San Sebastián beaches: from Ondarreta to La Concha
 

Are you looking for a destination that boasts sunshine, gastronomy and urban tourism? Then we have the place for you! Discover San Sebastian and allow yourself to be surprised by its four beaches: four different plans that are guaranteed to surprise you.

La Concha: an icon of San Sebastián

Playa de La Concha in San Sebastian is renowned as one of the biggest and most well known in the city. Located in the urban heart of Donosti, this beach is a must-visit. Its fine, golden sand and shallow waters make it the perfect place to spend time with the family. Spanning 1.5 kilometres in length, it boasts enough space for both relaxation and water sports.

As well as its natural beauty, Playa de la Concha offers a wide range of services to ensure a comfortable experience. It has sinks, showers and changing rooms, meaning you can cool off after a dip in the sea. It also offers sun lounger and umbrella rental services meaning you can spend long, worry-free days at the beach.

However, Playa de la Concha is not just a place for sunbathing and swimming. Its privileged location close to the city centre means you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and easy access to restaurants, bars and shops. Take a stroll along the famous promenade of La Concha for a unique experience that connects you to the history and architecture of San Sebastian.

Zurriola: surf in its purest form

Everyone agrees that this beach has the youngest vibe, and they're not wrong! Surrounded by all kinds of surfing equipment rental services and home to a local surf club and four surf schools, Zurriola is an institution when it comes to this sport.

Measuring almost a kilometre in length and boasting fine golden sand, this beach is perfect for walking and contemplating the views of the Kursaal Auditorium. But beware, bathing is difficult on account of the strong waves.
 


Ondarreta: a peaceful, family beach

Playa de Ondarreta in San Sebastian is an oasis of tranquillity and the perfect destination for spending time with the family. Located next to the impressive Peine del Viento de Chillida monument and at the foot of Monte Igeldo, this beach is known for being the least crowded in the city, thus guaranteeing you enjoy a relaxed experience. It is also home to a playground in the sand, making it the perfect place to spend a day with children.

Ondarreta boasts a serene and peaceful environment, with more than enough space to kick back on the sand and enjoy the lapping of the waves. The beach boasts services and amenities, including beach bars and restaurants, where you can sample local dishes and keep cool with drinks. Its waters are clean and safe, perfect for a revitalising dip.

As well as enjoying the beach, make sure not to miss the iconic Peine del Viento monument, an impressive steel sculpture that forms part of the natural environment, offering panoramic views of the coast.

Santa Clara: a surprising paradise

This beach is perfect for more adventurous travellers. Located on the island of Santa Clara, to reach this beach, your best option is to take a motorboat that regularly departs Playa de Ondarreta. Here, you can enjoy fantastic views of Donosti while taking a dip in the waters of one of its natural pools... an unforgettable experience!

San Sebastian's summer festivities

As well as enjoying its wonderful beaches, how about participating in some of the most popular festivities held in the city of San Sebastian over summer. Want to read more about them?

  • San Sebastian's Semana Grande takes place in mid-August and sees the city converted into a stage full of music, dancing, fireworks and lots of fun. Over a nine-day period, the city plays host to activities for all tastes and ages. From open-air concerts and dance performances to sports and food competitions, Semana Grande has something in store for everybody. What's more, you can enjoy the famous fireworks that illuminate the sky over the bay of La Concha each night, creating an impressive spectacle. Semana Grande is an experience not to be missed!
  • San Ignacio festivities, held on 31 July to commemorate the city's patron saint. The city is taken over by parades, live music and cultural events. 
  • One of the most popular traditions is the famous Tamborrada, which sees thousands of people gather to march through the streets, playing drums and barrels in honour of San Sebastian. This truly exciting and energetic experience offers a full immersion into local culture.

If you are on holiday in the city on these days, this is an experience not to be missed! 

Heading to San Sebastian, by train!

At Renfe, we have AVE (high-speed) and Larga Distancia (long distance) trains to make your trips faster, more comfortable and sustainable. Don't put up with a single traffic jam more and choose Renfe! Consult our routes.

Also make sure to check out the time tables and lines of the San Sebastián Cercanías (Commuter) service.