Beaches in San Sebastian: a guide to enjoy the San Sebastian coastline

San Sebastian is a city that you will fall in love with from the first glance, but if there is one thing that makes it a top destination, it is its coastline. Four urban beaches, each with its own vibe, mean that anyone can find their perfect spot by the sea. And the best thing is that they are so well connected that you can discover them all in the same day, especially if you decide to rent a bike in San Sebastian. More comfortable, freer and with views that are worth their weight in gold.

La Concha Beach

Features and services

The undisputed queen of the Bay of Biscay. La Concha needs no introduction, but let’s go into the details. It is located in the heart of the city and its crescent shape makes it one of the most photographed beaches in Europe. Here you can breathe elegance even at high tide.

The sand is fine, the waves are calm, and it has all the services you could need: showers, public toilets, lifeguards, beach umbrellas and sun loungers for hire, and even a designated swimming area which is appreciated when there are a lot of swimmers. It is ideal for families, but also for those who want to lie down and disconnect without being bothered by the sand in their socks.

Iconic boardwalk and railing

Sometimes, the promenade is almost as important as the beach. The Paseo de La Concha is a symbol of San Sebastian. It’s perfect for walking, jogging or cycling while the Bay of Biscay winks at you from the left. And yes, that photogenic white railing that appears on all the Instagram profiles is real. It was made back in 1910, and since then it hasn’t stopped posing for tourists.Promenade and iconic railing.

Ondarreta Beach

Family and sporty atmosphere

Ondarreta is La Concha’s quiet neighbour, but that doesn’t mean it’s boring. Here the atmosphere is more relaxed and family-friendly, with lots of local families enjoying the sand and impromptu paddle or volleyball games. If you’re into sports, it’s a great place to get your groove on – from swimming to taking a yoga class by the sea.

It’s also a good option if you’re looking for something calmer, without losing the views of Santa Clara Island, which seems to have been put there on purpose to decorate the view.

Access and environment

The beach has good access for people with reduced mobility, ramps, showers, toilets and nearby green areas where you can lie down and read without swallowing half a sandy beach. It is just below the Miramar Palace, a place which, by the way, is worth a quick visit, if only to take a photo of Ondarreta from above.

Getting around this area by bike is very easy, thanks to the bike lane that runs along the entire coastline. Yet another reason to consider renting a bike in San Sebastian if you’re passing through the city.

Zurriola Beach

Surfing and youthful atmosphere

Zurriola is another story. Here you come to move, not to lie down. This is the surfing beach of San Sebastian, with powerful waves and an active surfing community. If you’ve never tried surfing before, it’s the ideal place to get started: there are schools with courses lasting one or more days and a great young atmosphere.

And although the waves are the star attraction, there’s also room for those who just want to sunbathe surrounded by good vibes. La Zurriola attracts all kinds of people, from international students to locals who want to disconnect for a while.

Events and activities

You don’t just come here to surf. Zurriola also hosts cultural events, concerts, festivals and sports competitions, especially in summer. There are even yoga classes at sunrise and open-air film screenings. It’s not unusual to find an impromptu show or a street market.

However, the atmosphere is more upbeat, so if you’re looking for silence and long naps, head back to La Concha.

Santa Clara Island Beach

Access and special features

An island with its own beach? Yes, in the middle of the bay stands Santa Clara Island, a natural whim that can be visited in summer. There is a small jetty from where small boats leave every few minutes, and once there, a beach awaits you that only appears when the tide goes out.

It is a unique, quieter spot where you can swim, snorkel or just gaze at the horizon. You can also climb up to the lighthouse and enjoy one of the best views in the whole of San Sebastian.

Tip: if you’re the kind of person who doesn’t get seasick, renting a kayak or paddle board to get there on your own is an experience you won’t forget.

Tips for visiting the beaches of San Sebastian

• Go early if you want to get a good spot, especially in summer.
• Take comfortable shoes and a large towel: many areas have stone steps or cobbled paths.
• If you want to cover them all without walking for hours, opt for a rental bike. It will allow you to move quickly without losing the charm of the ride.
• The weather changes quickly: a sweatshirt in your backpack is a must.
• If you’re interested in surfing, check the tides and wave forecasts before setting off.

San Sebastian’s beaches are not just for sunbathing. They are part of the local life, culture and rhythm. And to really experience them, the best thing to do is to move around at your own pace. At Bike Rental San Sebastian, we have bikes ready to take you from one beach to another, without rushing and without missing a thing. Shall we pedal?