La Playa is the main beach of Valle Gran Rey, a dark volcanic sand beach at the mouth of the valley where it meets the sea. The beach stretches around a sheltered bay, with the small harbour of Vueltas on one side and the village of La Playa on the other. The sand is black — volcanic basalt — which contrasts dramatically with the clear turquoise water.
The swimming is excellent when the sea is calm, which it usually is in this protected bay. The beach fills with a mix of local families, long-stay European visitors, and walkers who have come down through the valley from the mountains. Beach bars and restaurants line the back of the beach. Mornings are quieter; afternoons get busier as the day heats up.