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The Three Beaches of San Sebastián: What to Expect When You Stay at Hotel Punta Monpas
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San Sebastián is famous for its trio of beautiful beaches, each offering a different experience while sharing the same breathtaking backdrop of the Bay of Biscay. Staying at Hotel Punta Monpas gives you direct access to the liveliest of the three, Zurriola Beach, while also placing La Concha and Ondarreta within an easy walk. Whether you enjoy surfing, sunbathing, relaxing views, or family-friendly spaces, the city’s beaches offer something for every traveller.
The closest beach to the hotel is Zurriola Beach, located just steps from the entrance. Known locally as “Zurri,” this beach attracts surfers, active travellers, and anyone who appreciates a youthful, energetic atmosphere. The open waves make it the top choice for surfing in the city, and surf schools line the promenade offering lessons for beginners and equipment hire. The spacious sands make Zurriola ideal for beach volleyball, jogging, and sunset strolls, while the lively vibe continues with cafés, bars, and terraces throughout the Gros neighbourhood.
A 10–12 minute walk from Zurriola leads you to La Concha Beach, one of Europe’s best-known urban beaches. Famous for its stunning crescent shape and calm, sheltered waters, La Concha offers a completely different experience. The promenade is elegant, the atmosphere more refined, and the shallow waters make it ideal for swimming. Whether you're sunbathing, walking the ornate railing lines, or simply enjoying the scenery, La Concha provides a more relaxed and serene experience compared to Zurriola’s energy.
At the far end of La Concha sits Ondarreta Beach, the smallest and quietest of the three. Popular with families and visitors seeking a peaceful environment, Ondarreta offers soft sand, gentle waves, and fewer crowds. It’s a great choice for picnics, long beach days, or swimming in calmer conditions. The views extend toward Santa Clara Island, adding a photogenic backdrop to this peaceful haven.
Each beach has its own charm, and staying at Hotel Punta Monpas puts you in the perfect location to enjoy all three. Start your morning with a walk along Zurriola’s promenade, relax in the afternoon at La Concha, and unwind in the evening with a quiet moment at Ondarreta. The journeys between them are scenic and easy, allowing travellers to explore the length of the city’s coastline in a single day.
Beyond the beaches, the surrounding areas offer endless things to see and do. Gros brings youthful energy and modern dining, the Old Town brings history and pintxos, and the city’s hills—Monte Urgull and Monte Igueldo—offer panoramic views over the sparkling bay. No matter what brings you to San Sebastián, the beaches form the heart of the city’s lifestyle, and Hotel Punta Monpas provides the ideal base to enjoy them all.