San Sebastián's 4 beaches: an urban paradise

Whether you’re seeking calm waters and quiet sunbathing or thrilling waves and vibrant local culture, San Sebastián offers a beach for every mood.

1. Playa de la Concha: the crown jewel of San Sebastián

La Concha is one of the most emblematic beaches not only in San Sebastian but in the world. In 2024, La Concha was chosen as the third best beach in the world by TripAdvisor readers, an accolade that highlights its undeniable beauty and appeal.

Nestled between Mount Urgull and Mount Igueldo, La Concha offers panoramic views and a sense of serenity that’s hard to match. A walk along its promenade, the famous Paseo de La Concha, is a classic local experience that combines ocean breezes with breathtaking coastal architecture.

La Concha Beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and practicing water sports such as kayaking or stand up paddleboarding. It is also an ideal place for families thanks to its calm waters. Near the beach, there are several points of interest such as the Miramar Palace, which offers a historical and cultural perspective of the city.

How to get to La Concha:

• On foot: La Concha beach is located, literally, in the center of San Sebastian, so getting around it in search of your favorite spot will not take more than 5-10 minutes on foot.
• By bus: practically any bus line can be used to get to the vicinity. Some of them are lines 5, 13, 16, 18, 19, 21, 25, 26, 28, 31, 33, 40, 45, 46...
• By car: there are several pay car parks in the vicinity of the beach. The nearest one is La Concha.

2. Ondarreta: a family-friendly classic

Ondarreta is the westernmost beach in San Sebastian, located between La Concha and the Peine del Viento, a famous sculpture by Eduardo Chillida.

With its quiet and family-friendly atmosphere, Ondarreta is the perfect beach for those seeking a relaxed experience. The beach is known for its wide expanse of sand and shallow waters. In addition, it has a wide range of services, such as restaurants, a children's playground, beach bars, showers, and toilets.

Umbrellas and striped awnings, typical of San Sebastián’s beach culture, offer a charming way to experience a day by the sea — shaded, stylish, and comfortable.

How to get to Ondarreta:

• On foot: from the center of San Sebastian, the walk to Ondarreta takes about 15-20 minutes.
• By bus: lines 5, 16, 24, 25, 33, 35, 40, 45, 47 take you to the beach.
• By car: there is paid parking next to the beach.

3. Zurriola: surfing San Sebastián

If surfing San Sebastián is on your bucket list, Zurriola Beach is your destination.

Located in the youthful and dynamic Gros neighborhood, Zurriola has become internationally known as the city's surfing hotspot. With powerful Atlantic swells and consistent waves, it draws both beginners and seasoned surfers year-round. Numerous surf schools along the beach offer lessons and rentals, making it easy to get started or improve your technique.

Unlike La Concha or Ondarreta, Zurriola has an energetic, sporty atmosphere. You’ll see surfers riding waves from sunrise to sunset, bodyboarders carving through the swell, and groups practicing yoga on the sand. It’s also a hub of summer events — open-air concerts, festivals, and local gatherings add to its appeal.

The beach’s cultural vibe is further enhanced by its proximity to the Kursaal Congress Center, a landmark of modern Basque architecture. And soon, the ZMare Project will elevate the area’s surfing infrastructure with new gastronomic spaces, surfboard storage, and even lifeguard training facilities — a new chapter in San Sebastián’s surf culture.

How to get to Zurriola:

• On foot: from the center of San Sebastian, the walk to Zurriola takes about 10-15 minutes.
• By bus: lines 8, 13, 14, 17, 29, 31, 33, 37, 40, 41, 46 leave you on streets close to the beach.
• By car: there is parking and paid car parks next to the beach. For example, the Kursaal car park.

Whether you’re traveling with your board or just curious to watch locals mastering the waves, Zurriola embodies the spirit of surfing San Sebastián.