Europes Best Beaches

La Concha beach is the most beautiful beach in San Sebastian, and it is extremely popular amongst tourists for its simple elegance. It gained popularity during the 19th century when Queen Isabel II would go to the beach for her bath therapy. The city then became the summer residence for the Spanish royal family.

Why la Concha? It is known for its unique shell shape, concha meaning shell in Spanish. It has been named the best beach in Europe and in Spain and it is the most picturesque spot in the country. Visitors can take a boat from the island to the beach, all while taking in the amazing scenery. On one side of the beach, there is the Urgull mountain, the harbor and the city hall. On the other, you can see the Igueldo mountain. At the end of the beach, you can even see the Pico de Loro, which means parrots beak. Pico de Loro is a passage of rocks that disappears when the tide is high.

The beach is wide and allows you to sunbathe and swim in the Spanish heat. Thanks to its mountains, you are perfectly protected from any chilly winds and high waves. As one of the most symbolic beaches in Spain, locals come for dips here all year round, unafraid of the lower temperatures. Even in winter, youll see the older generations of the city going for a swim!