Ondarreta Beach

Blue FlagAccessible

Ondarreta Beach is the most westerly of San Sebastián's three famous urban beaches, gracefully curving between the foot of Mount Igueldo and the Miramar Palace. Known for its elegant and aristocratic past, it offers a slightly quieter and more family-oriented atmosphere compared to the bustling La Concha or the surfer-dominated Zurriola. The golden sand stretches for over half a kilometer, providing ample space for sunbathing and leisurely walks along the edge of the Cantabrian Sea.

What makes Ondarreta truly special is its stunning visual backdrop. At the far end, you will find Eduardo Chillida's spectacular 'Peine del Viento' (Wind Comb) sculptures, where art meets the raw power of the ocean waves. The beach is bordered by a beautiful promenade and lush gardens, making the approach just as picturesque as the beach itself. The iconic blue and white striped tents that dot the sand during the summer months add a touch of vintage coastal charm.

The water here is generally calm and inviting, shielded by Santa Clara Island in the bay, making it a wonderful spot for swimming. However, it still catches enough swell to be popular for bodyboarding and gentle water sports. Whether you are looking to build sandcastles with the family, enjoy a scenic stroll towards La Concha, or simply relax under the Basque sun, Ondarreta Beach provides a perfectly balanced seaside experience in one of Spain's most renowned culinary cities.

Practical info

Beach typesandy

WaterThe water is generally calm and clean, with a gradual sandy entry making it safe for swimming.

Getting thereEasily accessible by foot or bicycle via the coastal promenade, or by local city buses.

ParkingPaid underground parking is available nearby (e.g., Txalupagillene), but spots can fill up quickly in summer.

EntranceAccess to the public beach is free, but renting the iconic striped tents or beach chairs incurs a daily fee.

LifeguardProfessional lifeguards are on duty daily during the summer season (June to September).

ShadeNo natural shade on the sand, but you can rent umbrellas or the traditional blue-and-white striped beach tents.

Best timeJuly and August are best for hot beach days, while September offers pleasant weather with fewer crowds.

NearbySan Sebastián city center is a short walk away. Don't miss the Peine del Viento sculptures and the funicular to Monte Igueldo.

Family-friendly & For kids

Highly recommended for families due to the calm waters, extensive facilities, and the nearby playground in the Antiguo neighborhood.

Kids will love the soft sand for building castles, the gentle waves, and the proximity to the vintage Monte Igueldo Amusement Park.

Facilities

Showers
Toilets
Changing rooms
Umbrella rentals
Beach bar
Lifeguards
Ramps

Events nearby

Tamborrada (San Sebastián Day Drum Festival) annually on 20 January (24 hours from midnight on 19-20 Jan) · annual
San Sebastián's biggest festival. For 24 hours from midnight, over 100 drum companies and some 15,000 locals in soldier and chef costumes parade through the city playing the March of San Sebastián. Source
Jazzaldia (San Sebastián International Jazz Festival) annually in late July; 2026 edition 22-26 July · annual
One of Europe's oldest jazz festivals, held since 1966 with free and ticketed concerts across the city, including stages near La Concha bay and the Kursaal Centre. Source
Quincena Musical (San Sebastián Music Fortnight) annually in August; 2026 (87th edition) 2-30 August · annual
Spain's oldest classical music and opera festival, founded 1939. The 2026 edition features Juan Diego Flórez, Grigory Sokolov and the Mahler Chamber Orchestra across venues including the Kursaal and Miramar Palace. Source
Semana Grande (Aste Nagusia / Grand Week) annually in mid-August around Assumption Day; 2026 edition approx. 8-15 August · annual
San Sebastián's main summer fiesta week with daily international fireworks competitions over La Concha bay, regattas, Basque rural sports, concerts and street celebrations. Source
San Sebastián International Film Festival (Zinemaldia) annually in September; 2026 (74th edition) 18-26 September · annual
A category-A international film festival, one of the most prestigious in the world, awarding the Golden Shell. Held mainly at the Kursaal Centre and Victoria Eugenia Theatre. Source
Donostia-San Sebastián Human Rights Film Festival annually in spring (around April) · annual
Annual film festival with screenings, exhibitions and talks raising awareness of human rights and social issues, held in San Sebastián. Source