La Concha Beach
Kontxa hondartza / Playa de la Concha
The emblem of San Sebastián, a crescent-shaped urban beach likened to a seashell, often ranked among Europe's most beautiful city beaches.
La Concha is a crescent-shaped beach about 1.3 km long, flanked at either end by Monte Urgull and Monte Igueldo. The island of Santa Clara at the mouth of the bay blocks big waves from the Bay of Biscay, so the water stays calm, ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. The white cast-iron railings behind the beach and the century-old seaside promenade, Paseo de La Concha, are classic photo spots. Walking from City Hall (the former casino building) along the promenade to the Miramar Palace at the western end takes about 20 minutes. The beach is free to access. In summer there are lifeguards, showers and changing facilities, and at low tide the sand is wider. In summer, small boats depart from the pier for Santa Clara Island about every 30 minutes. For a relaxing walk, head out along the promenade at dusk to watch the sunset, then return to the old town for pintxos. Note: on weekends in July and August the beach is crowded, so keep valuables secure.
Opening hours
Open all day
Nearby sights
- Cathedral of the Good Shepherd
- Parte Vieja, San Sebastián
- Basilica of Santa María del Coro
- San Telmo Museum
- Monte Urgull
- San Sebastián Aquarium
- Kursaal Congress Centre and Auditorium
- Miramar Palace