sand with calm, protected waters ideal for swimming. The palm-lined promenade connects the beach to the historic town center, perfect for evening walks after exploring the island.
Hermigua Valley
Just 25 minutes from San Sebastián, this lush valley showcases terraced banana plantations, traditional agriculture, and craft workshops. The picturesque village maintains stone houses and narrow cobbled streets. Several family-run restaurants serve authentic Canarian cuisine including papas arrugadas and fresh fish.
Playa de Santiago
Drive 15 minutes south to reach this fishing village with working harbor, black sand beach, and seafood restaurants. La Gomera Airport sits nearby, and the area offers quieter accommodations than the capital.
UNESCO World Heritage Landscapes
Garajonay National Park
Located 30 minutes from San Sebastián, this 4,000-hectare park protects ancient laurel forest dating back millions of years. The misty, moss-covered laurisilva creates an otherworldly atmosphere found nowhere else in Europe. Multiple hiking trails start from parking areas throughout the park, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging summit climbs. The Alto de Garajonay peak (1,487 meters) rewards hikers with panoramic island views.
Roque de Agando
This iconic 1,250-meter volcanic rock formation (25 minutes) rises dramatically along the main mountain road. Multiple viewpoints with parking areas provide spectacular photography opportunities of this natural monument against surrounding valleys.
Dramatic Valleys & Villages
Valle Gran Rey
La Gomera's most famous valley (55 minutes) descends spectacularly to the western coast. Terraced banana plantations cascade down steep slopes while the valley floor features several beach areas, alternative communities, and stunning sunset views. The winding descent requires careful driving but offers breathtaking vistas at every turn.
Agulo
Often called the island's prettiest village (35 minutes), Agulo perches on a coastal cliff with spectacular Teide volcano views across the ocean. The circular village layout, colorful buildings, and dramatic setting create unforgettable scenes. Limited parking in the compact village center.
Vallehermoso
The northern town (45 minutes) provides access to natural swimming pools carved into coastal rocks, the dramatic Roque Cano formation, and authentic village life away from tourist areas. The journey crosses the island's mountainous spine via spectacular roads.
How to Rent a Car in San Sebastián
Step 1: Convenient Pickup Locations
Choose ferry port pickup for arrivals from Tenerife, town center offices within walking distance of hotels, La Gomera Airport collection (20 minutes away), or hotel delivery service throughout San Sebastián.
Step 2: Online Booking Process
Visit Final Rentals website and select "San Sebastián de La Gomera" as your location. Specify ferry arrival time or flight details. Browse vehicle options from compact cars to small SUVs suited for mountain driving.
Step 3: Essential Documentation
Present valid driver's license held minimum 2 years (recommended for La Gomera's challenging roads), International Driving Permit for non-EU visitors, passport or national ID, and credit card in driver's name for security deposit.
Step 4: Vehicle Selection
Compact cars navigate mountain roads efficiently with good fuel economy. Small SUVs offer extra comfort on winding routes. Manual transmission provides better control on steep grades and is more commonly available. Ensure adequate braking performance essential for La Gomera's descents.
Driving from San Sebastián
San Sebastián sits at sea level with roads climbing steeply into the mountainous interior. The main TF-711 road circles the island while TF-713 heads north toward Hermigua and Agulo. Expect narrow sections, hairpin turns, and dramatic elevation changes. Drive times are longer than distances suggest due to winding mountain roads.
Parking in San Sebastián
Harbor area offers limited paid parking near the ferry terminal. Town center features blue zone metered parking and free residential street parking. Plaza de las Américas has a public parking area. Hotels typically provide guest parking. Ferry travelers leaving vehicles can use long-term parking facilities near the port.
Fuel Stations
Repsol station located near the town center on Avenida de los Descubridores. This is La Gomera's main fuel station. Other stations exist in Valle Gran Rey and Vallehermoso. Fill the tank before exploring remote areas as distances between stations can be significant.
Ferry Travel with Rental Car
Bringing Cars from Tenerife
Some rental companies allow vehicles on La Gomera ferries with advance approval and additional insurance. Ferry car fees range €40-€80 each way plus passenger tickets. Book ferry reservations in advance, especially during peak season.
Renting in La Gomera
Often simpler and more economical than transporting a Tenerife rental. Vehicles are suited for island roads, no ferry car fees apply, and local support is readily available.
Why Choose Final Rentals in San Sebastián?
✓ Ferry port and airport pickup options
✓ Vehicles suited for La Gomera's mountain roads
✓ Local route guidance and recommendations
✓ Flexible rental periods for island exploration
✓ Comprehensive insurance for challenging terrain
✓ 24/7 support across the island
✓ Competitive rates for this unique destination
FAQS
How do I get from Tenerife to San Sebastián de La Gomera?
Take the ferry from Los Cristianos in Tenerife to San Sebastián port. The journey takes 50 minutes with 4-6 daily departures operated by Fred Olsen and Naviera Armas. First ferries depart around 8-9 AM, last returns around 6-7 PM. Schedules vary by season.
Can I bring a Tenerife rental car on the ferry?
Some companies allow this with advance notification, additional insurance, and ferry approval. Car ferry fees are €40-€80 each way plus passenger tickets. Check with Final Rentals when booking. Many find it simpler to rent directly in La Gomera.
Is it better to rent in San Sebastián or bring a car from Tenerife?
Renting in La Gomera is often more practical and economical. You avoid ferry car fees (€80-€160 round trip), get a vehicle suited for mountain roads, and have local support. Bringing a car makes sense only for extended island stays.
How long should I rent a car in La Gomera?
Minimum 2-3 days allows proper exploration. One day is too rushed for this mountainous island. A week permits thorough discovery of all valleys, villages, and hiking trails while maintaining a relaxed pace.
Are roads dangerous in La Gomera?
Roads are winding, narrow, and steep but well-maintained. Drive carefully at reduced speeds, use lower gears on descents, and watch for oncoming traffic on blind curves. The spectacular scenery rewards cautious driving. Allow extra time for all journeys.
What's the best route for first-time visitors?
From San Sebastián, drive north to Hermigua Valley and Agulo village, continue to Garajonay National Park, then descend to Valle Gran Rey, returning via the southern route through Playa de Santiago. This full-day circuit covers major highlights.
Can I swim at San Sebastián beach?
Yes, Playa de San Sebastián is a black volcanic sand beach with calm, protected waters suitable for swimming year-round. The beach has facilities including showers, sunbed rentals, and beachfront cafés.
What are the Columbus sites in San Sebastián?
Visit Casa de Colón (Columbus House museum), Torre del Conde (15th-century tower), Iglesia de la Asunción (church where Columbus prayed), and Pozo de la Aguada (well where Columbus took water for his 1492 voyage). All are within walking distance in the historic center.