Ondarreta Beach
At the western end of the bay, past the stone outcrop of Pico del Loro that separates it from La Concha, Ondarreta runs for 700 metres of pale sand backed by gardens and the 19th-century silhouette of Miramar Palace. It is wider than its famous neighbour, quieter in July and August, and ends at a clutch of rocks where Eduardo Chillida's steel sculptures reach into the Atlantic.
Blue-and-white striped cabanas line the sand in summer, volleyball nets go up, and a floating platform appears in the bay with slides and diving boards. Families tend to claim this beach over the others, and the promenade behind it connects, without interruption, to the city's two other beaches.
💛 What travellers fall for
Regulars tend to arrive early and walk the length of the promenade before settling near the gardens end, where the shade from the trees arrives sooner. The surf breaks on the western side — two fast left-handers — are worth watching even if you're not in the water. And most people walk to the rocks at the far end at least once.
The story behind Ondarreta Beach
What is now a broad public beach was, through most of the 19th century, a rocky military training ground. The shift began in 1921, when the municipal government acquired the land. Construction of the beach and its gardens followed in 1926, directed by mayor Juan José Prado and municipal engineer Juan Machimbarrena.
The neighbourhood around it had already begun to change. Queen María Cristina had been summering in San Sebastián almost without interruption since 1893 — her residence, Miramar Palace, stands at the beach's edge — and the Brunet family, reading the social current correctly, had purchased land nearby to build villas for wealthy families who followed the royal court west.
Good to know
Dbus lines connect Ondarreta to the city centre, 1.6 km away, or it's a straightforward walk along the promenade. Beach entry is free; showers and changing booths cost €1.60. Come July or August for the warmest water and longest days. The gardens behind are worth an hour of anyone's afternoon.
July and August are the months for swimming, with air temperatures around 23°C and water reaching 22°C; rainfall drops to its annual low in July. From October through March the beach is windswept and frequently wet, though mild enough for a walk — locals who surf here year-round do so in wetsuits from autumn onwards.
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What travellers say about Ondarreta Beach
Ondarreta Beach is a beautiful and relaxing spot in San Sebastián. The beach is clean, spacious, and less crowded than some of the other nearby beaches, making it perfect for a peaceful day by the sea. The views are stunning, especially with Santa Clara Island in the background, and the promenade is great for a leisurely walk. Whether you’re looking to swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the scenery, Ondarreta Beach is definitely worth a visit.
Great beach, great sand…people who live nearby are blessed.
Great little beach away from the main, but still fun. Tip - find a shady spot along the north sea wall and you are set. Didn’t even have a chair or umbrella.
Ondarreta Beach, located in San Sebastián's Antiguo neighborhood, offers a serene seaside experience distinct from the bustling La Concha Beach. Nestled between Mount Igeldo and the Miramar Palace gardens, Ondarreta Beach provides a picturesque setting within La Concha Bay. Its golden sands stretch approximately 600 meters in length and 100 meters in width, offering ample space for relaxation and recreation. The beach is well-equipped with facilities catering to various interests: • Sports: Visitors can enjoy activities such as volleyball, beach tennis, and football. On stormy days, the waters attract surfers and bodyboarders seeking thrilling waves. • Family-Friendly Environment: The shallow waters and gentle waves make it an ideal spot for families with children. • Services: Amenities include sunshade and sun lounger rentals, ensuring a comfortable beach experience. Ondarreta Beach is easily accessible by foot or car, with nearby parking facilities. Its urban location ensures proximity to various services and attractions, enhancing the convenience for visitors. The beach exudes a genteel atmosphere, characterized by blue-and-white-striped canvas beach cabanas that add to its charm. Overlooked by the historic Miramar Palace, once a royal summer residence, Ondarreta offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Visited for a walk after hotel check in. Many people enjoyed sun tunning, running, walking and relaxing. I wish I could visit again with beech goods like half pants, beech shoes and towel. It looks like facility has shower and lockers etc.
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