San Sebastian is a coastal gem in the heart of the Basque Country, with a vibrant culture, delicious cuisine and some of the most stunning stretches of coastline in Spain. Get ready to discover the best beaches in San Sebastian with this guide.
Sure, San Sebastian might be widely renowned as a foodie haven, but don’t skip out on its beaches. As someone who has explored the city’s many treasures, I can attest that San Sebastian’s coastline is among some of the very best in Spain.
Why? Well, each of San Sebastian’s beaches has unique character and charm – from hidden coves and surfer havens to quintessential Spanish seaside spots.
So if you’re planning a trip to the Basque Country, add San Sebastian’s beaches to your Spain itinerary – just remember to bring your cozzie and shorts.
Best Beaches in San Sebastian
Playa de la Concha
Playa de la Concha is perhaps the most iconic and well-known beach in San Sebastian – and for good reason. With its clear waters and golden sand, it’s a true paradise for beachgoers.
An elegant promenade and historic buildings surround the beach, providing a stunning backdrop for your day of relaxation. Plenty of amenities are available, such as showers, changing rooms and lifeguards on duty, ensuring your comfort and safety.
Whether you’re looking to swim, sunbathe or take a leisurely stroll, Playa de la Concha is the perfect place to unwind and soak up the beauty of San Sebastian’s coastline.
Playa de la Zurriola
Playa de la Zurriola is a must-visit beach in San Sebastian, especially for those who love surfing or watching surfers ride the waves. This beach has a more laid-back vibe than the other beaches in the city, with a younger and more alternative crowd.
The waves at Zurriola are bigger and more challenging than at La Concha or Ondarreta beaches, making it the best beach in San Sebastian for surfers. But even if you’re not a surfer, Zurriola is still worth a visit for its stunning views and unique atmosphere.
When hunger strikes, there are plenty of bars and restaurants nearby where you can enjoy a drink or a bite to eat while taking in the beach scene. Sounds like bliss, right?
Top Tip: while this is not an official nudist beach, San Sebastian is quite topless-friendly, and you may find a few freely nude visitors at this beach and a few others on this list.
Playa de Ondarreta
On the hunt for family-friendly beaches in San Sebastian? Playa de Ondarreta fits the bill perfectly. Its vast stretch of sand and calm waters make it a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming and playing beach games.
The beach also has amenities like showers, changing rooms and beach volleyball courts, making it all too easy to spend an entire day here. Plus, there are many bars and restaurants nearby where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal with a view of the beach.
Playa de la Isla Santa Clara
Playa de la Isla Santa Clara is a unique and charming beach in the middle of the Bay of San Sebastian. This small island beach is accessible only by a short boat ride from the main beaches, making it a hidden gem off the beaten path.
The beach is small but picturesque, while the island is also home to a small chapel and walking trails, allowing you to explore the area’s natural beauty.
While the beach can get crowded during peak season, it’s still a great spot for a day trip if you’re looking for a peaceful and secluded area away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Top Tip: head to the eastern end of Monte Urgull, near Club Nautico, where Motoras de la Isla has been ferrying people to Playa de la Isla Santa Clara for 80 years. There are daily sailings from 1st June to 30th September.
Cala Tximistarri
Looking for a picturesque stretch of sand? Cala Chimistari, or Cala Tximistarri, is a small but stunning bay surrounded by towering cliffs that reach up to 100 metres high.
It might be a little more hidden but, despite its small size, the beach is a popular destination among visitors, thanks to its proximity to several hotels and other key areas. Don’t worry though, you should have no trouble finding somewhere to lay down your towel, even in the peak months (though, getting there early is always a good idea).
One of Cala Tximistarri’s quirks is the winding path that leads to the beach. You might have to work for your sunbathe session, but once you take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, it’ll soon be worth it.
Playa de Zarautz
A little bit further out but well worth the effort to get to, Playa de Zarautz is a popular beach destination about 20 kilometres west of San Sebastian. With its long stretch of fine sand and excellent waves, it’s a paradise for surfers and beach lovers.
This beach is also known for hosting international surfing competitions, and it’s not hard to see why – the waves are consistent and can reach impressive heights.
Surrounding the beach is a lively promenade with shops, bars and restaurants, making it a great place to stroll or grab a bite to eat. There are also hiking trails nearby that offer stunning views of the coastline.
Practical Tips for Exploring San Sebastian’s Beaches
When to Visit San Sebastian Beaches
San Sebastian’s beaches are a great destination year-round, but summer is the best time to visit for warm weather and crowds (June – August). For a quieter experience, visit in spring or fall. And if you’re into surfing, go in winter for the best waves.
Where to Stay in San Sebastian
If you plan to visit the beaches in San Sebastian, the best place to stay is in the city centre. This will give you easy access to all of the beaches and the many other attractions and amenities the city has to offer.
Specifically, the neighbourhoods of Parte Vieja (Old Town), Centro (City Centre) and Gros are great options for beachgoers. These areas are all within walking distance of the beaches and offer various accommodation options, including hotels, hostels and apartments.
How to Get to Beaches in San Sebastian?
Getting to San Sebastian’s beaches is easy. If you’re staying in the city centre, many beaches are within walking distance. La Concha and Ondarreta beaches are both a short walk from the city centre, while Zurriola Beach is about a 20-minute walk away.
Can You Swim in San Sebastian Beaches?
Yes, absolutely! Swimming in the beautiful waters of San Sebastian’s beaches is one of the main attractions for travellers visiting this charming city.
The beaches are famous for their crystal-clear waters, perfect for taking a refreshing dip or trying out water activities like surfing or paddle boarding.
San Sebastian Beaches: Map
San Sebastian Beaches: Read More Spain Guides
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