Northern Spain, as well as having much cooler, manageable temperatures in summer, is home to some of the best beaches in Spain. If you want to see a different side to Spain, far from the busy "costas" in the south and east of the country, enjoy the best of northern Spain's coastal towns and unspoiled stretches of sand and pebbles. Beaches near Bilbao offer upmarket seaside chic, while Asturias is home to picture-postcard fishing villages, and the eucalyptus forests of Galicia drape into its wild beaches.
The northern coast of Spain is great for surfing, and is also the place to travel if you want to have the beach to yourself. Many claim that the beaches in the north of Spain are the most beautiful part of the country, with each region offering something unique. Expect verdant green rolling hills, thriving forests to expansive, and rugged shores. You'll also find quiet coves, family-friendly bays, and northern coastal towns that maintain their seafaring spirit.
Beach holidays in northern Spain provide a diverse and wild experience, from the fishing hub of the Bay of Biscay on the Costa Verde to the roaring Atlantic Ocean in Galicia.
Playa del Puntal, Cantabria
Along the Bay of Santander in the region of Cantabria, Puntal beach has more than 2 miles of fine, golden sand and is more than 100 metres wide. Thanks to its size and location, there typically aren't many people around, so you'll never feel overwhelmed by crowds, even in August when beaches in the south are packed.
Thanks to its strong waves, this beach in the north of Spain is also a favourite with surfers in Cantabria. There is even an area for nudists who can relax and bare all in privacy. And as if that weren't enough, you're also allowed to bring dogs to the area closest to the Bay of Santander.
Many people arrive at this beach by boat from Santander and take a 20-minute walk to the pier. Here, you can savour authentic Cantabrian cuisine at one of its chiringuito beach bars.
Playa de Itzurun, Basque Country
Located in Zumaia, this Spanish beach gained worldwide fame as the filming location for Dragonstone scenes in Game of Thrones. However, Itzurun beach isn’t typically very crowded even in summer. Before visiting, it's wise to check the high tide times, as there's a dedicated area for surfers that gets quite busy on sunny summer days.
When visiting this wonderful beach in northern Spain, you will be struck by the unique geological phenomenon of the flysch, a rocky formation of blades covering the entire cliff wall and sloping down to the Cantabrian Sea.
Playón de Bayas, Asturias
Bayas beach is a semi-wild stretch in the north of Spain, featuring a mile of dark sand, which is quite unusual for beaches in this region. It's actually located very near Asturias airport, although you wouldn't know it when on the beach.
The strength of the currents varies depending on the part of the beach you're at, and you're likely to spot local surfers catching the waves. It's worth noting that some areas are only recommended for brave and experienced swimmers. Bayas beach is surrounded by mountains and sand dunes, is a popular beach with dog owners.
La Lanzada, Galicia
A Lanzada boasts a full mile of sandy shore lined with large dunes, ideal for those who enjoy long walks on the beach without the intense heat of the south. It's a magical beach that attracts visitors all year round, even in bad weather and during the winter months. Part of its appeal lies in its crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for surfers as well as for scuba diving and snorkelling.
Reaching this beach by car is easy, thanks to the large car park available. The beach is spacious enough that there's plenty of room to lay down your towel without anyone close by disturbing you. To top it off, you can enjoy magnificent sunsets and views of Galicia’s Ons Island, making this place feel like a true paradise.
Playa de Gulpiyuri, Asturias
This inland beach is located behind a circle of cliffs, creating a natural saltwater pool fed by the sea through a series of underground caves. This natural phenomenon makes it an enjoyable spot for kids to swim in northern Spain. Despite being only about 40 metres long, its beauty and peculiarity make it a favourite spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Accessible by a short walk through lush green meadows, Gulpiyuri offers a serene escape without the typical beach crowds. It is located just a 15-minute drive from Llanes, one of the best coastal towns in northern Spain, and a good village to stop off at during your travels.
Playa de Rodas, Galicia
Located in the nature reserve of Cíes Islands, Rodas beach is often celebrated as one of the best beaches in the world. This Galician treasure features pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters, reminiscent of a Caribbean paradise. The beach is well-known for its wide, crescent shape and gently shelving shores, making it ideal for families and sunbathers.
To reach Rodas beach, catch a ferry from Vigo, which takes about 40 minutes, offering stunning views along the way. Once there, you'll find walking trails, a few beachside cafes, and ample opportunities to delve into nature.
Playa de Berria, Cantabria
Near the pretty town of Santoña, Berria beach stretches over two kilometres with its fine, golden sand and vibrant blue waters. This beach is a secluded haven perfect for those looking to unwind or catch some waves, as it's a favourite among surfers for its consistent swells. Berria offers ample space to spread out and relax, even during the busy summer months.
Easily accessible by car or bus, Berria is one of the best beaches near Bilbao, just an hour's drive away from the city. After a day of sun and surf, enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local chiringuitos, and soak up the coastal views that highlight the natural beauty of northern Spain.
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