Hotels near La Concha Beach

Shaped like an open shell, La Concha Beach is the image most people carry of San Sebastián - a crescent of pale sand curving between two headlands, backed by an ornate white promenade with its famous wrought-iron railing. It ranks among the most celebrated city beaches in Europe and is the natural starting point for any visit.

The water is calm and shallow, sheltered by the Isla de Santa Clara in the middle of the bay, which makes it good for swimming and families. The Paseo de la Concha above is free to walk day or night and links most of the city's western sights in one graceful sweep.

Pro Tip: Come at high tide for the best swimming - at low tide the beach is vast but the walk to the water is long. Sunset from the railing is the classic photo.